In today’s multitasking world, having a second monitor can significantly boost productivity. But what if you don’t want to shell out money for a new display? The good news is you might already have a perfectly good second screen gathering dust: your old laptop. Turning a laptop into a secondary monitor is a fantastic way to repurpose older technology and create a more efficient workspace. This article will guide you through the various methods, software, and considerations for successfully using your second laptop as a monitor.
Why Use a Second Laptop as a Monitor?
Extending your display real estate offers numerous benefits. It allows you to keep multiple applications visible at once, reducing the need to constantly switch between windows. Imagine having your research document open on one screen and your writing application on the other, or monitoring your stock portfolio while simultaneously working on a presentation. The increased workspace translates directly into improved workflow and enhanced focus. It’s also a fantastic solution for those working from home or on the go, as it provides a portable and cost-effective way to expand your visual workspace.
Furthermore, repurposing an old laptop is an environmentally friendly choice. Instead of contributing to electronic waste, you’re giving it a new lease on life. This reduces the demand for new manufacturing, conserving resources and lowering your carbon footprint. It’s a win-win situation: you gain a valuable tool, and you contribute to a more sustainable future.
Methods for Connecting Your Laptop as a Second Monitor
There are several ways to connect your laptop as a second monitor. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of ease of setup, performance, and cost. We will explore the most popular and effective options.
Using Software Solutions: The Wireless Approach
The most common and often easiest method involves using software designed specifically for this purpose. These applications leverage your local network to transmit the display signal from your primary computer to your secondary laptop. This approach eliminates the need for physical cables, making it a cleaner and more flexible setup.
Spacedesk
Spacedesk is a popular and free software solution that allows you to turn your Android device or another Windows PC into a second display. It’s relatively easy to set up and offers decent performance, especially for general productivity tasks.
To use Spacedesk, you need to install the Spacedesk Driver software on your main computer (the one whose display you want to extend) and the Spacedesk app on your secondary laptop (the one you want to use as a monitor). Both devices must be connected to the same network.
Once installed, launch the Spacedesk Driver on your main computer. Then, open the Spacedesk app on your secondary laptop. The app should automatically detect your main computer. If not, you can manually enter the IP address of your main computer. Once connected, your secondary laptop will act as an extension of your primary display.
Twomon SE
Twomon SE is another software option, offering both free and paid versions. It boasts improved performance and features compared to some other free options, making it a good choice if you’re willing to invest a small amount for a smoother experience. Like Spacedesk, it requires installation on both the primary and secondary devices and relies on a network connection.
Twomon SE works similarly to Spacedesk. Install the software on both your main computer and the secondary laptop. Connect both devices to the same Wi-Fi network. Launch the applications on both machines and follow the on-screen instructions to establish the connection. The paid version of Twomon SE often includes features such as wired USB connections, offering even better performance and stability.
SuperDisplay
SuperDisplay is a software option primarily designed for turning Android tablets into secondary monitors, but it can also be used with Android emulators on a laptop. It’s known for its low latency and high refresh rates, making it suitable for more demanding tasks such as graphic design or video editing. However, using an Android emulator might introduce some additional complexity to the setup.
To use SuperDisplay with an Android emulator, you first need to install an Android emulator like Bluestacks or NoxPlayer on your secondary laptop. Then, install the SuperDisplay app within the emulator. On your main computer, install the SuperDisplay driver. Connect both devices to the same network and launch the SuperDisplay app in the emulator. Follow the on-screen prompts to establish the connection. While this method works, it may require more system resources and may not be as stable as direct software solutions.
Considerations for Wireless Connections
When using software solutions, keep in mind that the performance heavily relies on the strength and stability of your Wi-Fi network. A weak or congested network can lead to lag, disconnects, and a frustrating user experience. Ensure both your primary and secondary laptops are connected to a strong and stable Wi-Fi network, preferably a 5GHz network for better performance. You may also want to minimize other devices using the same network to reduce interference. Wired Ethernet connections are generally more stable and faster than Wi-Fi, so if possible, consider connecting both laptops to your router via Ethernet cables for the best performance.
Using Hardware Solutions: The HDMI Capture Card Route
While less common, using an HDMI capture card is another way to use a laptop as a secondary monitor. This method involves physically connecting your primary computer’s video output to your secondary laptop’s HDMI input (if it has one) via an HDMI capture card. This method can offer lower latency than wireless solutions but requires the purchase of a capture card.
An HDMI capture card essentially converts the HDMI signal from your primary computer into a format that your secondary laptop can recognize as a video source. This allows you to view your primary computer’s display on your secondary laptop’s screen.
How to Set Up with an HDMI Capture Card
First, you need to purchase an HDMI capture card. These devices are available in various price ranges, depending on the features and resolution support. Connect the HDMI output of your primary computer to the HDMI input of the capture card. Then, connect the capture card to a USB port on your secondary laptop.
Next, you need to install the necessary drivers for the capture card on your secondary laptop. These drivers usually come with the capture card or can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website. Once the drivers are installed, you can use video capture software, such as OBS Studio or VLC Media Player, to view the HDMI input from the capture card. Select the capture card as the video source in the software, and your primary computer’s display should appear on your secondary laptop’s screen.
Advantages and Disadvantages of HDMI Capture Cards
The main advantage of using an HDMI capture card is lower latency compared to wireless solutions. This can be crucial for tasks that require real-time responsiveness, such as gaming or video editing. The connection is also more stable, as it doesn’t rely on a Wi-Fi network.
However, this method also has some drawbacks. It requires purchasing an HDMI capture card, which can add to the cost. The setup is also less flexible, as it requires physical cables. Additionally, not all laptops have HDMI input ports, which are necessary for this method to work. Most laptops have HDMI output ports, designed to send the display to an external monitor, but HDMI input ports are less common. Make sure your secondary laptop has an HDMI input port before considering this method.
Using a Dedicated Hardware KVM Switch
A KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) switch allows you to control multiple computers with a single keyboard, mouse, and monitor. While not specifically designed to turn a laptop into a secondary monitor, it can achieve a similar result by allowing you to quickly switch between using your primary computer’s display and using your secondary laptop’s display.
A KVM switch typically has multiple input ports for connecting the video outputs of your computers and a single output port for connecting to a monitor. By pressing a button on the KVM switch, you can switch between the different inputs, effectively switching which computer’s display is shown on the monitor.
Setting Up with a KVM Switch
To use a KVM switch with your laptops, connect the HDMI output of your primary computer and the HDMI output of your secondary laptop to the input ports of the KVM switch. Then, connect the output port of the KVM switch to a monitor. Connect your keyboard and mouse to the KVM switch as well.
Now, you can use the KVM switch to switch between your primary computer and your secondary laptop. When you select your primary computer, its display will be shown on the monitor, and you can control it with the keyboard and mouse connected to the KVM switch. When you select your secondary laptop, its display will be shown on the monitor, and you can control it with the same keyboard and mouse.
Limitations of KVM Switches
While a KVM switch can be useful, it doesn’t truly turn your laptop into a second monitor. It simply allows you to switch between using your primary computer’s display and using your secondary laptop’s display on a single monitor. You can’t extend your display across both screens simultaneously. Additionally, KVM switches can be relatively expensive, especially those that support high resolutions and refresh rates.
Configuring Your Displays in Windows
Once you have successfully connected your laptop as a second monitor using one of the methods described above, you need to configure your display settings in Windows to properly utilize the extended screen.
Right-click on your desktop and select “Display settings.” In the Display settings window, you should see both your primary monitor and your secondary laptop’s screen represented as numbered boxes. If you don’t see both displays, click the “Detect” button.
You can drag and drop the numbered boxes to arrange the displays according to their physical position relative to each other. This ensures that your mouse cursor moves seamlessly between the screens in the correct direction.
Next, choose how you want to use the second display. The “Multiple displays” dropdown menu offers several options:
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Extend these displays: This is the most common option, which extends your desktop across both screens, giving you more workspace.
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Duplicate these displays: This option mirrors your primary display on the secondary screen, which can be useful for presentations.
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Show only on 1: This option disables the secondary display and shows the display only on your primary monitor.
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Show only on 2: This option disables the primary display and shows the display only on your secondary laptop’s screen.
Select “Extend these displays” to use your laptop as a true second monitor. You can also designate one of the displays as your “Main display” by checking the “Make this my main display” box. The main display is where your taskbar and system icons will appear.
Finally, adjust the resolution and scaling settings for each display to ensure that the text and images appear sharp and clear. You may need to experiment with different resolutions and scaling options to find the settings that work best for your setup.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful setup, you may encounter some issues when using a laptop as a second monitor. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
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No display detected: If your secondary laptop’s screen is not detected in the Display settings, try restarting both computers. Make sure the connection is secure, whether it’s a wired connection or a wireless connection to the same network. Update your graphics drivers on both computers. If you’re using a software solution, ensure that the software is running on both devices and that they are properly connected.
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Lag or slow performance: Lag or slow performance is common with wireless connections. Ensure both devices are connected to a strong and stable Wi-Fi network. Try closing unnecessary applications on both computers to free up resources. If possible, use a wired Ethernet connection for better performance. If using Spacedesk, try lowering the resolution and frame rate settings in the Spacedesk Driver software.
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Incorrect resolution or scaling: If the resolution or scaling is incorrect, the text and images may appear blurry or distorted. Adjust the resolution and scaling settings in the Display settings window. Experiment with different settings until you find the ones that work best for your setup.
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Display flickering: Display flickering can be caused by outdated graphics drivers or faulty cables. Update your graphics drivers and try using a different HDMI cable.
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Connection drops: Connection drops can be frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of working. Ensure that your Wi-Fi network is stable and that there are no obstructions blocking the signal. Try restarting your router and both computers. If the problem persists, consider using a wired Ethernet connection or a different software solution.
Conclusion
Turning your old laptop into a second monitor is a great way to boost your productivity, reduce electronic waste, and save money. Whether you choose a software solution for its convenience or an HDMI capture card for its low latency, the benefits of having a second screen are undeniable. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily set up your second laptop as a monitor and enjoy the increased workspace and improved workflow that it provides. Remember to consider your specific needs and choose the method that best suits your requirements and technical capabilities. With a little effort, you can transform your old laptop into a valuable tool that enhances your computing experience.
What software do I need to turn my old laptop into a second monitor?
Several software options allow you to use an old laptop as a second monitor. Popular choices include Spacedesk, Twomon SE, and Air Display. Spacedesk is a free option suitable for Windows operating systems, offering decent performance for general use. Twomon SE and Air Display typically offer better performance and broader platform support, but they often come with a purchase price or subscription.
Regardless of the software chosen, ensure you download and install both the server component (on your main computer) and the client component (on the old laptop). Follow the software’s specific instructions for installation and connection. Typically, this involves connecting both devices to the same Wi-Fi network or using a wired connection, and then launching the software on both machines.
Will using my old laptop as a second monitor significantly impact its performance?
Yes, using an old laptop as a second monitor will inevitably impact its performance, although the extent of the impact depends on several factors. These factors include the laptop’s hardware specifications (CPU, RAM), the resolution and refresh rate you’re using for the extended display, and the software solution you’ve chosen to facilitate the connection. Older laptops with limited processing power might struggle to handle displaying high-resolution content smoothly, especially when running other applications concurrently.
To minimize performance impact, consider lowering the resolution and refresh rate of the extended display on the old laptop. Close unnecessary applications running in the background to free up system resources. If you experience significant lag or slowdown, explore alternative software options, as some are optimized for performance better than others. Experimentation is key to finding the optimal balance between functionality and performance for your specific setup.
Can I use any laptop, regardless of its operating system, as a second monitor?
The ability to use a laptop as a second monitor largely depends on the compatibility of the chosen software with the operating system on both the main computer and the old laptop. Most popular solutions support Windows, macOS, and even Android, offering flexibility in terms of device compatibility. However, very old operating systems or niche distributions might lack support from mainstream software developers.
Before committing to a specific solution, carefully review the system requirements and compatibility information provided by the software vendor. Verify that both your main computer’s operating system and your old laptop’s operating system are supported. If you’re unsure, consider trying a free trial version (if available) to ensure compatibility and satisfactory performance before making a purchase.
How do I connect my old laptop to my main computer to use it as a second monitor?
Connecting your old laptop as a second monitor primarily involves using software that creates a virtual display over a network connection. Most software solutions work by installing a server component on your main computer and a client component on your old laptop. The server software captures the display output from your main computer, encodes it, and transmits it over the network. The client software on the old laptop receives this data, decodes it, and displays it as a second monitor.
Typically, both devices need to be connected to the same local network, either via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Some software might also support connecting via a USB cable for improved performance and stability. Once the software is installed and both devices are on the same network, the client software on the laptop usually detects the main computer automatically. Follow the on-screen instructions to establish the connection and configure the display settings.
Are there any security risks associated with using my old laptop as a second monitor?
While the risk is generally low when using reputable software, there are some security considerations when repurposing an old laptop as a second monitor. The connection between your main computer and the old laptop is usually established over your local network. If your network is not secure, particularly your Wi-Fi network, unauthorized users might potentially intercept the data being transmitted, though this is unlikely with modern encryption standards.
To mitigate potential risks, ensure your Wi-Fi network is protected with a strong password and that you are using a secure encryption protocol like WPA2 or WPA3. Keep the software you are using up to date to patch any known security vulnerabilities. If you are concerned about data security, consider using a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi, as this provides a more secure and stable connection.
Can I use my old laptop as a touch screen monitor for my main computer?
Whether you can use your old laptop as a touch screen monitor depends on whether the laptop itself has a touch screen display and the capabilities of the software you are using. Some software solutions, such as Twomon SE, specifically support touch input and can transmit touch events from the laptop’s screen back to the main computer. This allows you to interact with applications on your main computer using the touch screen on the old laptop.
If your old laptop doesn’t have a touch screen, then obviously it cannot function as a touch screen monitor. Even with a touch screen, the responsiveness and accuracy of the touch input might vary depending on the software and the network connection quality. Always test the touch functionality thoroughly after setting up the connection to ensure it meets your needs.
What are the alternatives to using an old laptop as a second monitor?
If using an old laptop as a second monitor proves impractical due to performance limitations or compatibility issues, there are several alternative solutions to consider. One option is to purchase a dedicated portable monitor. These monitors are specifically designed to be lightweight and easily transportable, offering a convenient way to extend your screen real estate without the performance overhead of using an old laptop. They connect to your main computer via USB or HDMI.
Another alternative is to use a larger, standard desktop monitor. While not portable, a larger monitor provides more screen space and can improve productivity. Consider purchasing an ultrawide monitor or dual monitor setup for an immersive and efficient workflow. Additionally, exploring virtual desktop environments or screen sharing software could also provide alternative ways to access and manage multiple applications across different devices.