How to Use Laptop as Monitor – Easy Guide for Dual Screen Setup

Outline:

1. Introduction
2. Why Use a Laptop as a Second Monitor?
   • Benefits of a Dual Monitor Setup
   • Improved Productivity and Multitasking
3. Prerequisites for Using Laptop as Monitor
   • Compatible Operating Systems
   • Required Software and Tools
4. How to Use Laptop as Monitor on Windows
   • Using Miracast (Wireless Display)
   • Using SpaceDesk for Extended Display
   • Connecting via Remote Desktop
5. How to Use Laptop as Monitor on Mac
   • Using Sidecar with iPad
   • Using AirPlay for Mac-to-Mac Connection
6. Using a Laptop as a Monitor with HDMI Cable
   • Why Direct HDMI Connection Doesn’t Work
   • Workarounds Using Capture Cards
7. Third-Party Software for Dual Monitor Setup
   • Popular Apps like SpaceDesk, Deskreen, and Duet Display
8. Troubleshooting Common Issues
   • Connectivity Problems
   • Display Lag or Resolution Issues
   • Sound Not Working on Secondary Display
9. Best Practices for an Efficient Dual-Screen Setup
   • Proper Placement and Adjustments
   • Configuring Display Settings
10. Comparison Table of Methods and Their Effectiveness
11. Conclusion
12. FAQs

Introduction

Laptop as Monitor Want to expand your screen space without buying an additional monitor? A laptop can serve as an external display for your primary PC, providing a budget-friendly solution for multitasking. In this guide, we’ll show you various ways to set up your laptop as a second monitor.

Why Use a Laptop as a Second Monitor?

Benefits of a Dual Monitor Setup

A dual-screen setup enhances workflow efficiency, making it easier to work with multiple applications simultaneously. You can keep reference material open on one screen while working on another.

Improved Productivity and Multitasking

Whether you’re coding, designing, or gaming, an extra screen reduces the need to switch between windows constantly, improving efficiency and reducing eye strain.

Prerequisites for Using Laptop as Monitor

Compatible Operating Systems

• Windows 10 & 11 – Built-in wireless display support
• MacOS Monterey & Later – AirPlay and Sidecar features
• Linux – Third-party software required

Required Software and Tools

Depending on the method, you may need:

• Miracast (for Windows users)
• SpaceDesk (third-party app)
• AirPlay (for macOS users)
• HDMI capture cards (for wired setups)

How to Use Laptop as Monitor on Windows

Using Miracast (Wireless Display)

1. Open Settings > System > Projecting to this PC on the laptop.
2. Select Available everywhere from the drop-down menu.
3. On the primary PC, press Win + P and select Connect to a wireless display.
4. Choose the laptop from the list and start extending the screen.

Using SpaceDesk for Extended Display

1. Download and install SpaceDesk on both devices.
2. Open the app on the laptop and enable sharing.
3. Connect from the primary PC using SpaceDesk’s interface.

Connecting via Remote Desktop

1. Enable Remote Desktop Connection in Windows settings.
2. Use Microsoft Remote Desktop App to extend the screen.

How to Use Laptop as Monitor on Mac

Using Sidecar with iPad

1. Ensure both Mac and iPad are logged into the same Apple ID.
2. Click AirPlay > Sidecar and select the iPad.
3. Extend or mirror your display easily.

Using AirPlay for Mac-to-Mac Connection

1. On the laptop, go to System Preferences > Sharing.
2. Enable AirPlay Receiver and connect from the main Mac.

Using a Laptop as a Monitor with HDMI Cable

Why Direct HDMI Connection Doesn’t Work

Laptops only have HDMI output ports, meaning they can’t receive signals directly.

Workarounds Using Capture Cards

Using an HDMI capture card allows an HDMI signal to be displayed on your laptop as a video feed.

Third-Party Software for Dual Monitor Setup

Software	Compatibility	Price	Features
SpaceDesk	Windows	Free	Wireless display extension
Deskreen	Windows/Mac/Linux	Free	Uses browser-based connection
Duet Display	Windows/Mac	Paid	Smooth performance with low latency

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Connectivity Problems

• Ensure both devices are on the same network.
• Restart both systems and reattempt connection.

Display Lag or Resolution Issues

• Lower the resolution for better performance.
• Use a wired connection where possible.

Sound Not Working on Secondary Display

• Change audio output settings in Windows/Mac.

Best Practices for an Efficient Dual-Screen Setup

• Adjust Display Settings: Use Win + P (Windows) or Display Preferences (Mac) to configure your screens.
• Ergonomic Positioning: Keep the laptop at eye level to avoid strain.

Comparison Table of Methods and Their Effectiveness

Method	Ease of Setup	Performance	Cost
Miracast	Easy	Moderate	Free
SpaceDesk	Moderate	High	Free
HDMI Capture Card	Complex	High	Paid
AirPlay	Easy	High	Free (Mac)

Offical Link :- Link

Conclusion

Using a laptop as a second monitor is a great way to expand your workspace affordably. Whether you opt for a wireless or wired setup, following the steps above ensures a seamless experience.

FAQs : –