Apple’s versatile product ecosystem continues to impress, and one particularly noteworthy feature is the ability to use an iMac as an external monitor. This guide explores how to use an iMac as a monitor—whether your primary device is a laptop or another desktop. We will outline the necessary requirements, provide a step-by-step walkthrough, and offer essential tips and considerations. Discover how to enrich your digital workspace, elevate your entertainment experience, and boost productivity by unlocking the full potential of your iMac’s display.
What You’ll Need to Use Your iMac as a Monitor
To use your iMac as an external display, you must first ensure that it is running macOS High Sierra or an earlier version. Additionally, the specific iMac model you intend to use should support connection via specific cables and adapters, allowing it to receive video input and function as a monitor for another device. You should also check whether any necessary software is installed and confirm that any required accessories are available. Below is a list of commonly used cables and adapters you may need:
Cables
The cables required depend on the available input on your main device and the output on the iMac. Below are common cable types:
- Thunderbolt Cable – Essential for iMacs featuring Thunderbolt input/output, this cable ensures reliable high-speed connections between devices.
- Mini DisplayPort Cable – Designed for iMacs equipped with Mini DisplayPort, this cable supports high-quality video output.
- USB-C Cable – By using a USB-C cable, you can also effortlessly connect your iMac to a compatible device.
Take advantage of cutting-edge technology with the Anker 765 USB-C to USB-C Cable (3 ft / 6 ft). It offers an impressive Ultra-Fast File Transfer speed of 480Mbps, ideal for rapid file transfers.
Adapters
If your primary device does not feature a Thunderbolt or Mini DisplayPort output, a compatible adapter is necessary:
- HDMI to Thunderbolt/Mini DisplayPort adapter – Connects devices with HDMI output to your iMac.
- DisplayPort to Thunderbolt/Mini DisplayPort adapter – Used to connect devices fitted with a DisplayPort output to your iMac.
- USB-C to Thunderbolt/Mini DisplayPort Adapter – Essential for connecting modern devices with USB-C output to your iMac. The Anker 518 USB-C Adapter (8K HDMI) elevates your viewing experience, providing sharp 8K@60Hz or 4K@144Hz resolution for smooth screen mirroring or extension. Its broad compatibility with USB-C devices that support DisplayPort Alt Mode ensures straightforward connection to your iMac.
Step-by-Step Guide: Setting Up Your iMac as a Monitor
Using your iMac as a secondary monitor is an excellent way to optimise your workspace. Follow these step-by-step instructions to effortlessly set up your iMac as a display.
Step 1: Connect the Cable or HDMI Adapter
To begin setting up your iMac as a monitor for a PC, you will require either a Mini DisplayPort cable or a suitable HDMI adapter. Identify the “input” port on the computer or device you wish to connect to the iMac. Depending on the version of your iMac and the source device you want to connect, you may need one of the following: a Mini DisplayPort to Mini DisplayPort cable, a Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapter cable, or a USB-C to HDMI adapter. Once you have the appropriate cable, connect it to the “input” port of your source device and the other end to the Thunderbolt (or corresponding) port on your iMac.
Step 2: Enable Target Display Mode
Once the devices are correctly connected, you will need to enable Target Display Mode on your iMac. To do so, press “Command (⌘)” + “F2” on the iMac’s keyboard. This should activate Target Display Mode, allowing your iMac to function as a display for the connected device. If the screen does not switch immediately, ensure that both devices are powered on and that all cable connections are secure.
Step 3: Adjust Display Settings
To achieve the best viewing experience, you may need to adjust the display settings. On the device connected to your iMac, navigate to its display settings. The exact location varies depending on the device and operating system, but you’ll typically find them in ‘System Preferences’ on a Mac or ‘Display Settings’ on a Windows PC. Set the resolution to match your iMac’s screen or choose the highest available option. You might also want to adjust brightness, contrast, or orientation to suit your preferences. Your iMac is now set up as a secondary display.
Tips and Considerations
- iMac Compatibility: Bear in mind that only iMac models released between 2009 and 2014 support Target Display Mode. iMacs with Thunderbolt ports (2011–2014) only support this feature when connected to other Thunderbolt-enabled devices.
- Choosing the Correct Cable and Adapter: Ensure you select the appropriate cable and adapter based on your device’s port type and the input supported by your iMac (either Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt).
- Video and Audio Output: Although iMacs with Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt 1/2 can transmit both video and audio signals, some adapters may only support video. Always check the adapter’s specifications to confirm its capabilities.
- Keyboard Functionality: Target Display Mode can also be activated via an external keyboard by pressing the appropriate function key (F2 or the display key, depending on the keyboard layout).
- Exiting Target Display Mode: To exit Target Display Mode, press Command (⌘)+F2 once more, or simply power off the connected device.
- Performance Considerations: Using an iMac as an external display may not deliver the same performance as a purpose-built monitor—for instance, input lag may occur. This should be taken into account, particularly if the setup is intended for gaming or other latency-sensitive applications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you can now unlock the full potential of your iMac by seamlessly transforming it into an impressive external display. By following our detailed step-by-step guide on how to use your iMac as a monitor, the setup process becomes straightforward and efficient. The accompanying practical tips and key considerations will help you make well-informed choices throughout. Enhance your productivity and refine your workspace today — converting your iMac into a monitor has never been simpler.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about using an iMac as a monitor:
How can I use my iMac as a second monitor wirelessly?
You can use your iMac as a secondary display wirelessly by utilising Apple’s built-in feature known as AirPlay. Ensure both your iMac and your primary device are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. On your primary device (iPhone, iPad or MacBook), open the Control Centre and select Screen Mirroring. Your device will scan for available screens—select your iMac from the list. Once connected, your iMac will mirror the screen of your primary device.
Can I use my old iMac as a second monitor?
Yes, provided your older iMac and the main Mac are compatible. This is possible through Target Display Mode, a feature that enables certain iMac models (typically those released before 2014) to act as an external display for another Mac. Simply connect the two devices using a Thunderbolt or Mini DisplayPort cable and press Command (⌘) + F2 on the iMac you intend to use as the monitor.
Which Macs support Target Display Mode?
Target Display Mode is supported on specific iMac models released between 2009 and 2014, including: iMac (27-inch, Late 2009), iMac (27-inch, Mid 2010), iMac (Mid 2011 to Mid 2014). It is important to note that iMac models released from 2014 onwards no longer support this feature, due to the introduction of Retina displays.
Can the latest 24-inch iMac be used as an external display?
No, the 24-inch iMac models currently available cannot be used as external monitors. Apple discontinued the Target Display Mode feature, which was previously available to enable older iMacs to serve as displays for other devices. To use a modern iMac as a secondary display, you may consider third-party software such as Luna Display or Duet Display.
Is it possible to use an iMac as a monitor for an Xbox?
Older iMac models released prior to 2014 may be used as displays for an Xbox console via Target Display Mode. However, this functionality is no longer available on newer iMacs. As an alternative, you could try third-party solutions such as Luna Display or capture cards—though please be aware that these may introduce input delay (latency).
Be the First to Know
