Yes, you can use a laptop as a monitor if you are willing to expand your productivity. If you need to go through screens and cross-reference documents, then using a laptop as a monitor can be a lifesaver. It works as a dual-screen workstation.
You can either use a Windows laptop or a MacBook as both have their own perks of using as a second screen. To extend your laptop display, you have to connect the proper display cable, go to Settings, click on Display Settings, modify them according to the requirement, scroll to Multiple Display, and choose the correct option. The tools and system requirement for this process is Windows 10 or 11, a keyboard, and a mouse, and with your intermediate tech knowledge, you can proceed easily using a laptop as a monitor.
So, let’s get to know the step-by-step process of how you can use a laptop as a monitor.
Step 1: Get the right display cable
To start with, you need to get an accurate display cable that can be connected to the laptop which you want to use as a monitor. Now, connect the laptop to the monitor. You might find different cables as well, such as HTML, DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort or even a docking station. So, based on the right cable, you have to continue with building the connection.
Step 2: Change the display settings
Now, go to Settings > Display settings, or you can also use the shortcut Windows key + P, this will help to switch between the display mode. You will find two or more numbered screens showing under the “Select and rearrange this place” section. After you have connected the laptop to the monitor, if it fails to detect, then you need to force Windows to search for the other display by clicking on Detect.
Step 3: Explain the display
If you have chosen the screen, then click Identity, and a pop-up screen will appear. Here you can find different numbers which signify different places where you can rearrange the display. Based on your preferences, make the changes, or you can directly click on Apply.
Step 4: Setup multiple displays
Now scroll to Multiple Displays and go through the drop-down, you will find a variety of options to choose from. Tap on “Extend this display”, and the display will get expanded to multiple other screens. You also need to select which screen should be your primary display.
How to expand your laptop display on Mac OS?
If you want to connect another display to your Macbook, then first you need to understand whether you have an adapter or not. Get the right cables, login into the monitor and then make the changes in the settings. Go to System Preference > Display Arrangement, and you need to select the box for Mirror display, and then drag the display based on your desired position. You can arrange them according to your working criteria. So, select any one display that would act as the primary one. You can also drag the menu bar to the screen that you want to use.
Can you use third-party applications to use a laptop as the monitor?
Yes, you can use a third-party program to use a laptop as a monitor. However, before you proceed, you need to check the compatibility issue. You can download the third-party program on your main system, and the View program on the laptop that you want to expand as the main system. Now, follow the step-by-step process and the onscreen prompts and your laptop would be ready as an extended display.
Can you use your laptop to remotely control a desktop monitor?
Yes, you can get third-party applications on both the laptop and the monitor and then go through the settings. You might be asked to put in the desktop password to establish a proper connection. Finally, log in to both your laptop and monitor, so that you are able to control the expanded display through the laptop.
