How to set up dual monitors with HDMI

If you run more than a few applications, you might benefit from running a dual monitor setup. Luckily, you can easily set up dual monitors using an HDMI connection.

How to set up dual monitors using HDMI

How to set up dual monitors with HDMI Picture 1

You will need two monitors and an HDMI cable for each monitor to get started. You can use a standard HDMI cable if your computer has two HDMI outputs and both monitors have HDMI inputs. However, you may need a converter cable if your computer has two different video outputs (for example, HDMI and DisplayPort or DVI).

Once you have all the necessary equipment, follow these steps to learn how to connect your monitor:

1. Connect the HDMI cable to both monitors and plug the other end into your computer's video output port or graphics card port.
2. Plug the power cord into the outlet and turn on both monitors.

Now, all that's left to do is adjust your computer's display settings so that both monitors work as expected.

How to run dual monitors using one HDMI port

How to set up dual monitors with HDMI Picture 2

You can run dual monitors using a single HDMI port using an HDMI switch or splitter. Let's take a look at each of these methods.

How to use HDMI splitter for dual monitors

To set up dual monitors using an HDMI splitter, follow these steps:

1. Identify the HDMI port on your computer.
2. Once found, plug the HDMI splitter into this port. Then, plug the two HDMI cables into the splitter.
3. Next, connect one end of each cable to your monitor. However, if your monitors have different inputs (for example, one monitor has DisplayPort while the other has HDMI), you'll need to use the correct cable/adapter for each monitor.
4. Finally, turn on your monitor and computer. You should see your desktop extended across both screens!

One thing to keep in mind is that not all HDMI splitters are created equal. Some splitters only support specific resolutions, so choosing the right splitter for your specific setup is essential. Another consideration is whether you need an active or passive splitter. Active splitters tend to be more expensive but perform better, especially at longer distances. Passive splitters will suffice if you are connecting two displays close together.

How to set up dual monitors with an adapter

There are many different adapters available for dual monitor setups, so it's important to choose one that's compatible with your computer and monitor. Once you have your adapter, connect it to your HDMI port and monitor. If it doesn't, you may need to change your computer's display manager settings.

Dual monitor VGA to HDMI with converter

How to set up dual monitors with HDMI Picture 3

If you have a computer with a VGA output and want to connect it to an HDTV or monitor with an HDMI input, you'll need to use a converter. Converting VGA to HDMI isn't complicated, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

1. First, you will need a VGA to HDMI converter. These converters are widely available and relatively cheap.
2. Next, you'll need to make sure your computer's video output is set to the correct resolution. Many adapters only work at specific resolutions, so it's important to check your adapter's specifications before making any changes.
3. Once everything is set up, connect the adapter to your computer's VGA output and connect to your HDTV or monitor's HDMI input.

Another thing to note is that you will have to come up with a separate solution for audio if you rely on HDMI, as VGA does not support audio. Depending on the adapter, you may also lose some clarity or image quality.

Dual monitor setup on game console

Setting up dual monitors on a game console can significantly improve your gaming experience. Using two monitors gives you a wider field of view, which can be useful when tracking enemies or exploring your surroundings. Additionally, two monitors can allow you to keep track of multiple chat windows or other sources of information at the same time. Setting up dual monitors is worth considering if you want to take your gaming to the next level. However, keep in mind that not all game consoles support dual monitor setups.

Additionally, even if your game console supports multiple monitors, most game consoles only have one HDMI output. This means you'll need to use a compatible HDMI adapter, and there can be some gray areas, as HDMI splitters may or may not work with game consoles. For example, the HDMI splitter I use to run multiple monitors on my Windows laptop doesn't work with my PS4, even though the game console supports multiple monitors and there doesn't seem to be any issues with the splitter itself.

Adding an extra monitor to your setup can help boost productivity and give you more desktop space if you're using a PC, regardless of your operating system. In most cases, setting them up is as simple as plugging in a second monitor and changing a few settings. Game consoles can also benefit from a second monitor, but your results may vary.

Lesley Montoya

Update 14 January 2025