Laptops are the perfect choice for getting work done on the go. But let’s face it: sometimes you just need a big screen to work with. Whether you need a desktop replacement setup or just need more screen real estate for work or play, it’s a good idea to know how to use your extra monitor.
Having a laptop or MacBook that can be quickly turned into a desktop does not require much effort. Want to close the lid of your laptop and use a monitor instead? You will need to follow a few steps to set up your laptop to play properly with the setup.
To get started, you’ll need a monitor, keyboard and mouse. You will also need a cable that supports the connection between your laptop’s display output and the monitor. If the ports on your laptop aren’t enough, or if you want a neat dock setup, you might want to get a USB hub or dock for your setup. To help you set up your desk, we’ve put together this guide on how to close the laptop and use the monitor.
How to turn off a Windows laptop and use the monitor
Windows laptops have certain settings that you will need to change if you want to use them with the lid closed. Follow these steps to close the lid of your Windows laptop and use the monitor.
1. Open Control Panel by searching for it in Windows search. Navigate to Hardware and Sound > Power options and then click Choose what the shutter does in the left pane. You can also look for this option directly in Windows search to open the settings directly.
The Control Panel still has some of the main settings options, even in Windows 11.
2. Click the dropdown next to it When I close the lidbelow On the battery again Connected. Select Do nothing both.
Windows laptops go into sleep mode when the lid is closed, unless you change these settings.
3. Click Save the changes to apply your new shutter settings.
4. Connect your external keyboard and mouse to the correct ports on your laptop or connected USB hub or dock. Depending on your hardware, you can also connect a wireless keyboard and mouse by connecting a USB dongle or setting it up in the Bluetooth settings.
5. Connect your external monitor to the correct output port on your laptop or connected USB hub or dock.
6. Close the lid and use the monitor with your keyboard and mouse.
7. If your monitor’s resolution, refresh rate, or display scaling appears after closing the lid, navigate to Settings > The program > Show self-correction. Some settings may be lower Improved display.
You may want to change the display scaling settings to suit your preferences.
How to turn off the MacBook and use the monitor
Display behavior on MacOS is slightly different than on Windows. You don’t need to change your shutter settings. However, you must plug in your MacBook, or it will go into sleep mode when you close the lid.
1. Connect the power adapter to your MacBook.
2. Connect your external keyboard and mouse to the appropriate ports on your MacBook or a connected USB hub or dock. If you have a wireless keyboard and mouse, connect a USB dongle or set up the devices via Bluetooth settings.
3. Connect your external monitor to an HDMI or USB-C Thunderbolt port (or other available output port) on your MacBook or a connected USB hub or dock.
4. If your MacBook desktop is visible on the external monitor, close the lid.
5. If your monitor does not display the macOS desktop, wake up your Mac by pressing a key on the keyboard and moving the mouse.
6. Apple also suggests adjusting the display settings. Click the Apple menu in the upper right corner of the screen, choose System Settings (or System Preferences) and click Exhibitions. You can adjust the display resolution, refresh rate, and more here.
You can adjust the resolution, refresh rate, and more in the macOS display settings.
Using a laptop at your desk with the lid closed
While using a laptop with a closed lid is a great way to get the most out of it, there are a few things to keep in mind. If you regularly use a laptop or MacBook with the lid closed, it’s a good idea to get a USB hub or dock so you don’t have to plug in all the peripherals every time you plug in your laptop.
Additionally, using a laptop with the lid closed may cause it to overheat. Check the temperatures and make sure your laptop is sitting properly with enough room for air circulation. Some laptops may be better with the lid open if your use is extended.
If you want to get the best out of your desk setup, you might want to check out our list of the best home office essentials. If you’re interested in getting a better desk, we also have a collection of the best desks you can find, as well as the best desks on the market.
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