MacBook Pro has always identified itself as a companion for efficient professionals. Since Apple launched the new 2023 MacBook Pros, this productivity workhorse packs even more potential than it previously did. They look better and do a lot more now than ever before. With the new M2 Max chips, you can configure your new MacBook Pro to include a 12-core CPU, 38-core GPU, and 96GB RAM. And with the industry-leading Liquid Retina XDR display, creative professionals can get more done from their MacBooks than ever before.
However, not just any monitor can substitute the 3456×2234 pixels of your mac and match its image quality. Apple does offer its line of external monitors, but more than their high pricing, it is the aspect ratio that fails to cater to the multi-tasking needs of demanding professionals.
Curved 32:9 Aspect Ratio is Better for Productivity
Before ultrawide displays, the only solution to increasing screen real-estate was the multiple-monitor setups, but the bezel in the middle and the clutter of wires and stands on the desk begged for a better solution. Hence, ultrawide displays were introduced to enhance the productivity of power users with a single screen.
The ability to set up multiple app windows at a glance dramatically improves your workflow and helps maintain focus. Whether transferring files, editing videos, collaborating with your team, making comparisons, or viewing large spreadsheets, the 32:9 aspect ratio will help you get more done without the pain in the neck.
Credit: Anand Tech
Lastly, with KVM, Picture-in-Picture, and Picture-by-Picture modes, you can plug multiple devices for multiple side-by-side displays to get more done with a single screen than a dual 27-inch monitor setup.
There are no OLED ultrawides now; if you are in the market for an excellent 49-inch ultrawide for your MacBook Pro, keep your eye peeled for the MSI Project 491C. It’s a QD-OLED 49-inch display, the first of its kind, and the winner of the CES 2023 award for Innovation. Unfortunately, it’s not on the market (yet), but we’ll have more about this monitor after its commercial launch.
Table of Contents
- Curved 32:9 Aspect Ratio is Better for Productivity
- Comparison of the Best 49-inch Ultrawide for MacBook Pro
- 1. Samsung 49” ViewFinity S95UA – Our Choice
- 2. Samsung 49 Odyssey Neo G9 (G95NA) – HDR Performance
- 3. LG Ultrawide 49WQ95C-W Nano IPS Monitor – Highest DCI-P3 Coverage
- 4. Dell U4919DW UltraSharp – For Multitasking
- 5. Viotek Super Ultrawide SUW49DA2 – Great Value
- 6. AOC AGON AG493UCX2 – Budget
- 7. Philips Brilliance 499P9H – Versatile
- Best 49-inch Ultrawides For MacBook Pro – Frequently Asked Questions
Comparison of the Best 49-inch Ultrawide for MacBook Pro
| Image | Product | Details | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Samsung 49” ViewFinity S95UA | Resolution: 5120x1440 Refresh Rate: 120Hz Panel Type: VA Panel Bit Depth: 10-bit Peak Brightness: 700 nits Pixel Density: 108 PPI (Pixel Per Inch) Aspect Ratio: 32:9 DCI-P3: 95% Refresh Rate: 120Hz (120Hz max on MacOS) Response Time: 4ms (GTG) Ports: 1x DisplayPort 1.4 2x HDMI 2.0 3x USB-A 3.0 1x USB-C 3.0 PD 90W 1x Ethernet RJ45 Features: 1800R Curvature HDR400 Quantum Dot Color Release Date: Apr-2022 | Buy on Amazon |
 | Samsung 49 | Resolution: 5120x1440 Panel Type: VA Panel Bit Depth: 10-bit Peak Brightness: 2000 nits Pixel Density: 109 PPI (Pixel Per Inch) Aspect Ratio: 32:9 DCI-P3: 95% Refresh Rate: 240Hz (120Hz max on MacOS) Response Time: 1ms (GTG) Ports: 1x DisplayPort 1.4 2x HDMI 2.1 2x USB-C 3.0 1x 3.5mm Headphone Jack Features: HDR10+ FreeSync G-Sync Release Date: Jul-2021 | Buy on Amazon |
 | LG Ultrawide 49WQ95C-W Nano IPS Monitor | Resolution: 5120x1440 Panel Type: IPS Panel Bit Depth: 8-bit Peak Brightness: 400 nits Pixel Density: 108 PPI (Pixel Per Inch) Aspect Ratio: 32:9 DCI-P3: 98% Refresh Rate: 144Hz (120Hz max on MacOS) Response Time: 5ms (GTG) Ports: 1x USB-C 3.0 PD 90W 1x USB-C 2.0 2x USB-C 3.0 2x HDMI 2.0 1x DisplayPort 1.4 1x 3.5mm Headphone jack Features: 3800r Curvature Nano IPS HDR10 G-Sync FreeSync Premium Pro Release Date: Jul-2022 | Buy on Amazon |
 | Dell U4919DW UltraSharp | Resolution: 5120x1440 Panel Type: IPS Panel Bit Depth: 10-bit Peak Brightness: 350 nits Pixel Per Inch: 109 PPI (Pixel Per Inch) Aspect Ratio: 32:9 DCI-P3: 95% Refresh Rate: 60Hz Response Time: 8ms (GTG) Ports: 1x DisplayPort 1.4 2x HDMI 2.0 1x USB 3.0 (charger - 5V) 4x USB 3.0 downstream 2x USB 3.0 upstream 1x USB-C 3.1 Features: 3800r Curvature Blue Light Filter Picture-by-Picture Release Date: Nov-2018 | Buy on Amazon |
 | Viotek Super Ultrawide SUW49DA2 | Resolution: 5120x1440 Panel Type: VA Panel Bit Depth: 8-bit Peak Brightness: 450 nits Pixel Per Inch: 109 PPI (Pixel Per Inch) Aspect Ratio: 32:9 DCI-P3: 90% Refresh Rate: 120Hz (120Hz max on MacOS) Response Time: 8ms (GTG) Ports: 2x DisplayPort 1.4 2x HDMI 2.0 1x USB 2.0 downstream (Type-A) 1x 3.5mm Headphone Jack Features: 1800r Curvature HDR Adaptive-Sync AMD FreeSync Nvidia G-Sync Release Date: Aug-2022 | Buy on Amazon |
 | AOC AGON AG493UCX | Resolution: 5120x1440 Panel Type: VA Panel Bit Depth: 8-bit Peak Brightness: 550 nits Pixel Per Inch: 109 PPI (Pixel Per Inch) Aspect Ratio: 32:9 DCI-P3: 93% Refresh Rate: 165Hz (120Hz max on MacOS) Response Time: 4ms (GTG) Ports: 2x DisplayPort 1.4 2x HDMI 2.0 1x USB-C (DisplayPort - 65W) 3x USB-C 3.2 downstream Gen 1 1x USB-C 3.2 upstream Gen 1 1x 3.5mm Headphone Jack Features: 1800r Curvature HDR400 Adaptive-Sync AMD FreeSync Nvidia G-Sync Release Date: Mar-2022 | Buy on Amazon |
 | Philips Brilliance 499P9H | Resolution: 5120x1440 Panel Type: VA Panel Bit Depth: 8-bit Peak Brightness: 450 nits Pixel Per Inch: 109 PPI (Pixel Per Inch) Aspect Ratio: 32:9 DCI-P3: 90% Refresh Rate: 70Hz Response Time: 5ms (GTG) Ports: 1x DisplayPort 1.4 2x HDMI 2.0 1x USB 3.1 (Type-C - 65W) 3x USB 3.1 downstream 1x USB 3.1 upstream 1x RJ45 Ethernet 1x 3.5mm Headphone Jack Features: 1800r Curvature HDR400 1080p Webcam (2.07 megapixels) Adaptive-Sync USB Type-C Docking Release Date: Feb-2019 | Buy on Amazon |
1. Samsung 49” ViewFinity S95UA – Our Choice
Samsung ViewFinity S95UA is the younger sibling of the more popular Neo G9 gaming monitor. It features the same 10-bit VA panel for excellent color reproduction, but with QLED backlighting rather than the Mini LEDs we see on Neo G9. The result is a significant dip in brightness, but even so, Samsung S95UA still hits 700 nits, suitable for HDR content.
The highlight of the monitor is undoubtedly its HDR performance with 10-bit color representation that displays 1.07 billion. Combine that with 95% DCI-P3 coverage, and you get the most color-accurate 49-inch ultrawide display to pair with your MacBook Pro in 2023.
The S95UA is no Neo G9, but it is priced significantly lower while checking almost all the boxes on a creative professional’s checklist.
- The 10-bit VA panel offers high contrast and accurate color reproduction.
- The 1800R curvature provides better viewing angles and an excellent collaboration experience.
- The 700 nits peak brightness is excellent for HDR content consumption.
- It features an Ethernet port and a USB-C Hub for I/O connectivity.
- Price
- Decent but generic monitor stand compared to Neo G9.
2. Samsung 49 Odyssey Neo G9 (G95NA) – HDR Performance
Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 (G95NA) replaces the older Odyssey G9 (CRG9) with an updated port selection and improved brightness thanks to its Mini LED backlighting with 2048 local dimming zones.
This more advanced backlighting technology allows them to achieve (theoretically) a whopping 2000 nits of brightness. Even though the test results don’t quite hit those numbers, it is still impressive at this size and scale. Nevertheless, Odyssey Neo G9 is the only 49-inch ultrawide to hit those numbers. Coupled with its 95% DCI-P3 coverage and the brightness advantage of the VA panel, it delivers the best HDR experience available in any 49-inch ultrawide.
VA panels are not known for the best viewing angles, and the 1000R curvature will limit angles further for your buddies seated around you. But it helps create an immersive experience for the user since it maintains a consistent distance between your eyes and the monitor.
Another unique feature of the Neo G9 is its sturdy stand with plenty of adjustment options. It is currently the best monitor stand in any display of this size. Although it is primarily a “gaming” monitor, every feature of this display makes it a compelling option for content creation (and consumption).
- Best color contrast thanks to Mini LED backlighting on a 10-bit VA panel.
- HDR10+ means it can get bright; hence you get excellent image quality while consuming content.
- The 1000R curvature provides the most immersive experience.
- Excellent build quality.
- The aggressive curvature might not be suitable in a collaborative environment.
- Mac users might be unable to make the most of its gaming features, putting its value proposition in question.
3. LG Ultrawide 49WQ95C-W Nano IPS Monitor – Highest DCI-P3 Coverage
LG Ultrawide 49WQ95C-W has the highest DCI-P3 coverage and the lowest Delta E variance among 49-inch ultrawide, making it perfect for creative professionals working with colors, graphics, and visuals. It features an 8-bit Nano IPS panel which can hit 450 nits.
The images are sharp and crisp, and the color accuracy is impressive. The 3800R curvature makes it easier for a user to view the edges of the screen and creates better viewing angles when collaborating with colleagues.
The monitor is only rated for 400 nits of brightness, which is barely acceptable for HDR. Please remember that it’s an 8-bit panel, whereas professionals usually prefer 10-bit for more color depth. But considering its color reproduction, sharpness, and low color variance, it evens the odds.
- Highest DCI-P3 coverage from a 49-inch ultrawide with the lowest Delta E variance.
- The Nano IPS panel with 3800R curvature gives the best viewing angle and most expansive view for everyone in the room.
- Sharp image quality and color reproduction.
- The 90W Power Delivery will charge most high-capacity laptops.
- The Low Blue Light emissions prevent eye strain while working long hours.
The 400nits brightness limits HDR performance.
- Contrast suffers in lower brightness.
4. Dell U4919DW UltraSharp – For Multitasking
Dell UltraSharp U4919DW still looks premium and feels solid in its 2018 design. Four years later, it is still a fantastic choice for professionals who work with a lot of text. Analysts, writers, accountants, and front desk personnel will love the picture quality, and the minimalistic design will blend perfectly in any office space.
The monitor displays crisp images, and the 95% DCI-P3 coverage on a 10-bit IPS panel provides good color accuracy. The only downside to this dated display is the meager 350 nits of brightness and the 60Hz refresh rate.
It also lacks the latest port selections that we find in newer 49-inch displays. However, the reasonable pricing and humble features will still appeal to professionals whose work does not depend on a high refresh rate or HDR performance.
- The 10-bit IPS panel with 95% DCI-P3 coverage offers accurate color reproduction.
- IPS display with 3800R Curvature provides great viewing angles when collaborating with colleagues.
- Excellent build quality with a reliable stand provides easy adjustability.
- Picture-by-Picture (PBP) and KVM features make multitasking and collaboration easier.
- The 90W Power Delivery will charge most high-capacity laptops.
- The screen does not get bright enough for HDR content.
- The 60Hz max refresh rate is low by 2023 standards.
- It cannot be daisy-chained.
5. Viotek Super Ultrawide SUW49DA2 – Great Value
Viotek SUW49DA2 goes toe-to-toe with big players like Dell and LG and offers a high-quality product at a much more affordable price. When we look at its spec sheet, it does not have any edge over other brands in this monitor category- but surprisingly, it does not fall behind either.
It’s rated for 90% DCI-P3 coverage, so the display looks good out of the box, and with some minor fine-tuning and calibration, this 8-bit VA panel will surprise you. The picture quality is excellent, even with HDR content, and it’s built very well and is pleasing to the eye. It is packed with every other feature we take for granted in 2023 but at a lower price tag.
- Surprisingly great image quality and color accuracy after manual calibration.
- Comes with an intuitive remote controller to make up for hard-to-reach monitor controls.
- It can simultaneously display four sources on the screen for efficient multitasking.
- Works with G-Sync even without the certification.
- HDR does not seem to work with AdaptiveSync.
- Acceptable but unexceptional HDR performance, along with everything else.
6. AOC AGON AG493UCX2 – Budget
AOC AGON AG493UCX2 is conceived for gaming. The 32:9 aspect ratio, however, does accommodate multitasking, but we cannot recommend it for creative professionals. The abysmal 82% DCI-P3 coverage makes this monitor undesirable for content creation, but the picture quality and HDR performance are better suited for gaming or everyday office use.
With 1ms of input lag, AOC has created an outstanding 49-inch gaming ultrawide monitor, but its flagship feature takes a hit. It’s perfect for people who predominantly use a MacBook Pro for conventional work and enjoy gaming on a separate gaming rig.
- Comes with a remote controller.
- Good HDR performance overall, perfect for viewing content.
- A low input lag ensures responsive gaming.
- The low color gamut is inadequate for tasks that require color accuracy.
- Poor menu layout makes it difficult to navigate them.
- Many gaming features will not benefit a Mac user.
7. Philips Brilliance 499P9H – Versatile
Philips 499P9H is the predecessor of the lesser-known 498P9Z, which is a slight improvement over this 2019 release. We still picked the firstborn because of the USB-C hub and the included RJ45 port despite having a lower refresh rate of 70Hz.
Another feature that MacBook Pro users will appreciate is the inclusion of a 90W Power Delivery to charge their laptop directly from the monitor. It’s not the only monitor on this list with that feature, but we’re glad it has this.
Philips is known for manufacturing professional-grade displays, but this is a pleasant offering priced reasonably for the mass consumer market. It is not the “best” display on this list, nor does it have any one “stand-out” feature to give it an edge over other monitors. Philips Brilliance 499P9H is also one of the older models here, but it hits most of the right notes for a decent display for productivity purposes with convenient ports.
Its picture quality is outstanding despite it barely qualifying for HDR400. While the port selection is a little dated, it still packs plenty of conveniences. So, the little the monitor is supposed to do does it very well.
Excellent image quality.
Convenient port selection with USB-C charging, ethernet connection, and a webcam.
The 90W Power Delivery will charge your MacBook Pro when connected.
The built-in KVM switch enables efficient multitasking.
Entry-level HDR performance.
The low refresh rate of 70Hz might turn off many.
Pricey
Best 49-inch Ultrawides For MacBook Pro – Frequently Asked Questions
Does MacBook Pro support the 5120x1440p resolution of a 49-inch ultrawide?
MacBook Pro 2023 with an M2 chip can support resolutions up to 8K on an external display simultaneously with its native display. But sometimes, it might work differently than intended and require an external Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 dock.
Is It Better to Have Two Monitors or One 49-inch Ultrawide?
Some professionals might prefer having a dedicated screen positioned in portrait mode to serve their needs better, while streamers might require dedicated screens to record their gameplay.
It depends mainly on the use case scenario of the person, but typically it is far better to have one single ultrawide for better multitasking. The 49-inch form factor with its 32:9 aspect ratio is equivalent to two 27-inch 16:9 displays, but at this size, users get more vertical pixels to work with.
You can conveniently segment your screen into three same-size displays with a single ultrawide. At the same time, a dual monitor setup will hinder that use case with the bezels in the middle, not to mention the constant turning of the head from left to right, which gets very uncomfortable over a long period.
It is also aesthetically more pleasing to have one giant monitor, and it keeps the desk clutter-free.
So, it depends on a person’s preference and use case.
Can I Use a Multiple 49-inch Ultrawide with My MacBook Pro?
MacBook Pro with M2 chips can support multiple 4K displays at high refresh rates or a single 8K display at 60Hz simultaneously with its native screen, but the maximum number depends on how much data bandwidth they require. You can run fewer high-resolution displays at high refresh rates or more low-resolution displays at low refresh rates.
Here is what Apple has to say in this regard.
| Number of Displays | Display Configurations |
|---|---|
| 1 | 1x 8K @ 60Hz |
| 1x 4K @ 240Hz | |
| 2 | 2x 6K @ 60Hz (Thunderbolt) |
| 1x 6K @ 60Hz (Thunderbolt) + 1x 4K @ 144Hz (HDMI) | |
| 1x 8K @ 60Hz (Thunderbolt) + 1x 4K @ 240Hz (HDMI) | |
| 3 | 2x 6K @ 60Hz (Thunderbolt) + 1x 8K @ 60Hz (HDMI) |
| 2x 6K @ 60Hz (Thunderbolt) + 1x 4K @ 240Hz (HDMI) | |
| 4 | 3x 6K @ 60Hz (Thunderbolt) + 1x 4K @ 144Hz (HDMI) |
What is the Difference Between Mini LEDs, Nano IPS, OLED and QD-OLED?
You must be familiar with LCD/LED technology to appreciate these panel types. An LCD/LED panel uses a common backlight to illuminate the entire screen. It addresses each pixel individually to control the amount of light that passes through it. While the upside is that you get a flatter and brighter screen, the downside is that the backlight never goes off, compromising the contrast ratio.
A Mini LED divides the screen into a “dimming zone” using not just one but several tiny LED backlights. The result is a greater contrast ratio as the panel can turn off the LEDs that aren’t in use, resulting in deeper blacks.
A Nano IPS panel uses nanoparticles to absorb various wavelengths of the LCD/LED screens’ backlight. As a result, you get a considerably higher color gamut suitable for creative professionals and gamers.
OLED panels re-imagine the display technology by using individual Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLED) for each pixel. By using OLEDs, the panel turns off individual pixels when they aren’t required, resulting in deep blacks and an infinite contrast ratio.
QD-OLED or Quantum Dot-OLED screens build upon the concept of the OLED screen. OLED screens have unmatched contrast ratios but aren’t the brightest screens on the market. In a nutshell, QD-OLEDs take the OLED technology and use Quantum Dots to provide higher brightness levels.
