Apple’s Thunderbolt Displays are dead. Long live USB-C.
LG’s UltraFine 4K Monitor could not be more unassuming. The UltraFine is 21.5 inches diagonally, with no design flourishes, no buttons (seriously), stereo speakers, a stand that doesn’t do anything fancy, and four USB-C ports.
The UltraFine is controlled and driven entirely by your 12" MacBook, and in turn acts as your MacBook’s power source and USB-C hub. The 9.4 million pixels look amazing, and even though I’ve been testing mostly 27"-30" monitors recently, the screen has yet to feel too small.
Apple has been retailing the UltraFine for $524 for a “limited time,” which is very reasonable for a USB-C 4K monitor with P3 color gamut... not that there’s much competition. Even better, 12" MacBooks from early 2016 and beyond can drive the UltraFine at 60Hz, and the monitor will charge any 12" MacBook at full speed.
I immediately VESA mounted the UltraFine to BDI’s Lift Desk with Monoprice’s Gas Spring Desk Mount, and used HooToo’s USB-C Hub to connect my G900, G410, Firefly, and Audioengine HD3s. Everything worked without a hitch.
It’s a relief that the UltraFine is an easy recommendation for 12" MacBook owners who need a great screen, because it’s pretty much the only game in town.