There are many people who find working with dual screen as a more productive way of doing work. Whether you’re a student, professional, freelancer or someone who loves to juggle between multiple task then working on a dual screen can be a life saver trick for you. If you are someone who uses a MacBook and wish to connect a portable monitor or a screen then the process is pretty simple depending on your Macbook version, dual screen type and other operating system. Here, we are going to discuss everything in detail on how to set up a Portable dual monitor with your own Macbook
1. Understanding Your MacBook’s Display Capabilities
Before you are connecting your Macbook to any external screen, it is important that you do your research work so as to understand about its specifications and what all version it s
- Model: Newer models like MacBook Air M1/M2 and MacBook Pro M1/M2/M3 come with Apple Silicon chips and may have limitations on external display .
- M1 MacBook Air/Pro (2020): s only one external monitor, even though you might have multiple ports.
- M1/M2 Pro or Max (MacBook Pro): s up to 2–4 external monitors.
- Intel MacBooks: Usually at least one external display without issue.
- MacOS Version: Ensure your MacBook runs the latest macOS version to ensure compatibility with drivers and display settings on your 23 inch monitor or more
To check your model and specs:
- Click on Apple logo > About This Mac.
- Choosing the Right Portable Monitor
Portable dual monitors come in different types, each with varying connection options. You can also opt for a foldable monitor as it is less space consuming and very versatile. You can check out the best foldable monitor at uperfect.
USB-C Monitors: These are plug-and-play with modern MacBooks. Look for monitors that “USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode.”
HDMI Monitors: Since the MacBook do not have an HDMI port, you will be needing an adapter to connect to the extended screen.
DisplayLink Monitors: There are some portable monitors specially M1 and M2 which has only single external display and you need to check about this as they require DisplayLink drivers.
Some Popular portable monitors compatible with MacBooks:
- ASUS ZenScreen 23 inch
- Lenovo ThinkVision M14
- ViewSonic VA1655
- LG Gram +View
2. Necessary Cables and Adapters
Depending on your monitor and MacBook model, you might need:
- USB-C to USB-C cable (most preferred and cleanest setup)
- USB-C to HDMI adapter
- Power adapter or power bank (some portable monitors need external power)
Tip: Always check if your monitor has a charging which allows -through. Having a -through charging lets you charge your laptop even while you are using the monitor/extended display .
3. Connecting the Monitor to Your MacBook
Follow these steps to connect your portable monitor:
Step 1: Power On the Monitor
If your monitor draws power from your MacBook via USB-C, plug it in and ensure it’s powered up.
You should connect to the external charger point or a wall charger if your laptop requires external power.
Step 2: Use the right cable
USB-C Monitor: Connect the monitor directly using a USB-C to USB-C cable. Your Mac should detect it automatically.
HDMI Monitor: Use a USB-C to HDMI adapter or hub, then connect the monitor via HDMI.
Step 3: Configure Display Settings on macOS
Go to System Settings (or System Preferences in older macOS versions).
Click Displays.
- Your Mac should detect the monitor and display its layout.
- If you want an extended display (not mirrored), make sure to uncheck “Mirror Displays”.
- Drag the displays to adjust their position. For example, place the second display to the left or right of the primary display.
- Set the main display by dragging the menu bar to your preferred screen.
4. Using DisplayLink for More Than One External Monitor
If you have a MacBook with Apple M1 or M2 chip and want to connect more than one external display (which is not natively ed), you can use DisplayLink.
What is DisplayLink?
It’s a technology that allows video signals to be sent over USB using software drivers.
How to Use It:
- Buy a DisplayLink-compatible dock (like Plugable UD-6950 or Anker DisplayLink dock).
- and install the DisplayLink Manager from the official DisplayLink website.
- Connect the dock to your MacBook.
- Plug your monitors into the dock.
- Enable screen recording permissions for DisplayLink in System Settings > Security & Privacy.
Note: DisplayLink works well for productivity tasks, but it might lag slightly for graphics-heavy workflows.
5. Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Monitor Not Detected
- Reconnect the cable.
- Try a different port.
- Restart your Mac.
- Go to System Settings > Displays > Add Display if not automatically detected.
- Screen Flickering or Not Powering On
- Check the power source for the monitor.
- Use the original or high-quality cable.
- Test on another laptop to confirm the monitor is working.
- Poor Resolution or Scaling
Go to System Settings > Displays > Resolution, then set to Default for Display or manually adjust it.
MacBook Gets Hot or Battery Drains Fast
Portable dual monitor consume power. Consider plugging your MacBook into power while using the external display. For best quality portable dual monitor, you can check out
6. Tips for Optimizing Dual Display Workflow
- Mission Control: Use Mission Control (swipe up with 3 or 4 fingers) to manage windows across screens.
- Spaces: Assign different desktops/spaces to each monitor.
- Hot Corners: Set up Hot Corners to quickly move between screens.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Learn shortcuts like Control + Left/Right Arrow to move between spaces.
8. Portability and Travel Setup
Portable monitors are excellent for on-the-go professionals. Here’s how to make your setup travel-friendly:
- Protective Case: Invest in a good sleeve or case for your monitor.
- Compact Stand: Some portable monitors include foldable stands; others need a third-party one.
- Cable Organizer: Keep your USB-C and HDMI cables neatly packed.
- Multiport Charger: To power both MacBook and monitor simultaneously.
Conclusion
Connecting a portable monitor with your MacBook will ensure that you are working efficiently as it helps to improve your productivity, helps you multitasking and also impove your workflow. Once you have the right monitor, cables and other accessories, you will really enjoy working and dual screen and get habituated to it in a very short span of time. Also, always check compatibility before purchasing and keep your macOS updated to enjoy the best experience. You can check out uperfect for some of the best monitors available in the market.