Double Your Productivity: How to Connect Two Monitors to Your MacBook Pro

Q: Why 2 or More Monitors for Your Mac?

MacBook Pro users are usually taking advantage of the portability and performance of their computers. Still, Apple often gets tired of a single display, especially for those working with multiple applications at once. It can be limiting, even with several good features of the MacBook Pro.

Knowing how to connect multiple monitors to MacBook Pro can lead to a more streamlined workflow. How? Spreading out your work, you will have a clearer perspective of your tasks and be able to manage them well. For example, you can also have one monitor dedicated to your main work or task, while the others can be used for reference material, communication apps, or anything else you need.

Since figuring out how to use two monitors with MacBook Pro significantly enhances your productivity, multi-tasking skills, and workflow, let's see how we can set it up for maximum efficiency.

Before you start: How many extension monitors can a MacBook Pro support?

Most MacBook Pro models can support up to two external displays, of course, besides the built-in display. But several factors like the MacBook Pro model, the graphic card, and the type of ports must be considered.

MacBook Pro can then extend its desktop to multiple displays, including additional monitors and projectors, by simply connecting the external monitor to your laptop's video port or Thunderbolt port. Once you're connected, your MacBook Pro will automatically detect it and display the extended desktop on the additional monitor.

This feature can customize the display settings for each monitor, such as adjusting the resolution, arrangement, and orientation.

In addition, the native extension monitor function on Mac Pro also supports different display modes, such as full-screen mode, split-screen mode, and presentation mode, which can be especially useful when giving presentations or working on large projects.

Nevertheless, an extension monitor can be cumbersome and complicated to set up. That's where AirDroid Cast steps in, offering an easy and secure way to display your Mac or any external monitor via a simple web browser interface.

So, how to connect dual monitors to MacBook Pro? Let's know more.

1Prerequisite for Connecting Two Monitors to Mac Pro

Traditionally before you can connect two monitors to your Mac Pro, it's essential to double-check the technical specifications of your Mac to know which monitor is compatible and determine whether your need an adapter or not. A Thunderbolt port is usually required to use an external monitor. Once you've confirmed this, you'll need a cable and a separate power source for each monitor.

To connect two monitors to a Mac Pro, you will specifically need:

Upon getting these items, assemble and configure your display setting in the System Preferences on your Mac.

2How to Connect Two Monitors to MacBook Pro?

Workaround 1: Using a Docking Station

You will either need to connect the monitors directly to your laptop or purchase a docking station. Unfortunately, MacBook Pro only has a limited number of ports.

Most docks enable you to connect up to three displays that can be used as an extended desktop.

Docking stations also have additional ports where you can possibly where you can connect printers, external hard drives, and more. This saves you from having to connect and disconnect cables every time you want to use them.

Follow the manual steps below to connect two monitors to a MacBook Pro:

Voila! You should have two monitors connected to your MacBook Pro and be able to use them together as an extended desktop.

Workaround 2: Using Daisy Chain

Daisy chaining is connecting multiple devices in a series using a single connection. This workaround is perfect in computer networking as you you connect multiple switches to expand your network.

Instead of running separate cables from each switch to your router or modem, a daisy chain connects each switch to the one before it, which efficiently reduce cable clutter and simplify your network setup.

Daisy chaining, in this context, connects multiple monitors to a single DisplayPort or Thunderbolt output, allowing you to extend your desktop across multiple monitors without needing multiple video outputs on your computer.

Follow this process to use a daisy chain:

Workaround 3: Using DisplayLink Manager

The DisplayLink Manager software works by using a compression algorithm to transmit the video signal over USB, where it is then decompressed and displayed on the monitor. This app lets you extend your desktop across multiple displays without the need for additional video ports or graphics cards.

To connect two monitors to a MacBook Pro using DisplayLink Manager, you will need:

• A MacBook Pro running macOS 10.15 or later.
• Two monitors that have USB ports or HDMI ports, or a combination of both.
• A DisplayLink adapter, such as the Plugable UD-6950H or the Dell D6000.

You can do the steps below once you have all these items:

The DisplayLink Manager app may not support all monitors or adapters, so check out the compatibility list on the DisplayLink website first before purchasing one.

Also, you should know that using a DisplayLink adapter may probably cause a slight delay or lag in the display output, especially when running graphics-intensive applications.

3Efficient Multi-Monitor Setup: Docking Stations vs. Daisy Chain vs. DisplayLink

Docking stations, daisy chaining, and DisplayLink can connect multiple displays to a computer differently, each with its own advantages and limitations.

Your choice of which to use always depends on your specific needs and hardware. Docking stations provide a convenient way to connect multiple peripherals and power your laptop, while daisy chaining can be a simple way to extend your desktop across multiple displays. DisplayLink offers a flexible and affordable solution for adding multiple displays via USB, but may not be suitable for high-performance applications.

4How to Configure Your Monitor Arrangement on the MacBook Pro?

You can configure your monitor arrangement on the MacBook Pro using the built-in Display settings in macOS.

Your monitor arrangement settings should now be saved, and you can use your external monitor(s) with your MacBook Pro as desired.

5Setup Dual Monitors with AirDroid Cast

AirDroid Cast is a wireless display solution that allows you to use your MacBook Pro with a second (or third) monitor. It has become an increasingly popular way to set up dual monitors for remote work with its easy setup and screen mirroring capabilities.

This can be useful for working on larger projects or just having more screen space.

Install the AirDroid Cast app, then follow the on-screen instructions to connect your MacBook Pro with a second display. You may check this link if you want a comprehensive tutorial on how to turn your another computer or monitor into a second screen for your Mac with AirDroid Cast.

6Conclusion

Using a second monitor with your MacBook Pro can be incredibly useful for productivity and having extra screen space. Several ways to connect an external display depend on the type of monitor you have and the ports available to you.

Docking stations, daisy chaining, DisplayLink adapters, and AirDroid Cast are all potential solutions for setting up multiple monitors with your MacBook Pro. Each method has its own set of steps and requirements, but ultimately, the process involves connecting your external monitors to your MacBook Pro and configuring your monitor arrangement in the System Preferences > Displays menu.

Following the guide above, depending on your hardware and software, you can set up dual monitors on your MacBook Pro and enjoy a more efficient and organized workspace.