How-To Guides: Master Laptop Screen Extenders & Multi-Monitor Setups

Part 1. What Does "Main Display" Mean?

In a multi-monitor setup, your main display is the screen where your taskbar, Start menu, desktop icons, and most applications appear by default. It's essentially the primary workspace Windows uses. When using multiple displays, understanding and configuring the main display correctly can significantly enhance your productivity.

For example, if you're working with two screens and want your main tools and apps to open on a specific monitor, that screen should be set as your main display. It's especially useful for gamers, designers, developers, and anyone managing a dual-screen workflow.

Part 2. How to Change Main Display in Windows 11 & 10

Here’s how to change your main display on Windows:

Windows 11:

1. Right-click on your desktop and select Display settings.
2. Scroll down and click Identify to see which number corresponds to each screen.
3. Select the monitor you want as your main display.
4. Check the box labeled Make this my main display.
5. Click Apply to confirm.

Windows 10:

1. Right-click on the desktop and choose Display settings.
2. Click Identify to label your screens.
3. Click on the monitor you want to set as main.
4. Tick the checkbox Make this my main display.

Once applied, all new apps and your taskbar will move to your selected main display.

Part 3. Troubleshooting: "Make This My Main Display" is Greyed Out?

Sometimes, the "Make this my main display" checkbox is greyed out. Here are common reasons:

• Only one display is active: Windows disables the option if it only detects one screen.
• External monitor is not recognized: Use the Detect button in Display settings.
• Driver issues: Outdated GPU drivers may prevent multi-display support.
• Mirroring mode is active: Switch to Extend mode in display settings.

Fixes:

• Update or reinstall your display drivers.
• Use Windows + P to select Extend.
• Manually reconnect the display cables.

Part 4. Advanced Display Settings You Should Know

To fine-tune your setup, explore these settings:

• Orientation: Portrait vs. Landscape
• Multiple display mode: Extend, Duplicate, Show only on 1/2
• Resolution & Scaling: Ensure consistent DPI across screens
• Rearrange Displays: Drag and position the screens in settings to match physical layout

These adjustments can help you avoid cursor misalignment, text blurriness, or visual inconsistencies.

Part 5. How to Switch Displays Using Hotkeys and Shortcuts

While Windows doesn't support a direct hotkey to change the main display, you can manage screens using:

• Windows + P: Open the projection menu:
  • PC screen only
  • Duplicate
  • Extend
  • Second screen only
• Windows + Ctrl + Left/Right: Switch between virtual desktops.

To change your main display, manual action in Display Settings is still required.

Part 6. Using Portable Monitor Extenders Like Cevaton for Better Display Management

If you’re using a laptop and need more screen space, Cevaton’s portable monitor extenders are ideal for both productivity and convenience.

Recommended Cevaton Models:

1. T2 PRO Laptop Monitor Extender

• Triple Screen Power: Multitask 50% faster
• Bright HD Display: View anywhere, even on the go
• One-Cable Setup: Plug and play, no adapters needed
• Durable Design: Travel-friendly and tough

2. P5 Portable Dual Monitor

• Universal Compatibility: Supports laptops, phones, and consoles
• 6" Bright Display: Daylight to night clarity
• Ultra-Light Design: Weighs less than your laptop

3. S6 Portable Screen Extender

• Magnetic Modular Design: Customize your setup
• FHD Displays: Sharp and bright
• Universal Cable: No adapters, minimal clutter

How to Set Main Display with Cevaton:

After connecting, head to Display Settings and choose your Cevaton monitor as the main display by clicking Make this my main display.

Part 7. FAQs: Everything About Switching Displays

Q1: Can I make Monitor 2 my main screen?

Yes, go to Display Settings, select Monitor 2, and enable Make this my main display.

Q2: My laptop screen is primary, but I want my external monitor as the main. How?

Follow the same process: select the external display and set it as main.

Q3: Display mode stuck in duplicate or single mode?

Press Windows + P and select Extend to enable multi-screen configurations.

Q4: Can I switch main display using a keyboard shortcut?

Not directly — changing the main display still requires manual setup.

Part 8. Conclusion

Changing your main display is a simple but powerful way to optimize your multi-monitor workflow. Whether you're working, studying, designing, or gaming, setting the right screen as your primary ensures a smoother experience.

For those using laptops, Cevaton’s portable screen extenders make dual and triple-screen setups more accessible than ever — with easy setup, universal compatibility, and top-tier performance.