Apple’s upcoming 14-inch MacBook Pro, rumored to feature the entry-level M4 chip, could support two external displays with the lid open, an upgrade over the current M3 model that only supports one. This potential increase in external display support is based on recent leaks from Russian sources, which suggest that the new M4 variant will include three Thunderbolt 4 ports, as opposed to the two Thunderbolt 3 / USB4 ports available on the existing M3-powered model.
If confirmed, this change would enhance the functionality of the 14-inch MacBook Pro, bringing it in line with the higher-end M3 Pro and M3 Max models.
Currently, the M3-powered 14-inch MacBook Pro supports only one external display at a resolution of up to 6K at 60Hz or one 4K display at 120Hz over HDMI when the lid is open. To support two external displays, the lid must be closed, with each display supporting up to 6K resolution at 60Hz.
This limitation is partly due to the absence of Thunderbolt 4 support, which restricts the number of displays the device can handle while in use. The expected M4 MacBook Pro could address this issue, offering greater flexibility for users who need to work with multiple monitors.
The rumors suggest that with the M4 MacBook Pro, users will be able to connect two external displays with the lid open, thanks to the inclusion of three Thunderbolt 4 ports. This would make the device more versatile for professional users who rely on multiple monitors for tasks such as video editing, design, or programming.
Additionally, the extra Thunderbolt 4 ports would bring the 14-inch MacBook Pro closer to the more advanced models, which offer greater connectivity options and enhanced support for external hardware.
In comparison, the M3 Pro-powered MacBook Pro models can already support up to two external displays with 6K resolution at 60Hz over Thunderbolt, in addition to one 4K display at 144Hz over HDMI. Meanwhile, the M3 Max variant offers support for up to four external displays, with options for 6K resolution over Thunderbolt and 8K resolution over HDMI.
These configurations highlight the increasing capabilities of the MacBook Pro lineup as you move to more powerful chips, offering more robust solutions for professionals across a range of industries.
The precise specifications of the M4 MacBook Pro have yet to be confirmed, but more details are expected soon. Apple is expected to introduce the new MacBook Pro models, along with other M4-powered devices like the iMac and Mac mini, toward the end of October.
With a possible release in early November, tech enthusiasts and professionals are eagerly awaiting confirmation of the rumored upgrades, particularly regarding the increased external display support and the addition of Thunderbolt 4 connectivity.
