Most computers only have space for a single screen. It is okay for many uses, as it offers a sufficient workspace for casual web browsing and word processing. Instead of using just one screen, why not take advantage of the two, three, or even four available to you?
It’s not hard to see why dual monitor setups are commonplace in today’s environment. They improve your quality of life and give you a sense of superiority while you labor in your cyber-Ikea fortress. Of course, the primary concern is with output.
Advantages of Using Two Monitors
The primary advantage of using a dual-monitor arrangement is that you can access two screens instead of one.
You can watch Netflix on your second screen while doing other things, like working or playing a video game.
In that case, let’s dive right into the intricacies of why someone might want that second screen.
#1) Using Two Monitors When Streaming
You will almost certainly need a second screen to stream consistently on Twitch or YouTube.
Access to your streaming software and keeping an eye on your conversation throughout broadcasts is essential.
A secondary device, such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, would be required to read the conversation, and neither Streamlabs nor OBS would be easily accessible.
#2) Dual Monitors for Gaming
It is possible to get ultrawide displays, although they can be pretty pricey. You can always hook up two or three monitors and run the game’s output to all of them if you want a more expansive viewing experience.
You can see more of the game world, whether racing down a track and glancing to your left and right to see your opponents driving beside you or flying through space and keeping an eye out for bogies.
Because user interface and non-gameplay features often behave weirdly at ultrawide resolutions, a dual-monitor setup is best reserved for games you know inside and out.
Keeping an eye on Discord, Netflix, YouTube, or even Spotify is a perfectly acceptable use of a second monitor while gaming. A second display like this isn’t required, but it makes things easier.
#3) Dual Monitors for Multitaskers
Dual monitors are great for productivity when you need to multitask. The ability to use numerous displays to organize your weekday duties, programs, and workplaces increases productivity.
It’s much simpler to get things done when you don’t have to switch between different papers constantly.
When time seems to be passing slowly throughout the day, it’s good to have the option of a podcast, Netflix, or YouTube to watch on your secondary screen.
It’s a blessing that you can connect a laptop to multiple monitors; I’ve been using twin monitors at work for nearly five years, and I wouldn’t want to go back.
Dual Monitor Setup Complete Guide
Step 1: Connect the Screen’s Cords
Connect the power cord to your second monitor and the video wire to your computer.
Step 2: Instruct Windows on How to Handle Multiple Monitors
To change the desktop’s display settings, Right-Click the desktop and choose Screen resolution (Windows 7 and 8) or Display settings (Windows 10 and 11).
The resulting dialogue box will allow you to configure the layout of the screens. By selecting an option from the drop-down menu labeled “Multiple Displays,” you’ll have complete command over the interaction between the two monitors.
If you want Windows to recognize all of your screens as a single large one, use the option to “Extend these displays.”
Step 3: Sort the Screens in Whatever Order You Like
By dragging the screen icons at the top of the dialog box, you can inform Windows which monitor is on the left or right. If you get this wrong, navigating the mouse’s scroll wheel will be a nightmare.
Step 4: Choose the Primary Display
In Windows, you can choose which of your monitors will serve as your primary workspace by selecting the “Make this my main display” option. If you don’t see that choice, the screen you’re looking at is the primary one.
When you right-click on the desktop and choose the Graphics Settings option, you’ll also have access to many of these options.
Which Displays Should You Buy?
Buying a second screen to complement your first display may seem like a no-brainer. Any screen will do so long as it has the correct input type and can be connected to your PC.
However, there are a few things to remember when constructing the optimal dual monitor arrangement.
Size
Your screens must be large enough to work well. While most individuals seek identical monitor sizes, some may find it helpful to have a secondary, smaller screen for multitasking.
Aspect Ratio
Ultrawide monitors allow you more flexibility in setting up your command center than the standard 16:9 displays.
Resolution
While using multiple monitors with a unique resolution is customary, this isn’t necessarily a good thing.
Even if a 1080p screen appears fantastic on its own, it may appear quite low-resolution when placed next to a 4K panel.
Color
It’s important to remember that most screens have unique color profiles that make them look different from one another.
If the quality of the colors on your screen is essential to you, you should be aware of the fact that this difference is most pronounced between older and newer monitors.
Input Types
Many different display input ports are available on monitors, including HDMI, DisplayPort, and DVI.
Inputs can be paired with their proper counterparts using adaptors to facilitate device interoperability.
Frequently Asked Question
Do you need 2 HDMI ports for dual monitors?
It is essential to check your computer’s outputs to support your desired dual monitor setup. It necessitates dual or a single HDMI port and a DisplayPort port on your machine.
Can you set up dual monitors with just HDMI?
You may need a dongle if you’re using a computer (typically a laptop) with only a single HDMI port but want to connect two external monitors. A “switch splitter” or “display splitter” allows you to use a single HDMI cable with two different devices.
How do I display different things on two monitors HDMI?
To add a second screen, use the available HDMI port. For Windows, right-click the desktop and pick “Screen Resolution” from the resulting menu. Your new dialogue box screen should show two monitors at the top, one for each display.
