In the era of remote work and multitasking, having more screen space is no longer a luxury it's a productivity powerhouse. If you've ever asked, "Can I use my Mac as a second monitor for my PC?" the answer is yes. And it’s easier than you might expect.
Whether you're dusting off an old MacBook or repurposing your iMac, turning your Mac into a second display can save you money and optimize your workspace. As someone who manages multiple projects daily, I’ve experienced firsthand how this setup can transform your workflow.
Method 1: The Easiest Way — Using DeskIn
If you’re looking for a plug-and-play solution, DeskIn is your best bet. It’s a cross-platform application that lets you extend or mirror your PC display onto your Mac wirelessly — with virtually no lag.
👍 Why DeskIn is a Game-Changer:
✅ Cross-platform: Works seamlessly between Windows and macOS
✅ Wireless: No cables needed — just connect both devices to the same network
✅ Low latency: Smooth, responsive experience with minimal delay
A 2023 study showed that dual-monitor setups can increase productivity by up to 42%. DeskIn lets you unlock those gains — without buying extra hardware.
How to Use DeskIn: Step-by-Step Tutorial
Step 1: Install DeskIn on Both Devices
On your PC:
Click here to download DeskIn , make sure you choose the Windows version
Follow the installation wizard
Launch DeskIn and log in or create a free account
On your Mac:
Download the Mac version of DeskIn from the same site
Install and open the app
Log in using the same account
Step 2: Connect Your Devices
Ensure both devices are connected to the internet
On your Mac, go to "Screen Mgt" in DeskIn
Click mirror my screen or extend my screen
Your PC will appear in the list — click to connect
Accept the connection request on your Mac
Step 3: Configure Display Settings
Choose between "Mirror Screen" or "Extend Screen"
Choose your screen size, resolution, and frame rate
Adjust picture quality as needed
👀 You may also like to read:
Method 2: Wired Connection (HDMI/Adapter Solutions)
Prefer a physical connection? While most Macs don’t support HDMI input directly, there are workarounds using adapters like USB-C to HDMI or VGA to HDMI.
Before You Begin:
Identify the ports on your Mac and PC
Use the appropriate adapters (MacBooks may require a USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter)
👉 How to Set It Up:
Plug the HDMI/adapter into your PC
Connect the other end to your MacBook
Enable screen sharing on your Windows PC
Note: Not all Macs support HDMI input, so this method may be limited based on your model. It's most feasible with a Mac Mini, and trickier with MacBook or iMac without third-party software.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best tools, hiccups can happen. Here’s how to fix the most common problems:
Can't Connect?
Double-check Wi-Fi connection on both devices
Temporarily disable firewall or antivirus software
Restart both the DeskIn app and your devices
Make sure DeskIn is up-to-date
Lag or Delay?
Ensure a strong Wi-Fi signal
Close bandwidth-heavy apps like video calls or downloads
Lower display quality settings in DeskIn
Consider switching to a wired connection
Display Looks Off?
Check your Mac’s native resolution
Adjust scaling in both DeskIn and Windows display settings
Try using Mac in clamshell mode (MacBook lid closed with external keyboard/mouse)
Conclusion: Boost Productivity with the Setup You Already Own
Turning your Mac into a second monitor for your PC isn’t just a clever workaround. It’s a practical, budget-friendly way to increase your productivity and make the most of the devices you already have. With tools like DeskIn, setting up a dual-screen workspace becomes fast and accessible, even for those with minimal technical experience.
Whether you're working on creative projects, managing spreadsheets, or simply trying to reduce window-switching fatigue, extending your display can significantly improve your workflow. So instead of letting that Mac gather dust, turn it into a powerful extension of your workspace and enjoy a smoother, more efficient daily routine.
Take Action Now: Head to DeskIn.io, download the app, and give your workspace the dual-screen upgrade it deserves. Your future productive self will thank you.
In the era of remote work and multitasking, having more screen space is no longer a luxury it's a productivity powerhouse. If you've ever asked, "Can I use my Mac as a second monitor for my PC?" the answer is yes. And it’s easier than you might expect.
Whether you're dusting off an old MacBook or repurposing your iMac, turning your Mac into a second display can save you money and optimize your workspace. As someone who manages multiple projects daily, I’ve experienced firsthand how this setup can transform your workflow.
Method 1: The Easiest Way — Using DeskIn
If you’re looking for a plug-and-play solution, DeskIn is your best bet. It’s a cross-platform application that lets you extend or mirror your PC display onto your Mac wirelessly — with virtually no lag.
👍 Why DeskIn is a Game-Changer:
✅ Cross-platform: Works seamlessly between Windows and macOS
✅ Wireless: No cables needed — just connect both devices to the same network
✅ Low latency: Smooth, responsive experience with minimal delay
A 2023 study showed that dual-monitor setups can increase productivity by up to 42%. DeskIn lets you unlock those gains — without buying extra hardware.
How to Use DeskIn: Step-by-Step Tutorial
Step 1: Install DeskIn on Both Devices
On your PC:
Click here to download DeskIn , make sure you choose the Windows version
Follow the installation wizard
Launch DeskIn and log in or create a free account
On your Mac:
Download the Mac version of DeskIn from the same site
Install and open the app
Log in using the same account
Step 2: Connect Your Devices
Ensure both devices are connected to the internet
On your Mac, go to "Screen Mgt" in DeskIn
Click mirror my screen or extend my screen
Your PC will appear in the list — click to connect
Accept the connection request on your Mac
Step 3: Configure Display Settings
Choose between "Mirror Screen" or "Extend Screen"
Choose your screen size, resolution, and frame rate
Adjust picture quality as needed
👀 You may also like to read:
Method 2: Wired Connection (HDMI/Adapter Solutions)
Prefer a physical connection? While most Macs don’t support HDMI input directly, there are workarounds using adapters like USB-C to HDMI or VGA to HDMI.
Before You Begin:
Identify the ports on your Mac and PC
Use the appropriate adapters (MacBooks may require a USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter)
👉 How to Set It Up:
Plug the HDMI/adapter into your PC
Connect the other end to your MacBook
Enable screen sharing on your Windows PC
Note: Not all Macs support HDMI input, so this method may be limited based on your model. It's most feasible with a Mac Mini, and trickier with MacBook or iMac without third-party software.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best tools, hiccups can happen. Here’s how to fix the most common problems:
Can't Connect?
Double-check Wi-Fi connection on both devices
Temporarily disable firewall or antivirus software
Restart both the DeskIn app and your devices
Make sure DeskIn is up-to-date
Lag or Delay?
Ensure a strong Wi-Fi signal
Close bandwidth-heavy apps like video calls or downloads
Lower display quality settings in DeskIn
Consider switching to a wired connection
Display Looks Off?
Check your Mac’s native resolution
Adjust scaling in both DeskIn and Windows display settings
Try using Mac in clamshell mode (MacBook lid closed with external keyboard/mouse)
Conclusion: Boost Productivity with the Setup You Already Own
Turning your Mac into a second monitor for your PC isn’t just a clever workaround. It’s a practical, budget-friendly way to increase your productivity and make the most of the devices you already have. With tools like DeskIn, setting up a dual-screen workspace becomes fast and accessible, even for those with minimal technical experience.
Whether you're working on creative projects, managing spreadsheets, or simply trying to reduce window-switching fatigue, extending your display can significantly improve your workflow. So instead of letting that Mac gather dust, turn it into a powerful extension of your workspace and enjoy a smoother, more efficient daily routine.
Take Action Now: Head to DeskIn.io, download the app, and give your workspace the dual-screen upgrade it deserves. Your future productive self will thank you.
