Connecting a Macbook Pro M1 to a high refresh display

reflux · 25 Jan 2023 at 09:12

Hi folks,

I recently bought an Alienware AW2723DF and have connected it to my gaming PC via DisplayPort. High refresh rate works perfectly.

I also have a Macbook Pro 13" M1 connected via a USB-C hub to the HDMI port on the monitor, which only offers 60hz. According to Dell I should be able to run up to 144hz via HDMI but I don't understand the combination of cables/hubs that I need.

Does anyone know what specs I should look out for?

Thanks

thewanted · 25 Jan 2023 at 09:16

HDMI connections are limited to 60Hz on the M1. You’ll have to use DisplayPort if you want a higher refresh rate.

https://support.apple.com/kb/SP824?viewlocale=en_GB&locale=en_GB

reflux · 25 Jan 2023 at 09:34

thewanted said:
HDMI connections are limited to 60Hz on the M1. You’ll have to use DisplayPort if you want a higher refresh rate.

https://support.apple.com/kb/SP824?viewlocale=en_GB&locale=en_GB

What's confusing though is that people seem to be able to get it working with HDMI at a higher refresh rate:

Reddit - Dive into anything

www.reddit.com

Reddit - Dive into anything

www.reddit.com

So it almost seems pot luck whether you can find the right cables/adaptors to get it to work. Maybe it isn't officially supported?

thewanted · 25 Jan 2023 at 09:47

reflux said:
What's confusing though is that people seem to be able to get it working with HDMI at a higher refresh rate:

Reddit - Dive into anything

www.reddit.com

Reddit - Dive into anything

www.reddit.com

So it almost seems pot luck whether you can find the right cables/adaptors to get it to work. Maybe it isn't officially supported?

That’s really interesting. I’ve never seen anyone get it to work before.

I have a 14” MBP and it too won’t do more than 60Hz over HDMI, even if I use a USB-C to HDMI cable.

Orcvader · 25 Jan 2023 at 23:52

You also need to check the HDMI version on the dock/hub, if it's HDMI 1.4 then I think that's only 60Hz for 1440p. You'll need HDMI 2.0 minimum for high refresh rate.

reflux · 16 Feb 2023 at 16:24

So if anyone wants to know, I managed to get my Macbook to output to 2560x1440 @ 120hz on HDMI by swapping my existing USB-C hub for a UGREEN USB C Hub HDMI (4K 60Hz, 6 IN 1).

Of course it's a bit disappointing not being able to go higher than 120hz but it's still a lot better than 60hz!