Reader Question: NEC Displays vs Apple

Serko A (videographer) writes:

Apple is purportedly going to include higher spec displays in the new 4K iMac and 5K iMac revision later this year. Very happy with my 2K NEC display nonetheless.

How does the color accuracy and quality of Apple's 5K iMac display compared to NEC's 2K and 4K displays? The rumored 4K 21.5" iMac looks tempting.

MPG: the color gamut of the iMac 5K is marginal for serious use (its gamut is greatly truncated compared to the NEC PA302W, which has an outstanding color gamut). But most users will find the iMac 5K very pleasing in general (since most users don’t even know what color gamut means). And the mirror-like iMac 5K display is a poor match for making fine prints, even if the marginal gamut is deemed acceptable.

Another troubling issue for pros is that Apple iMac and other displays cannot be calibrated; only faux calibration is possible, a much inferior solution. Combined with the restricted gamut, Apple displays of any kind to date have not been a good choice for any professional. The problem is, to make the call on which display, one has to understand color gamut and calibration well, and thus the wrong decision is often made. This will matter little and to few for personal work or low-end videography, but it’s critical for quality professional work.

See all MPG/DIGLLOYD display reviews.