Press Windows key+P to choose how Windows 11 uses connected screens. Choose Extend for more desktop space, Duplicate to show the same image on each screen, or Second screen only to use an external display without the PC’s built-in screen. The settings page lets you arrange displays, detect a wired screen, and adjust each display’s resolution and scale.
Choose a display mode with Windows key+P
Connect the display, then press Windows key+P and select the mode that matches what you want to see:
| Mode | What appears | Useful for |
|---|---|---|
| PC screen only | The image stays on the computer’s built-in screen. | Using the PC without an external screen. |
| Duplicate | The same image appears on the PC and connected displays. | Showing the same content on multiple screens. |
| Extend | Windows spreads the desktop across screens; you can move windows and items between them. | Working with additional desktop space. |
| Second screen only | The image appears on the external display, not the PC’s built-in display. | Using an external monitor or TV as the only active screen. |
Arrange screens to match your desk
- Open Settings > System > Display. Windows shows numbered rectangles for displays it has detected.
- Select Identify to display a number on each physical screen and match it to the numbered rectangle.
- Drag the rectangles until their positions match your real screen layout. Select Apply.
- Move the pointer across the screens to check that it crosses at the expected edges. If not, adjust the rectangles and apply the layout again.
Under Multiple displays, Windows also has preferences for remembering window locations based on monitor connection and minimizing windows when a monitor is disconnected. These settings can affect what happens to windows when you undock and reconnect a laptop.
Fix a monitor that is missing or showing the wrong mode
A wired display is not detected
- Check that the video cable is firmly connected to the PC or dock and to the display.
- Open Settings > System > Display, expand Multiple displays, and select Detect.
- If the display is connected but not showing independently, press Windows key+P and select Extend.
One monitor works, but adding more does not
Test the setup with one external monitor first, then add the others. If the PC cannot drive the requested number of displays, the graphics adapter may be the limiting factor. Check the PC or graphics adapter manufacturer’s specifications for supported monitor counts and outputs; support varies by hardware and configuration.
#1 Best Overall
- CRISP CLARITY: This 23.8″ Philips V line monitor delivers crisp Full HD 1920x1080 visuals. Enjoy movies, shows and videos with remarkable detail
- INCREDIBLE CONTRAST: The VA panel produces brighter whites and deeper blacks. You get true-to-life images and more gradients with 16.7 million colors
- THE PERFECT VIEW: The 178/178 degree extra wide viewing angle prevents the shifting of colors when viewed from an offset angle, so you always get consistent colors
- WORK SEAMLESSLY: This sleek monitor is virtually bezel-free on three sides, so the screen looks even bigger for the viewer. This minimalistic design also allows for seamless multi-monitor setups that enhance your workflow and boost productivity
- A BETTER READING EXPERIENCE: For busy office workers, EasyRead mode provides a more paper-like experience for when viewing lengthy documents
A splitter does not extend the desktop
A display splitter duplicates one video signal, so it cannot create two independent extended displays. If the PC has only one video output, a compatible docking station—or, on some PCs with USB-C, a USB video adapter—may provide another output. These are conditional options: the PC’s port and graphics hardware, the dock or adapter, and the monitors must all support the desired setup.
Use wireless projection
Cast to a compatible display
For an external display that supports Miracast, turn it on and press Windows key+K, then select the display. If the screen does not support Miracast itself, a Miracast adapter connected to it may be needed. Wireless display availability depends on the PC and receiving display supporting the required technology.
Rank #2
- CRISP CLARITY: This 22 inch class (21.5″ viewable) Philips V line monitor delivers crisp Full HD 1920x1080 visuals. Enjoy movies, shows and videos with remarkable detail
- 100HZ FAST REFRESH RATE: 100Hz brings your favorite movies and video games to life. Stream, binge, and play effortlessly
- SMOOTH ACTION WITH ADAPTIVE-SYNC: Adaptive-Sync technology ensures fluid action sequences and rapid response time. Every frame will be rendered smoothly with crystal clarity and without stutter
- INCREDIBLE CONTRAST: The VA panel produces brighter whites and deeper blacks. You get true-to-life images and more gradients with 16.7 million colors
- THE PERFECT VIEW: The 178/178 degree extra wide viewing angle prevents the shifting of colors when viewed from an offset angle, so you always get consistent colors
Project to another Windows 11 PC
- On the receiving PC, install the Wireless Display optional feature and launch the Wireless Display app. Microsoft lists the app as available for Windows 11 version 22H2 and later.
- On the sending PC, press Windows key+K and choose the receiving PC.
- If the receiving PC does not appear, check that Wi-Fi is on and that the Wireless Display feature is installed and its app is running.
Set resolution, scale, and HDR
In Settings > System > Display, select the screen you intend to change before adjusting its resolution or scale. Windows generally recommends the setting marked Recommended. A resolution lower than the display’s native resolution can make text less sharp or make the image look small, centered, bordered, or stretched.
For HDR on an external HDR monitor or TV, use Extend if Windows is initially duplicating the laptop display: Microsoft notes HDR is not supported in that duplicate configuration. HDR and SDR brightness can also look different depending on the display model.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesQuick Recap
Best Value
- 【INTEGRATED SPEAKERS】Whether you're at work or in the midst of an intense gaming session, our built-in speakers provide rich and seamless audio, all while keeping your desk clutter-free.
- 【EASY ON THE EYES】 Protect your eyes and enhance your comfort with Blue-Light Shift technology. This feature reduces harmful blue light emissions from your screen, helping to alleviate eye strain during long hours of use and promoting healthier viewing habits.
- 【WIDEN YOUR PERSPECTIVE】Our sleek minimal bezel design ensures undivided attention. The nearly bezel-free display seamlessly connects in a dual monitor arrangement, delivering an unobstructed view that lets you focus on more at once, completely distraction-free.
Rank #4
- CURVED FOR ENHANCED ENGAGEMENT: An immersive viewing experience with a curved monitor that wraps more closely around your field of vision; It creates a wider view, enhancing depth perception and minimizing peripheral distraction
- SMOOTH PERFORMANCE FOR SEAMLESS CONTENT: Stay in the action when playing games, watching videos, or working on creative projects; The 100Hz refresh rate reduces lag and motion blur so you don't miss a thing in fast-paced moments¹
- MORE GAMING POWER: Gain the edge with optimizable game settings; Color and image contrast can be adjusted to see scenes more vividly and spot enemies hiding in the dark; Game Mode adjusts any game to fill the screen so you can view every detail²
- KEEP IT EASY ON THE EYES: Care for your eyes and stay comfortable, even during long sessions; Advanced eye comfort technology certified by TÜV reduces eye strain by minimizing blue light and reducing irritating screen flicker²
- INCREASED VERSATILITY: Connect to more; Plug devices straight into your monitor for increased flexibility, making your computing environment even more convenient
Rank #3
- Clear visuals. Fluid motion: A 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms MPRT deliver smooth, tear‑free motion across work, gaming, and streaming for clearer, more fluid viewing.
- Eye comfort: TÜV Rheinland 3‑star* certification reduces harmful blue light while preserving stunning color quality without compromise. *TÜV Rheinland 3-star eye comfort certification.
- Wide viewing angle: Get consistent views across a wide 178° /178° viewing angle.
- In-Plane Switching (IPS): See excellent color accuracy and consistency across wide viewing angles with In-plane Switching (IPS) technology.
- Ultra-thin bezels: Maximize your viewing experience with thin bezels.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
