How To Use A Laptop As A Second Monitor

Most people transfer their laptop display to a larger monitor. However, seeing folks use a laptop as a second screen is less common.

The feature could give you the benefits of having two screens. You get more space for apps, additional windows and tabs, and easier multitasking.

This article will discuss how to use a laptop as a second monitor. Specifically, we will share steps for Windows and macOS devices. 

Using a Windows desktop and laptop

These steps will only work if your laptop and desktop use the Windows 11 or 10 operating system. Also, they must share the same Wi-Fi network.

Start by opening your preferred laptop. Select the Start menu and its Settings option. Next, click on the System and the Projecting to this PC option. 

Find the section, “Some Windows and Android devices can project to this PC when you allow them to.” Then, click on the Available everywhere on secure networks option.

It will enable you to see your laptop as the second monitor when connected to a secure network. That includes your home Wi-Fi network.

Next, click the magnifying glass icon at the bottom of the screen to access the Search Bar. Alternatively, press the Windows Key and the “S” key simultaneously.

Open the Connect to a wireless display page by typing its name on the Search Bar. Next, click the first option. Select the Connect button under the Multiple Displays section.

Turn your attention to your preferred desktop computer. Open its Settings page and the Display option. Next, click the Connect button next to the Connect to a wireless display page. 

Aside from learning how to use a laptop as a second monitor, you could check how to secure their connection. 

You could require your laptop to request confirmation every time you connect. Moreover, you can add a PIN code to verify the pairing process.

The laptop may also require plugging into an electrical outlet before working as a second screen. Additionally, you may rename the computer to make it recognizable.

You may toggle these features by opening the System and Projecting on this PC page. Also, you may access general settings for multiple displays in the Windows Settings pane.

Using a macOS desktop and laptop

Your devices must have macOS Monterey installed before you use these steps on how to use your laptop as a second monitor. 

Also, they must connect to the same Wi-Fi network and Apple ID account. Begin by opening your preferred desktop Mac. 

Head to the Control Center on the far right of the menu bar. Then, click AirPlay Display, which looks like two overlapping toggle switches.

Select the Screen Mirroring option. You will see nearby compatible Macs if they link to the same network and use the latest software. 

Open your MacBook and select it on your Apple desktop computer. Alternatively, you may open the desktop Mac, select the Displays option, then click the Add Display option.

Choose your MacBook from the list to establish a connection.  Moreover, you could adjust settings by heading to the Displays option. 

Head to the System Preferences section and select the Display Settings option. Note that AirPlay Display also works for iPads.

Conclusion 

Those were the steps on how to use a laptop as a second monitor. Your devices must use the same operating system and Wi-Fi network.

You should also keep your operating system updated. Windows and Mac have automatic updates, but you may control when they install on your computer. 

More importantly, you should keep updated with the latest tech tips and tricks with Inquirer Tech. It will help you do more with your devices and apps.