Whoever said that “two heads are better than one” never tried two monitors. In fact, having two or more monitors can make you 42% more productive than just having one. And it’s not just about working harder. An extra monitor in your set up can be great for everything from gaming to downtime multitasking - just think about streaming a movie on one screen while you catch up with mates on another.
So whether you're looking to be more productive or just to add more onto your screen, adding a second monitor to your laptop or PC can turbocharge your set up. But the process may seem daunting if you've never done it before. Fortunately, with the right cables, adapters, and settings, connecting two monitors to your laptop is relatively simple.
In this article, we'll guide you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right cables to adjusting display settings.
Let’s connect…
Choosing the right cables, adapters and docking stations
Before you begin, it's important to make sure that your computer has the necessary video output ports to support a second monitor. The most common types of video output ports on laptops include HDMI, VGA and DisplayPort. You'll need to check your laptop's user manual or specifications to see which ports it has. Alternatively, you can just look at the physical ports on your PC or laptop. They should be labelled.
Once you know what type of port your computer has, you'll need to choose the appropriate cables and adapters. For example, if your laptop has an HDMI port and your monitor only has a VGA port, you'll need an HDMI to VGA adapter or cable. If your laptop has a USB-C port with DisplayPort technology, you can connect a USB-C to DisplayPort cable directly to a compatible monitor that supports DisplayPort technology.
Split displays or extend displays?
Hooking up one laptop is simple, since you only need one wire going from your computer to the screen. Dual or multi screens can be harder, since each screen will have its own input, so you might have multiple wires connected to multiple screens but only one output slot from your PC. In that case you’ll need is a docking station.
The big thing to watch for is whether you want a HDMI splitter - which duplicates the display across multiples screens or a Display extender , which allows for a different display on each screen. If you’re here to get more productive, then chances are you want a Display extender.
Setting up your workspace
Before you start connecting cables, it’s a good idea you get your workspace set up how you like it. Start by making sure that your laptop and monitors are turned off and unplugged. Position your monitors so that they're at eye level and facing you at an angle. This will help reduce eye strain and neck pain. We’ve got some more tips on how to transform your home office, plus all the computer accessories you’ll need.
Next, connect your laptop to the power source and plug in your second monitor. You'll also need to connect the appropriate cables and adapters from your laptop to each monitor. Bear in mind that if you’re using a docking station, it might require it’s own power supply too. So it's important to make sure that the cables are well organised and securely connected to avoid any connectivity issues.
Configuring display settings
Once your monitors are connected, you'll need to configure your laptop's display settings to make sure that everything is working properly. To do this, go to your computer's display settings and select the "Detect" button to recognise your second monitor. If your laptop isn't automatically recognising the new monitor you've connected, you may need to update your display drivers.
Once your second monitor is recognised, you'll want to select the "Extend desktop" option to activate your second monitor. This will allow you to drag items from one screen to the other. You can also choose to mirror your laptop's display by selecting the "Duplicate" option.
Selecting display modes
Once your second monitor is set up and recognised, you'll have the option to select different display modes. Some of the most common display modes include extended desktop, mirrored display, and split-screen.
In extended desktop mode, you can use your second monitor as additional workspace, displaying different tabs, applications or documents. Mirrored display mode replicates your laptop screen onto the second monitor, and split-screen mode allows you to divide the screen between applications or documents.
Optimising display resolution
It's important to make sure that your display resolution is optimised so that you can fully take advantage of the additional screen space. To adjust the resolution, go to your display settings and select the resolution that works best for your monitor.
It's important to note that some older monitors may not support the highest display resolutions. In this case, you may need to adjust the resolution of both monitors to match the lowest resolution supported by either monitor.
Troubleshooting dual monitor issues
Even with the right cables and settings, issues can still arise when connecting two monitors to your laptop. Some of the most common issues include no signal, black screen and incorrect display settings.
To troubleshoot these issues, start by checking that your cables are securely connected, that your drivers are up to date, and that your display settings are set correctly. If none of these issues are the problem, you may need to seek further help from tech support or a professional.
Expanding productivity with dual monitors
One of the biggest benefits of using dual monitors is that it can significantly boost productivity. With two monitors, you can have multiple applications open at once, allowing you to multitask more efficiently. You can even have one monitor dedicated to emails and chat with and another monitor dedicated to your work.
Using dual monitors for gaming
Dual monitors can also upgrade your gaming experience by allowing you to have a wider field of view - this can be a major advantage in first person shooters. Some games even support dual-monitor setups, providing a more immersive experience. However, you'll need a powerful graphics card to support gaming with dual monitors.
Daisy-chaining monitors with USB-C
If your laptop has a USB-C port that supports DisplayPort technology, you may be able to "daisy-chain" multiple monitors using a compatible USB-C dock. This allows you to connect multiple monitors with just one cable, reducing clutter. The added bonus of this is that your screens are set up automatically.
Dual monitors on Windows vs. macOS
While the process of connecting dual monitors is similar on both Windows and macOS, there are some differences in the settings and configurations. For example, in macOS, you'll need to go to the "Displays" settings to configure your second monitor. In Windows, you need to go into Systems Settings.
Portable dual monitor solutions for laptops
If you're frequently on the go and need to be able to set up a dual-monitor workspace quickly, there are a number of portable solutions available. These include USB-powered monitors, laptop docking stations, and portable monitors that clip onto your laptop screen. There are also laptops available that have dual monitors as a key feature - like the Lenovo Yogabook 9i.
FAQs
Can I connect two monitors to my laptop?
Yes, most laptops have the necessary ports to support a second monitor. If your laptop has a USB-C port, then it’s really straightforward.
Do I need a special adapter or cable to connect the monitors?
It depends on your laptop and monitor's video output ports. You'll need to choose the appropriate cables and adapters based on the ports available.
Can I connect one monitor through Wi-Fi or wireless technology?
No, a wired connection is always required to properly connect a monitor to a laptop.
What types of video outputs do I need for dual monitors?
The types of video outputs you'll need depend on your laptop and monitor's ports. The most common types include HDMI, VGA, and DisplayPort.
Now that you know everything you need to know about connecting dual monitors to your laptop, it's time to get started. With just a few cables and settings, you can boost your productivity and gaming sessions with a second monitor. So give it a go!
If you want more on monitors, the PC gaming buying guide has some super useful information.
