The Best 4K Mid Range Monitor For Your Mac in 2024 - BenQ MA320U

[@UWI-Anna]

Now I know what monitor to get for my Mac mini M4pro. Thank you!

[@craigneidel]

Thanks for watching

[@macgurrl]

Thank you so much for the video. I have been going crazy with trying to find a monitor for when I get a new mini.

[@craigneidel]

@@macgurrl you got it and thanks for watching.

[@bobbazley5376]

I bought one of this about a week ago and it arrived 2 days ago from Germany all the way to the remote Scottish Highlands and I really like the screen, very easy to setup and yes it has mac scaling but you can choose to go to the other resolutions if you want. The screen is great and it matches my 14" Macbook Pro M1 Max screen and I like it a lot. There was one issue and that when I used USB C only it kept showing just the super enlarged top left corner of the screen when i closed the macbook lid down. But was okay when I opened it again. I found that just using the HDMI cable made the problem go away when I just want to dock my Macbook and close the lid and use the screen by itself. Its a nice screen, it does what you need from a screen and its a good price since I was considering the PD version that is over £1099 ! this was half that price !

[@craigneidel]

Yes, overall it's a great monitor for the cost. Thanks for the info on the issue you saw. Appreciate hearing any thing like that. I have not seen that though but will keep my eye open and report back if I do but I used this like you described and didn't see that issue but will need to check again I guess now that you said that. Thank you.

[@ondrejvaclavik795]

Thank you for the detailed review! Do you think a 90W USB-C charger is sufficient to power a 16-inch MacBook Pro with the M3 Max chip? From what I understand, this model requires 96W (unlike the 14-inch version). Thanks again!

[@digitalmarketinghumans]

I like how the monitor can flip vertically. BenQ is definitely a great brand, especially for color accuracy! I agree with this versus something like an iMac, for it's price, it may not beat it necessarily but it's still a good option. Then add an audio interface for like $120-$140, either UAD Volt 1 or Scarlette solo (4th gen), then buy speakers(studio monitors) for $99 (Presonus Eris 3.5) then get a decent mouse+keyboard and you're good!

[@craigneidel]

Yes, it's a great mid range panel. Still has some cost there but it's bright and 32" so I think it checks quite a few boxes. Yes, I think this will be a great option with the new M4 Mac mini for sure. Thanks again for supporting the channel.

[@DrSlideit]

Glad I bought one, it's sick!

[@craigneidel]

They are nice monitors for sure.

[@DrSlideit]

@@craigneideloops! Just bought a second. Hahahaha

[@LuisJimenez-rq6wk]

Hi Craig, greetings from Spain! I've discovered your reviews because I'm thinking in a new setup for the next year with a Mac Studio M2 MAX. Mainly, I will use this setup for graphic design, video editing and maybe podcasts recordings. Probably this setup will be a little excess for these purposes, but I need a setup for a several years. I've been during a couple on months checking several monitors, seeing a thousand reviews on YT and I get to the conclusion that Benq is the best choice for Mac users that we don't like the Studio Display (in my opinion too expensive for what it is, I insist, this is my opinion). I put my eye on Benq PD3205U, but with your review of this new model, I think I have change my mind and I'm think that I will be get this new model MA320U. Basically because the price is similar, but the specs of this are a little better than the PD3205U. If you would have to choose, what will be your recomendation, PD3205U or MA320U? Thank you so much for your work on these matters.

[@craigneidel]

Thank you. Being a Mac Channel I get quite a few monitors so to be honest I use each of them in my office but don't spend 8 hours on one particular model. But, with that said I think for the price of $599 or less this is the best value for a good 4K monitor. I mean other other monitor is great too but it's hard for me to tell a huge difference and I think this one with the brightness and sharpness is nice. I have only had this one a few weeks but so far it's been great but always do your own research to make sure it has the features and function you need. I was in Madrid and Seville a few years ago and loved it. One of my favorite trips. I need to head back. Thanks for watching.

[@1Aquadon]

Thanks Craig!!

[@craigneidel]

You are welcome.

[@bitcoinjc]

Awesome video thank you. Would be interesting to see a comparison on spescfically the CODING mode (for developers) between the BENQ- GW, RD and MA series. BenQ is amazing, wish we had an agent here in South Africa.

[@craigneidel]

It's a nice monitor for the money and a good value. I'll see what I can do but I'm so busy now not sure I can do any very specific videos on the features but I wanted to let people know that it's available now. Thanks for watching the channel.

[@alp4info]

CN- On-point yet again... Thanks! ✊🏾

[@craigneidel]

Thank you.

[@travis570]

Thanks for making this video. Do you think that this is a good option for a new mac mini and a macbook pro setup or do you recommend something else? Will it also work with a Windows machine? Thank you.

[@craigneidel]

I think it's a great fit for new Mac mini and it works fine on Windows PCs. Thanks for watching.

[@dave4478m]

Thanks Craig for this really useful and informative review. One of the things BenQ is marketing for this monitor is the "Nano Matte Panel" which supposedly has exceptionally low glare and reflection. Very low glare panels generally have a trade off by being more grainy. How is the graininess of the coating on in this monitor, and how does the coating compare to the PD3225U? How is text sharpness compared to the PD3225U? A spec which is supposedly better for the PD3225U is the higher contrast ratio of 2000:1 compared to 1300:1 on the MA320U. Have you been able to compare side by side to see if the difference is noticeable?

[@craigneidel]

Yes, the panel seems to have less refection and very little graininess on the panel. It's about 85 to 90% I think if the more expensive PD3225U and in my opinion a great value for BenQ monitors for somebody that doesn't have a budget up to 1K. It's subjective with monitors so I just want to get it out that it's available and I always tell people to order one and test it and if they don't like it then just return it. With monitors people are different but this one to me is a great addition to a space that needed a higher quality 32" panel without approaching the price of the studio display.

[@bobby07241]

great video, this monitor is not available in Mexico is a shame

[@craigneidel]

It may be one day as it appears they are limited in quantity now.

[@remexroth8666]

Excelent review ! I really like the clean design of this monitor and the ports are easily accessible. I live in Canada and right now this monitor is at the same price as the PD3205UA. Wich one would you pick ? I don't have any special needs it is only for multimedia and office use. Thank you !

[@craigneidel]

It's a hard choice but me personally would go with this one the MA320U. Just because it's a bit newer and seems to work great with all Macs. But, the other one is a great choice also. Thanks for watching.

[@remexroth8666]

@@craigneidel Thank you again !

[@prsearls]

An interesting review, Craig. I have a BenQ monitor on my "pending purchase" list (probably around Black Friday). My current NEC monitor is a 1440p and I'm going to stay with that resolution. Getting Adobe RGB color is very important to me for accurate printing so I'm going with the SW272Q but if that was not a requirement, your monitor would be high on my list. BenQ's software has lots of features and seems easy to use.

[@craigneidel]

Yes, for sure. Overall I think for most people this monitor is great if they own a Mac. If you do professional work then the PD3225U might be a slightly better choice but this is the best for most I would think.

[@peterjohnpj2778]

Craig just a question do you think that apple may increase the internal storage of the apple tv ???? cheers thanks

[@craigneidel]

I heard they might drop the cost to $99 so I would not guess they would do that. But, you never know.

[@riasure]

This video arrived just in time for me:-)! Am wanting to purchase a new monitor to use in conjunction with my MacBook Pro. Currently my MBP and monitor are connected to an OWC hub. Could I connect this to the OWC hub instead of going straight from monitor to MBP? And in doing so will i have all the same colour match options as I would do going directly? Thanks

[@craigneidel]

Thanks for watching and good luck.

[@JohnDay-ng3tu]

Good Morning Thank you for making this video re my previous request.The Benq MA320U Looks like a good choice re my needs as a non gamer just for every day use browsing e mails and a little video editing AND A GOOD PICTURE QUALITY. .Currently not available in Canada through amazon.Any suggestions where i can purchase this in Canada.?? also re ViewSonic VP3256-4K 32"Premium ips 4k is this a equivalent monitor , that will work with the mac mini m4 coming out soon. Any remarks would be great to hear from you.Or should i just stay with the new Benq MA320U AS SUGGESTED. OR just wait. THANKS FOR YOUR GREAT VIDEOS

[@craigneidel]

@@JohnDay-ng3tu I have not used ViewSonic directly but maybe wait for BenQ in my opinion. It's popular so out of stock but I'm sure it will be back soon.

[@pattip8110]

I wish they had this in a 40" Thanks for reviewing this monitor! I just bought the curved Alienware aw3225qf OLED monitor on sale for $1299 and prefer this price 😅and its. I need it for music production, editing and productivity!

[@craigneidel]

Yeah, not too many places are making 40 iinch monitors but for a 32" this is a great value. Thanks for watching.

[@bencorwin]

Is it matte?

[@craigneidel]

Yes, more of a Matte screen

[@bernieemmons3973]

Hello. This monitor will be centered on the 60" desk, and the power supply is at the side of the desk. How long is the power cord?

[@craigneidel]

like 3 or 4 feet. You might need a power PDU to meet it half way.

[@longaker]

Stores label the monitor as “White” but it looks silver. Can you share your experience with the exterior color? Thx

[@craigneidel]

@@longaker the one I have is silver

[@conorburke6008]

if I connect my MacBook Air via usb C can I use the second USB C port on the monitor (15W) to connect a webcam to the monitor and will it work with my MacBook?

[@craigneidel]

I would ask that on the Amazon page. I will see if I can check this if I get a bit of time too.

[@seniordiscount7055]

This monitor or the PD 3220U on sale at $799? Using for general productivity.

[@craigneidel]

This monitor is going to be quite a bit brighter. If you can get the PD3225U for $799 but for this or the PD3220U I might go with this one.

[@bennyh.5784]

Could I also use the monitor for image editing? As a rule, I only edit images in SRGB mode…

[@craigneidel]

I don't see why not.

[@myytcommentspace-yi4um]

Hi Graig ! Help pls !! I just set up benQ monitor with my brand new Mac Studio and all worked and connected. I imported media - cool . Than check for updates and I got Sequoia update running so I run out with my dog out. Came back and both powered but monitor is black , keyboard and mouse don’t bring monitor to life. Rebooted still nothing. I am hopeless- help

[@craigneidel]

I am not sure what that could be. I assume you checked power and things like that.

[@ErikThiart]

ppi makes it not compatible

[@craigneidel]

Very clear and works great.

[@jansix4287]

It’s ridiculous that monitors now have a rounded back like old Intel iMacs, without a computer in it. 🙂‍↔️

[@craigneidel]

Yes, but I don't see the back to be honest and this thing is massive and bright. It's a nice value I think.

[@alp4info]

Cooling!

[@jansix4287]

@@alp4info Yeah, the energy consumption on these panels is also too damn high.

[@craigneidel]

Then it's not right for you.

[@AlainGuindon]

Nice product, but out of stock so irrelevant.

[@craigneidel]

@@AlainGuindon I mean come on. It will come back. I love how you feel compelled to text that when I'm sure it could take 3 days and be back. Funny

[@AlainGuindon]

@@craigneidel I hope you’re right, but I have found that out of stock has been common for suppliers, with Dell as well here in Canada for the models in this price range. Your review is not irrelevant, but there’s still no stock.

[@craigneidel]

@@AlainGuindon Right now in the US it has 9 in stock on Amazon. I'm in the US so I'm not sure about the Canadian Amazon but I think you can find it other places like their website or places like B&H etc. if they ship there. Thanks for watching.

[@Frap710]

4k’s are dead on arrival for Mac, the bad pixel density doesn’t compete, and I believe also causes scaling.

[@craigneidel]

@@Frap710 ok . It's great for me and I'm using it.

[@frankhu8692]

the fk price doesn't compete either, only 1/3 of studio display

[@gkillmaster]

Wow, I was going to buy this and I can't find anywhere that confirms it's an IPS panel. Not on Amazon or on the BenQ site. I'm baffled!

[@craigneidel]

It says IPS on stats page

[@gkillmaster]

@@craigneidel o great!!! much appreciated.