(2019) 16" is HOT & NOISY with an external monitor! :(

[darkweather]

My MacBook Pro 2019 13” with 4 thunderbolts gets crazy, fans are full blast 6000 rpm when I connect it the this monitor. I chatted with apple support and they say it is because of the monitor. I tried to connect it my 55” Samsung tv and it is very normal. What could wrong with the monitor and what can I do to resolve it?

 

[hungryghosty]

My MacBook Pro 2019 13” with 4 thunderbolts gets crazy, fans are full blast 6000 rpm when I connect it the this monitor. I chatted with apple support and they say it is because of the monitor. I tried to connect it my 55” Samsung tv and it is very normal. What could wrong with the monitor and what can I do to resolve it?

That's worrying to hear! What kind of monitor is it and what kind of connection/adapter did you use to connect the monitor and TV? Presumably the TV is 4K? What resolution is the monitor?

 

[darkweather]

That's worrying to hear! What kind of monitor is it and what kind of connection/adapter did you use to connect the monitor and TV? Presumably the TV is 4K? What resolution is the monitor?

monitor is SAMSUNG 28" UR550 UHD 4K I tried all resolutions (mostly 1920x1080, current is 2560x1440). Monitor is connected via type-c to display port cable. and yes tv is samsung 4k.

 

[hungryghosty]

monitor is SAMSUNG 28" UR550 UHD 4K I tried all resolutions (mostly 1920x1080, current is 2560x1440). Monitor is connected via type-c to display port cable. and yes tv is samsung 4k.

Doesn't sound like an overly unusual setup. How did you connect the TV as I'm guessing it won't have a displayport input. HDMI adapter of somekind? Does your Samsung monitor have an HDMI input you could try to see if that's reduces the fan noise?

Are you using the laptop open in dual display mode or closed/clamshell with the TV/Monitor as the only display?

 

[darkweather]

Doesn't sound like an overly unusual setup. How did you connect the TV as I'm guessing it won't have a displayport input. HDMI adapter of somekind? Does your Samsung monitor have an HDMI input you could try to see if that's reduces the fan noise?

Are you using the laptop open in dual display mode or closed/clamshell with the TV/Monitor as the only display?

I connected to TV via hdmi cable. and after that I tried monitor with the same hdmi cable but result didn't change. I use the macbook clamshell mode.
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How can I understand which part is make cause the fans run at 6800 rpm?

 

[hungryghosty]

I connected to TV via hdmi cable. and after that I tried monitor with the same hdmi cable but result didn't change. I use the macbook clamshell mode.

It's odd that would happen especially in clamshell mode where it's only driving a single display so the load should be lower? Does it happen as soon as you plug it in or when running certain apps?

I can't understand why there would be a difference between two different monitors connected using the same cable with the same resolution? Are they both 60Hz monitors? Would changing the refresh rate make a difference?

Maybe you could post this in one of the 13" Macbook Pro threads (stating what you've tried/tested so far) to see if anyone else with that model is having the same issue and can advise?

 

[wegster]

Suggest the following:
Anyone WITH an MBP 16 who believes there is an issue:
1. Go here: https://www.apple.com/feedback/macbookpro.html
2. Enter in something like the following:
Subject: Connecting external display to Macbook Pro 16 results in reduced performance and excessive heat and fans

Connecting a single external display to my MBP16 immediately drives the GPU power consumption from under 1W to ~20W at idle. This behavior does not happen when in clamshell and is excessive, as this is expected and required basic functionality as advertised by Apple. This level of GPU consumption results in significantly earlier and more CPU throttling and has me concerned about the longevity of my battery and other heat-impacted components, as well as lack of performance paid for.
There are several online threads about this- many have returned their MacBook Pros as unsuitable for their purposes as a result, while others are shying away from new purchases.

I would prefer to not return or sell my MacBook Pro 16, but I would like to know Apple is taking appropriate action so the system will indeed function as advertised.

References:
https://discussions.apple.com/thread/250878229?page=1
https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/16-is-hot-noisy-with-an-external-monitor.2211747/
https://www.reddit.com/r/macbookpro...ook_pro_16_heat_issues_with_external_monitor/

Next, call Apple, especially if you are under 90 day call in warrantee or AppleCare. Repeat the same info as above and get a case #.
1-800-275-2273

 

[FastLaneJB]

Just for information but I got my new 2 x Dell U2720Q's which I've connected to my MacBook Pro 13 2020 i7 10nm model. I'm currently hooked up, have quite a few programs running including a Parallels Windows 10 VM. The fans on the laptop are at ~1200rpm so it's silent for all intents and purposes.

Performance off the integrated graphics with the 2 x 4k screens seems good. I've got the laptop closed so in clamshell mode for reference. Might tweak that so I can have it open only the USB C cables they send are short so when you have 2 of these side by side, you cannot reach from one of the screens beyond the other to a laptop at the side. Doh

Anyway doesn't help those of you with the 16in but just wanted to mention if any of you was considering the 13in instead it doesn't seem to have this issue. I know people mentioned as much but just confirming that in my experience. Also with the new iGPU 2 x 4k screens run fine.

 

[ArcticBlue00]

Has it been identified whether this is a hardware defect or a fixable software bug? I’m about to purchase MBP 16” but hesitating because of this issue.

 

[hungryghosty]

Just for information but I got my new 2 x Dell U2720Q's which I've connected to my MacBook Pro 13 2020 i7 10nm model. I'm currently hooked up, have quite a few programs running including a Parallels Windows 10 VM. The fans on the laptop are at ~1200rpm so it's silent for all intents and purposes.

Performance off the integrated graphics with the 2 x 4k screens seems good. I've got the laptop closed so in clamshell mode for reference.

Thanks, that's useful to know! Can I ask a favour? Would you be able to try connecting one of the 4K monitors to the laptop with the laptop open using the keyboard/trackpad on the laptop itself?

That's typically how I use mine when at home so I'd like to know I won't encounter any fan noise issues when connected like that!

 

[Abaganov]

I want to update that my 16" is totally fine and quiet now with external display after running very hot and noisy the first 3 days. not sure what happen, maybe it was just indexing in the first days but now its now its at 3000 RPM and 60c. it does run hotter vs when not connected but since I can't hear the fans I am not bothered with it at all.

not sure what to do now tbh as I already ordered the 2020 MBP 13" and got all excited about returning this 16" beast and moving to a smaller device.

 

[Appledoesnotlisten]

my 16" is totally fine and quiet now with external display

it does run hotter vs when not connected but since I can't hear the fans I am not bothered with it at all.

?

 

[deergomoo]

Has it been identified whether this is a hardware defect or a fixable software bug? I’m about to purchase MBP 16” but hesitating because of this issue.

No-one outside Apple or AMD knows for certain. However I honestly don't think it will be fixed at this point, primarily because there are desktop AMD cards older than the 16" MBP that do the same thing, so it's not a new or unique issue. I hope I'm wrong though.

 

[wegster]

I have been following this thread as I am reasonably certain a 16" MBP is in my future. I use my current 15" (2016, i7, Radeon Pro 460) in both clamshell mode and open along with a 27" LG 4K monitor--depending on the task at hand. In clamshell mode, the GPU is drawing 17w, while drawing 32w when open using both the internal and external screens. Looking through this thread this seems pretty bad, and makes me think that the new 16" will be far superior in managing these things than my current 15".

Am I wrong in thinking this? I wonder if some of the commentary on the new 16" is really about optimization rather than a flaw in the design, given the difference between it and some older generations of MBP.

It's a good question.
I'm about to send my 2015MBP 15" in for swollen battery replacement, but may start her up one more time to plug into an external 34" to check the #s there. I was never impressed with using the 2011 or 2015 driving multiple displays (fan behaviors) but also don't remember being so alarmed by the temps or seeing such a huge jump in power consumption. Would be interesting if there's some database out there of actual MacBook models vs power consumption, throttling behavior, etc. but am unaware of one being out there.

In your case, if your numbers are at idle, then yes, the 16" is an improvement over what you have 'right now,' but I'd also look at 'during normal usage' e.g. if using apps more GPU intensive, etc. I'd expect the 5500 in the 16" under load can draw more power, but for normal use it may be a step up for you personally.

 

[hcoverlambda]

Same issue here..... 2018 15" MBP, 2.9GHz, 32Gb, Radeon Pro 560X 4Gb, 2x Dell P2715Q 4K external displays, USB-C -> DP, with essentially no CPU usage (srsly, a browser and RDP client, not doing a freaking thing) would get high kernel_task throttling and maxed fan speed. EXACT same behavior happened with my 2015 15" MBP, 2018 15" MBP AND 2020 16" MBP (which I returned).... Seems like it's the worst it's ever been. Tried in clamshell mode, open, in a dock, out of a dock, same behavior. Only thing that prevents it is turning off displays. For example I cant do video conferencing with 2 external displays in clamshell mode, kernel_task goes crazy immediately, but it works if I do it with one display (but even with one display I'll hit it if I do anything too CPU intensive). I've also tried moving cables around to different ports, disabling turbo boost, blowing out dust (which can be legitimate sometimes), the reset PRAM/NVRAM song-n-dance more times than I care to remember, no change.

Another thing I wanted to note is that I'm pretty sure Catalina has introduced a change in how it reports kernel_task CPU usage when it throttles. I've experienced the throttling for going on 5 years so I know how it "feels".... Prior to Catalina, I could feel it starting to throttle, things would start to get sluggish and fan speed would start to increase even tho you weren't doing anything. You'd jump over to Activity Monitor and sure enough kernel_task was revving up. After Catalina I still experience the same throttling BUT Activity Monitor does not report the kernel_task CPU usage until a certain threshold (not sure what that threshold is but it doesn't show it until it gets really bad). It seems like they didn't want users to be able to see that kernel_task is throttling, at least at lower levels anyways. Seems like a deceptive move as it leaves users running sluggish but they cant see why. And now when they go to report it all they can say is that it's "slow" which doesn't tell you anything. If they could report that kernel_task had high CPU then that would tell you something.

Honestly, I think the only thing that will make Apple acknowledge this issue is yet another class action lawsuit. Seems like that's the only thing they listen too these days...

 

[FastLaneJB]

Thanks, that's useful to know! Can I ask a favour? Would you be able to try connecting one of the 4K monitors to the laptop with the laptop open using the keyboard/trackpad on the laptop itself?

That's typically how I use mine when at home so I'd like to know I won't encounter any fan noise issues when connected like that!

Hi,

I can go one further and open it with both connected so I'm running the maximum the 13in can handle. Sitting around 20% CPU utilisation as still have all the same stuff open including Windows VM's and the fans are now at ~2,000rpm after leaving it for a couple of minutes to be sure it's settled and staying there. So a bit faster but I cannot hear it at this speed.

Of course that's not what you asked for so with 1 x 4k monitor and the internal MacBook screen with 20% roughly CPU usage still after a few minutes it seems to have settled at ~1,300rpm so probably in margin of error with clamshell with 2 external chips.

Either way with 2 or 3 screens, you cannot hear it at all.

 

[Got Haggis?]

i have my new macbook pro 16" connected via USB-C hub/dock to an external monitor (1440) - no fan issues here.

 

[wegster]

i have my new macbook pro 16" connected via USB-C hub/dock to an external monitor (1440) - no fan issues here.

Great, now open the lid, install iStats and post Radeon high side so you can prove your statement has relevance to the actual issue being described here. (Radeon with open lid and external draws 19-20W at idle from Radeon alone).

 

[crouch]

Can you confirm the wattage of your dGPU in your scenario? (You can use iStats Menu: https://bjango.com/mac/istatmenus/) I thought that everyone using atleast two screens had their dGPU running at 18W+

Hi fellas, just coming back around to these messages. I just installed iStats and I've been using the laptop, screen open with the external Dell U2720Q running and connected via USB-C, for about ten minutes now. You're correct: the wattage ranges from around 17.5 - 18.5 W.

Please connect an external display and open your MacBook Pro lid at the same time. Now open iStat Menus and show us the wattage. It will be 18+w Radeon High Side. Yep the issue affects you too. Fan noise isn’t always the issue. It’s excessive wattage.

I hear ya re: fan noise not being the issue, but rather excessive wattage. FWIW, I came to this thread because it was called "16" is HOT & NOISY with an external monitor!" and I was worried that by buying an external, and using both screens at the same time, I'd have the same issues: the laptop running hot & noisy. That's just not happening to mine. My fans are set to "System controlled" and they're both at 0%, two screens running.

If there's any other settings you'd like to me to check, holler.

 

[alexweej]

Hi fellas, just coming back around to these messages. I just installed iStats and I've been using the laptop, screen open with the external Dell U2720Q running and connected via USB-C, for about ten minutes now. You're correct: the wattage ranges from around 17.5 - 18.5 W.



I hear ya re: fan noise not being the issue, but rather excessive wattage. FWIW, I came to this thread because it was called "16" is HOT & NOISY with an external monitor!" and I was worried that by buying an external, and using both screens at the same time, I'd have the same issues: the laptop running hot & noisy. That's just not happening to mine. My fans are set to "System controlled" and they're both at 0%, two screens running.

If there's any other settings you'd like to me to check, holler.

You have the lid open, 1 external monitor, and can leave it running for more than 10 minutes without the fans creeping up to 2500rpm at least? What temperature is your GPU Proximity sensor reading? What is your ambient temperature in the room (no sensor in the mac for that haha)?

For me at 26-28 degrees (it's summer, hey) it's not a great story.

One curious thing I've noticed is that some people's fans are not maxed out while their temperature readings are like 85 degrees. I don't understand how that's happening, the system control for fans tries to keep all of the components at 60 degrees from what I can tell. (Scratch that, it was @bill-p 's chart running Cinebench and his fans were most definitely maxed out haha)

 

[MrGimper]

Anyone lined up to test this with the latest 10.15.5 b5 that dropped today? Or at least identify if the dGPU driver version has changed?

 

[hungryghosty]

Hi,

I can go one further and open it with both connected so I'm running the maximum the 13in can handle. Sitting around 20% CPU utilisation as still have all the same stuff open including Windows VM's and the fans are now at ~2,000rpm after leaving it for a couple of minutes to be sure it's settled and staying there. So a bit faster but I cannot hear it at this speed.

Of course that's not what you asked for so with 1 x 4k monitor and the internal MacBook screen with 20% roughly CPU usage still after a few minutes it seems to have settled at ~1,300rpm so probably in margin of error with clamshell with 2 external chips.

Either way with 2 or 3 screens, you cannot hear it at all.

Cheers that's reassuring to know! Appreciate you taking the time to reply

 

[crouch]

You have the lid open, 1 external monitor, and can leave it running for more than 10 minutes without the fans creeping up to 2500rpm at least? What temperature is your GPU Proximity sensor reading? What is your ambient temperature in the room (no sensor in the mac for that haha)?

For me at 26-28 degrees (it's summer, hey) it's not a great story.

All of that is correct:

- I have the lid open (I'm typing from there right now)
- I have one external monitor (a 27" 4k Dell U2720Q) plugged into the MBP 16" base i9 model via a USB-C cable
- I've been running both screens for almost 30 minutes now
- I also have one virtual machine running (Windows 10 through Parallels)

My Radeon GPU Proximity is 140 degrees.

My fans (both left side and right side) are at 0%.

The ambient temperature of my den (I actually do have an indoor thermometer!) is 70.3 degrees.

One curious thing I've noticed is that some people's fans are not maxed out while their temperature readings are like 85 degrees. I don't understand how that's happening, the system control for fans tries to keep all of the components at 60 degrees from what I can tell. (Scratch that, it was @bill-p 's chart running Cinebench and his fans were most definitely maxed out haha)

Oh my gosh, the part you lined out might be key. I think I might have an answer: a laptop stand! I use one of these: Rain Design mStand Laptop Stand.

Not only does a stand allow for better air flow (the fans don't get blocked), I just read this blurb on the Amazon page that my be key: "Single piece aluminum design provides solid stability and acts as a heat sink to cool laptop".

Maybe I've been cheating this entire time

 

[wegster]

All of that is correct:

- I have the lid open (I'm typing from there right now)
- I have one external monitor (a 27" 4k Dell U2720Q) plugged into the MBP 16" base i9 model via a USB-C cable
- I've been running both screens for almost 30 minutes now
- I also have one virtual machine running (Windows 10 through Parallels)

My Radeon GPU Proximity is 140 degrees.

My fans (both left side and right side) are at 0%.


Oh my gosh, the part you lined out might be key. I think I might have an answer: a laptop stand! I use one of these: Rain Design mStand Laptop Stand.

Not only does a stand allow for better air flow (the fans don't get blocked), I just read this blurb on the Amazon page that my be key: "Single piece aluminum design provides solid stability and acts as a heat sink to cool laptop".

Maybe I've been cheating this entire time

Please post iStats screenshot - 0% is not an iStats reading I've seen, and 'idle' even with no external is not 0 nor 0%. I think 'idle' system fans are 1500-1800RPM. Please post that and Radeon high side values in the screenshot.

PS - I had the same stand until recently..

 

[MrGimper]

Please post iStats screenshot - 0% is not an iStats reading I've seen, and 'idle' even with no external is not 0 nor 0%. I think 'idle' system fans are 1500-1800RPM. Please post that and Radeon high side values in the screenshot.

PS - I had the same stand until recently..

Idle fans at 1500-1800 are listed as 0% in iStats.