How to Use a Laptop as a Monitor (Easy & Free Methods)

Do you have an old or unused laptop and want to use it as a second monitor? If yes, this guide will show you how to use a laptop as a monitor easily, without buying a new display.

Using a laptop as a second screen is a smart productivity hack. It expands your workspace, improves multitasking, and saves money. Whether you’re working, coding, trading, or studying, a dual-screen setup can significantly boost efficiency.

Can You Use a Laptop as a Monitor Using HDMI?

Many people think connecting an HDMI cable from a PC to a laptop will work—but it doesn’t.

Here’s why:

• Laptop HDMI, VGA, or DisplayPort ports are output-only
• They are designed to send display, not receive it
• You can connect a laptop to a TV or monitor
• But you cannot directly use a laptop as a monitor via HDMI

Don’t worry—there are better and free solutions available.

Also Read: How to Speed Up Windows 10: Top Tips and Tricks

Method 1: Use Laptop as Monitor with Windows Built-in Feature

Windows 10 and Windows 11 include a feature called Projecting to This PC, which allows you to use your laptop as a wireless display.

This is the best and safest method, as it doesn’t require extra software.

Step 1: Set Up the Laptop (Second Screen)

On the laptop you want to use as a monitor:

1. Open Settings
2. Go to System
3. Click Projecting to this PC
4. Change the settings:
   • This PC can be discovered for projection → Available everywhere
   • Ask for PIN for pairing → Optional (recommended)
5. Keep this screen open

Your laptop is now ready to work as a monitor.

Step 2: Connect From Your Main PC

On your main PC or desktop:

1. Press Windows + P
2. Select Extend or Duplicate
3. Click Connect to a wireless display
4. Choose your laptop from the list
5. Accept the connection on the laptop

After a few seconds, your laptop screen will start displaying your PC content.

Adjust Display Settings (Recommended)

After connecting:

• Go to Settings → Display
• Arrange screens as per your desk setup
• Change resolution if needed
• Enable mouse & keyboard input on the laptop screen

Also Read: The Ultimate Guide to Windows Keyboard Shortcuts

Method 2: Use Third-Party Software (Optional)

If wireless display doesn’t work smoothly, you can use trusted third-party tools:

Popular Apps

• SpaceDesk (Free, best option)
• Duet Display
• Deskreen

These apps allow:

• Wired or wireless connection
• Better performance on slower Wi-Fi
• Support for older Windows versions

Things to Keep in Mind

• Both devices must be on the same Wi-Fi network
• Wireless display performance depends on network speed
• Older PCs may not support Miracast
• For best results, keep devices plugged in

Benefits of Using Laptop as a Second Monitor

• No need to buy a new monitor
• Increases productivity
• Better multitasking
• Ideal for work-from-home setup
• Perfect for students, traders, designers, developers

Conclusion

If you want to increase your screen space without spending money, using a laptop as a monitor is the perfect solution.

With Windows’ built-in wireless display feature or free software tools, you can easily turn your laptop into a second screen and improve your workflow instantly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)