Multitasking? How to Set Up Dual Monitors With HDMI
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If you run more than a few applications, you’ll probably benefit from running a dual-monitor configuration. Thankfully, it’s easy to set up dual monitors using a HDMI connection on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
How to Set Up Dual Monitors With HDMI
You’ll need two monitors and anHDMI cablefor each to get started. You can use standard HDMI cables if your computer has two HDMI outputs and both monitors have HDMI inputs. However, you may need an adapter cable if your computer has two different video outputs (e.g., HDMI and DisplayPort or DVI).
Once you have all the necessary equipment, follow these steps to learn how to connect the monitors:
All that’s left to do now is to adjust your computer’s display settings so both monitors work as expected. Below are the configuration steps for dual monitors on Windows, macOS, and Linux systems.
How to Configure Dual Monitors on Windows
To configure dual monitors on Windows to display as required, follow these steps:
One thing to keep in mind is that your monitors will run at their native resolution by default. While you can change this, we recommend leaving the monitors in their default resolution, as running at a lower (or higher) resolution can affect the monitor’s performance.
How to Configure Dual Monitors on macOS
Once both monitors are connected to your Mac, follow these steps to configure them:
Once again, remember that when it comes to display scaling and resolutions, it’s best if you run your display at its native resolution. While you may able to create a custom resolution, there’s a chance it might hurt your display’s performance or even display random artifacts.
How to Configure Dual Monitors on Linux
Configuring dual monitors on Linux is easy. Once your second monitor is plugged in, follow these steps:
While these steps are for Ubuntu 20.04 LTS, steps for other Linux distributions should be along the same lines. Using a Raspberry Pi to run Linux? Find out how tocreate a 4K dual monitor setup with Raspberry Pi. You can evenrun multiple monitors on a virtual machine in just a few easy steps.
How to Run Dual Monitors With One HDMI Port
You can run dual monitors with one HDMI port using an adapter or anHDMI splitter. Let’s have a look at each of these methods.
How to Use an HDMI Splitter for Dual Monitors
To set up dual monitors with an HDMI splitter, follow these steps:
One thing to keep in mind is that not all HDMI splitters are created equal. Some splitters only support specific resolutions, so choosing one that will work with your particular setup is essential. Another consideration is whether you need an active or passive splitter. Active splitters are typically more expensive but offer better performance, especially at longer distances. A passive splitter should suffice if you’re connecting two monitors nearby.
How to Set Up Dual Monitors Using an Adapter
Various adapters are available for dual monitor setup, so selecting one compatible with your computer and monitor is crucial. Once you have the adapter, connect it to your HDMI port and monitor. If not, you may need to change your computer’s display manager settings.
VGA to HDMI Dual Monitor Using an Adapter
If you have a computer with a VGA output and want to connect it to an HDTV or monitor with an HDMI input, you’ll need to use an adapter. Converting VGA to HDMI isn’t complicated, but there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind.
Another thing to note is that you’ll have to come up with a separate solution for audio in case you are relying on HDMI, as VGA doesn’t support audio. Depending on your adaptor, you might also lose out on image clarity or quality.
Dual Monitor Setup on Gaming Consoles
A dual monitor set up on a games console can greatly improve your gaming experience. Using two monitors gives you a wider field of view, which can be useful when tracking enemies or exploring your surroundings. Additionally, two monitors can allow you to keep track of multiple chat windows or other information sources simultaneously. A dual monitor setup is worth considering if you want to take your gaming to the next level. Note, however, that not all consoles support a dual monitor setup.
Additionally, even if your gaming console does support multiple monitors, most gaming consoles only have one HDMI output port. This means you will have to use a compatible HDMI adaptor, and there can be some grey areas as HDMI splitters may or may not work with consoles. For example, the HDMI splitter I used to run multiple monitors on my Windows laptop doesn’t work for my PS4, despite the console supporting multiple monitors and there being seemingly nothing wrong with the splitter itself.
Adding another monitor to the mix will boost your productivity and give you more desktop space if you use a PC, regardless of your operating system. In most cases, setting them up is as simple as plugging in a second monitor and changing a few settings. Gaming consoles may also benefit from a second display, but your mileage may vary.
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When i use dual monitors in extended mode my 2nd screen the window is almost always to big for my screen. How to adjust it yet what do I do?
Go to the screen settings and under “scale and layout”, where you also set up the resolution, there is a fall down menu with percentages for scale - for bigger picture you need bigger percentage, for smaller - a smaller one
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