4 Fixes for Macbook Not Outputting in High Refresh Rate to External Monitor

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Basic Fixes

Fix 1: Manually Select the High Refresh Rate in Mac Settings

Despite supporting the high refresh rate, many monitors often don’t switch to the higher refresh rate because it isn’t enabled in the Mac settings. Here’s how you do it:

Step 1:After connecting the monitor to the Mac, open MacSettings.

Step 2:Next, go toDisplays.

Note:Different Mac models have different maximum output resolutions and refresh rates.

Step 3:Here, you will see the option to selectRefresh rate. Select the highest possible. In this case, my monitor supports 144Hz, so I’m choosing that.

Fix 2: Use a Thunderbolt Compatible Cable or HDMI 2.1

Choosing the wrong cable can cause issues with supporting the high refresh rate. Apple recommends using:

Also, some cables are unsuitable for display, such as the supplied USB-C to USB-C cable with most MacBooks. Therefore, check which port your Mac has and purchase the appropriate cable. Visitthe official Apple support pageto identify ports on your Mac model.

Alternatively, you can use an HDMI 2.1 cable. Note that most Mac models ship with an HDMI 2.0 port or don’t have it, limiting their output to 4K at 60Hz. In this case, use the Thunderbolt port only. Visitthis pageto check if your Mac supports 4K at up to 240Hz over HDMI.

Also Read:Best Thunderbolt 4 cables for MacBook and iPad

Fix 3: Plug Into HDMI 2.1, Display Port, or Thunderbolt USB4 Port

Keep these points in mind when connecting the cable to your monitor:

Identify the HDMI 2.1 Port on Your Monitor/TV

Some external monitors and TVs have multiple ports, but it isn’t necessary that all of them support HDMI 2.1. That means they are limited to HDMI 2.0 or lower, limiting them to 60Hz.

In this case, identify which ports support the HDMI 2.1 configuration and correctly plug in the HDMI cable (which should also be HDMI 2.1).

If Your Monitor Doesn’t Have an HDMI 2.1 Port

My monitor doesn’t have an HDMI port that supports HDMI 2.1. So, I have two options: I can either plug a USB-C to USB-C cable from my MacBook into the monitor’s USB-C port (which is DisplayPort Alt Mode compatible) or plug a USB-C to DisplayPort cable into my monitor’s DisplayPort.

Fix 4: Avoid Using Low-Quality, Generic Docks/Hubs

Now that many MacBooks only ship with USB-C ports as the main I/O, it becomes paramount to invest in a USB-C dock or hub. It not only expands your I/O to USB-A, more USB-C ports, and HDMI but also lets you charge simultaneously.

However, most people buy cheap options that don’t support the bandwidth or I/O needed to power a high refresh rate or resolution.

So, while buying a dock, ensure the following:

Also Read:I didn’t know I needed a dock for my Mac until I used one: ft. Startech Thunderbolt 4 dock

FAQs

Yes, you can use HDR if your external monitor is compatible with it.

No, the capabilities vary among different Mac models. For accurate information, refer to Apple’s official specifications.

A high refresh rate makes the user interface smoother and reduces strain on the eyes. Additionally, it’s crucial for gamers.

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Last updated on 07 June, 2024

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