Computer Monitors with USB C: Top Picks for Every Workflow
The Dell UltraSharp U2723QE is our top pick for most people. It offers a sharp 4K display, extensive USB C connectivity, and excellent color accuracy. Its main limitation is the 60Hz refresh rate, which may not satisfy gamers.
USB C monitors simplify your desk setup by carrying video, data, and power through one cable. They are especially useful for laptop users who want to charge their device and connect to a display without multiple adapters.
Choosing the right one depends on your primary tasks. Office workers may prioritize sharp text and USB hub functionality. Creative professionals need accurate colors. Gamers look for high refresh rates and low input lag.
What to look for
Understanding USB C Monitors USB C monitors use a single cable to connect a laptop or device, transmitting video, data, and power. This reduces cable clutter and simplifies connectivity. Most modern laptops, especially MacBooks and Ultrabooks, support video output over USB C. When choosing a monitor, ensure your device’s USB C port supports DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt 3/4 for video signal. Some monitors also act as USB hubs, providing additional ports for peripherals.
Key Specifications to Consider Resolution: 4K (3840×2160) is ideal for productivity, offering sharp text. QHD (2560×1440) is a good balance for gaming and work. Refresh Rate: 60Hz is standard for office work, while 144Hz or higher is better for gaming. Power Delivery: Check the wattage. A monitor with 90W or 96W can charge most laptops, while 60W may be sufficient for smaller devices. Panel Type: IPS is common for color accuracy and viewing angles. VA offers better contrast, but TN is outdated.
Connectivity and Ergonomics Look for USB C ports that support data transfer and display. Some monitors have multiple USB C ports, allowing you to connect several devices or daisy chain. Consider the number of USB A ports, HDMI, and DisplayPort for other peripherals. Ergonomic adjustments like height, tilt, swivel, and pivot are valuable for comfort. VESA mount compatibility allows you to use an arm or stand.
Color Accuracy and HDR For creative work, color accuracy is crucial. Look for monitors covering 100% sRGB, 95% DCI P3, or Adobe RGB. Factory calibration ensures accurate colors out of the box. HDR support enhances contrast and color, but not all HDR is equal. Check if the monitor meets VESA DisplayHDR 400, 600, or 1000 standards. For gaming, HDR with local dimming provides a more immersive experience.
The best picks, ranked
Dell UltraSharp U2723QE
The Dell U2723QE is a 27 inch 4K monitor with a USB C port that delivers 90W of power to your laptop. It uses IPS Black technology for deeper blacks and wider viewing angles. Owners report excellent text clarity and a sturdy stand.
Pros
- Sharp 4K resolution with superb color accuracy
- USB C hub with multiple ports and 90W charging
- Ergonomic stand with height, tilt, swivel, and pivot
Cons
- 60Hz refresh rate not ideal for gaming
- No built-in speakers
LG 27UP850N-W
The LG 27UP850N-W offers a 27 inch 4K IPS display with USB C power delivery of up to 96W. It covers 95% of DCI P3 for vivid colors. Users appreciate the slim bezels and adjustable stand.
Pros
- High power delivery charges large laptops
- Great color coverage for creative work
- Competitive price for 4K USB C monitor
Cons
- Limited ergonomics (height adjustable only)
- No USB C daisy chaining
Samsung ViewFinity S8
Samsung’s ViewFinity S8 is a 32 inch 4K monitor with 98% DCI P3 coverage and factory calibration. It has a USB C port with 90W power delivery. Reviewers note its matte screen reduces reflections.
Pros
- Excellent color accuracy out of the box
- Large 32 inch screen for multitasking
- USB C with 90W charging and ethernet port
Cons
- Heavy and bulky stand
- No height adjustment on some units
LG 27GN950-B
The LG 27GN950-B is a 27 inch 4K Nano IPS gaming monitor with a 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. It supports USB C with 60W power delivery and is G Sync compatible. Gamers praise its smooth motion and vivid colors.
Pros
- Fast 144Hz refresh rate for smooth gameplay
- Excellent color and contrast for gaming
- USB C with 60W charging for laptops
Cons
- Power delivery limited to 60W
- No USB hub ports
BenQ PD2705U
BenQ PD2705U is a 27 inch 4K monitor designed for Mac compatibility. It features a USB C port with 65W power delivery and a Thunderbolt 3 daisy chain option. It includes a hotkey puck for quick mode switching.
Pros
- Thunderbolt 3 support for Mac daisy chaining
- Factory calibrated with M Book mode
- Hotkey puck for easy OSD control
Cons
- No built-in speakers
- Slightly higher price
ASUS ProArt PA278CV
The ASUS ProArt PA278CV offers a 27 inch WQHD (2560×1440) IPS display with 100% sRGB and Rec.709 coverage. It has a USB C port with 65W power delivery. Users find it a reliable choice for photo and video editing on a budget.
Pros
- Accurate colors with factory calibration
- 75Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling
- USB C with 65W charging and hub
Cons
- Lower resolution than 4K
- Limited connectivity (no DisplayPort out)
Acer Predator XB273K
The Acer Predator XB273K is a 27 inch 4K gaming monitor with a 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. It includes a USB C port with 65W power delivery and G Sync Ultimate. Its aggressive design and fast performance are its highlights.
Pros
- High refresh rate and low input lag
- G Sync Ultimate for tear free gaming
- USB C with 65W charging
Cons
- Bulky design with wide bezels
- Expensive for its feature set
Side by side
| # | Model | Screen Size | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dell UltraSharp U2723QE | 27 inches | Best overall for productivity and Mac compatibility | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | LG 27UP850N-W | 27 inches | Best value USB C monitor with 4K and USB hub | 9.0 | Check price |
| 3 | Samsung ViewFinity S8 | 32 inches | Best for designers requiring accurate colors | 8.9 | Check price |
| 4 | LG 27GN950-B | 27 inches | Best for gaming with USB C and high refresh rate | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | BenQ PD2705U | 27 inches | Best for Mac users and creative professionals | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | ASUS ProArt PA278CV | 27 inches | Best for budget friendly color accurate work | 8.5 | Check price |
| 7 | Acer Predator XB273K | 27 inches | Best for competitive gamers who need USB C | 8.2 | Check price |
Questions worth asking
Do all USB C monitors charge my laptop?
Not all. USB C power delivery depends on the monitor’s wattage. Many provide 60W to 96W. Check your laptop’s charging requirements. A monitor with 60W may charge a small Ultrabook, but for a 16 inch MacBook Pro, you may need 90W or more. Some monitors with lower wattage may not charge or charge slowly.
Can I connect a USB C monitor to a PC with DisplayPort or HDMI?
Yes, most USB C monitors also have HDMI and DisplayPort inputs. You can connect a PC using those ports, but you will not get power delivery or USB hub functionality over those connections. To use USB C features, both monitor and device must support USB C with DisplayPort Alt Mode.
What is DisplayPort Alt Mode?
DisplayPort Alt Mode allows a USB C connection to carry video signals. It is a standard feature on many laptops and monitors. If your device supports it, you can connect to a USB C monitor to display video. Without it, the USB C port may only support data and power.
Are USB C monitors good for gaming?
Yes, there are gaming monitors with USB C. Look for high refresh rates (144Hz or more) and low response times. Some also support Adaptive Sync like G Sync or FreeSync. However, power delivery may be lower than office monitors, so check if it can charge your gaming laptop.
Can I daisy chain multiple USB C monitors?
Some monitors support daisy chaining through USB C or Thunderbolt. This allows you to connect multiple monitors to one port on your laptop. Requires that both monitors and your device support DisplayPort Multi Stream Transport (MST) or Thunderbolt. Check the specifications.
What is the difference between USB C and Thunderbolt 3?
Thunderbolt 3 uses the USB C connector but offers higher bandwidth (40 Gbps) and supports daisy chaining of multiple devices. It also carries PCIe data. Many Macs have Thunderbolt 3 ports, which are compatible with USB C monitors. However, a USB C monitor cannot be used as a Thunderbolt device unless it has Thunderbolt ports.
How much power does my monitor need to charge a MacBook Pro?
MacBook Pro models vary. The 13 inch may need around 61W, while the 16 inch may require 96W. To ensure fast charging, choose a monitor with at least 90W power delivery. Some monitors offer up to 96W, which is sufficient for most laptops.
Do USB C monitors have speakers?
Many do, but they are often low quality. Some have basic 2W or 3W speakers suitable for system sounds, but not for media consumption. For better audio, use external speakers or a headphone jack.
Can I use a USB C monitor with a gaming console?
Yes, if the monitor has HDMI input, you can connect a console. USB C features will not be used, but the display will work. Some monitors have multiple HDMI ports, so you can connect both a laptop and a console.
What is the ideal screen size for a USB C monitor?
It depends on your desk space and resolution. 27 inches is popular for 4K, as it provides a good balance of size and pixel density. 32 inches is larger and better for multitasking, but requires more desk space. For QHD, 27 inches is also fine. Consider your viewing distance and resolution for sharpness.
The verdict
For most people, the Dell UltraSharp U2723QE is the best choice. It combines sharp 4K resolution, robust USB C connectivity, and excellent build quality. If you are a gamer wanting high refresh rates, the LG 27GN950-B delivers smooth performance with a USB C port. For those on a budget, the ASUS ProArt PA278CV offers accurate colors and USB C charging at a lower price, though it is QHD not 4K.
