Laptops are the perfect option for getting work done on the go. But let’s face it: sometimes you just need a bigger screen to work on. Whether you need a replacement desktop setup or just need some extra screen real estate for work or play, it’s a good idea to know how to get the most out of your extra monitor.
Having a laptop or a MacBook that can be quickly converted to a desktop does not require much effort. Want to close the laptop lid and use the monitor instead? You will need to follow a few steps to configure your laptop to play well with the setup.
For starters, you’ll need a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. You will also need a cable that supports a connection between the display output of the laptop and the monitor. If the ports on your laptop aren’t enough, or if you want a cleaner docking setup, you might want to get a USB hub or dock for your setup. To help you set up your desk, we’ve put together this guide on how to close your laptop and use your monitor.
How to shut down a Windows laptop and use the monitor
Windows laptops have some settings you’ll need to change if you want to use them with the lid closed. Follow these steps to close the Windows laptop lid and use the monitor.
1. Open Control Panel by searching for it in Windows search. Navigate to Hardware and Sound > Power options and click Choose what the lid closure does in the left panel. You can also search for this option directly in the Windows search to open the settings directly.
The Control Panel still has some of the main settings options, even in Windows 11.
2. Click on the drop points nearby When I close the lidUNDER On battery AND Plugged in. Select Don’t do anything for both.
Windows laptops enter sleep mode when the lid is closed unless you change these settings.
3. Click Save changes to apply the new cap settings.
4. Connect your external keyboard and mouse to the appropriate ports on your laptop or a connected USB hub or dock. Depending on your hardware, you can also connect a wireless keyboard and mouse by connecting USB dongles or setting them in the Bluetooth settings.
5. Connect your external monitor to the appropriate display output port on your laptop or a connected USB hub or dock.
6. Close the lid and use the monitor with the keyboard and mouse.
7. If your monitor’s resolution, refresh rate, or screen scaling is off after closing the lid, navigate to SETTINGS > system > Display to fix them. Some settings may be under Advanced screen.
You may want to change the screen scaling settings to suit your preferences.
How to close a MacBook and use the monitor
The display behavior in MacOS is slightly different from that in Windows. You don’t need to change the cover settings. However, you must plug in your MacBook, or it will likely go into sleep mode when you close the lid.
1. Connect the power adapter to your MacBook.
2. Connect your external keyboard and mouse to the appropriate ports on the MacBook or to a connected USB hub or dock. If you have a wireless keyboard and mouse, connect the USB dongle or configure the devices via Bluetooth settings.
3. Connect your external monitor to the HDMI or USB-C Thunderbolt port (or another available display output port) on your MacBook or connected USB hub or dock.
4. When your MacBook’s desktop appears on the external monitor, close the lid.
5. If your monitor doesn’t display the macOS desktop, wake up your Mac by pressing a key on the keyboard and moving the mouse.
6. Apple also suggests configuring the display settings. Click on the Apple menu in the upper right corner of the screen, select System settings (or System Preferences) and click SHOW. Here you can adjust the screen resolution, refresh rate and more.
You can adjust the resolution, refresh rate, and more in the macOS display settings.
Using a laptop at your desk with the lid closed
Although using a laptop with a closed lid is a good way to get the most out of it, there are a few things to keep in mind. If you regularly use your laptop or MacBook with the lid closed, it’s a good idea to get a USB hub or dock so you don’t have to plug in every peripheral every time you plug in your laptop.
Additionally, using a laptop with the lid closed can cause it to heat up more. Keep an eye on the temperatures and make sure your laptop is positioned properly with enough space for proper air circulation. Some laptops may be better with the lid open if your use is extended.
If you want to get the most out of your desk setup, you might want to take a look at our list of the best home office essentials. If you want to get a better desk, we also have a roundup of the best desks you can get, as well as the best desks on the market.