Have you been wondering which MacBooks have 120Hz displays? Well, you’re in luck! In this blog post, I’ll guide you which MacBook models currently have ProMotion displays, which offer a 120Hz refresh rate. We’ll also discuss why Apple has made ProMotion an exclusive feature of its MacBook Pro lineup and what this means for users who need a high refresh rate display. So, let’s get started and find out which MacBooks have 120Hz displays!
Which MacBook models come with ProMotion displays?
If you’re in the market for a MacBook with a ProMotion display, you’re currently limited to the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models. These models were released in late 2021 and have since been lauded for their stunning display technology.
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Apple has equipped these MacBook Pro models with the M1 Pro, M1 Max, M2 Pro, M2 Max CPU, depending on the configuration you choose. These powerful processors work in tandem with ProMotion to deliver an unbeatable user experience, especially for content creators and other professionals who need their MacBook to perform at its best.
| MacBook Model | ProMotion Display |
| MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2023) | Yes |
| MacBook Pro (14-inch, 2023) | Yes |
| MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2022) | No |
| MacBook Pro (14-inch, 2021) | Yes |
| MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2021) | Yes |
| MacBook Air | No |
| MacBook | No |
| 24-inch iMac | No |
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Apple has gone to great lengths to ensure that these displays are the best ever fitted to a MacBook. With a 120Hz refresh rate and a variable refresh rate technology, these displays offer unparalleled smoothness and responsiveness. The ProMotion displays also feature a brighter backlight, higher contrast ratio, and wider color gamut than other MacBook models, making them perfect for those who need accurate color representation for their work.
It’s worth noting that the MacBook Air, MacBook, and 24-inch iMac do not come with ProMotion displays. It seems that for now, Apple is keeping ProMotion as an exclusive Pro feature.
This means that if you’re a casual user, you may not necessarily need a MacBook with a ProMotion display. However, if you’re a content creator or other professional who needs a high refresh rate display, then the 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro is the way to go.
Of course, as with all Apple products, these models come with a premium price tag. But if you’re willing to invest in a MacBook Pro with a ProMotion display, you’re getting a top-of-the-line machine that can handle even the most demanding tasks with ease.
And with the promise of new MacBook models on the horizon, it’s exciting to think about the possibilities that ProMotion displays may bring to the MacBook lineup.
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What exactly is ProMotion?
Put simply, it’s a display technology that enables a higher refresh rate on your MacBook. Most MacBook models have a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which means that the display refreshes 60 times per second.
ProMotion, on the other hand, doubles that, offering a silky-smooth 120Hz refresh rate. This makes everything on your screen look and feel smoother and more responsive, from scrolling through webpages to watching videos.
Why aren’t other MacBook models equipped with ProMotion displays?
You may be wondering why Apple has chosen to make ProMotion exclusive to the MacBook Pro models. The answer lies in the target audience. Apple knows that higher refresh rates are highly valued by content creators, graphic designers, and other professionals who need their MacBook to perform at its absolute best.
By making ProMotion an exclusive Pro feature, Apple is catering to the needs of its professional users and making sure that they have the best possible experience.
What about the other MacBook models?
Unfortunately, if you want a MacBook with a ProMotion display, you’re currently limited to the MacBook Pro models which I know are expensive. The MacBook Air, MacBook, and even the 24-inch iMac do not come with ProMotion displays.
However, don’t despair! Apple is set to launch several new Mac products in 2023, including new MacBook models. While it’s unclear which specific models will come with ProMotion displays, it’s safe to assume that the Pro models will get ProMotion, while the cheaper MacBooks will not.
Should you wait for the new MacBook models?
If you’re a content creator or other professional who needs a high refresh rate display, then waiting for the new MacBook models might be worth it. However, keep in mind that ProMotion isn’t the only factor to consider when purchasing a MacBook.
All MacBook models offer a premium user experience that’s hard to beat, even without ProMotion. So, if you need a MacBook now, don’t let the lack of ProMotion be a dealbreaker.
Final thoughts
ProMotion is an excellent technology that can greatly enhance the user experience on a MacBook. If you’re a professional user like me who needs the best possible display, then the 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro is the way to go.
But if you’re a casual user, don’t fret – all MacBook models offer a fantastic user experience that’s hard to beat. And with the promise of new MacBook models on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to invest in an Apple laptop.
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Ernests is the founder and chief editor at WolfofLaptop, with extensive experience as an editor and writer for numerous other tech blogs. His journey into the world of tech blogging evolved from a background in marketing, eventually leading him to become a full-time tech enthusiast. Ernests has successfully merged his marketing expertise with his passion for technology. He has a deep affection for computers, iPads, and smartphones, and his writing style is geared toward offering helpful insights to a global audience. Ernests specializes in crafting comprehensive guides, buyer's guides, and news articles.
In his spare time, Ernests enjoys staying active with activities like running and sports. He's also an avid movie enthusiast and finds relaxation in gaming, particularly on his trusty PS5.