Have you ever thought about using your laptop as a second monitor? Whether you want to increase your screen space to maximize productivity, gaming, or creative work, using a laptop as a monitor can be a convenient solution. Amazingly, it’s much easier than you’d imagine and could save you the price of a second screen.
This guide will explain everything you need to know about using your laptop as a monitor. You will learn why this can be helpful, what you’ll need, and detailed instructions for setting it up, and we will even touch on how to troubleshoot common issues.
What You’ll Need Before You Get Started
Before we get started, though, there are a few essential bits and pieces you’re going to need to make this work. Below is a fast checklist of things you should have in place to get started using your laptop as a monitor.
Hardware Requirements
- Laptop: Needs HDMI port, USB-C port, or Wi-Fi capability.
- First Device: Your home desktop, gaming console, or other secondary laptop you’d like to connect.
- Cables: HDMI cable, USB-C cable, or capture card, depending on your connection method.
Software Requirements
- Remote Desktop Software (if a wireless or non-portable connection will be used):
- Examples: Microsoft Remote Desktop, VNC Viewer, Chrome Remote Desktop.
- Screen-Syncing Settings:
- The device must support extended displays (most do by default).
Now that you understand the basics, you can navigate the various connection options!
How to Use Your Laptop as a Monitor
There are 4 primary methods for using your laptop as a monitor, and which one to use comes down to what you’re going to use it for. Let’s break them down.
1. Using an HDMI Cable
This is one of the easiest physical ways to connect if both of your devices have HDMI ports.
What You Need
- HDMI cable
- Laptop with HDMI input port (rare – most laptops have only HDMI output)
Steps to Follow
- Insert one end of the HDMI cable into the laptop’s HDMI port.
- Insert the other end into your main device.
- On your laptop:
- Press
Windows + P(if on Windows), or - Use the “Display Preferences” menu (on macOS).
- Press
- Change your display to “Extend” or “Second Screen Only.”
Note: If your laptop doesn’t have HDMI input (which is typical), you might need a capture card.
2. Using a USB-C Cable
USB-C ports that support video input/output are found on many modern laptops, so this is another simple fix.
What You Need
- USB-C cable (must support video out)
- Devices with USB-C for video input/output
Steps to Follow
- Attach the USB-C cable from your main system to the laptop.
- On your main device, open display settings and find external displays.
- Set your laptop to act as an extended monitor.
Works especially well for newer MacBooks and high-end laptops.
3. Using a Capture Card
Capture cards come in handy for linking up devices that don’t support HDMI input directly.
What You Need
- A USB capture card (e.g., Elgato or a budget-friendly option)
- HDMI cable
Steps to Follow
- Connect the capture card to a USB port on your laptop.
- Plug the HDMI cable from your device into the capture card.
- Download and install capture card software (usually from the manufacturer’s site).
From there, you can project the connected device onto your computer.
A favorite method for gamers who stream or record gameplay.
4. Using Remote Desktop Software (Wireless)
In the age of wireless, remote desktop software is a great option — ideal for two-computer tasks.
What You Need
- Wi-Fi or the same network for both devices
- Remote desktop software:
- TeamViewer
- Chrome Remote Desktop
- Splashtop
Steps to Follow
- Download and install the remote desktop app on both devices.
- Sign in and link to your main product.
- When connected, go to display settings and choose Extend or Duplicate.
Offers wireless freedom, but requires a steady internet connection.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Encountering issues? Use the fixes here if they crop up.
Laptop Not Detecting Display
- Ensure the proper cable is used and plugged in securely.
- Check if your laptop supports HDMI input or USB-C video.
- Restart both devices and reconnect.
Lag When Using Remote Desktop
- Test your internet connection speed.
- Lower the resolution in the remote desktop app.
Unsupported Display Error
- Make sure device drivers are up to date.
- Try using an alternative method like Remote Desktop.
Pros and Cons of Using Your Laptop as a Monitor
Using a laptop as a monitor can be convenient, but there are pros and cons.
Advantages
- Save money: No need to buy another monitor.
- Portability: Laptops allow untethered use, especially with wireless methods.
- Saves Space: Great for small workspaces.
Drawbacks
- Limited Input Support: Most laptops don’t support HDMI input directly.
- Lag time: Wireless methods depend on the internet speed.
- Smaller Screens: Laptop screens are usually smaller than external monitors.
Wrapping Up
A laptop as a monitor is a good, low-cost solution for anyone who needs additional space but doesn’t require any special features. Whether you’re fooling around with an HDMI cable, USB-C connection, capture card, or if you’re using remote desktop software, for every occasion, there is a method.
Whether you’re trying to optimize space in your office or setup, you can take a leaf out of these solutions when setting up. With some trial and error, you’ll get an ideal setup that works for you.
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