Some 5K Monitors you should try

They’re already here! 5K displays don’t just get you a slightly-larger-than-4K resolution but also attempt to solve one of 4K’s biggest shortcomings: pixel density. Today we’re going to see what that means and which are the advantages of having one of these innovative displays.

What is a “5K” Monitor?

A “5K” monitor is a monitor that has a horizontal resolution of around 5,000 pixels. There’s no “official” 5K resolution though the most common resolution that fits this description is 5120×2880 which fits the traditional 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio.

The most common 5K resolution offers a 33% increase in horizontal and vertical over what is commonly known as 4K in the monitor world (3840×2160). 

Okay, since 5K can refer to any resolution with around 5,000 pixels on the horizontal axis, some (super) ultrawide displays also qualify. For instance, a resolution of 5120×1440 technically counts as 5K, though the aspect ratio would be 32:9, which means the vertical resolution is exactly half that of the most common resolution.

Why Choose 5K?

One of the most important and benefitial advantages of 5K monitors (at least those that use the common 5120×2880 resolution) is its pixel density, resulting in a pixel density of around 218 ppi that meets Apple’s specifications to be called a “Retina” display.

In short, we can translate this as the content that is presented in the interface is as clear as the screens of smartphones. This kind of monitor is perfect for Mac users who own a Retina-quality MacBook model since plugging in an external display traditionally means accepting a lower pixel density (and thus inferior image quality) compared with using the native display on a MacBook Pro or MacBook Air. The same can be said for iMac users who want to add additional displays to their setup.

What 5K Monitors Are Available to Buy?

For now, Apple continues to lead the 5K monitor trend with devices such as its Studio Display and the (now discontinued) 27-inch iMac, both of which achieve 5K. Let’s see the other 5K devices are available in the market: 

Apple Studio Display

While this is a 16:9 widescreen monitor with an IPS panel that uses a refresh rate of 60Hz, doesn’t do HDR and there’s no local dimming to improve contrast ratio, it’s a bit too expensive. Although the Apple Studio Display is still remaining the premium choice, especially for Mac owners, it’s incredibly sharp on account of its high pixel density, has excellent brightness (nearly 600 nits), good viewing angles, and it’s built like a tank.

LG 27MD5KL-B

On the other hand, if you’re looking for something similar to the first device but for less money, you can take a look at the LG-27MD5KL-B. Basically, it’s a 27-inch 5K monitor with the same pixel density, Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, and 99% coverage of the DCI-P3 color space. It also comes with a stand and will save you a couple of hundred dollars.

Samsung’s Odyssey Neo G9

Due to 5K is a somewhat nebulous term, just think that any monitor with over 5,000 pixels on the horizontal axis could qualify. For example, Samsung’s Odyssey Neo G9 is a monster of a gaming monitor with a 5120×1440 resolution and 49-inch curved display.

Furthermore, it has a refresh rate of 240Hz, impressive HDR performance, and a VA panel. Well, it might cost more than an Apple Studio Display, but it does at least come with a stand.