how do i use a laptop as a monitor

Have you ever found yourself wishing for just one more screen? Maybe your main monitor is occupied with a game, or your desktop PC is set up but you don’t have a spare display. In these moments, you might look at your perfectly good laptop and wonder if it can serve as a temporary monitor. The short answer is that it’s possible, but it’s not as simple as plugging in a cable.

Why You Can’t Just Plug and Play

Unlike a standard monitor, your laptop’s screen is designed as an output device for its own internal hardware. Its video port, whether it’s HDMI or USB-C, is typically an output only. This means it’s built to send a signal out, not to receive one from another computer. This is the fundamental reason a direct cable connection between two computers usually won’t work for this purpose.

Using Built-in Software Solutions

The most common and effective way to use your laptop as a second screen is through software. Both Windows and macOS have features built right in. In Windows 10 and 11, look for the “Projecting to this PC” setting. This allows you to extend or duplicate your main PC’s display to your laptop over your local Wi-Fi network. On a Mac, the “Sidecar” feature lets you use your iPad or another Mac as a wireless display for your primary Mac.

Exploring Third-Party Applications

If built-in options aren’t available or don’t suit your needs, several reliable third-party applications can help. Programs like Space Desk or Parsec are popular choices. They work by installing a small application on both your main computer and your laptop. The software on your main PC streams your desktop to the application on your laptop, effectively turning it into a wireless monitor. The performance is often very good for general tasks.

What About a Wired Connection?

While a standard HDMI cable won’t work, some laptops support a feature called “Video-In” over USB-C. This is relatively rare, so you’ll need to check your laptop’s specifications carefully. If it does support it, you may be able to connect your main PC directly to your laptop’s USB-C port and use it as a monitor. For most users, however, the software route is the more accessible and reliable method.

While your laptop might not become a permanent monitor replacement, it’s a fantastic tool for a temporary screen boost. With a little software help, you can easily extend your workspace and get more done without needing to buy extra hardware.