How to Connect Dual Monitors for MacBook Pro & MacBook Air

Need more screen space to juggle multiple tabs, edit visuals side by side, or streamline your coding workflow? Setting up dual monitors for MacBook Pro or MacBook Air is a powerful way to boost your productivity.

But here’s the catch: Not all MacBook models support dual monitors in the same way, and figuring out what works with your specific device can be tricky.

That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide. We’ll help you confirm whether your MacBook Pro or MacBook Air supports dual monitor connection and walk you through a step-by-step setup using the standard dual monitor method.

Before diving into connection methods, it’s important to know that not all Apple MacBooks can support dual monitors. 

That’s why it’s crucial to understand your MacBook’s capabilities first. In the table below, you can quickly check whether your MacBook supports dual external displays or not.

In short, unless you’re using a MacBook Pro or MacBook Air with an M1 or M2 chip, your Mac should have no problem supporting dual monitors.

Now that you know whether your MacBook can support dual monitors, let’s walk through how to actually set them up. This is the most straightforward way to connect two monitors with no fancy configurations, just plug in and play. 

Here’s how you do it:

Make sure your MacBook has enough Thunderbolt ports (or an HDMI port, if available) to support two displays. 

*Note: If your MacBook doesn’t have enough video output ports, you’ll need a docking station or a multi-port hub to complete the setup.

You should check what input ports your monitor supports, such as USB-C, HDMI, and DisplayPort.

Then, match your cables accordingly:

• Monitors have USB-C or Thunderbolt ports
  You only need 2 USB-C or Thunderbolt cables — one for each monitor.

Note:Make sure your USB-C Cable support DP Alt Mode|

• Monitors only have HDMI or DisplayPort inputs
  You’ll need two USB-C to HDMI or USB-C to DisplayPort cables, depending on the available inputs.

Plug each monitor’s display port directly into your MacBook.

If you’re using a BenQ monitor, make sure to connect the cable to the USB-C port labeled with a “laptop” icon. This is the correct input for receiving video from your MacBook.

If you plan to connect other devices, such as a Mac mini, Windows laptop. Please use the HDMI port on the monitor instead.

Once that’s done, you’re all set!

*Note:

• “Lightning icon” USB-C Port: Only provide data & 15W power charging only
• “Laptop icon” USB-C Port: Support DP Alt mode (Video Output), which are required for connecting your MacBook.

Now that your monitors are connected, it’s time to adjust how they work based on whether you want to mirror your display or extend your workspace across two screens.

Go to System Settings > Displays and arrange your screen layout the way you want. You can extend or mirror your display based on your workflow.

Connecting dual monitors is one of the easiest ways to boost your productivity, whether you’re managing multiple tasks, editing visuals, or coding.

Before jumping into setup, it’s important to understand what your current MacBook supports. Depending on your model, you may need a standard dual monitor setup, or the cleaner Daisy Chain method

Still have questions? Don’t worry, our BenQ SpecialistsBenQ Specialists are here to help. Feel free to reach out anytime!

1.      Can I connect dual monitors to an M1/M2/M3/M4 MacBook Air?
M1 and M2 MacBook Air only support one external display by default. M3 MacBook Air can support dual monitors only if you close the laptop lid. Only the M4 MacBook Air supports dual external monitors.

2.     I connect my MacBook with dual monitors, but only one works. What’s wrong?

Here’s what you can check:

1.       Check if your MacBook model supports dual monitors

Not all MacBooks support more than one external display. For example, MacBook Air models with M1 or M2 chips only support one monitor.

2.      Make sure you’re using a USB-C (DP Alt Mode) or Thunderbolt cable

Some cables only support charging or data. You’ll need a proper Thunderbolt or video-capable USB-C cable for monitor output.

3.      Double-check your connection ports

Confirm that you’re plugging into the correct Thunderbolt/USB-C ports on your MacBook, and into the right input ports on your monitors.

4.     Still not working?
Reach out to a BenQ Specialist. We’re happy to help you figure it out.

*MacBook, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, macOS are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.