One of the greatest methods to expand your available space is to get a dual-monitor arrangement. It can be simpler for those who want to increase their productivity to observe everything happening without having to switch between tabs or applications all the time. You can also have pneumatic arms to make turning or swiveling your screen easy, depending on what you need a second screen for.
Additionally, there are other justifications for installing a second monitor than productivity. A second screen’s possibilities are advantageous to gamers as well. A second monitor may be useful in many ways, such as displaying strategies for overcoming the final fight or providing a separate screen for OBS and Discord.
To help you get the most of your work arrangement, we’ve put together this article on setting up two monitors.
Purchasing the appropriate gear for your dual-monitor system
You probably already own a computer if you’re seeking to buy two monitors, whether it’s a laptop, desktop, or a smaller model like a Mac mini. Make sure your computer can handle two monitors before you buy anything.
Examining the I/O ports is an easy method to see if your computer can support two monitors. Your computer probably supports multiple displays if you can see two or more display output ports, such HDMI or DisplayPort, or one display output port and at least one USB-C/Thunderbolt port. However, you will need a cable, adapter, or hub that supports dual displays.
Verify the maximum resolutions and dual-monitor capabilities by consulting your computer’s specs. There are several exceptions even though dual-monitor capability is now widespread. For instance, until the most recent M3 version, the MacBook Air could only have one external monitor. Additionally, the basic M1, M2, and M3 MacBook Pro models only allow one external monitor.
You have a choice of the best monitors available if the specs state that your computer can handle two external screens. For uniformity, it is advised to purchase two identical monitors. However, if money is tight, you may get a budget monitor for less than $200. Make sure the hub, cable, or adapter you choose fits the ports on your computer and displays.
If your monitors allow VESA mounts, you may purchase monitor arms to affix to your desk in place of the included stands if you want greater mobility and adaptability.
You may configure your twin displays on your computer’s operating system when you have your monitors and all other required hardware installed.
How to configure two screens in Windows
Windows does a fantastic job of automatically identifying and implementing the optimal settings for dual monitors. Microsoft still advises following a few steps to customize your dual-monitor configuration to suit your needs.
1. Make sure both monitors are switched on and connected to the proper display output ports on your PC.
2. Windows ought to recognize your displays on its own. Click the display setting option that works best for you after pressing the Windows logo key + P. For a dual-monitor configuration, the “Extend these displays” option is perfect.
3. Go to Settings > System > Display to adjust resolution, refresh rates, and display scaling.
4. To modify each display’s settings, click on each one, usually denoted by the numbers 1 and 2. Under “Advanced display,” several settings could be presented.
If you’re unsure which display’s settings you’re changing, you may click the Identify button to see the matching number on each monitor.
How to configure two monitors on a Mac
To find out which Mac models support which kinds of external displays through which accessible ports, Apple offers a guide. After the monitors are plugged into the appropriate ports, proceed as follows.
1. To view the resolution, brightness, and color profile of your displays, select Apple menu > System Settings. Next, click Displays in the sidebar.
2. To change the display mode, choose the desired monitor from the list of displays and click the option next to Use as. Whether you replicate or expand your Mac desktop over many displays is up to you.
3. Adjust each monitor’s resolution, refresh rate, and other parameters to your liking.
4. To modify your dual-monitor arrangement, click the Arrange… option next to the display list. To order your displays, drag and move them.
After that, you ought to have no trouble using your MacBook’s dual-monitor arrangement.
Check out our list of the top home office necessities if you wish to organize your desk better while preparing your twin monitors. Along with the greatest standing desks available, we also have a list of the best desks you can buy.