The idea of repurposing an old laptop as a secondary monitor is an appealing one. It can save you money, reduce e-waste, and increase your productivity by giving you extra screen real estate. While it’s not always a straightforward process, it’s definitely achievable. This guide will walk you through the different methods available, outlining the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision.
Understanding the Challenges and Possibilities
Before diving into the “how-to,” it’s crucial to understand the inherent limitations. Most laptops are designed with an output port (HDMI or DisplayPort) to send video signals to an external monitor, not to receive them. This means that natively, you can’t simply plug another computer into your laptop’s video output port and expect it to function as a display.
Think of it like a one-way street. The laptop is typically designed to send data, not receive it for display purposes. However, technology offers several workarounds to overcome this limitation, utilizing software and network connections to achieve the desired result. The methods we’ll explore focus on these software-based solutions.
The Core Methods: Software is Key
The most common methods for turning a laptop into a monitor rely on software that essentially streams the screen from one computer to another over a network connection. This involves installing specific applications on both your primary computer (the one you want to extend the screen from) and the laptop you intend to use as the monitor.
The performance of these methods is highly dependent on your network connection, the processing power of both computers, and the specific software you choose. A stable and fast network connection is crucial for a smooth and lag-free experience. Older laptops with limited processing power may struggle to handle the demands of screen streaming.
Using Remote Desktop Software
Remote desktop software offers a simple way to access one computer from another, effectively turning your laptop into a display for your main computer. While primarily designed for remote access and control, it can be adapted for use as a secondary monitor.
Microsoft Remote Desktop
If your primary computer is running Windows Professional, Enterprise, or Education, you can use the built-in Microsoft Remote Desktop functionality. The laptop also needs to be running a compatible version of Windows. This method offers the advantage of being free and readily available if your systems meet the requirements.
To set it up, first, enable Remote Desktop on your primary computer. Go to Settings > System > Remote Desktop and toggle the “Enable Remote Desktop” switch to “On.” You may need to configure firewall settings to allow Remote Desktop connections. Note the computer name, as you’ll need this to connect from your laptop.
On your laptop, search for “Remote Desktop Connection” and open the application. Enter the computer name or IP address of your primary computer and click “Connect.” You’ll be prompted for your username and password for the primary computer. Once authenticated, your laptop’s screen will display the desktop of your primary computer.
While Remote Desktop provides full access to your primary computer, it doesn’t seamlessly extend the desktop like a traditional monitor. It creates a separate session, meaning you’re essentially controlling your main computer from afar rather than having two distinct displays working together. This might not be ideal for all workflows.
Third-Party Remote Desktop Solutions
Several third-party remote desktop applications, such as TeamViewer, AnyDesk, and Chrome Remote Desktop, can also be used for this purpose. These applications often offer cross-platform compatibility, allowing you to connect computers running different operating systems.
The setup process typically involves installing the application on both computers and creating an account. Follow the specific instructions provided by the software you choose. These applications usually offer features like file transfer, chat, and screen sharing, in addition to remote control.
Like Microsoft Remote Desktop, these solutions don’t create a true extended display. They provide remote access, which can be used as a secondary “monitor” in a pinch, but the experience is different from having a seamlessly integrated second screen. The performance will heavily depend on your network connection and the application’s efficiency.
Leveraging Screen Sharing Applications
Screen sharing applications are specifically designed to extend or mirror your screen to another device. These applications often provide a smoother and more responsive experience than remote desktop software when used as a secondary monitor.
Spacedesk
Spacedesk is a popular option for turning a laptop into a secondary monitor. It uses your local network to stream your screen from your primary computer to your laptop. It supports Windows as the primary computer and offers viewer apps for Windows, Android, and iOS on the secondary device.
The setup process involves installing the Spacedesk driver on your primary computer and the Spacedesk viewer app on your laptop. Ensure both devices are connected to the same network. The Spacedesk driver will detect the Spacedesk viewer on your laptop, and you can then extend or duplicate your display.
Spacedesk offers several configuration options to optimize performance, such as adjusting the resolution and frame rate. Experiment with these settings to find the best balance between visual quality and responsiveness for your network and hardware. The free version of Spacedesk is ad-supported, but a paid version is available without ads.
Other Screen Sharing Options
Other screen sharing applications exist, but Spacedesk is widely considered one of the most reliable and well-supported options for turning a laptop into a monitor. Research and compare different applications to find one that suits your specific needs and operating systems. Be sure to consider factors such as latency, resolution support, and ease of setup.
Understanding Potential Limitations and Performance Considerations
Regardless of the method you choose, several factors can impact the performance and usability of your laptop as a secondary monitor. It’s essential to be aware of these limitations to manage your expectations and optimize your setup.
Network Connection
A stable and fast network connection is paramount. Wireless connections can be prone to interference and fluctuations in bandwidth, leading to lag and dropped frames. A wired Ethernet connection is generally recommended for the best performance.
If using Wi-Fi, try to minimize interference from other devices and ensure your laptop and primary computer are within close range of the router. Consider using a dual-band router and connecting to the 5 GHz band for less congestion.
Hardware Requirements
The processing power of both your primary computer and your laptop will affect performance. Older laptops with limited CPU and RAM may struggle to handle the demands of screen streaming. Close unnecessary applications to free up resources.
On your primary computer, ensure your graphics card drivers are up to date. A dedicated graphics card will generally provide better performance than integrated graphics, especially when extending to multiple displays.
Latency
Latency, or input lag, is the delay between your actions on the primary computer and their appearance on the laptop’s screen. High latency can make using the laptop as a secondary monitor frustrating, especially for tasks that require precise timing, such as gaming or video editing.
Experiment with different screen sharing applications and configuration settings to minimize latency. Reducing the resolution and frame rate can often improve responsiveness. A wired network connection will also help reduce latency.
Power Consumption
Running a laptop as a secondary monitor will consume power. If your laptop is not plugged in, the battery will drain more quickly. Consider keeping your laptop connected to a power source to avoid interruptions. The screen brightness also affects power consumption. Reducing the brightness can extend battery life.
Alternative Solutions and Considerations
While software-based solutions are the most common way to turn a laptop into a monitor, it’s worth exploring some alternative options and considerations.
Using a Capture Card (Less Common and More Complex)
Technically, using a capture card could allow you to use your laptop as a display. You would connect the output from your primary computer to the input of the capture card, and then the capture card would be connected to your laptop. However, this is generally more complex, expensive, and introduces noticeable latency, making it unsuitable for most users. Capture cards are primarily designed for recording video game footage or streaming, not for extending a desktop.
External Portable Monitors: A Better Alternative?
Before investing significant time and effort into turning your laptop into a monitor, consider the alternative of purchasing an external portable monitor. These monitors are specifically designed to be lightweight, portable, and easy to connect to a laptop or desktop computer.
They often connect via USB-C or HDMI and provide a dedicated display without the performance limitations of software-based solutions. While there is an initial cost, the improved performance and ease of use may make it a worthwhile investment. Portable monitors come in various sizes and resolutions to suit different needs and budgets.
Ethical Considerations: E-Waste
Repurposing an old laptop as a monitor can be a great way to reduce e-waste and extend the lifespan of your device. Instead of discarding the laptop, you can give it a new purpose and avoid contributing to electronic waste. However, consider the energy consumption of running the laptop continuously as a secondary monitor. If the laptop is significantly less energy-efficient than a modern monitor, the environmental benefits may be diminished.
Conclusion: Is it Worth It?
Turning your laptop into a monitor is a viable option for extending your screen real estate, especially if you have an older laptop lying around. However, it’s crucial to understand the limitations and performance considerations associated with software-based solutions.
The success of this endeavor depends on your network connection, the hardware capabilities of both computers, and the specific software you choose. Be prepared to experiment with different settings and applications to find the best balance between visual quality and responsiveness.
If you require a seamless and high-performance secondary display, an external portable monitor may be a better investment. However, if you’re looking for a cost-effective way to repurpose an old laptop and don’t mind some performance limitations, turning it into a monitor can be a worthwhile project. Remember to prioritize a stable network connection and consider the potential impact on power consumption.
Can any laptop be used as a monitor, regardless of its specifications?
Not all laptops can be used as external monitors. The vast majority of laptops are designed to output video signals, not receive them. Therefore, most laptops lack the necessary video input ports (like HDMI-in or DisplayPort-in) required to function as a display for another device.
To determine if your laptop can be used as a monitor, you’ll need to check its ports carefully. Look for ports labeled “HDMI-in” or “DisplayPort-in.” If your laptop only has regular HDMI or DisplayPort ports (without the “in” designation), it can only output video, not receive it. Software solutions exist, but these typically involve screen mirroring or remote access, which are not the same as using the laptop as a dedicated external display.
What are the main hardware requirements for using a laptop as a monitor?
The primary hardware requirement is a laptop equipped with a video input port, specifically HDMI-in or DisplayPort-in. These ports allow the laptop to receive video signals from another device, such as a desktop computer, game console, or another laptop. Without one of these input ports, a direct connection to use the laptop as a monitor is impossible.
Additionally, you’ll need an appropriate video cable (HDMI to HDMI or DisplayPort to DisplayPort, depending on the ports available on both devices) to connect the source device to your laptop. Consider the resolution and refresh rate capabilities of both the source device and the laptop’s display to ensure compatibility and optimal visual performance.
What software solutions exist if my laptop lacks video input ports?
If your laptop doesn’t have HDMI-in or DisplayPort-in, you can explore software-based solutions like screen mirroring or remote access. These methods allow you to display the screen of another device on your laptop, but they typically aren’t as seamless as a direct hardware connection.
Examples of software solutions include using apps like Spacedesk or other screen mirroring utilities available for your operating system. These apps often require installation on both the laptop and the source device. Keep in mind that screen mirroring and remote access can introduce latency, which might make them unsuitable for tasks requiring quick response times, such as gaming.
How do I connect a secondary device to my laptop that has video input ports?
Connecting a secondary device to your laptop with video input capabilities involves using the appropriate cable. For example, if both your laptop and the source device have HDMI ports, use an HDMI cable to connect them. Similarly, use a DisplayPort cable if both devices have DisplayPort connections.
Once physically connected, you may need to adjust your laptop’s display settings to recognize the incoming video signal. This usually involves accessing the laptop’s display settings (often through the system settings or control panel) and selecting the appropriate input source (e.g., HDMI or DisplayPort). The exact steps may vary depending on your laptop’s operating system and manufacturer.
What are the advantages of using a laptop as a monitor compared to buying a dedicated monitor?
Using a laptop as a monitor can be advantageous in situations where portability and space are primary concerns. If you need a secondary display on the go or have limited desk space, utilizing an existing laptop can be a more convenient and cost-effective solution than purchasing a dedicated monitor.
Furthermore, using a laptop as a monitor repurposes a device you already own, reducing electronic waste. It can also be useful as a temporary solution if your primary monitor fails or needs repair. However, keep in mind that the screen size and resolution of a laptop may not always match the capabilities of a dedicated monitor.
What are the potential drawbacks or limitations of using a laptop as a monitor?
One significant drawback is that most laptops lack video input ports, making them unsuitable for use as external monitors without software-based solutions. Even with software, latency and performance issues can arise, especially during resource-intensive tasks like gaming or video editing.
Additionally, using a laptop as a monitor can be less ergonomic than using a dedicated monitor with adjustable height and tilt. The smaller screen size and lower resolution of some laptops can also be limiting. Finally, using the laptop as a monitor might require it to be constantly plugged in, potentially affecting battery health over time.
Are there specific laptop models or brands known for their ability to be used as monitors?
While it’s uncommon, certain laptop models, particularly older ones, occasionally feature dedicated video input ports (HDMI-in or DisplayPort-in). These laptops are specifically designed to function as both a portable computer and an external display. However, the availability of such models is limited.
You’ll need to thoroughly research specific laptop models and their specifications to confirm the presence of video input ports. Manufacturer websites and online product reviews often provide this information. Generally, it’s more common to find laptops with video output ports (HDMI or DisplayPort) than input ports.