How to Get 60 Hz on A 4K Monitor Mac?

20 minutes read

To get 60 Hz on a 4K monitor connected to your Mac, you need to make sure your Mac and the monitor are compatible with each other. Here are the steps to achieve this:

  1. Check the hardware compatibility: Ensure that your Mac supports 4K resolution at 60 Hz. Older models may have limitations, so it's essential to verify technical specifications online or consult the Mac documentation.
  2. Use the appropriate cables: Connect your Mac to the 4K monitor using an HDMI 2.0 or DisplayPort cable. These cables support higher refresh rates, allowing you to achieve 60 Hz at 4K resolution.
  3. Adjust monitor settings: On your 4K monitor, access the display settings menu using the buttons or controls provided. Look for an option to switch the refresh rate and set it to 60 Hz. The exact steps may vary depending on the monitor model, so consult the user manual if needed.
  4. Adjust Mac display settings: On your Mac, go to the Apple menu and select "System Preferences." Then, click on "Displays." In the Display preferences, hold down the Option key and click the "Scaled" button to reveal additional resolution options.
  5. Select the appropriate resolution: In the scaled resolution options, choose a resolution that is 4K. Look for resolutions that mention "Retina" or include the term "Ultra HD." Selecting these resolutions should enable 60 Hz refresh rate.
  6. Confirm the refresh rate: After selecting the appropriate resolution, click the "OK" button and exit the display settings. You can then verify if the 4K monitor is running at 60 Hz by navigating to the "Displays" preferences again. Look for a statement that confirms the refresh rate.


By following these steps, you can maximize your 4K monitor's capabilities and enjoy a smooth 60 Hz experience on your Mac.

Best 4k Monitors of 2024

1
SAMSUNG UJ59 Series 32-Inch 4K UHD (3840x2160) Computer Monitor, HDMI, Display Port, Eye Saver/Flicker Free Mode, FreeSync (LU32J590UQNXZA),Black

Rating is 5 out of 5

SAMSUNG UJ59 Series 32-Inch 4K UHD (3840x2160) Computer Monitor, HDMI, Display Port, Eye Saver/Flicker Free Mode, FreeSync (LU32J590UQNXZA),Black

  • WIDESCREEN UHD: With 4x the pixels of Full HD, get more screen space (vs 16:9 screen) and UHD images; View documents & webpages w/ less scrolling, work more comfortably w/ multiple windows & toolbars, and enjoy photos, videos & games in stunning 4K
  • A BILLION COLOR SHADES: Supporting a billion shades of color, the UJ59 delivers incredibly vivid and realistic images; Its color accuracy means colors appear true to life, making the UJ59 ideal for photo, video and graphics applications
  • SEAMLESS UPSCALING: Samsung’s UHD upscaling technology includes signal analysis and detail enhancement that seamlessly upconverts SD, HD and Full HD content to near UHD-level picture quality
  • WIDESCREEN 4K GAMING: With 8.3 million pixels supporting a wide range of colors and resolving every image with astonishing clarity, UHD gives you a wider view for a truly thrilling and immersive gaming experience
  • SMOOTHER GAMEPLAY: AMD FreeSync synchronizes the refresh rate of your graphics card & monitor to reduce image tear & stutter; Low Input Lag Mode minimizes the delay between mouse, keyboard or joystick input and onscreen response for smooth gaming
2
HP OMEN 27k UHD 144Hz Gaming Monitor, 4K UHD Display (3840 x 2160), IPS Panel, 99% sRGB, 95% DCI-P3, 16:9, OMEN Gaming Hub, 27k (2023),Black

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

HP OMEN 27k UHD 144Hz Gaming Monitor, 4K UHD Display (3840 x 2160), IPS Panel, 99% sRGB, 95% DCI-P3, 16:9, OMEN Gaming Hub, 27k (2023),Black

  • UNCOMPROMISING PERFORMANCE - Get lost in the captivating definition and ultra-precise details of 4K resolution on this 27” diagonal monitor. The pixel dense 3840 x 2160 resolution transforms your game into a remarkable, lifelike experience
  • VISUALS BEYOND IMAGINATION - Get deeper hues and a wide array of colors with 99% sRGB and 95% DCI-P3 for precisely recreated colors so lifelike you get lost in your gameplay
  • THE JOY HQ - Behold your gaming headquarters. Whether you’re playing in or out of game, quickly switch between devices and control them with the same keyboard & mouse thanks to the KVM switch
  • REFINE YOUR PLAY SPACE - Made to impress in and out of game, the new OMEN look blends sophistication and fun to elevate what a gaming setup can look like. Through aRGB lighting and integrated dual speakers, make your play space just how you like it
  • ALL YOUR FUN, CUSTOM - Play around with every possible setting in OMEN Gaming Hub—a one-stop shop for customizing your ecosystem. Make your monitor, any PC, and select accessories work better together the way you want
  • EVERY MOTION AND PIXEL KEEPS UP WITH YOU - How fast your pixels can react to changing frames is critical for fast-paced gaming, and a 1ms GtG response time with Overdrive ensures even the most action-packed moments are fluid, crisp, and free of motion blur
  • EASILY MAKE OUT DETAILS - See details even in shadow and replicate reality on your screen with VESA DisplayHDR 400 for enhanced contrast, deeper shadows and brighter highlights
  • NEXT GEN CONSOLE COMPATIBLE - Compatible with any console, and get 120FPS at 4K through HDMI 2.1 on the latest consoles
  • ADJUSTABLE STAND - Find comfort while you game with 100mm of height adjust, pivot and tilt capabilities
  • HP EYE EASE WITH EYESAFE CERTIFICATION - Keep your screentime comfortable with beautiful colors while reducing blue light.
3
ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q1A 28” Monitor, 4K UHD (3840 x 2160), IPS, Adaptive-Sync/ FreeSync, Eye Care, DisplayPort HDMI, DCI-P3 HDR 10, Shadow Boost, Black

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q1A 28” Monitor, 4K UHD (3840 x 2160), IPS, Adaptive-Sync/ FreeSync, Eye Care, DisplayPort HDMI, DCI-P3 HDR 10, Shadow Boost, Black

  • 28-inch 4K (3840x2160) IPS DCI-P3 grade gaming monitor for stunning crisp and detailed visuals.Specific uses for product - Gaming
  • Compatible with industry-standard HDR10 high dynamic range for color and brightness levels that exceed the capabilities of ordinary monitors
  • FreeSync technology to eliminate screen tearing and choppy frame rates
  • Shadow Boost enhances image details in dark areas, brightening scenes without over-exposing bright areas
  • Rich Connectivity with HDMI (v2.0) x2 and DisplayPort 1.2 ports
  • Supports both Adaptive-Sync with NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards and FreeSync with AMD Radeon graphics cards Compatible with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 10 series, GTX 16 series, RTX 20 series and newer graphics cards
  • What's in the box: DisplayPort cable, Power cord, Warranty card, Quick Start guide
4
Dell S2721QS 27 Inch 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) IPS Ultra-Thin Bezel Monitor, AMD FreeSync (HDMI, DisplayPort), VESA Certified, Silver

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

Dell S2721QS 27 Inch 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) IPS Ultra-Thin Bezel Monitor, AMD FreeSync (HDMI, DisplayPort), VESA Certified, Silver

  • IMMERSIVE DISPLAY: Experience stunning 4K UHD with a three-sided ultrathin bezel design, providing immersive viewing with 4 times the resolution of Full HD. Supports HDR content playback for a lifelike visual experience.Specific uses for product - Gaming.Pixel Per Inch : 163. Brightness : 350 cd/m².Horizontal Viewing Angle : 178°. Vertical Viewing Angle : 178°
  • ELEGENT DESIGN: The back side of this monitor features a subtle textured pattern that gives it a unique look. It brings the feeling of a harmonious blend of great style and quality into every living space.
  • COMFORT VIEW: Customize your viewing experience with a height adjustable stand, tilt, swivel & pivot features, ensuring all-day comfort and ergonomic versatility.
  • SEAMLEASS SWITCHING: Built-in dual HDMI ports keep your devices always plugged in and let you effortlessly switch between streaming and console gaming.
5
SAMSUNG 43" Odyssey Neo G7 Series 4K UHD Smart Gaming Monitor, 144Hz, 1ms, VESA Display HDR600, Quantum Matrix Technology, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, LS43CG702NNXZA, 2023, Black

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

SAMSUNG 43" Odyssey Neo G7 Series 4K UHD Smart Gaming Monitor, 144Hz, 1ms, VESA Display HDR600, Quantum Matrix Technology, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, LS43CG702NNXZA, 2023, Black

  • QUANTUM MATRIX TECHNOLOGY: Quantum Matrix Technology w/ Quantum Mini LEDs create controlled brightness and impressive contrast for games to come to life; Plus, advanced 12-bit back light unit allows detailed HDR control for unmatched picture quality*.Power Supply Type : AC100-240V 50/60Hz. Power Cable Length : 1.5 m
  • VESA DISPLAY HDR600: Experience a new level of multi-entertainment with life-like visuals; With 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio and VESA Display HDR600, both videos and games deliver abundant, deeper blacks and greater color detail*Sync Premium Pro
  • SMART TV EXPERIENCE: Enjoy your favorite shows and movies through the Smart TV apps; Take a break from marathon gaming sessions and catch up on must-see streaming content with just a simple Wi-Fi connection**
  • SAMSUNG GAMING HUB: The best of gaming all in one place; Samsung Gaming Hub allows instant access to top cloud gaming services and your favorite consoles; Smooth visuals and responsive gameplay are powered by advanced game streaming technology***
  • 4K GAMING REFRESH RATES: 144Hz refresh rate eliminates lag for gameplay with ultra-smooth action; Identify enemies with elite precision with a 1ms(MPRT) response time , precise mouse movements, and blur-free frames with minimized ghosting*
  • AMD FREESYNC PREMIUM PRO: Effortlessly smooth gameplay; AMD FreeSync Premium Pro features adaptive sync technology which reduces screen tearing, stutter, and input latency; Low frame rate compensation ensures every scene flows seamlessly
  • MATTE DISPLAY: Focus only on what matters; The matte display absorbs, but does not reflect, artificial and natural light, minimizing glare and keeping you immersed during the toughest battles and hardest levels*
  • FLEX MOVE SCREEN: Optimize your gaming setup for boosted performance with Flex Move Screen by adjusting the on-screen size from 43 to 20 inches so you can maintain a winning position****
  • ULTRAWIDE GAME VIEW: Extend the screen and uncover unseen areas of game worlds with the Ultrawide Game View feature; Expand the aspect ratio easily from 16:9 to 21:9 to gain a competitive edge****
  • GAME BAR: Easily view the status of the most important settings such as FPS or HDR; Modify response time or screen ratio, as well as the game picture mode, without having to leave your game screen to keep you focused on your goal*
6
Dell S2722QC 27-inch 4K USB-C Monitor - UHD (3840 x 2160) Display, 60Hz Refresh Rate, 8MS Grey-to-Grey Response Time (Normal Mode), Built-in Dual 3W Speakers, 1.07 Billion Colors Platinum Silver

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

Dell S2722QC 27-inch 4K USB-C Monitor - UHD (3840 x 2160) Display, 60Hz Refresh Rate, 8MS Grey-to-Grey Response Time (Normal Mode), Built-in Dual 3W Speakers, 1.07 Billion Colors Platinum Silver

  • SUPERIOR SCREEN: With a three-sided ultrathin bezel design that lets you to see more without interruptions, high functionality meets superb style. Enjoy crisp visuals with an impressive 4.0ms response time.Specific uses for product - Business.Pixel per inch (PPI) : 163. Operating Temperature : 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)
  • COMFORT COMES FIRST: Customize your views with a height-adjustable stand and a monitor that tilts, swivels and pivots so you look your best and feel your best during work sessions or movie binges.
  • VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY: Easily charge and connect your laptop on this USB-C monitor. This single-cable solution reduces clutter on your desktop and transmits power, video, audio and data—all at once.
  • INTEGRATED SPEAKERS: This usb-c monitor comes equipped with everything you need including built-in dual 3W integrated speakers.
  • PERSONALIZED COMFORT: Customize your views with a height-adjustable stand that tilts, swivels and pivots allowing you to view at your most optimal position.


How to adjust display settings for 60 Hz on a 4K monitor Mac?

To adjust the display settings for a 60 Hz refresh rate on a 4K monitor on a Mac, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Apple menu and select "System Preferences."
  2. In the System Preferences window, click on "Displays."
  3. In the Displays window, you will see a list of connected monitors. Click on the 4K monitor you want to adjust.
  4. In the selected monitor's settings, navigate to the "Display" tab.
  5. In the Display tab, you should see a dropdown menu labeled "Refresh Rate" or "Display Refresh Rate." Click on the menu and select "60 Hertz" or "60 Hz."
  6. Close the Display settings window, and the refresh rate should now be adjusted to 60 Hz on your 4K monitor.


Note: This process may vary slightly depending on your specific version of macOS or the monitor model.


How to troubleshoot resolution issues on a 4K monitor Mac setup?

If you are experiencing resolution issues on your 4K monitor Mac setup, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:

  1. Check System Preferences: Go to the Apple menu and select "System Preferences," then click on "Displays." Make sure that the resolution is set to the recommended setting for your 4K monitor. If it is not, adjust it accordingly and see if the issue is resolved.
  2. Update macOS: Ensure that you have the latest version of macOS installed on your Mac. Software updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can resolve display issues.
  3. Check cable connections: Make sure that all cables between your Mac and the 4K monitor are securely connected. Sometimes, loose or faulty cables can cause resolution problems. Try disconnecting and reconnecting the cables to ensure a proper connection.
  4. Reset NVRAM/PRAM: NVRAM (non-volatile random-access memory) or PRAM (parameter random-access memory) stores certain settings related to display resolution. Resetting NVRAM/PRAM can help resolve display issues. To do this, shut down your Mac, then turn it on and immediately press and hold the Option-Command-P-R keys until your Mac restarts and you hear the startup sound for the second time.
  5. Test with another monitor or computer: If possible, connect your 4K monitor to another computer or connect a different monitor to your Mac. This will help determine if the issue is with the monitor or the Mac. If the problem persists with another monitor or computer, it indicates a hardware issue with the monitor itself.
  6. Adjust scaling options: Depending on the Mac model and macOS version, you may have scaling options available in the Display settings. Experiment with different scaling options to see if it improves the resolution quality.
  7. Reset display settings: In the Display settings, you can also try resetting the display settings to their default values. Click on the "Default for display" option to revert to the original settings and check if the resolution issue is resolved.
  8. Contact Apple Support: If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it is recommended to contact Apple Support or the manufacturer of your 4K monitor for further assistance. They may be able to provide specific troubleshooting steps or guide you through the resolution process.


Remember to always check for software updates and ensure that your Mac and monitor are compatible with each other to avoid resolution issues in the future.


How to check the current refresh rate on a 4K monitor Mac?

To check the current refresh rate on a 4K monitor on a Mac, you can follow the steps below:

  1. Click on the Apple menu located in the top-left corner of the screen.
  2. From the drop-down menu, select "System Preferences."
  3. In the System Preferences window, click on the "Displays" icon.
  4. A new window will appear with display settings. Click on the "Display" tab.
  5. In the Display tab, you should see the refresh rate listed next to "Refresh Rate" or "Screen." It will usually be shown as "60 Hz" for most 4K monitors.
  6. If you have multiple screens connected to your Mac, ensure that you have selected the appropriate display from the top of the window to view its refresh rate.


Keep in mind that some monitors may have different refresh rate options based on their capabilities. If a higher refresh rate is available, you may adjust it by selecting a different option from the drop-down menu next to "Refresh Rate" or "Screen."


What cables are required to achieve 60 Hz on a 4K monitor with a Mac?

To achieve 60 Hz on a 4K monitor with a Mac, the following cables are typically required:

  1. HDMI 2.0: A high-speed HDMI cable that supports the 2.0 specification is often used to achieve 4K resolution at 60 Hz. Ensure that both the Mac and the monitor have HDMI 2.0 ports.
  2. DisplayPort: Many Macs have Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt 2/3 ports. You can use a Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cable or a Thunderbolt 2/3 to DisplayPort cable to achieve 4K resolution at 60 Hz. Make sure that the monitor also supports DisplayPort.
  3. Thunderbolt 3: If both your Mac and monitor have Thunderbolt 3 ports, you can use a Thunderbolt 3 cable to achieve 4K resolution at 60 Hz. Ensure that the monitor supports Thunderbolt 3.


Note: It's important to check the specifications and compatibility of your specific Mac model and monitor, as the required cables may vary depending on the device.


What might cause framerate drops when using a 4K monitor with a Mac?

There can be several factors that may cause framerate drops when using a 4K monitor with a Mac:

  1. GPU Limitations: Macs with older or less powerful graphics processing units (GPUs) may struggle to handle the high resolution and demand of a 4K display, resulting in slowdowns.
  2. Insufficient System Resources: Running resource-intensive applications or multiple processes concurrently can strain the Mac's CPU and RAM, leading to a decrease in framerate.
  3. Outdated Software: If the operating system or graphics drivers are not up to date, compatibility issues may arise, causing performance problems when using a 4K display.
  4. Incompatible Display Refresh Rate: If the Mac is unable to match the refresh rate of the 4K monitor, it can cause synchronization issues, resulting in framerate drops.
  5. Overheating: When the Mac's temperature rises due to continuous heavy usage, it can activate thermal throttling to prevent damage, which can reduce performance and result in lower framerates.
  6. Insufficient Connection Bandwidth: Using unsupported or low-quality cables, adapters, or ports may not provide enough bandwidth to transfer the high-resolution content effectively, leading to framerate drops.
  7. Background Processes or Applications: Certain background processes or resource-intensive applications running in the background can consume system resources, affecting the overall performance and causing framerate drops.


To resolve framerate drops, consider upgrading your Mac's hardware if possible, ensuring software and drivers are up to date, reducing the number of open applications/processes, using high-quality cables and adapters, and monitoring system temperatures to prevent overheating.


How to determine if a 4K monitor is running at 60 Hz on a Mac?

To determine if a 4K monitor is running at 60 Hz on a Mac, follow these steps:

  1. Connect the 4K monitor to your Mac using the appropriate cable (such as HDMI or DisplayPort).
  2. Go to the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select "System Preferences."
  3. In the System Preferences window, click on "Displays."
  4. On the Displays tab, you will see the connected monitor(s) listed. Select the 4K monitor you want to check.
  5. In the Display tab, you will find the information about your monitor, including the resolution and refresh rate.
  6. Check under the "Refresh Rate" dropdown menu. If it shows 60Hz, then your 4K monitor is running at 60Hz.


If the refresh rate is lower than 60Hz or you cannot find the option to change it, it is possible that your monitor does not support a higher refresh rate or that your Mac's graphics card may not be capable of driving a 4K display at 60Hz.

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