Apple says the new Studio Display XDR supports 120Hz refresh rate, but not every Mac supports it, according to an official list.
Apple Silicon Macs that Do Not Support the Studio Display XDR’s 120Hz Refresh Rate will be Limited to 60Hz Output
I’m sure you got really excited about the Studio Display XDR the moment you saw it. While the display is extremely enticing, there are a couple of things about it that might surprise you.
You Mac Must be Compatible for 120Hz Output
First and foremost, the 120Hz refresh rate which Apple advertises requires a Mac that is compatible with the display itself. Turns out, not every single Apple silicon Mac supports the fast refresh rate.
According to Apple, the Macs that support the 120Hz output are as follows: M2 Pro, M2 Max, M2 Ultra, M3 Pro, M3 Max, M3 Ultra, M4 Pro, M4 Max, M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max.
Basically, base chips such as M2, M3, and M4 are not supported at all.
Non-Compatible Macs Limited to 60Hz Only
If you connect a Mac that is not compatible with the 120Hz refresh rate to the Studio Display XDR, the image will output at 60Hz, and every other feature will be available to you which the display offers, including the incredible audio system, microphones, HDR, etc.
Intel Macs Aren’t Supported at All
But wait, it gets really interesting when you realize that none of the Studio Display monitors are compatible with an Intel Mac. If you have an Intel Mac and were hoping to give it a display upgrade using the Studio Display, it’s best you not spend that money.
