# Is Apple’s Studio Display Still a Good Investment in 2025?
Last year, I had the chance to evaluate Samsung’s ViewFinity S9, a 5K monitor that directly competes with Apple’s Studio Display. In my assessment, I highlighted that the major selling point of the ViewFinity S9 was its affordability. However, this brings up a crucial question: how does the Studio Display fare two years post-launch, and is it still worth the financial commitment in 2025?
## A Quick Look at the Studio Display
Apple launched the Studio Display in March 2022, alongside the first Mac Studio, intending to bridge the gap created by the retired 27-inch iMac. With its elegant design and impressive specifications, the Studio Display quickly attracted interest. Now, as I delve into its features and performance, I’ll evaluate whether it remains a practical choice for potential buyers.
### The Ultimate External Retina Display for Your Mac
For Mac users, switching to a Retina display is often a life-changing experience. The clarity and color precision of Retina displays are unparalleled, making it hard to go back to inferior screens. The Studio Display features a 5K resolution (5120 x 2880), allowing macOS to present the interface at a sharp 2560 x 1440 resolution with HiDPI scaling, resulting in breathtaking visuals.
With a peak brightness of 600 nits, the Studio Display outperforms many rivals, including my former 4K monitor, which maxed out at 350 nits. Nevertheless, it’s important to mention that the Studio Display lacks several advanced features present in higher-end models, such as local dimming and HDR support, which can enhance contrast and color richness.
### Distinctive Features of the Studio Display
One of the highlights of the Studio Display is its remarkable build quality. Unlike the plastic framework of some rivals, the Studio Display is made entirely from metal, giving it a luxurious feel and sturdy design. This solid construction provides stability, allowing for smooth adjustments without wobbling.
The Studio Display also sports a glossy screen, which boosts color accuracy and vibrancy. While some individuals prefer matte displays to minimize glare, the glossy finish contributes to the monitor’s premium look.
Another notable benefit of the Studio Display is its superior audio quality. With six integrated speakers supporting Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos, the sound experience is immersive and exceeds that of most monitors in the market. This feature is especially advantageous for those who utilize their monitors for media viewing or video calls.
Additionally, the Studio Display comes with three USB-C ports, enabling it to serve as a dock for connecting peripherals. The single Thunderbolt connection streamlines cable management, resulting in a tidier workspace.
### Performance and Drawbacks
Despite its numerous strengths, the Studio Display has some drawbacks. The 60Hz refresh rate might be a limitation for gamers or users who need higher frame rates. Moreover, while the integrated camera and microphones offer convenience, the webcam has faced criticism regarding its quality, suggesting there is room for future enhancements.
### Is It Worth Purchasing in 2025?
With a base price of $1,599 (with the height-adjustable stand available separately), the Studio Display is undeniably a high-end product. However, its unique blend of build quality, audio performance, and flawless integration with macOS makes it an appealing option for many users.
If your primary goal is to find a 5K monitor for a genuine HiDPI experience, alternatives like Samsung’s ViewFinity S9 or the newly introduced Asus ProArt 5K Display may provide competitive features at a more affordable price. However, if you appreciate the overall experience of using a monitor that is tailored to your Mac, the Studio Display continues to be an outstanding option.
### Conclusion
In my view, deciding to acquire a Studio Display in 2025 is a choice I do not regret. While it may not be the most advanced monitor on the market, its distinctive features and quality render it a valuable investment for those who prioritize aesthetics and audio performance alongside visual clarity. As Apple progresses in innovation, we may witness new models in the future, but for now, the Studio Display remains a premier choice for Mac users.
