How to Use Windows Laptop as Second Monitor?

Windows 11 and 10 have a built-in tool that allows using any other computer as a wireless monitor. If you have a spare laptop or tablet with a modern Windows version, you can turn it into a decent monitor for more productive work. Here is how to use a laptop as a second monitor for a Windows PC.

Preparing the System to Use Laptop as Second Monitor

You need to install an optional feature from the Settings app to use a laptop as a second monitor. The package weighs about 2MB and takes less than a minute to install.

Use Laptop as Second Monitor on Windows 10

1. Press Win + I to open the Settings app and go to the Apps section.
2. Click Apps & Features > Optional Features.
3. Click Add a feature.
4. Type Wireless Display in the list of available features.
5. Place a checkmark next to Wireless Display and click Install.
6. Wait for Windows to finish the installation.

Use Laptop as Second Monitor on Windows 11

1. Right-click the Start menu and select Settings.
2. Go to System > Projecting to this PC.
3. Click the Optional Features link.
4. Click the View features button.
5. Type Wireless Display into the search box, then place a checkmark next to Wireless Display.
6. Click Next, then Install.
7. Wait for Windows 11 to finish installing the needed components.

Windows Laptop as a Second Monitor – Connecting to the Display

Now you can launch the Connect app to use your laptop as a second monitor. Before starting, make sure both computers are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Also, note that the screen quality will depend on the Wi-Fi signal strength and speed.

1. Grab your laptop or tablet you want to use as an additional screen. Open the Start menu and type Connect. You can also find the Connect app in the list of all apps.
2. Launch the Connect app and wait for it to tell you that the device is ready for wireless connection.
3. Now switch to another computer and connect to the wireless display.

On Windows 10

1. Press Win + P, then click the Connect to a wireless display.
2. Windows will start searching for available wireless monitors. Click the one you need.
3. If needed, place a checkmark next to the “Allow mouse, keyboard, touch, and pen input from this device” option. It allows controlling your primary computer from the one working as a second monitor.
4. If necessary, press Win + P again to change the projection mode. You can duplicate displays (both screens display the same picture), extend your primary monitor, or use only the second screen.
5. Alternatively, go to Settings > System > Display to change the scaling or rearrange displays.
6. To disable your wireless display, click the Disconnect button.

On Windows 11

1. Press Win + A to open Control Center.
2. Click the button with a pencil icon.
3. Click Add, then select Cast.
4. Save the changes, then click the Wired Display button.
5. Alternatively, you can just press Win + K.
6. After that, Windows 11 will start searching for wireless displays.
7. Click the display you need, then select the required projection mode.
8. Press Win + K and hit the Disconnect button to disconnect from a wireless monitor.

Many third-party apps allow you to use a laptop as a second monitor for your computer. We do not recommend using them unless you need a specific feature or the native Windows tools do not provide a satisfying experience.

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Cyril Kardashevsky

I enjoy technology and developing websites. Since 2012 I'm running a few of my own websites, and share useful content on gadgets, PC administration and website promotion.

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