Laptops are great devices, but sometimes we need more screen real estate than what they can provide. Fortunately, using a laptop as an external monitor is possible and straightforward, and can help increase productivity by allowing you to work on multiple screens. Read on to learn how to use a laptop as an external monitor.

Step 1: Check your laptop’s video ports

First, check the video ports on your laptop to ensure that it has either an HDMI or VGA connection. Newer laptops typically have an HDMI port, while older laptops may have a VGA port. If your laptop doesn’t have either of these ports, you won’t be able to use it as an external monitor.

Step 2: Check your second device’s video ports

Next, check the video ports on the device you want to use as your primary computer. Make sure that it has the same type of video port as your laptop – either HDMI or VGA.

Step 3: Get a cable or adapter

Once you know which type of video ports your devices have, you’ll need to get a cable or adapter to connect them. If both devices have HDMI ports, you’ll need an HDMI cable. If one device has an HDMI port and the other has a VGA port, you’ll need an HDMI to VGA adapter. If both devices have VGA ports, you’ll need a VGA cable.

Step 4: Connect the devices

Connect the cable or adapter to your laptop’s video port, then connect the other end to the video port on your primary device. Make sure that both devices are turned on and that you’ve selected the correct input on your primary device.

Step 5: Adjust settings

Once the devices are connected, you’ll need to adjust the display settings on your primary device to use the laptop as an external monitor. On a Windows computer, right-click on the desktop and select “Display settings.” Under the “Multiple displays” section, select “Extend these displays” to use the laptop as an additional display, or “Duplicate these displays” to mirror your primary device’s screen on the laptop. On a Mac, go to “System Preferences” > “Displays” and select “Arrangement.” Check the “Mirror Displays” box to copy your primary device’s screen on the laptop.

Step 6: Enjoy your external monitor

That’s it! You can now work on multiple screens and enjoy the benefits of having a larger display. Remember to adjust the position of the windows and applications on your main screen and laptop screen accordingly.

In conclusion, using a laptop as an external monitor is a simple and effective way to increase your productivity. Follow these steps and start enjoying the benefits of using two screens today!