I’m a new iOS and Mac developer, and I need an external display to go with my 13-inch MacBook Pro (2010). I’ve seen the Apple Cinema Display, but is it actually worth its hefty price for someone who does developing and light gaming?
In short, maybe. At $999, the Cinema Display is incredibly expensive, and it has no DVI or HDMI inputs. It also only comes with a highly reflective glossy screen. If you work under bright fluorescent lights, it might actually be the wrong monitor for you.
It’s like a diamond: beautiful, shiny, and expensive.
Don’t get me wrong, though. If money’s no object and you can manage the potential glare problems, the Cinema Display offers a lot to love. I use one every single day at work, and I love the size and style, not to mention the way everything “pops” on it. But I’ve been equally impressed with other IPS displays -- which offer wide viewing angles and excellent color reproduction -- offered by HP and Samsung, many of which have more features, are a fraction of the price, and are only a few inches smaller.
But here’s where things get tricky. If you’re really serious about a 27-inch screen, the Cinema Display is worth the money. IPS monitors get really expensive when they’re larger than 24 inches, so if size matters, the Cinema Display is one of the best options on the market right now. But if you’re willing to go a few inches smaller, there are better buys from other display makers. We like HP’s ZR22w, to name one.
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talkinglens
August 09, 2011 at 6:30am
Get an I-INC 28" monitor for half the price (or 2). They are sharp, free of defects and have all the inputs you need! Is very bright as well (have to keep mine turned down). Great for all applications even photography with Spyder3 Pro use which incidentally can't be used with all the well known, high priced brands either! Order from Tiger Direct or equal.
slackfive
August 04, 2011 at 12:04pm
If size is the only thing that matters (I'm a programmer, not a designer) I"m using a Hanns G 28" monitor. Priced around $300 new.
right_writes
August 04, 2011 at 12:00pm
It's not bad... But the questioner does have a good point about the glossy display... one has to be very careful about the placement... I have a 27" iMac and fortunately, I do not have to have any direct blight light on it...
In my view, and in the same price bracket, there are some better displays... Eizo FlexScan SX2762W anyone?
johnnydfred
August 04, 2011 at 10:59am
I'm tired of hearing this: Apple's new Cinema Display is sooo expensive. This is the same price as the gargantuan 27" desk-monster they've been selling for a year. Added all the interconnectivity for all you whiney Apple fan bois. Same incredible IPS LED display technology.
OK, yes, it's still got all the ports on the back (!?), but go out and price an IPS display of this size and quality – you'll be hard-pressed to find one for under $1200. The Apple 27" Cinema Display may not be a steal, or for everyone, but it's NOT overly expensive.
nicvargus
August 05, 2011 at 9:44am
Hey Johnny, as I'm sure you saw in the text:
If you’re really serious about a 27-inch screen, the Cinema Display is worth the money. IPS monitors get really expensive when they’re larger than 24 inches, so if size matters, the Cinema Display is one of the best options on the market right now.
