In this fast-paced digital age, many of us find ourselves working on multiple screens and devices simultaneously. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or even a gamer, having an external display can greatly enhance your productivity and overall experience. However, if you’re a Mac user, you might be wondering how to close your laptop and use an external monitor seamlessly. In this blog post, we will explore various methods to achieve this and help you make the most out of your Mac’s capabilities.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Close Your Laptop And Use an External Monitor:
There are several reasons why you might want to close your laptop and use an external monitor with your Mac. Firstly, using an external monitor allows for a bigger workspace, which can be especially beneficial when working on complex tasks or projects. This extra screen real estate can help you stay organized, view multiple applications simultaneously, and improve your overall multitasking capabilities.
Secondly, using an external monitor can enhance your productivity. Having a larger display can make it easier to read documents, spreadsheets, or articles without the need for constant scrolling. Additionally, if you’re involved in creative work such as graphic design or video editing, an external monitor can provide better color accuracy and detail, allowing you to visualize your work more effectively.
Lastly, using an external monitor can help improve your posture and reduce neck and eye strain. By closing your laptop and using an external monitor at eye level, you can maintain a more ergonomic setup, promoting better posture and reducing the risk of neck and back pain.
Method 1: Via System Preferences
If you want to close your laptop and use an external monitor, one of the simplest ways to achieve this is through the System Preferences on your Mac. Here’s how:
Step 1: Connect your external monitor to your Mac using the appropriate cable.
Step 2: Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select "System Preferences."
Step 3: In the System Preferences window, click on the "Displays" icon.
Step 4: On the Displays tab, you will see a layout of your displays. Click and drag the white bar at the top of one display and drag it to the other display.
Step 5: Once you have positioned the displays to your liking, check the box that says "Mirror Displays" if you want the same content on both screens. If you want separate content on each screen, keep the box unchecked.
Step 6: Close the System Preferences window.
Pros:
– Easy and straightforward method.
– Allows for customization of display arrangement.
– Provides the option to mirror or extend displays.
Cons:
– The laptop keyboard and trackpad will be disabled when the lid is closed.
– Requires an external keyboard and mouse for input.
Method 2: Using Keyboard Shortcuts
Another quick and convenient way to close your laptop and use an external monitor is by utilizing keyboard shortcuts. Mac OS offers a handy shortcut that lets you switch between displays effortlessly. Here’s how:
Step 1: Connect your external monitor to your Mac using the appropriate cable.
Step 2: Press and hold the "Command" and "F1" keys simultaneously. This will activate the "Mirror Displays" function, which duplicates your Mac’s display on the external monitor.
Step 3: To switch back to using only the external monitor, press and hold the "Command" and "F1" keys once again.
Step 4: Close the lid of your laptop, and the external monitor should now become the primary display.
Pros:
– Provides a quick and easy method to switch displays.
– Requires no additional software or setup.
– Allows for the use of the external monitor as the sole display.
Cons:
– The laptop’s built-in display will be completely disabled when using this method.
– The laptop keyboard and trackpad will also be disabled when the lid is closed.
Method 3: Via Third-Party Applications
If you prefer a more customizable experience when using an external monitor with your Mac, there are several third-party applications available that can help you achieve this. One such application is "Amethyst," which allows you to set up custom window layouts, manage multiple displays, and even create different desktop spaces. Here’s how to use Amethyst:
Step 1: Install the Amethyst application on your Mac from the official website or the Mac App Store.
Step 2: Launch Amethyst and grant it the necessary permissions to access your Mac’s display settings.
Step 3: Configure your desired display settings using Amethyst’s intuitive user interface.
Step 4: Once configured, simply close the lid of your laptop, and Amethyst will automatically adjust your display setup according to your preferences.
Pros:
– Offers greater customization and control over display arrangements.
– Allows for the creation of custom window layouts and desktop spaces.
– Can be used in conjunction with other third-party applications for a more comprehensive display setup.
Cons:
– Requires installation of third-party software.
– May have a learning curve for new users.
– Compatibility with future macOS updates cannot be guaranteed.
Method 4: Hardware Solution
If you’re unable to utilize the software methods mentioned above, there is a hardware solution that allows you to close your laptop and use an external monitor. This method involves using a docking station or an external graphics card (eGPU). By connecting your Mac to a docking station or an eGPU, you can seamlessly transition to an external display setup. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Purchase a compatible docking station or eGPU for your Mac. Be sure to check the specifications and requirements to ensure compatibility.
Step 2: Connect the docking station or eGPU to your Mac using the appropriate cables and ports.
Step 3: Connect your external monitor to the docking station or eGPU.
Step 4: Close the lid of your laptop.
Step 5: Your Mac should now automatically recognize the external monitor as the primary display.
Pros:
– Provides a hardware solution for using an external monitor.
– Offers additional connectivity options (e.g., additional USB ports, SD card slots) through the docking station.
– Can provide enhanced graphics capabilities when using an eGPU.
Cons:
– Requires additional hardware and investment.
– Compatibility and performance may vary depending on the docking station or eGPU used.
– May not be suitable for all Mac models.
What to Do If You Can’t Close Your Laptop And Use an External Monitor:
If you’re facing difficulties in closing your laptop and using an external monitor, there could be several reasons behind it. Here are a few potential fixes to help you troubleshoot the issue:
1. Check for Compatibility: Ensure that your Mac model supports multiple displays and has the necessary ports to connect an external monitor. Review the specifications of your Mac and check for compatibility with multiple displays.
2. Update macOS: Make sure your Mac is running the latest version of macOS. Sometimes, software updates can address compatibility issues and provide support for additional features.
3. Adjust Energy Saver Settings: Open "System Preferences" and go to "Energy Saver." Check if the "Prevent computer from sleeping automatically when the display is off" option is selected. If it is, try deselecting it and check if you can close your laptop and use an external monitor.
Bonus Tip
– Restart Your Mac: Sometimes, a simple restart of your Mac can resolve minor software glitches and restore proper functionality.
– Use a Different Cable: If you’re using an HDMI or DisplayPort cable to connect your Mac to the external monitor, try using a different cable. A faulty or damaged cable can cause display issues.
– Reset PRAM/NVRAM: Resetting the PRAM (Parameter Random Access Memory) or NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory) on your Mac can sometimes help resolve display-related issues. To do this, restart your Mac and immediately hold down the "Command," "Option," "P," and "R" keys until you hear the startup chime for the second time.
5 FAQs:
Q1: Why can’t I close my MacBook and use an external monitor?
A: There could be several reasons why you’re unable to close your MacBook and use an external monitor. Some possible reasons could include compatibility issues, outdated software, or incorrect display settings. Refer to the troubleshooting methods mentioned earlier to help resolve this issue.
Q2: Can I use an external monitor with a MacBook while the lid is closed?
A: Yes, it is possible to use an external monitor with a MacBook while the lid is closed. By following the methods mentioned in this article, you can close the lid of your MacBook and use an external monitor as the primary display.
Q3: Will closing my MacBook and using an external monitor affect performance?
A: Closing the lid of your MacBook and using an external monitor should not significantly affect performance. However, it is worth noting that certain applications or processes that rely on the MacBook’s internal hardware may be affected. It is recommended to monitor your system’s performance and adjust settings accordingly.
Q4: Can I use different applications on each screen when using an external monitor with my MacBook?
A: Yes, when using an external monitor with your MacBook, you can use different applications on each screen. By configuring your display settings to extend displays instead of mirroring them, you can have separate content on each screen and take advantage of a larger workspace.
Q5: Do I need additional accessories to use an external monitor with my MacBook?
A: The basic requirement to use an external monitor with your MacBook is the appropriate cable to connect the two devices. Depending on your MacBook model and the external monitor’s connectivity options, you may need additional adapters or dongles to ensure compatibility.
Final Thoughts:
Closing your laptop and using an external monitor with your Mac can greatly enhance your productivity, provide a more immersive viewing experience, and promote better posture. Whether you choose to utilize built-in system preferences, keyboard shortcuts, third-party applications, or hardware solutions, there are various methods available to cater to your specific needs. By following the steps and tips outlined in this blog post, you can seamlessly transition to using an external monitor with your Mac and enjoy the benefits it brings to your workflow and overall computing experience.