Many people ask how to use my laptop as a monitor for another computer or game console. The direct cable approach fails because laptop HDMI ports are outputs, but you can use wireless software or a hardware capture card instead.
The Two Methods to Use My Laptop as a Monitor
Software methods let you share screens over a network, ideal for extending your desktop for work. Hardware methods involve a capture device for a wired connection, perfect for gaming with no lag.
Consequently, choosing between them depends on your source device and whether you need real-time video. For example, a desktop PC for office tasks suits software, while a PlayStation for gaming needs hardware.
Why a Simple HDMI Cable Does Not Work
Laptop video ports, including HDMI, are designed only for output to external monitors or TVs. Therefore, they cannot receive video signals from other devices like a desktop PC or console.
In fact, most laptops have only HDMI output ports, not input ports. This limitation means a normal HDMI cable cannot make your laptop act as a monitor for an external PC.
Choosing the Right Method for Your Needs
To select the best approach, identify what you’re connecting and your primary use case. Here’s a comparison to help you decide quickly.
- Software Streaming: Low cost, easy setup, but has latency; best for productivity.
- Hardware Capture: Higher cost, requires purchase, but no lag; best for gaming.
For instance, if you want to use your laptop as a monitor for your Xbox Series S, hardware capture is essential. Conversely, for extending your desktop from another laptop, software works fine.
Using Software to Wirelessly Extend Your Display
This method uses your local network to transmit video between devices. First, ensure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi or Ethernet network.
For Windows 10 and 11 PCs
On the source PC, open the action center and click on “Connect” or press Windows Key + K. Then, select your laptop from the list of available wireless displays.
On your laptop, a notification will appear to accept the connection. After accepting, you can choose to duplicate or extend the display from the source PC.
For Mixed Ecosystems or Older OS
Third-party apps like SpaceDesk or Parsec provide cross-platform screen sharing. Download and install the app on both the source device and your laptop.
Open the app on both devices and follow the pairing instructions. Once connected, you can use your laptop screen as an additional monitor for the source device.
Using a Capture Card for a Wired Monitor Experience
A USB capture card is the only hardware solution for true video input to your laptop. This device converts HDMI signals from your source into USB data for your laptop.
The Physical Connection
Connect an HDMI cable from your source device, such as a gaming PC or console, to the HDMI input on the capture card. Then, connect the USB cable from the capture card to your laptop.
With this setup, the video signal flows from the source through the capture card to your laptop. Your laptop can then display this video using compatible software.
Software Setup for Viewing
On your laptop, open software like OBS Studio, VLC Media Player, or the capture card’s bundled application. In OBS, add a new source and select “Video Capture Device” to see the feed.
To minimize delay, in OBS settings, set the video mode to “High Performance” and reduce buffering. Similarly, in VLC, open “Media” then “Open Capture Device” and select the USB video class interface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my laptop as a monitor for my Nintendo Switch?
Yes, but only with a hardware capture card connected via HDMI from the Switch dock. Software methods won’t work because the Switch doesn’t support wireless display to laptops.
Will using my laptop as a monitor damage its screen or battery?
No, using your laptop as a monitor does not harm its screen or battery. However, prolonged use may increase power consumption, so it’s best to keep it plugged in.
Is the hardware capture method legal for capturing game footage?
Yes, using a capture card for personal game footage is legal. However, distributing copyrighted content without permission may violate terms of service.
Can I use this to connect two laptops together?
Yes, you can connect two laptops using software streaming for screen sharing. For example, use Windows Projection or third-party apps to extend displays between them.
What’s the difference between screen mirroring and extending my display?
Screen mirroring duplicates the same content on both screens, while extending creates additional desktop space. Extending is useful for multitasking with multiple applications.
Do I need an internet connection to use the software methods?
No, you only need a local network connection, not the internet. Both devices must be on the same Wi-Fi or Ethernet network for software streaming to work.
My laptop has a USB-C port. Can that be used as a video input?
Typically, no, because USB-C ports on laptops are for output or data. Unless specifically labeled as video input, you’ll need a capture card for video input via USB.
Why is there a delay when I try to play a game through Windows Projection?
Delay occurs due to network latency and video compression in wireless methods. For gaming, this lag makes software unsuitable, hence the need for a capture card.
Can I use a tablet instead of a laptop for this?
Yes, tablets can often be used as wireless displays with similar software apps. However, for hardware capture, tablets may not support the necessary USB connections.
What is the cheapest capture device that works for this purpose?
Basic USB capture cards start around $20 and are sufficient for HD video. For better quality and lower latency, consider mid-range options from brands like Elgato.
In conclusion, knowing how to use my laptop as a monitor requires picking the right method for your device and task. Whether for work or play, software and hardware solutions can turn your laptop into a functional secondary screen.
