If you want to use multiple monitors, check these 5 requirements first

Adding more monitors to your desk is a guaranteed productivity boost, especially if your job involves watching two things at the same time. This means that adding more monitors isn’t as simple as buying them and hooking them up.

There are several requirements that your computer must meet before you can use multiple monitors.

1 Can your computer handle multiple displays?

The first question you should ask yourself is whether your computer or laptop can handle multiple displays. This question is even more important if you use a MacBook, because depending on the model, you may only be able to use one extra display if you choose to leave the laptop display open.

Running multiple monitors means you need more display output ports on your computer unless you’re using an HDMI or DisplayPort hub. In any case, if you have a GPU, make sure it supports the resolution of the monitors you want to use and has enough display output ports to support the number of monitors you want to use.

Laptop users have it a bit trickier, as most laptops only have USB-C with DisplayPort support or an HDMI port, meaning you’re limited to just one display. You can alleviate this problem with a USB-C dock or hub, but purchasing a USB hub isn’t always easy.

Most modern GPUs should be able to support two or three monitors running at 1440p. If you don’t have a specific need, you don’t even need that many monitors. I have four and sometimes they can be overwhelming.

2 Check your ports

Even if your GPU, motherboard, or laptop has multiple display output ports, that doesn’t mean it will run on all displays. For example, if you’re trying to run a 1440p, 144Hz monitor over an HDMI 1.4 or VGA connection, you’ll be taught a very difficult (and expensive) lesson about device and connection bandwidth incompatibilities.

You need to make sure that the ports you are using support enough bandwidth to run quality modern monitors. Generally speaking, if you have HDMI 2.0 or DisplayPort 1.4 support, you should be able to use most consumer monitors on the market.

However, if your computer has older ports, I would recommend upgrading your GPU to use your new displays to their full capacity. Laptops generally have better display output ports, but if yours is really old, you’ll need to upgrade your laptop or get the right monitor.

3 What monitors do you have?

Just like the ports on your GPU or laptop, you also need to pay attention to the type of monitor you’re using. High-end monitors with higher resolutions and faster refresh rates will require more modern display protocols to operate, while budget monitors can get by. What display inputs your monitor supports will go a long way in ensuring you don’t hit a snag with your setup.

For example, I have two HDMI monitors and a VGA monitor on my desk. To run all three of these monitors from a laptop with a single HDMI output, I resorted to using several adapters. The USB-C hub I’m using has two HDMI outputs, and since my laptop supports USB-C display output, I can connect additional monitors to those ports and use three monitors alongside the laptop display at the same time.

However, the adapters you use must also support the display. The same goes for cables. If you’re using an older or incompatible HDMI cable between your computer and an HDMI 2.1-capable monitor, you won’t get the benefits of a better monitor.

Researching what ports and cables your monitors require will save you a lot of hassle on the go. If you’re recycling older monitors, chances are most cables and adapters you might have lying around will work, but it’s best to read the manual to be sure.

4 What about power requirements?

When using multiple monitors, you also need enough power to run them all. Each monitor requires power, unless you’re using portable monitors that can be operated via a single USB-C connection.

Something as simple as a powerstrip will solve this problem, but you need to make sure your desk is close to a power outlet that can provide enough power to run all the monitors you need, along with other power requirements like powering your laptop or computer. source.

This can be a bit difficult to figure out at first. But if you’re using a 16 amp or higher outlet, you should be fine. Don’t forget to buy a good quality extension cord that distributes power without shutting down under load. Alternatively, you can opt for a UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) unit for added peace of mind.

5 Take care of your table space

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Last but not least, you’ll need to store all those monitors somewhere. If you have limited desk space, I would recommend wall mounting the monitors or using a monitor arm. The monitors come with their own stands, but once you put two or more monitors on a desk with their stock stands, you’ll quickly find that you’ve run out of room for everything else, depending on how big your desk is.

A monitor arm is a better option, especially if you’re only using two displays. It offers quite a bit of adjustability and allows you to move around the monitors without having to worry about cables or being limited by the range of motion provided by the monitor stand.

Having multiple monitors can be very beneficial, but you need to plan and prepare based on the number and type of monitors you want to use. Careful planning and equipment upgrades will have you ready in no time.