Triple Monitor Tips | Cevaton

Turning your laptop into a monitor can be a game-changer for productivity, gaming, and multitasking. Whether you need a second screen for your main PC, an external monitor for a Mac, or even a display for your gaming console, there are several methods to achieve this.

For those seeking a professional and efficient solution, Cevaton laptop screen extenders provide an even better alternative, offering portable, high-quality multi-screen setups without the limitations of built-in laptop screens.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to use your laptop as a monitor, covering built-in features, third-party software, and hardware solutions, and introduce how Cevaton screen extenders can provide an even more seamless experience.

Part 1: Using Windows Built-in Features

1.1 Enable 'Projecting to This PC' in Windows 10 & 11

Windows 10 and 11 include a native Miracast feature that allows you to wirelessly extend your screen to another Windows device.

Steps to Set Up Your Laptop as a Secondary Display：

Step 1: Enable Projection on the Laptop (Secondary Device)

1. Go to Settings > System > Projecting to this PC.
2. Set “Some Windows and Android devices can project to this PC” to “Available everywhere”.
3. Configure security settings such as requiring a PIN for pairing.

Step 2: Connect from the Primary Device

1. On the main computer, press Windows + P.
2. Select “Connect to a Wireless Display” and choose your laptop from the list.
3. Adjust display settings to Extend or Duplicate the screen.

🔹 Best For: Basic dual-screen setups, wireless workstations.

🔹 Limitations: Requires Miracast support, and latency may occur.

Part 2: Using Third-Party Software

If your laptop doesn’t support Miracast, third-party software can help establish a stable connection over Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

2.1 SpaceDesk (Best for Wireless Connection)

SpaceDesk is a free app that turns your laptop into an extended screen over a local network.

How to Set Up SpaceDesk:

1. Install SpaceDesk DRIVER on the primary device.
2. Install SpaceDesk VIEWER on your laptop.
3. Open the app and connect to the primary PC's IP address.

✅ Pros: Works over Wi-Fi, supports multiple devices.

❌ Cons: Requires strong network connectivity.

2.2 Input Director (For Seamless Mouse/Keyboard Control)

This tool lets you control two computers as one—while it doesn't "extend" your display, it allows mouse and keyboard sharing, making multi-device work easier.

🔹 Best For: Side-by-side productivity setups.

Part 3: Using a Laptop as a Monitor with Hardware Solutions

For low-latency, high-performance use cases, a hardware-based connection is the best option.

3.1 HDMI Capture Device (For Gaming and Real-Time Display)

Most laptops lack HDMI input ports, but an HDMI capture device can enable your laptop to receive video signals from another device.

How to Use an HDMI Capture Card:

1. Buy a USB HDMI Capture Device (e.g., Elgato, AVerMedia).
2. Connect your main device’s HDMI output to the capture card.
3. Plug the capture device into your laptop via USB.
4. Open software like OBS Studio to display the input feed.

✅ Pros: No latency, best for gaming and video editing.

❌ Cons: Requires additional hardware.

Part 4: Cevaton Laptop Screen Extenders – A Better Alternative

Using a laptop as a second monitor is useful, but it comes with limitations—such as low resolution, potential lag, and restricted connectivity options. For a more seamless experience, Cevaton laptop screen extenders offer a portable and powerful solution.

Why Choose a Cevaton Screen Extender Instead?

✅ High-resolution displays – Crisp, Full HD and 4K options available.

✅ True plug-and-play – Works instantly with USB-C, HDMI, and DisplayPort.

✅ Multiple screen options – Expand your display with dual or triple screens.

✅ Ultra-lightweight & foldable – Perfect for remote work and travel.

✅ Compatible with Windows, macOS, and gaming consoles.

If you're serious about multi-screen productivity, Cevaton screen extenders offer a reliable, high-performance alternative to using a laptop screen as a secondary display.

🔹 Best For: Professionals, remote workers, developers, and anyone who needs a true multi-screen experience.

Conclusion

Using your laptop as a monitor is a versatile way to extend screen space and enhance productivity.

✅ For Wireless Display: Use Windows Projection or SpaceDesk.

✅ For Lag-Free Performance: Use an HDMI Capture Device.

✅ For Console Gaming: Stream wirelessly (Xbox) or use HDMI input (PlayStation, Switch).

✅ For a High-Performance Solution: Upgrade to a Cevaton laptop screen extender.

If you want the best screen extension experience, check out Cevaton’s latest laptop screen extenders for professional, high-quality dual-screen setups.