Apple’s new Studio Display XDR is built around a mini-LED panel capable of running at up to 120Hz. On paper, that puts it in the same high refresh rate class as Apple’s ProMotion devices.
In reality, not every Mac can drive it at 120Hz.
If you are planning to pair this display with an older Apple silicon machine, you may be limited to 60Hz. Here is a clear breakdown of what works and what does not.
Macs that are limited to 60Hz
If your Mac runs on any of the following chips, the Studio Display XDR will operate at a maximum of 60Hz:
- M1
- M1 Pro
- M1 Max
- M1 Ultra
- M2
- M3
You still get full resolution, brightness, color accuracy, and all other display features. The only restriction is refresh rate.
That means scrolling, animations, and motion will not feel as fluid as they would at 120Hz.
Macs that can run 120Hz
To unlock the full 120Hz refresh rate on the Studio Display XDR, you need one of these chips:
- M2 Pro, M2 Max, M2 Ultra
- M3 Pro, M3 Max, M3 Ultra
- M4 Pro, M4 Max
- M5, M5 Pro, M5 Max
In practical terms, Pro, Max, or Ultra tier chips from M2 onward support 120Hz. The base M5 also qualifies.
All compatible Macs will require the upcoming macOS Tahoe 26.3.1 update to enable full functionality.
iPad compatibility
The M5 iPad Pro supports 120Hz output on the Studio Display XDR.
All other compatible iPads are capped at 60Hz. That includes:
- M4 iPad Pro
- 12.9-inch iPad Pro, 3rd to 6th generation
- 11-inch iPad Pro, 1st to 4th generation
- M2, M3, and M4 iPad Air
- 5th-generation iPad Air
They can connect and use the display normally, but they will not deliver 120Hz output.
Why this matters
The price gap between the two displays is significant:
- Studio Display starts at $1,599
- Studio Display XDR starts at $3,299
If your Mac only supports 60Hz, the biggest visual advantage of the XDR model disappears. At that point, you are mainly paying for mini-LED contrast performance and advanced backlighting rather than smoother motion.
For users on M1, base M2, or base M3 systems, the standard Studio Display may offer better value.
Release timeline
Studio Display XDR pre-orders open tomorrow at 9:15 a.m. Eastern Time. The official launch follows on March 11.
Before you buy, confirm your Mac’s chip. A 120Hz display only makes sense if your hardware can actually drive it.
