The M1 Mac mini has changed the game for compact and affordable editing machines. Its only downside (or advantage depending on who you ask) is that it doesn’t come with a monitor. It does mean that you get to choose a screen, though it does add to the cost of a relatively cheap computer.
If you are looking for something to pair with a new M1 Mac mini but want to stay on a budget there are a few options. Coming from Lamar MK is one ultrawide pick that is quite affordable and sits under $250. Seems like it is worth taking a look at if you are in need of a new display.
The monitor being referenced in this video is the LG 29WN600-W, a 29” 21:9 aspect ratio UltraWide display. If you want a lot of screen real estate but prefer to stick with a single monitor then ultrawides are among the best bet. High-end ones usually don’t come cheap though.
This budget UltraWide from LG is definitely losing some premium features to get down to the sub-$250 price point. It has a 2560 x 1080 resolution, which is enough for everyday use. It also has a 75 Hz refresh rate and a decent brightness of 250 nits. Inputs are either HDMI or DisplayPort, and HDMI is likely what you will use with your M1 Mac mini.
Image Credit: LG
As for design, it looks good. It has a decent stand and has a matte panel that limits glare. Slim bezels certainly help give it a nice clean look. One bonus feature is that it will support HDR for a slightly better quality image. Gaming and watching movies will be good with this display, plus there are some okay speakers built right in.
Where filmmakers and creatives might take issue is with the fairly limited 8-bit color depth. It’s fine for general web usage and should be calibrated, but at this price point you aren’t going to find much better. You will definitely be looking at monitors with prices multiple times this option for color accuracy.
Image Credit: LG
On that note, the extra widescreen look of this display will help for working in an NLE. The extra space will help you better navigate the timeline and access all your tools at once.
As for a budget option, the unit is quite respectable. You could get this monitor and an Mac mini going for under $1K, and that’s impressive for the amount of power that M1 chip pushes out.
Do you have an alternative monitor suggestion?
[source: Lamar MK – Tech Videos and More]
Order Links:
- Apple Mac mini w/ M1 Chip (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
- LG 29WN600-W 29” HDR Monitor (B&H, Amazon, Adorama)
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate partner and participant in B&H and Adorama Affiliate programmes, we earn a small comission from each purchase made through the affiliate links listed above at no additional cost to you.
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