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How Can I Use Laptop as a Monitor: A Beginner’s Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re running out of screen space or need a second display, you might wonder, how can I use laptop as a monitor? Using your laptop as an additional monitor is an efficient way to multitask without investing in new hardware. This guide will walk you through various methods to use your laptop as a monitor, whether you’re using Windows, Mac, or a combination of both.

Why Use a Laptop as a Monitor?

Here are a few reasons you might want to use your laptop as a monitor:

  • Boost Productivity: Expand your screen space for multitasking.
  • Streamlined Workflow: Use your laptop as a secondary monitor for better organization.
  • Cost-Effective Solution: Avoid purchasing an additional monitor.

Let’s explore how to use a laptop as a monitor step by step.

1. How to Use Laptop as a Monitor with Windows’ Built-In Features

If both devices are running Windows 10 or 11, you can use the Project to This PC feature to connect them wirelessly.

Steps:

  1. Enable Projecting on the Laptop:
    • On the laptop you want to use as a monitor, go to Settings > System > Projecting to this PC.
    • Set Some Windows and Android devices can project to this PC to Available everywhere.
  2. Connect from the Primary Device:
    • On your main PC, press Win + K to open the Connect menu.
    • Select your laptop from the list of available devices.
  3. Extend Your Display:
    • On your main PC, press Win + P and select Extend to use the laptop as a secondary monitor.

💡 Pro Tip: Both devices must be on the same Wi-Fi network for this method to work.

2. How to Use Laptop as a Monitor with a Wired Connection (Using HDMI)

Most laptops don’t support direct HDMI input, but you can use third-party adapters or capture cards.

What You’ll Need:

  • HDMI Cable: To connect the two devices.
  • Capture Card: Allows the laptop to act as an external display.

Steps:

  1. Connect the Devices:
    • Use the HDMI cable to connect your primary device to the capture card plugged into your laptop.
  2. Install Capture Software:
    • Download and install software (e.g., OBS Studio) to display the HDMI input.
  3. Set Up the Display:
    • Open the software to view the output from your primary device on the laptop.

💡 Note: This method is ideal for gaming consoles or specific PC setups.

3. How to Use Laptop as a Monitor with Third-Party Apps

If you want a seamless connection between devices, third-party apps are a great option.

Recommended Apps:

  1. Spacedesk:
    • Download Spacedesk on both your primary PC and laptop.
    • Follow the in-app instructions to connect wirelessly.
  2. Duet Display:
    • Compatible with Windows, Mac, and even tablets.
    • Download Duet Display and connect your devices via USB or Wi-Fi.

Steps:

  1. Install the App:
    • Install the app on both devices.
  2. Connect Your Devices:
    • Launch the app on both devices and follow the setup instructions.
  3. Extend Your Screen:
    • Use the app’s settings to extend or duplicate your display.

4. How to Use a Mac Laptop as a Monitor for a PC

If you want to use a MacBook as a monitor for a Windows PC, follow these steps:

Using Luna Display:

  1. Purchase a Luna Display Dongle:
    • Connect the dongle to your Windows PC.
  2. Install Luna Display App:
    • Install the app on both your Mac and PC.
  3. Connect Wirelessly:
    • Launch the app and follow the prompts to use your MacBook as a secondary display.

5. How to Use Laptop as a Monitor for Gaming Consoles

To use your laptop as a monitor for a gaming console like a PS5 or Xbox, you can:

Use Remote Play Apps:

  1. Download the App:
    • Install the respective app (e.g., PS Remote Play, Xbox App) on your laptop.
  2. Connect Your Console:
    • Sign in to your account and follow the instructions to mirror your console to the laptop.
  3. Play on Your Laptop:
    • Use the laptop as your gaming screen.

Conclusion: Unlock the Potential of Your Laptop

Now that you know how can I use laptop as a monitor, you can maximize your productivity, streamline your workflow, or create a dual-display setup without extra costs. Whether you choose a built-in feature like Project to This PC, a wired connection, or third-party apps like Spacedesk, the process is simple and effective.

Bookmark this guide for future reference, and share it with others looking to optimize their screen space!

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