Dual monitor setups are gaining popularity. We demonstrate how to create your own. The majority of computers have a single display. This is suitable for various tasks, including online surfing and light work, as it provides enough screen space. Why settle for just one monitor when you may have two, three or even four?
It’s common to see why using two monitors at once has become more common today. As you operate from your cyber-IKEA combat station, they make your life easier and more enjoyable. Naturally, it is entirely about productivity. Let’s look at how to configure dual monitors for yourself.
Questions People Ask About Dual Monitor Setups
Some common misunderstandings regarding dual monitor setups need to be dispelled before we get into the specifics of setting one up.
Which Monitors Are the Best?
At first glance, selecting the appropriate monitors for your dual monitor setup may appear straightforward. If your monitor has a suitable input type, it should be able to connect to your computer. However, a few considerations must be made to create the optimal dual monitor setup.
- Size: It’s vital that your displays be the correct size. You can use a smaller monitor for background chores, although most people maintain the same size.
- Aspect Ratio: If you’re looking to maximize your battle station’s performance, you may want to choose an ultrawide display, which has a 16:9 aspect ratio.
- Resolution: While having monitors with varying resolutions is expected, this does not mean it is a good idea. For instance, a 1080p display next to a 4K display can appear very low-resolution, even if it looks great.
- Colour: Most monitors will have distinct colour profiles, making them stand out when compared side by side. You’ll notice a substantial difference between older and newer monitors if you’re a colour-conscious user.
- Input types: On monitors, HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, and various other display input connectors are available. The use of adaptors is possible; however, it is normally preferable to utilize inputs and outputs that match.
With this in mind, you may still be creative with your multi-monitor setup despite these considerations. Having two monitors from the same manufacturer and model can look quite lovely. The same can be said for a two-monitor configuration, which we’ll be putting up later in the post.
How to Install a Two-Monitor Setup
As a result, the majority of monitors include their stands. While these stands are perfectly functional, they frequently lack the wow factor that a monitor arm or wall mount provides. This is not a necessary option, but it can be extremely calm, and it’s never been easier to accomplish with your setup.
On the web, you can find affordable monitor and television mounting hardware. It’s critical to select a mount with the appropriate type of mounting bracket and a monitor with enough space for it. Although the most common type of monitor mount is the VESA mount, it’s still worth double-checking the size due to a few variations.
Is My Device Dual-Screen Capable?
Not every device on the market supports dual screens due to a lack of capability or ports. You won’t get very far with your dual-monitor setup if your device isn’t capable of helping them, so you should determine this before you begin.
- Desktop PCs: Both macOS and Windows have software that supports dual screens. Additionally, you’ll require a dedicated graphics card or monitors capable of working with USB inputs.
- Laptops: Many current laptops, such as the DUEX Pro Portable Dual Monitor, may also be connected to a second monitor through a dongle.
- Smartphones and tablets: Monitors may be connected to Android and iOS smartphones. If you’re using wires, you’ll need an adapter to cast your screen, but you can also do it wirelessly using devices like these.
How to Convert a Single Monitor to a Dual Monitor
We’ve arrived at the meat of the matter. It’s not difficult to set up two monitors at the same time. Having all your wires together before you begin is a good idea, and you may tailor this tutorial to suit your needs.
1. Adjusting the position of the dual monitors
The initial stage of this procedure is to arrange your monitors on your desk. You’ll need to exercise creativity to ensure that your cables reach the proper locations. As you can see in the image above, we’re using a standard 16:9 monitor alongside a 21:9 ultrawide.
2. Connecting Your Monitors
Plugging in your displays is as simple as putting the power wires in position. If you’re utilizing display cables, take extra care to make sure they’re connected correctly and in the right places. While your computer is active and logged in, you can perform this action.
3. Configuring Your Windows Monitors
Windows 10 makes getting started with dual monitors incredibly simple. The full-width taskbar and the straightforward setup process should be enough for most users to get up and running with the software. However, this does not imply that we will dismiss any alternatives you may have suggested. With your monitors connected, right-click the Desktop and then left-click on Display Settings.
This will open a window containing controls for your monitors. You should see a Multiple displays section with options for controlling your monitors. We’ve broken down a few of these settings below to get you started.
Identify Monitors: This displays a one and a two on your screens, indicating to the computer which is which.
Multiple Displays: Using this feature, you may show the same thing on both screens, expand your displays and make them work together as a single unit, or show material on only one of your screens.
Positioning: You can adjust your screens such that the mouse can travel between them using the tip at the top of the window you’re now seeing. The left monitor is somewhat lower than the right, as is the case with all of our screens. Drag the boxes to the correct locations to change this setting.
Primary Monitor: Setting a monitor as the primary monitor indicates that it will be the default monitor for applications to open on. Additionally, it will house your clock and other taskbar tray icons.
Along with these dual monitor-specific options, you’ll also have access to your standard monitor settings. Changing the text scale when configuring screens with different resolutions and refresh rates is achievable with this approach.
Setting up Using Third-Party Software
Additionally, dual monitors can be configured using third-party software. The most common examples are software options provided by graphics card manufacturers, such as Nvidia’s Control Panel. You can achieve similar results with programs like these, though they frequently include additional settings that are useful in various situations.
Setting up for Other Operating Systems
If you’re using an operating system other than Windows or Mac, you may be able to use a dual-monitor arrangement. Although certain operating systems may require additional procedures, the settings are relatively similar to those in Windows. The ability to link to wireless displays on smartphones, for example, is a massive advantage for this device type. While it’s possible to get a lot of alternatives, it’s not likely. This means that you must hope that your devices communicate with one another.
Utilizing a Dual Monitor Set-up
Two monitors are always preferable to a single monitor. You gain additional space for work and play, but you also get the impression of using a futuristic system. As incredible as it may sound, dual monitors have legitimate benefits, and this is something that an increasing number of people can afford as their computer budget grows.
