How to Use an Old Laptop as a Second Monitor: A Practical Guide
Turn your unused hardware into a productivity powerhouse
The Benefits of a Second Screen
When multitasking, a second monitor is one of the most effective tools for increasing productivity. Whether you need to expand your workspace or mirror your screen for a presentation, buying new hardware is not always necessary. If you have an old or unused laptop at home, it is entirely possible to use it as a second display, although the process is slightly more complex than simply plugging in an HDMI cable.
Windows and macOS: Wireless Connection Options
If both your devices run on Windows 10 or 11, you can use Miracast technology. To do this, go to Settings > System > Projecting to this PC on the second laptop and install the "Wireless Display" feature. After setting the permissions to "Available everywhere," you can easily connect to the second screen on your main computer by pressing the Windows + K key combination.
Apple users can utilize AirPlay, provided their MacBook is a 2018 model or newer. To establish a connection, both devices must be signed in to the same Apple ID. Once you enable the AirPlay Receiver in System Settings under the AirDrop & Continuity section, you can easily add the second screen from the Displays menu on your main Mac.
Different Operating Systems and Wired Connections
When dealing with different operating systems—such as connecting Windows to a Mac—the best solution is the open-source software Deskreen. It works over Wi-Fi and requires only a QR code scan via a browser. It is worth noting that wireless connections, despite their convenience, may have slight latency (lag), making them less suitable for video games.
If you require a more stable connection, you can use an HDMI to USB video capture card. This device allows you to transmit the image from your main laptop to the second one as a webcam signal. This method also allows for connecting game consoles, such as a PlayStation or Nintendo Switch, effectively turning an old laptop into a portable gaming screen.
Advice for Users in Georgia
While wireless methods are highly popular, given the typical internet quality and Wi-Fi router congestion in Georgia, you may experience video latency more frequently. If your goal is to work with documents or browse websites, the wireless option is perfectly sufficient. However, if you plan to use the second screen for professional tasks where response time is critical, using wired adapters will provide significantly better results.