Having a second monitor can dramatically boost your productivity. Imagine having your email open on one screen while working on a document on the other, or coding on one display while referencing documentation on another. But purchasing a new monitor can be expensive. What if you could repurpose that old laptop gathering dust in the closet? This article will guide you through the process of turning your old laptop into a functional second display, saving you money and giving new life to your old technology.
Why Use a Second Monitor?
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s quickly cover the “why.” A second monitor isn’t just a fancy accessory; it’s a powerful tool that can significantly improve your workflow. The benefits are numerous and tangible.
Increased Productivity: Studies have shown that using multiple monitors can increase productivity by as much as 20-30%. The ability to have multiple applications visible simultaneously eliminates the constant need to minimize and maximize windows, saving you valuable time.
Improved Multitasking: Juggling multiple tasks becomes significantly easier when you can dedicate an entire screen to each one. No more Alt-tabbing or constantly resizing windows.
Enhanced Gaming Experience: Gamers can use a second monitor to display game stats, chat windows, or streaming software, enhancing their overall gaming experience.
Better Organization: A second screen provides extra real estate to organize your files, folders, and applications, creating a cleaner and more efficient workspace.
Prerequisites: What You’ll Need
Turning your old laptop into a second monitor isn’t always a walk in the park. You need to ensure it meets certain criteria and have the necessary accessories.
Functional Laptop: The old laptop needs to be in reasonably good working condition. The screen must be intact and functional. The operating system should be able to boot up, even if it’s a bit slow. Problems like a cracked screen or a completely non-functional OS will render the laptop unusable as a second monitor.
Stable Network Connection: Most methods for using a laptop as a second monitor rely on a stable network connection, either Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Ensure both your main computer and the old laptop are connected to the same network. A wired Ethernet connection generally provides more stable and faster performance than Wi-Fi.
Software Compatibility: The chosen software solution must be compatible with the operating systems of both your main computer and the old laptop. Check the system requirements carefully before downloading and installing any software.
Power Adapter: Keep your old laptop plugged into its power adapter during use as a second monitor. This prevents the battery from draining quickly and ensures consistent performance.
Software Solutions: Connecting Your Laptop as a Second Monitor
Several software solutions enable you to use your old laptop as a second monitor. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, so choose the one that best suits your needs and technical capabilities.
Spacedesk (Recommended)
Spacedesk is a popular and free software solution that turns your Android tablet, phone, or even an old laptop into a second display. It boasts good performance and is relatively easy to set up.
Setting up Spacedesk
First, download and install the Spacedesk Driver software on your primary computer. This is the computer that will be extending its display. The driver software is available for Windows.
Next, download and install the Spacedesk Viewer app on your old laptop. This app will receive the display signal from the primary computer. The viewer app is available for Windows.
Once both are installed, ensure both devices are connected to the same network. Launch the Spacedesk Driver software on your primary computer. It will run in the system tray.
Launch the Spacedesk Viewer app on your old laptop. The app should automatically detect your primary computer. If it doesn’t, you can manually enter the IP address of your primary computer.
Click “Connect” in the Spacedesk Viewer app. Your old laptop should now display a mirrored or extended version of your primary computer’s screen.
Adjust the display settings in Windows (Settings > System > Display) to configure the arrangement and resolution of your extended display.
Deskreen
Deskreen is another free and open-source option. It’s notable for its cross-platform compatibility, working with Windows, macOS, and Linux. It works by turning your laptop into a web display, accessible via any browser on your main computer.
Setting up Deskreen
Download and install the Deskreen application on your old laptop. Deskreen is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Launch the Deskreen application. It will display a QR code and a web address.
On your primary computer, open a web browser and enter the web address displayed on the Deskreen application. Alternatively, you can scan the QR code with your smartphone or tablet to open the web address on those devices.
Deskreen will ask for permission to capture your laptop’s screen. Grant the necessary permissions.
Select whether you want to share the entire screen or a specific application window.
Adjust the display settings in your primary computer’s operating system to configure the arrangement and resolution of the extended display.
SuperDisplay
SuperDisplay is a paid application, but it offers excellent performance and features, particularly for users who want to use their old laptop as a graphics tablet. It supports pen input, making it suitable for artists and designers.
Setting up SuperDisplay
Purchase and download the SuperDisplay app for your primary computer. SuperDisplay is available for Windows.
Download and install the SuperDisplay app on your old laptop. SuperDisplay is available for Android.
Connect both devices to the same network via USB. USB provides a more reliable connection than Wi-Fi for better performance, especially when using pen input.
Launch the SuperDisplay app on both devices. The app should automatically detect your primary computer.
Adjust the display settings in Windows to configure the arrangement, resolution and pen settings of your extended display.
Using Windows Built-in Features (Project to a Wireless Display)
Windows has a built-in feature called “Project to a wireless display” that can be used to extend your display to another device. However, this method requires both devices to support Miracast, a wireless display standard. Many older laptops don’t support Miracast, so this method may not work for everyone.
Checking Miracast Support
On your old laptop, press the Windows key + P to open the Project menu. If you see the option “Connect to a wireless display,” your laptop likely supports Miracast.
You can also check Miracast support by opening the Command Prompt and typing “dxdiag” (without quotes). In the DirectX Diagnostic Tool, click “Save All Information” and open the saved text file. Search for “Miracast.” If it says “Available,” your laptop supports Miracast.
Setting up Wireless Display
On your old laptop, go to Settings > System > Projecting to this PC. Configure the settings according to your preferences. You can choose whether to make the laptop discoverable only on secure networks, require a PIN for pairing, and so on.
On your primary computer, press the Windows key + P to open the Project menu. Click “Connect to a wireless display.”
Select your old laptop from the list of available devices.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the connection. Your old laptop should now display a mirrored or extended version of your primary computer’s screen.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Setting up a laptop as a second monitor isn’t always seamless. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them.
Connection Problems: If you’re having trouble connecting, ensure both devices are on the same network and that the firewall isn’t blocking the connection. Temporarily disabling the firewall on both devices can help determine if it’s the cause of the problem. Also, check that the IP addresses are correctly entered if you’re using manual connection settings.
Lagging or Slow Performance: Lagging or slow performance can be caused by a weak network connection or insufficient processing power. Try switching to a wired Ethernet connection for better stability and speed. Close any unnecessary applications running on both devices to free up resources. Reducing the resolution of the extended display can also improve performance.
Display Issues: If the display is distorted or not displaying correctly, check the display settings on both devices. Ensure the resolution and refresh rate are compatible with both the primary computer and the old laptop. Try updating the graphics drivers on both devices to the latest versions.
Software Compatibility Issues: If you’re encountering software compatibility issues, check the system requirements of the chosen software solution. Ensure both devices meet the minimum requirements. Try running the software in compatibility mode for an older version of Windows. As a last resort, consider trying a different software solution.
Alternative Uses for Your Old Laptop
Even if you can’t get your old laptop to work as a second monitor, there are still plenty of other ways to repurpose it.
Home Media Server: You can turn your old laptop into a home media server using software like Plex or Kodi. This allows you to stream your movies, TV shows, and music to other devices in your home.
Backup Device: Use your old laptop as a backup device for important files. You can use built-in backup tools or third-party software to regularly back up your data.
Dedicated Gaming Machine: If your old laptop has a decent graphics card, you can use it as a dedicated gaming machine for older games or less demanding titles.
Linux Testing Machine: Install a Linux distribution on your old laptop to experiment with Linux and learn new skills.
Conclusion
Turning your old laptop into a second monitor is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to boost your productivity and extend the life of your technology. While it may require some technical know-how, the benefits of having a second display are well worth the effort. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can breathe new life into your old laptop and create a more efficient and enjoyable computing experience.
What are the benefits of using my old laptop as a second monitor?
Using an old laptop as a second monitor offers several advantages. Firstly, it significantly boosts your productivity by allowing you to spread your applications and windows across two screens. This eliminates the need to constantly minimize or switch between programs, streamlining your workflow and making multitasking much easier. Secondly, it saves you money by repurposing existing hardware instead of purchasing a dedicated external monitor, which can be a significant expense, especially if you require high resolution or specialized features.
Beyond productivity and cost savings, utilizing an old laptop as a secondary display can also extend its lifespan and prevent e-waste. Instead of letting it collect dust or contribute to environmental pollution, you’re giving it a new purpose. Furthermore, some software solutions allow you to use the laptop’s keyboard and mouse to control your primary computer, simplifying your setup and reducing clutter on your desk.
What software options are available to turn my old laptop into a second monitor?
Several software options enable you to use your old laptop as a second monitor. Some popular choices include Spacedesk, which is free and supports Windows and Android as client operating systems for the old laptop. Another option is Deskreen, an open-source application that works across various operating systems. These applications typically work by installing server software on your primary computer and client software on the old laptop.
Other alternatives include commercial solutions like Duet Display, which often offers more advanced features like touch screen support and improved performance, but usually requires a paid subscription. When choosing a software solution, consider factors like compatibility with your operating systems, ease of setup, performance (latency and image quality), and any additional features you might need, such as touch input or wireless connectivity.
What hardware requirements are necessary for this setup?
The primary hardware requirements are relatively minimal. You’ll need your old laptop, of course, and a primary computer that will output the display signal. Both devices need to be connected to the same network, either via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. A wired connection (Ethernet) generally provides a more stable and faster connection, which can improve performance.
Beyond the basic requirements, consider the laptop’s screen resolution. A higher resolution screen will provide a better visual experience. Also, check that both computers have sufficient processing power and RAM to handle the software and display output without significant lag. While not strictly necessary, a keyboard and mouse connected to the old laptop might enhance usability, especially if the software doesn’t offer keyboard and mouse sharing.
Are there any performance limitations I should be aware of?
Yes, there are some performance limitations to keep in mind. The most common is latency, which is the delay between actions on your primary computer and their reflection on the secondary laptop screen. Latency can be more noticeable with wireless connections or on older laptops with limited processing power. This can make tasks like gaming or video editing on the secondary screen less than ideal.
Another potential limitation is image quality. Depending on the software and network conditions, the image on the secondary screen might appear compressed or pixelated. This is often a result of bandwidth limitations and the software’s compression algorithms. Experimenting with different software settings and network configurations can help mitigate these issues, but it’s unlikely to achieve the same image quality as a dedicated external monitor.
How do I troubleshoot connection issues between my computers?
Connection issues are a common hurdle when setting up a second monitor using an old laptop. Start by verifying that both devices are connected to the same network. Ensure that both are on the same Wi-Fi network or connected to the same Ethernet switch. Next, check your firewall settings on both computers. The firewall might be blocking the communication between the server and client applications.
If the issue persists, try restarting both computers and the router. This can often resolve temporary network glitches. Also, verify that the software is correctly installed and configured on both devices. Check the software’s documentation for specific troubleshooting steps. Finally, consider using a wired connection (Ethernet) instead of Wi-Fi, as it provides a more stable and reliable connection.
Is it possible to use the laptop’s touchscreen as an input device for the main computer?
Yes, some software solutions allow you to use the laptop’s touchscreen as an input device for your main computer. Duet Display, for instance, specifically advertises its touchscreen capabilities. When using these features, your laptop screen effectively becomes a touch-enabled extension of your primary computer’s display. This functionality can be particularly useful for creative tasks or for navigating applications that are optimized for touch input.
However, the performance and responsiveness of the touchscreen might vary depending on the software, the network connection, and the laptop’s hardware capabilities. Some lag or latency is possible, especially with wireless connections. Furthermore, not all software solutions offer full touchscreen support, so it’s essential to check the features and compatibility before choosing a specific application.
Can I use a tablet instead of an old laptop as a second monitor?
Yes, you can often use a tablet as a second monitor instead of an old laptop, and the process is quite similar. Software like Spacedesk and Duet Display also offer client applications for Android and iOS tablets. By installing the appropriate software on your primary computer and the tablet, you can effectively extend your display to the tablet screen.
Using a tablet offers the added benefit of portability and often improved touch screen capabilities compared to older laptops. However, consider the tablet’s screen size and resolution when making your decision. A smaller screen might not be as useful for multitasking as a larger laptop screen. Also, ensure that the tablet has sufficient processing power to handle the software and display output smoothly.