After a few years between updates, Apple has two new 5K monitor options, ranging from expensive to very expensive, with the 27-inch 5K Studio Display and Studio Display XDR. Both have 5,120 x 2,880 resolutions and 12MP Center Stage cameras embedded inside — we’ll be eager to see how much better those are this time around — three microphones, and six-speaker audio systems with support for spatial audio and “Hey Siri” built-in, plus two Thunderbolt 5 ports and two USB-C ports.
The XDR model adds new Mini LED backlighting with 2,304 dimming zones that increase its peak brightness, as well as provide improved contrast and black levels that should work well for HDR. There’s also support for adaptive sync that can adjust between 47Hz and 120Hz (if it’s connected to an M4 Mac or later, or the M5 iPad Pro), while the standard model is still 60Hz only. One other difference is that the XDR’s upstream port has support for up to 140W host charging, which is enough to fast-charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro, while the standard model tops out at 96W.
Preorders open starting tomorrow, March 4th, before they start shipping on March 11th. There’s a $1,599 price for the Studio Display and a $3,299 price for the Studio Display XDR, which goes up to $3,599 if you opt for the anti-reflective nano-texture glass.
