When it comes to working while on the road, laptops are the ideal choice. However, let’s be honest: there are instances when you just need a larger screen. Knowing how to make the most of your extra monitor is a smart idea, regardless of whether you require a desktop replacement configuration or just need more screen space for business or pleasure.

It doesn’t take much work to have a MacBook or laptop that can be rapidly transformed into a desktop. Do you want to utilize the display instead of your laptop’s lid? To get your laptop to work properly with the setup, you will need to do a few actions.

To begin with, you will need a keyboard, mouse, and monitor. Additionally, you’ll need a cable that can link the monitor to the display output on your laptop. You may wish to purchase a USB hub or dock for your setup if your laptop’s ports are insufficient or if you want a neater docking experience. We’ve created this tutorial to assist you set up your workstation so you can utilize the display and shut your laptop.

How to turn off a Windows laptop so that you may utilize the screen

If you want to use a Windows laptop with the lid closed, you will need to adjust some settings. To utilize the display and shut the lid of your Windows laptop, follow these instructions.

1. Use Windows search to find the Control Panel and open it. In the left pane, choose “Choose what closing the lid does” after selecting Hardware and Sound > Power Options. To access the settings straight away, you may also search for this option in Windows search.

Power choices panel in the Windows Control Panel
Even with Windows 11, several of the important settings are still available in the Control Panel.
Palash Volvoikar/2 screenshot. Select the drop-down menus next to The battery is turned on and plugged in when I shut the cover. For both, choose Do nothing.

Windows Control Panel choices for sleep and lids
Unless these settings are altered, Windows laptops go into sleep mode when the lid is closed.
Palash Volvoikar/3 screenshot. To apply your updated lid settings, click Save changes.

4. Attach your external keyboard and mouse to your laptop’s appropriate ports or to a USB hub or dock. You may also use a USB dongle or Bluetooth settings to connect a wireless keyboard and mouse, depending on your hardware.

5. Attach your external monitor to a USB hub or dock or to the appropriate display output connection on your laptop.

6. Shut the lid and use your keyboard and mouse on the display.

7. Go to Settings > System > Display to modify the resolution, refresh rate, and display scaling of your monitor if they seem odd after you close the lid. It’s possible that certain options are in Advanced display.

The Windows display settings window
To suit your tastes, you may wish to adjust the display scale settings.
Palash Volvoikar/CNET screenshot

How to utilize the display when closing a MacBook

MacOS and Windows behave somewhat differently when it comes to displays. You may leave your lid settings alone. Your MacBook must be plugged in, however, otherwise it will probably go into sleep mode when you shut the lid.

1. Connect your MacBook to the power adapter.

2. Attach your external keyboard and mouse to your MacBook’s appropriate ports or to a USB hub or dock that is connected. Connect the USB dongle or configure the devices using Bluetooth settings if you have a wireless keyboard and mouse.

3. Attach your external monitor to your MacBook or attached USB hub or dock via the HDMI or USB-C Thunderbolt connector (or another suitable display output port).

4. Close the lid after the external monitor displays your MacBook’s desktop.

5. Press a key on the keyboard and use the mouse to wake your Mac if the macOS desktop is not visible on your display.

6. Apple advises adjusting display settings as well. Select System Settings (or System Preferences) by clicking the Apple menu in the upper-right corner of the screen, then select Displays. Here, you may change the refresh rate, display resolution, and other settings.

On macOS, display settings appear
The macOS Display options allow you to change the resolution, refresh rate, and other aspects.
Palash Volvoikar/CNET screenshot

Keeping the lid closed when using a laptop at your desk

There are a few things to consider even if using a laptop with the lid closed is a fantastic method to get the most out of it. To avoid having to plug in every device each time you connect your laptop, it’s a smart idea to get a USB hub or dock if you often use your MacBook or laptop with the lid closed.

Furthermore, a laptop may overheat if you use it with the lid closed. Make sure your laptop is situated correctly with enough space for air circulation and keep an eye on the temperature. If you use your laptop for extended periods of time, it can be best to leave the lid open.

Check out our list of the top home office necessities if you want to maximize the functionality of your desk arrangement. We also have a list of the greatest desks available, including the best-selling desks on the market, if you’d want to upgrade your workspace.