Portability has become an important aspect for screen users.
So, a question arises: Can you connect to a desktop PC with a portable laptop monitor? Mirroring your desktop computer’s screen onto a portable monitor has numerous benefits.
According to JPR’s most recent multi-monitor report, using several monitors increased productivity by 42%.
What is a Portable Laptop Monitor?
A portable laptop monitor is a high-definition screen that easily adds more display real estate to your laptop or PC by connecting a portable external monitor.
Portable monitors differ from desktop monitors in that they are lightweight and have a small profile. It makes them perfect for professionals, students, and digital nomads who are always on the go.
Furthermore, a portable second monitor is a worthwhile investment for various user circumstances, such as gaming, remote business, and travel, as it fosters productivity through smooth multitasking and flexibility.
Can You Connect a Desktop PC with Your Portable Laptop Monitor?
Yes, you can connect your desktop PC with your portable laptop monitor. Portable laptop monitors are designed to be highly versatile and compatible with a variety of devices, including desktops.
However, connecting the two is a reasonably simple process, though it depends on the ports and capabilities of both the desktop PC and the monitor.
How to Connect a Portable Laptop Monitor with a Desktop PC
Connecting your desktop computer to a portable laptop monitor is not too difficult. Here’s a detailed how-to:
1. Identify the available connection
The first step is to identify the available connection. There will be multiple ports on both your desktop computer and portable monitor for connecting accessories. VGA, USB-C, HDMI, and DisplayPort are typical choices. Make sure the ports on your devices are compatible.
2. Check the availability of ports on your devices
Next, check the ports’ availability. Depending on the ports accessible on your devices, you require an HDMI cable, a DisplayPort cable, a USB-C cable, or a VGA cable (for older devices).
One or more of the following port types are typically included with portable laptop monitors:
- HDMI: The most widely used connection type for contemporary gadgets is HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface). If your desktop computer and portable monitor both have this connection, you can link them with an HDMI cable.
- DisplayPort: This additional digital video interface provides high-quality audio and video signals. You can connect your desktop PC and display with a DisplayPort connection if they are compatible.
- USB-C: This versatile connector supports the transmission of data and video. In specific situations, an adapter from USB-C to DisplayPort or USB-C to HDMI may be required.
- VGA: Video Graphics Array (VGA) connections can still be found on some older desktop PCs and portable monitors despite their decreased prevalence these days. In that scenario, you can link them with a VGA cable. But when compared to HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C, VGA provides less quality and resolution.
3. Connect the cables to the ports
It’s easy to connect the portable laptop monitor to your desktop computer once you’ve determined which ports are compatible:
- USB-C Connection: If your desktop computers and portable monitor both have USB-C connections, use a USB-C cable to connect them. This will transfer the video signal and electricity, simplifying and cleaning up the setup.
- HDMI Connection: Place the HDMI cable into the desktop to create an HDMI connection. computer and the monitor at opposite ends. Since HDMI does not provide electricity, make sure the display is powered on.
- USB-A Connector: If you are using an older monitor with this type of connection, connect the USB-A connector on your desktop computer. You might also need to install certain drivers for the monitor to function correctly.
4. Power on both devices using the power adapter
Turn on both your devices, the portable display and your desktop computer. If your monitor needs more power, use the included power adapter to connect it to a power outlet.
5. Configure the display settings of the desktop PCs
After the monitor is physically connected, the desktop PC’s display settings need to be adjusted. This guarantees accurate content display on the monitor:
- On a Windows computer, right-click on the desktop and choose “Display settings.” This is where you may decide whether to use all of the screens or just one of them. As necessary, change the orientation and resolution.
- macOS: Choose “Displays” after going to “System Preferences.” You can adjust the arrangement, resolution, and other display settings, just as in Windows.
It should be able to function right away. You can configure your portable monitor to serve as an additional screen for work or gaming.
Benefits of Using the Both Together
1. Enhanced productivity by working on numerous activities together
Productivity can be significantly increased by using a second monitor to work on multiple tasks at once. You can use one screen for document authoring and the other for web browsing or research, for instance.
2. Immersive Multimedia Experience
Extend the display of your desktop computer to a larger screen to have a more immersive experience when watching movies, playing games, or looking at images.
3. Enhanced workflow and clearing up clutter
A second monitor helps clear up clutter on the main screen and speed up workflows for professionals like graphic designers, developers, and others who handle several windows and apps.
4. Flexibility and portability to work remotely
Portable laptop monitors allow you to work remotely. When working from home, a portable monitor can provide a more comfortable and productive environment than just setting up a temporary desk in a hotel room.
Read more: How Do Ultrawide Monitors Offer Smooth Working for Spreadsheet Work?
In The End
A quick and easy solution to boost productivity, streamline your workflow, and take advantage of a more immersive multimedia experience is to connect a portable laptop display to your desktop computer.
Whether you are a professional or a casual user, a portable laptop monitor can be a valuable addition to your desktop PC.
Read also: Can Wireless Desktop Computers Enhance Your Workspace?