Yes — Apple Cinema Displays from the 2000s (the aluminum ones with massive DVI cables) are still perfectly usable with modern Macs from the 2020s via USB-C. However, for the 30-inch model, you’ll need a slightly clunkier cable setup.
The 30-inch Apple Cinema Display requires a dual-link DVI connection to achieve its full native resolution of 2560×1600. This means you can’t use just any DVI adapter — it must be both dual-link and active. Dual-link DVI provides the extra bandwidth needed for such a high resolution, while an active adapter contains internal electronics that convert the digital signal from your Mac into a format the display can understand. Cheap passive adapters lack this conversion circuitry and won’t work correctly with this monitor.
This is the classic cable setup I use for the 30-inch aluminum Apple Cinema Display (model A1083) with my MacBook Pro M4 (Late 2024):
- Apple Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI Adapter (model # MB571) — long discontinued by Apple but still available on eBay and similar sites. ⚠️ I do not recommend alternatives like the StarTech Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI Adapter (MDP2DVID2) or the Cable Matters Active Mini DisplayPort to DVI Adapter.
- Uptab USB-C to Mini DisplayPort Adapter (4K@60Hz) — available directly from the manufacturer or eBay.
If you know of an easier cable setup, feel free to share it in the comments.