Can't afford Apple's Pro Display XDR monitor? This Dell 6K alternative is $1800 cheaper

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All it is lacking is brightness, otherwise it gives Apple’s monitor a run for its money.

The Dell U3224KB, with KVM switch and 6K resolution
(Image credit: Dell)

The realm of 6K monitors is a rarefied and pricey one. It’s the go-to resolution for creative professionals, but your options tend to be limited. One of the most attractive models out there is Apple’s 32-inch Pro Display XDR monitor. But at $4,999, it’s a high asking price for all but the most cash-flushed buyers.

Dell’s looking to level the playing field a little bit with its new Dell U3224KB monitor, which goes on sale today following its CES 2023 reveal earlier this year. It’s still a high-end monitor with a price tag to match. But it’s significantly cheaper than Apple’s offering without scrimping too much on the specs.

Top tier monitor at an approachable price

Now, before we go any further, it’s worth stating that this is still an expensive monitor. You’re looking at $3,199.99 for the Dell U3224KB. But that’s $1,800 cheaper than Apple’s Pro Display XDR, and with a host of additional features thrown in.

The Dell U3224KB, with KVM switch and 6K resolution

(Image credit: Dell)

With a 6K resolution and 32-inch screen size it’s a match for the Pro Display XDR. But Dell also throws in a built-in 4K HDR webcam, built-in 14W stereo speakers, echo-cancelling mics, USB-hub capabilities, three USB-C ports (including 140W Thunderbolt 4 power delivery), four USB-3 ports, an ethernet jack and HDMI input. There’s also support for KVM dual-computer control, letting two machines be controlled by a single keyboard and mouse combo through the monitor. Content from two machines can be displayed at the same time, too.

There’s a couple of specs that are a bit on the weak side. Refresh rate tops out at 60Hz, and the brightness is rated at 600 nits vs the top 1,600 nits Apple’s monitor can reach. But for the dollar saving, that’s a trade off I feel many will be happy to make.

If the pro-orientated U3224KB isn’t for you, Dell’s also got a new curved monitor launching this June. The UltraSharp 38 Curved U3824DW has a 3840 x 1600 resolution, the same KVM control options, and 90W power delivery over USB-C. It’s a fair sight cheaper at $1,529.99.

And if you’re still on the hunt, be sure to check out our list of excellent 4K monitors for Mac.

Gerald Lynch
Gerald Lynch
Editor in Chief

Gerald Lynch is the Editor-in-Chief of iMore, keeping careful watch over the site's editorial output and commercial campaigns, ensuring iMore delivers the in-depth, accurate and timely Apple content its readership deservedly expects. You'll never see him without his iPad Pro, and he loves gaming sessions with his buddies via Apple Arcade on his iPhone 15 Pro, but don't expect him to play with you at home unless your Apple TV is hooked up to a 4K HDR screen and a 7.1 surround system. 

Living in London in the UK, Gerald was previously Editor of Gizmodo UK, and Executive Editor of TechRadar, and has covered international trade shows including Apple's WWDC, MWC, CES and IFA. If it has an acronym and an app, he's probably been there, on the front lines reporting on the latest tech innovations. Gerald is also a contributing tech pundit for BBC Radio and has written for various other publications, including T3 magazine, GamesRadar, Space.com, Real Homes, MacFormat, music bible DIY, Tech Digest, TopTenReviews, Mirror.co.uk, Brandish, Kotaku, Shiny Shiny and Lifehacker. Gerald is also the author of 'Get Technology: Upgrade Your Future', published by Aurum Press, and also holds a Guinness world record on Tetris. For real.