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How to Turn Off Laptop Screen When Using External Monitor?

  • 19 min read

Key Takeaways:

  • Working with multiple displays provides workspace freedom and flexibility, allowing for more space to work with programs and files.
  • The built-in computer display can be a hindrance, as it continues to run even when not needed, wasting power and shortening its lifespan.
  • To keep the built-in computer display turned off while using an external display, a simple solution is to set the computer to automatically turn off its own display and transfer everything to the external display.
  • Windows computers offer the option to customize primary and secondary displays when using external displays, allowing for a choice between a single display, duplication on both built-in and external displays, or using the external display as an extension of the desktop.
  • To quickly turn off the Windows PC display while keeping the external display running, the following steps can be followed:
    1. Ensure that the Windows PC and external display are properly connected and configured.
    2. Press the Windows and P keys together (Win+P).
    3. A sidebar will appear with four display arrangement modes: PC screen only, Duplicate, Extend, and Second screen only. Select “Second screen only” to turn off the built-in PC display and transfer everything to the external display.
  • When using an external monitor with an HDMI cable, it becomes an extension of your laptop’s screen.
  • In most cases, you would only want the external screen to display the output.
  • Turning off your laptop’s screen when using HDMI can save power and preserve battery life.
  • There are two techniques to turn off the laptop screen when using HDMI in Windows 10.
    1. Power Options:
      • Access Power Options in the Control Panel settings.
      • Connect an external monitor via HDMI to the laptop.
      • Open Control Panel, click on Hardware & Sound, and choose Power Options.
      • Alternatively, right-click on the battery icon in the taskbar to access Power Options.
      • Select the option to choose what happens to the lid when it closes and choose ‘Do nothing’.
      • Save the configuration.
      • Now you can close the lid on your laptop without impacting the external monitor.
    2. Screen Resolution:
      • Access Screen Resolution in the Windows settings.
      • Go to Start, type “Settings”, and click on Display > Advanced Display Settings.
      • Connect an external display to the laptop.
      • In the Screen Resolution settings, choose which display you want to show externally.
  • It is possible to turn off the laptop screen when using an external monitor.
  • Setting up a dual monitor system with Windows 11/10 is relatively easy for both laptops and desktop computers.
  • Many people choose laptops for their portability.
  • If you have already connected an external monitor and do not need the laptop screen for your work, you can turn it off.
  • To turn off the laptop screen when using an external monitor, you can use the Project option from the Taskbar.
    • In Windows 11, click on the tiny notification icon on the bottom-right corner of the screen to open Quick Actions and select the Second screen only option.
    • In Windows 10, click on the tiny notification icon on the bottom-right corner of the screen to open Action Center. If needed, click on the Expand button to see all options. Then, click on the Project icon and select the Second screen only option.
  • Another way to turn off the laptop screen is by changing the settings in Windows Settings.
    • In Windows 11, press Win+I to open Windows Settings, go to the System tab, and click on the Display menu on the right side.
    • The steps to turn off the laptop screen when using an external monitor are the same in both Windows 11 and Windows 10.
  • Laptops have surpassed desktops in sales and are widely used for entertainment, work, and school activities.
  • Sometimes, the built-in laptop display is not enough, and users need more screen real estate.
  • Attaching an external display via HDMI or USB-C/DisplayPort is a common solution to boost productivity.
  • Many people prefer to close the laptop lid and use an external monitor for various reasons, such as having all monitors at the same height and saving desk space.
  • By default, closing the laptop lid puts it in standby mode or forces it to hibernate, which is not ideal for productivity.
  • There is a way to keep the laptop running when the lid is closed in Windows 10 or 11.
  • To do this, users can search for “Change what closing” in the Windows search bar and select the top result: “Change what closing the lid does.”
  • A System Settings menu will open, allowing users to control what happens when the lid is closed.
  • There are options to choose what happens when the laptop is running on battery power or when it’s plugged into the wall.
  • To keep the laptop running when the lid is closed, users can select “Do Nothing” from the drop-down menu next to “When I close the lid” when plugged in.
  • It is not recommended to apply this setting when the laptop is running on battery power if an external monitor or docking station is being used due to increased power usage.
  • However, users are free to do so if they desire.
  • To conserve power and increase the useful life of your display, you can turn off the built-in computer display while using an external monitor.
  • This can be done easily on most Windows operating systems, including Windows 10.
  • By customizing the display settings, you can choose to have the external monitor as the primary display or use it as an extension of the built-in display.
  • One way to turn off the built-in display is by using a keyboard shortcut.
    • Make sure both the Windows PC and the external display are connected.
    • Press the Windows key + P on your keyboard.
    • A sidebar will appear on the right side of the screen.
    • From the sidebar, select the “Second screen only” option.
  • Another way to turn off the built-in display is through the display settings.
    • Right-click on the desktop and select “Display settings” from the menu.
    • In the display settings, scroll down to the “Multiple displays” section.
    • Select the “Show only on 2” option to turn off the built-in display and use only the external monitor.
    • You can also choose other options like “Extend” or “Duplicate” depending on your preference.
  • Once you have made the selection, the built-in display will be turned off and the external monitor will be the primary display.
  • You can also close the laptop lid while using the external monitor to work in peace.
  • This way, you can work seamlessly on your files without having to constantly adjust the display settings.
  • By following these techniques, individuals can optimize their workflow, improve their viewing experience, and prolong the lifespan of their laptop screen.

Introduction

Introduction

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Turn off your laptop screen when using an external monitor. It’s easy! Just follow a few steps:

  1. Right-click the desktop and select “Display Settings” or search in Control Panel.
  2. Look for the display mode option.
  3. Among the modes, choose the one that shows only on the external monitor. This will turn off the laptop screen.

The steps may vary depending on laptop model and OS. But the concept is the same. Access the display settings and select the right display mode. Now you can use only the external monitor and turn off the laptop screen.

This method improves productivity and eliminates distractions of a dual-screen setup. Enjoy working, watching movies, or surfing the net with a single-screen display.

Benefits of using an external monitor with a laptop

Benefits of using an external monitor with a laptop

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Adding an external monitor to a laptop can provide many benefits. Firstly, the larger screen size boosts productivity and enhances viewing. Multitasking and having multiple windows open is much easier on a bigger screen. It also renders higher resolution and color accuracy for sharper images, clearer text, and vibrant visuals – perfect for tasks like graphic design, photo editing, or video production. An external monitor likewise helps with ergonomics by positioning the screen at eye level, reducing neck and eye strain.

Methods to turn off the laptop screen when using an external monitor

Methods to turn off the laptop screen when using an external monitor

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When using an external monitor, you might want to know how to turn off your laptop screen. In this section, we will explore various techniques that can help you achieve this. From utilizing power options and screen resolution settings to using command prompt and keyboard shortcuts, we’ll cover multiple methods to turn off your laptop screen. We’ll even discuss the option of using a pre-configured script for a seamless experience. So, let’s dive in and discover the most effective ways to turn off your laptop screen when using an external monitor.

Technique #1: Power Options

Power Options can be a great way to turn off your laptop screen when you use an external monitor. The power settings let you control the display output and make sure the screen stays off.

Here’s a guide to using Power Options to turn off your laptop screen:

  1. Start the Control Panel by clicking the Start menu and selecting Control Panel.
  2. Go to the Power Options section in the Control Panel.
  3. Choose a plan labeled “Balanced” or “High Performance”.
  4. Click “Change plan settings” next to it.
  5. In the new window, you can adjust the settings for turning off the display. Change them to fit your preferences.
  6. Once done, click “Save changes” to apply them.

Customizing your laptop’s power settings is key to managing the screen when an external monitor is used.

Note: These steps may vary depending on your OS and Windows version.

Finally, it’s important to find the right match for screen resolution when it comes to laptops and external monitors.

Technique #2: Screen Resolution

Screen Resolution is an awesome technique to turn off your laptop screen when using an external monitor. By adjusting the settings, you can effectively disable the display on your laptop and still work on the external monitor. It’s a simple and straightforward solution! Here’s a 3-step guide to do it:

  1. Access the display settings: Right-click on desktop and select “Display settings”.
  2. Adjust screen resolution: Select a lower resolution than your laptop’s display in the drop-down menu found in the Display settings window. Choose a resolution close to your external monitor’s native resolution for optimal performance.
  3. Apply changes and confirm: Click the “Apply” button. A prompt will ask if you want to keep these changes. Select “Keep Changes” or wait until the countdown timer ends.

Adjusting the screen resolution may affect how content appears on both monitors. Some applications may not scale properly or may appear stretched or distorted. Other settings such as refresh rate or color calibration may be affected too. Test and adjust various resolutions until you find one that suits your needs and maintains optimal visuals.

Other than adjusting screen resolution, there are other techniques available for turning off the laptop screen. Explore them and choose the one that fits your preferences and workflow.

Oh, and for the tech-savvy, you can turn off your laptop screen with a few lines of code using the Command Prompt. How cool is that?!

Technique #3: Command Prompt

Text: Command Prompt, also called technique #3, is a method to turn off the laptop screen when using an external monitor. It enables users to control and customize their screen display settings with the command line interface.

To start, press Windows key + R, type in “cmd“, and press Enter. Once the Command Prompt window appears, type in “control desk.cpl” and press Enter. This will open the Display Settings window. Then, go to the “Multiple displays” section.

In the Display Settings window, you’ll find the option to “Show only on 1” (replace 1 with your external monitor’s number or name). Select it and click Apply, then click OK to save the changes. This will turn off your laptop screen and leave your external monitor on.

The Command Prompt technique offers more control and customization options than other methods. It needs basic knowledge of the Command Prompt, but it’s worth it.

Technique #4: Keyboard Shortcuts

Harnessing keyboard shortcuts can be a great way to turn off the laptop screen when using an external monitor. Simply press the Windows key + P together for a sidebar to appear on the right side of the screen with projection options. Use the arrow keys to focus on “Second Screen Only” or “Disconnect Projector,” then press Enter. The laptop screen will turn off, and the display will shift to the external monitor. To re-enable the laptop screen, press Windows key + P again, navigate to “PC Screen Only,” and press Enter.

It’s worth noting that some laptops may have different key combinations. To avoid any problems, consult your specific device’s user manual or look for keyboard shortcuts tailored to your laptop model.

Mastering technique #4: keyboard shortcuts can give users more control over their display configuration, allowing them to quickly adapt their workspace and increase productivity with an external monitor.

Technique #5: Use a Pre-Configured Script

  1. Using a pre-configured script is an efficient way to turn off the laptop screen when using an external monitor.
  2. To do this, find a suitable script online or in computer forums.
  3. Download it onto your computer and save it in an easily accessible location.
  4. Open the script with a text editor like Notepad.
  5. Review the code, make changes and close the text editor.
  6. Finally, run the script by double-clicking on the file.

It is important to note that scripting knowledge and understanding is necessary for this. If you are not familiar with scripting, get help from someone experienced in this area.

Using a pre-configured script is convenient and efficient for managing display setup. It eliminates the need for manual adjustments every time you connect an external monitor.

Using the Project option from the Taskbar

Using the Project option from the Taskbar

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The Taskbar’s Project option is a great feature that helps you easily switch off your laptop’s screen when using an external monitor. This makes it easier to arrange your display, and save energy at the same time.

To use it:

  1. Connect the external monitor to your laptop with the right cable.
  2. Right-click an empty space on the Taskbar.
  3. Pick ‘Project’ from the menu.
  4. Select ‘Second screen only’ to switch off your laptop’s display and show only the external monitor.
  5. To switch back, follow steps 2 & 3, then pick ‘Extend’ or ‘Duplicate’.

Using the Project option from the Taskbar lets you quickly switch between the laptop and external monitor without navigating complicated settings. However, the steps may differ depending on your OS and hardware.

Bottom line: the Project option from the Taskbar lets you switch off your laptop’s screen easily when using an external monitor. Follow this guide, and you’ll be able to arrange your display more efficiently.

Using the Project option from the Action Center

Using the Project option from the Action Center

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  1. To turn off your laptop’s screen while using an external monitor, access the Project option from the Action Center. This is great for those who want to work with a bigger display or present with a projector. Here’s how:
  2. Step 1: Press Windows key + A. This opens the Action Center on the right side of the taskbar.
  3. Step 2: Click on the Project button. This shows a menu with different projection options.
  4. Step 3: Select “Second screen only.” This will disable the laptop screen and show content only on your external monitor or projector.

By doing this you can enjoy a better viewing experience or present with ease. Note that the Project option also offers other projection modes – like “Duplicate” and “Extend” – which allow you to use both the laptop screen and the external monitor together. But if you want to use only the external monitor, choose the “Second screen only” option.

Changing settings in Windows Settings

Changing settings in Windows Settings

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Changing Windows Settings is essential for customizing your laptop screen when an external monitor is connected. You can easily adjust display options to fit your needs and get the best user experience.

In the Windows Settings, you’ll find various settings for modifying laptop screen when hooked up to an external monitor. Options include full control of display configuration, resolution, and orientation. Use the intuitive menus to switch between display modes, extend or duplicate your screen, and adjust scaling so content appears perfect on both laptop and monitor.

Advanced settings are also available to refine display preferences. Color calibration lets you adjust color accuracy and contrast. Night light settings reduce blue light emitted by screens, which creates a more relaxed viewing experience, especially when using at night.

Explore Windows Settings to make sure laptop and external monitor work together. This increases productivity and gives an optimal visual experience.

Keeping the laptop running when the lid is closed

Keeping the laptop running when the lid is closed

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Make your laptop run without having to open its lid! Here’s a 6-step guide:

  1. Connect the external monitor using a cable or adapter. Both the laptop and monitor must be off.
  2. Turn on the laptop and the monitor. Set the external monitor as the primary display in the laptop’s display settings.
  3. In laptop’s power settings, customize the behavior when the lid is closed. Set the option to “Do nothing” or “Stay on”.
  4. Close the laptop lid. The laptop screen will turn off, but it will still run.
  5. Work on the external monitor. All applications and processes will continue to run.
  6. Reopen the laptop lid if direct access is needed. The laptop screen will turn on.

Refer to laptop’s user manual or manufacturer’s website if needed. Now you can work with the laptop lid closed!

Conclusion

Conclusion

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To wrap up, turning off your laptop screen can hugely improve your efficiency and experience. By following the steps here, you can deactivate your laptop screen and make the external monitor your main display. Or, try keyboard shortcuts or changing your laptop power settings.

Note: these steps may differ based on your OS and laptop, so check your user manual or the manufacturer’s website for precise steps.

By using these techniques, you can get the most out of your external monitor and streamline your workflow.

Five Facts About How to Turn Off Laptop Screen When Using External Monitor:

  • ✅ Working with multiple displays provides workspace freedom and flexibility, allowing for more space to work with programs and files. (Source: https://www.netbooknews.com/tips/turn-off-laptop-screen-when-using-external-monitor/)
  • ✅ Turning off the built-in laptop display while using an external monitor can save power and prolong the lifespan of the laptop’s display. (Source: https://www.netbooknews.com/tips/turn-off-laptop-screen-when-using-external-monitor/)
  • ✅ Windows computers offer the option to customize primary and secondary displays when using external displays, allowing for a choice between a single display, duplication on both built-in and external displays, or using the external display as an extension of the desktop. (Source: https://www.netbooknews.com/tips/turn-off-laptop-screen-when-using-external-monitor/)
  • ✅ There are multiple techniques to turn off the laptop screen when using an external monitor in Windows 10/11, including using the Project option from the Taskbar and changing the settings in Windows Settings. (Source: https://www.thewindowsclub.com/turn-off-laptop-screen-when-using-external-monitor, https://www.tomshardware.com/how-to/close-laptop-use-external-monitor)
  • ✅ It is possible to keep the laptop running when the lid is closed in Windows 10/11 by selecting “Do Nothing” from the lid closing settings menu, but it is not recommended when running on battery power due to increased power usage. (Source: https://www.tomshardware.com/how-to/close-laptop-use-external-monitor)

FAQs about How To Turn Off Laptop Screen When Using External Monitor?

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How do I turn off the laptop screen when using an external monitor?
– Windows Computer: Press the Windows and P keys together (Win+P), and select “Second screen only” from the sidebar.
– Mac Computer: Connect an external keyboard and mouse, close the lid, and connect the external display.
Then, press any key on the keyboard to turn off the laptop screen.

2. Can I turn off the laptop screen while using HDMI?
– Yes, you can. In Windows 10, you can use the Power Options or Screen Resolution settings to turn off the laptop screen while using HDMI.

3. How do I use the Project option to turn off the laptop screen?
– Windows 11: Click on the tiny notification icon on the bottom-right corner of the screen,
select “Second screen only” from Quick Actions.
– Windows 10: Click on the tiny notification icon on the bottom-right corner of the screen,
open Action Center, click on the Project icon, and select “Second screen only”.

4. Can I turn off the laptop screen and use an external monitor with a Macbook?
– Yes, you can. Simply connect an external display, close the lid, and connect an external keyboard and mouse.
The Macbook will enter clamshell mode and you can use only the external monitor.

5. How do I enable clamshell mode on a Macbook?
– Connect an external display, close the lid, and connect an external keyboard and mouse.
Make sure the Macbook is powered on and running. The Macbook will enter clamshell mode automatically.

6. Is it possible to keep the laptop running when the lid is closed?
– Yes, you can adjust the settings in Windows 10 or 11 to keep the laptop running when the lid is closed.
Open the “Change what closing the lid does” menu in System Settings and select “Do nothing” when plugged in.

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