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To connect a new monitor, match a video output on your computer to an input on the monitor, connect the monitor to power, and attach the video cable. Select the monitor’s matching input if it does not show a picture, then choose whether to mirror or extend your desktop in your computer’s display settings.
1. Check the ports before connecting anything
Look at the video ports on the laptop or desktop and the inputs on the monitor. Common options are HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, VGA, and USB-C. Connect matching ports with the appropriate cable; if the connectors differ, use an adapter designed to connect the computer’s output to the monitor’s input.
For example, a computer with HDMI output and a monitor with HDMI input can usually connect directly with an HDMI cable. A USB-C-to-HDMI adapter is an option only if the computer’s USB-C port supports video output and the monitor has HDMI input. A USB-C plug’s shape alone does not confirm video support: Microsoft says the computer, display, and cable must support the relevant alternate mode, and Google cautions that a USB-C cable may not have enough capability for a display or dock. Check the specifications for the specific computer port and cable before buying an adapter or dock (Microsoft’s monitor guidance; Google’s Chromebook display guidance; Google’s cable guidance).
When comparing a cable, adapter, hub, or dock, check the connector types, video support on the computer port, and whether the accessory supports the resolution and refresh rate you want. If you need multiple external displays, verify that the computer supports that number at your intended settings. Do not assume a generic USB-C cable or dock will work with every computer.
#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
2. Connect the monitor and select its input
- Connect the monitor to a power outlet and switch it on.
- Connect the video cable to the computer and monitor. Add a compatible adapter if the ports do not match.
- If the screen is blank, use the monitor’s Input or Source control to select the port used by the cable, such as HDMI or DisplayPort.
For a Mac, Apple says a properly connected display should be detected automatically. Use an adapter if the Mac does not have the port required by the cable (Apple’s external display guidance).
3. Choose how the screens should work
Windows: duplicate or extend
Press Windows key + P to open the projection choices:
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
- Duplicate: show the same image on both screens.
- Extend: use the monitor as additional desktop space, so you can move windows between screens.
- PC screen only: use the computer’s built-in display.
- Second screen only: use the external monitor.
For more options, open Settings > System > Display. From there, arrange screens, adjust display options, or use the detect control if the monitor is not listed (Microsoft’s Windows display instructions). Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025; its display guidance still describes these controls, but Windows 10 is no longer a supported operating system.
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Mac: configure connected displays
Open Apple menu > System Settings > Displays to adjust resolution, refresh rate, and arrangement. The external display count supported depends on the particular Mac model and the resolution and refresh rate in use, so check the specifications for that model. Some options for a non-Apple monitor may be available only through the monitor’s own controls (Apple’s external display guidance).
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.
Chromebook: configure the external display
Open Settings > Device > Displays to configure the connected monitor, including mirroring, resolution, and refresh rate. Chromebooks may connect over HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, VGA, or USB-C; use an adapter if needed and check that any USB-C cable is capable of supporting the display (Google’s Chromebook display guidance).
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.4. Arrange and tune the display
In the computer’s display settings, position the on-screen rectangles to match where the screens sit on your desk. This makes the pointer move in the expected direction when you move it between displays. Choose a resolution and refresh rate supported by the computer, monitor, cable, and any adapter or dock. The available options and maximums vary with the specific hardware; if a preferred setting is missing, check each component’s specifications.
Quick 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
If the monitor says “No signal” or stays blank
- Confirm the monitor is plugged into power and switched on.
- Use the monitor’s Input or Source control to select the port where the cable is connected.
- Reseat the cable and adapter at both ends. Confirm the adapter is intended for the connection direction and video types in your setup.
- If using USB-C, verify that the computer port supports video output and that the cable supports the display connection.
- Open the operating system’s display settings and use its detect or display-selection controls.
- If the monitor works but offers limited resolution or refresh rate, check the specifications of the computer, monitor, cable, and adapter or dock, then choose a supported setting.
- If connecting more than one external display, check the computer model’s supported display count for the resolution and refresh-rate combination you plan to use.
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