BenQ's New MA Series Monitors Bring 5K Resolution and 120Hz Refresh Rate to Mac Users

BenQ has expanded its MA series once again with two new models, the MA270S and MA320UG. To recap, the company released a new 4K programming monitor with a 3:2 aspect ratio earlier this year and later followed it up with two new 4K models in its MA series. The new models build on the 2026 MA series, adding a 5K option and a high-refresh-rate 120Hz model.

Like previous MA models, the MA270S and MA320UG are built specifically for Mac users. Both use IPS panels with BenQ's Nano Gloss coating, which is meant to deliver the same vibrant colors and clarity you get from a MacBook or Apple Studio display. They support the same P3 color gamut as Macs (up to 99% for the MA270S and 98% for MA320UG) and include built-in color tuning to keep colors consistent between your MacBook and the external monitor.

The BenQ MA270S next to a MacBook.

The MA270S is the sharper of the two. It packs a 5K (5120 x 2880) resolution into a 27-inch panel, which works out to around 218 ppi. That's similar to the Apple Studio Display, so text looks crisp and UI elements scale properly in macOS. On the other hand, the MA320UG drops the resolution to 4K at 32 inches but bumps up the refresh rate to 120Hz, which should make scrolling, animations, and general browsing feel smoother and consistent with the latest MacBook Pros.

Thanks to macOS integration, you can also control brightness and volume directly using your MacBook's keyboard, just like you would with an Apple display. In terms of connectivity, both models offer two HDMI ports, two USB-C ports, two USB-A, and two Thunderbolt 4 ports with up to 96W power delivery, enough to charge most MacBooks. The included stand is fully adjustable as well, with height, tilt, pivot, and swivel support.

Front side of the BenQ MA270S.

Back side of the BenQ MA270S.

The monitors are currently listed on the BenQ EU website, but there is no pricing or availability details at this point.

The new MA270S and MA320UG represent BenQ's continued push into the premium Mac monitor market, offering alternatives to Apple's own displays with competitive specifications. The 5K MA270S directly targets users who want the same pixel density as the Apple Studio Display but potentially at a lower price point, while the 120Hz MA320UG caters to creative professionals and power users who prioritize smooth motion over maximum resolution.

BenQ's Nano Gloss coating is particularly noteworthy, as it aims to bridge the gap between matte and glossy finishes. This technology promises to reduce glare while maintaining the vibrant color reproduction that Mac users expect, addressing a common complaint about traditional matte displays that can sometimes appear dull or washed out.

The inclusion of Thunderbolt 4 with 96W power delivery is significant for MacBook users, as it allows for a single-cable solution that handles both video and power. This feature, combined with the macOS integration for brightness and volume controls, makes these monitors feel like first-party Apple accessories rather than third-party alternatives.

While pricing remains unknown, BenQ's positioning of these monitors as Mac-specific displays suggests they'll be competitively priced against Apple's offerings. The MA series has historically offered good value for money, and these new models appear to continue that trend with their premium features and Mac-focused design.

For creative professionals, the color accuracy and consistency features will be particularly appealing. The ability to maintain color fidelity between the MacBook and external display is crucial for photo and video editing work, and BenQ's color tuning technology aims to simplify this process.

The choice between the two models ultimately comes down to user priorities. Those who value maximum sharpness and detail for text-heavy work or detailed image editing may prefer the MA270S's 5K resolution, while users who prioritize smooth motion for video editing, gaming, or general use might find the MA320UG's 120Hz refresh rate more compelling.

As Mac users continue to seek alternatives to Apple's own displays, BenQ's MA series expansion provides welcome options that combine Mac-specific features with competitive specifications and potentially more attractive pricing.