While working from home, it can be easy to miss the larger monitors in the office. Smaller screens can potentially lead to eye strain or decreased productivity for those used to dual or larger screens. Need to know how to connect Dell monitors to MacBook Pro laptops? We have everything you need to know down below.
As a rule, it is possible to connect a Dell monitor to MacBook Pro laptops, or any other laptop, provided that the ports match and you have the correct cable. For example, MacBook Pros have two or three thunderbolt USB-C ports and an HDMI port. Dell monitors typically have USB, HDMI, or VGA ports and usually come with an HDMI cable. If you need an adapter, you can pick one up from Apple or Amazon.
But why connect the two? Connecting your MacBook Pro to an external monitor can provide you with two screens to work or stream content. This can increase your productivity or enhance your downtime. Alternatively, just having a larger screen can help you read digital text and view images without straining your eyes.
How To Connect Dell Monitor To MacBook Pro?
Connect Using HDMI
Here are some tips on how to connect Dell monitors to MacBook Pros via HDMI.
Materials:
- 1Ensure that you have your monitor and laptop shut down and unplugged.
- 2Connect each end of your HDMI cable to the HDMI port in the back of the monitor and side of the MacBook.
- 3Plug both the laptop and monitor into the nearest outlet and turn them on.
- 4Go to settings and adjust your system preferences to either mirror, extend, or dual your display.
This is the simplest way to connect your laptop and monitor for optimal work and play. If you need to connect two Dell monitors to your MacBook Pro, purchase an HDMI dual monitor adapter with a USB-C input that works for Mac.
Connect Using USB-C
Here is the simplest way to connect Dell monitors to a MacBook Pro via USB-C:
Materials:
- 1Ensure that you have your monitor and laptop shut down and unplugged.
- 2Connect your HDMI cable to the matching port in the adapter and the monitor.
- 3Plug the USB-C end into the MacBook’s port.
- 4Plug both the laptop and monitor into the nearest outlet and turn them on.
- 5Go to settings and adjust your system preferences to either mirror, extend, or dual your display.
If you have a VGA port, the steps will be similar but with a VGA to HDMI or USB-C port converter.
Changing Settings Of MacBook Pro To Work With Dell Monitor
There are a few ways to change your MacBook Pro settings to work with your monitor. Typically, you will either want to mirror or extend your display or set up a dual system. To video mirror your laptop’s display onto the monitor, pressing the F7 key should do the trick.
Alternatively, you can go into System Preferences>Displays and move the boxes around until you are happy with your setup. If you want to extend your display, go to System Preferences>Display>Arrangement>Extended Desktop or Mirror Display.
No matter your preferences, you should be able to switch your setup around as you find what works best for you.
Why Is My Dell Monitor Not Detected On MacBook Pro?
There are a few common reasons your MacBook Pro and Dell monitor might not detect each other.
Common Dell To MacBook Pro Questions
Which monitors are compatible with MacBook Pro?
As we briefly mentioned, you should be able to connect most monitors with a MacBook Pro provided you have the right tech on hand. Purchasing anything you do not have should be easy – follow our steps above to get started.
What is a DP cable for Dell monitors?
A DP cable, also known as a DisplayPort cable, is a cable designed to work with a DisplayPort to connect displays and monitors to a source device. This system was designed as a follow-up to VGA and DVI ports.
Conclusion
Following our tips above, you can feel confident in knowing how to connect a MacBook Pro to Dell monitors. Once you are done, work and play will be even better with this improved setup and multiple display options.
Andrew White is the founder of TechGearoid, a leading technology review & information website that is designed to help consumers make better decisions when it comes to their IT purchases. As a specialist tech writer (nerd) with over 10 years of experience, he enjoys writing about everything there is to do with modern technology & the newest market innovations. When he isn’t providing value for his readers, he’s usually drinking coffee or at the beach. Andrew lives in Sydney, Australia with his wife and family.