Macs with M4 chip have arrived with significant performance improvements and efficiency, but not everything is perfect for the users of these devices. Over the past few weeks, various reports have pointed out compatibility issues between the new Mac M4s and certain ultrawide monitors, especially those with a 5K2K (5120 x 2160) resolution.
That is why we are writing this article to warn you about this problem and to consider it when purchasing your new monitor.
5K2K monitors and the HiDPI dilemma
Apple support forums, Reddit, and other online spaces have been filled with complaints about how M4 Macs don’t display proper resolution options for these monitors. This causes the interface and the text they look blurrya problem that did not exist in previous models, whether they are Macs with Intel processors or with Apple Silicon chips from previous generations.
The problem appears to be related to HiDPI mode, a technology that allows interfaces to look sharper by appropriately scaling the resolution. According to affected users, this mode does not work when connecting a 5K2K monitor to a Mac M4. A Mac Mini M4 owner explains: “I can select the same resolution as on my M1 MacBook Pro, but the HiDPI option does not appear, and it looks noticeably worse.” Another user adds: “With my MacBook Pro M1 Max there is no problem, but on the M4 Max the 3840 x 1620 resolution disappears.”
Workarounds and limitations
In the absence of an official response from Apple, some users have turned to third-party tools such as BetterDisplay to enable HiDPI mode on these monitors. However, this solution is not ideal as it introduces new limitations, such as a reduction in the refresh rate from 75 Hz to 60 Hz, affecting the fluidity of the viewing experience.
For now, the recommendation for those who own or plan to purchase an ultrawide monitor with 5K2K resolution is to avoid making the jump to the Mac M4 until Apple resolves the problem.
Apple does not respond
Despite the growing number of complaints, Apple has not issued any official statement or indicated whether this issue will be fixed with a macOS update. The lack of clarity has led to frustration among users, especially those who rely on ultra-wide monitor setups for creative or productivity work.
If you are considering purchasing a Mac M4 and use high-resolution monitors, it is worth doing further research and considering these limitations. For now, those experiencing this issue can try temporary alternatives or even consider keeping their current Mac until there is a permanent solution.
Have you encountered this problem on your Mac M4? Share your experience and possible solutions in the comments section.
