It's not typically possible to directly display one laptop's screen on itself without external hardware and software solutions, because a laptop screen functions primarily as an output device. To achieve something similar, you essentially need to turn one laptop into an input for the other. Here's how you can do it:
Methods to Display One Laptop's Screen on Another
These methods essentially treat one laptop as a monitor for the other.
1. Using a Video Capture Device
A video capture device is the most straightforward way to display one laptop's screen on another.
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What it is: This device captures the HDMI output from one laptop and feeds it into the other via USB.
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How it works:
- HDMI Cables: You'll need an HDMI cable to connect the output laptop to the video capture device.
- Connect Cables: Plug one end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI output port of the laptop you want to display (the "source" laptop). Plug the other end into the HDMI input of your video capture device.
- Connect to Target Laptop: Connect the video capture device to the other laptop (the "target" laptop) via USB.
- Software Installation: You'll likely need to install software provided by the video capture device manufacturer on the target laptop. This software allows you to view the video feed from the capture device. Common software options include OBS Studio or the software provided by the capture card manufacturer.
- Launch Software: Open the software and select the video capture device as the input source.
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Considerations: Video capture devices can range in price and quality. Some offer higher resolutions and frame rates than others. Be sure to check compatibility and system requirements.
2. Remote Desktop Software (Not a True Display, But Similar Functionality)
While not directly displaying the screen, remote desktop software can achieve a similar result by allowing you to control one laptop from another.
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What it is: Software that allows you to access and control a computer remotely.
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Examples: TeamViewer, Microsoft Remote Desktop, Chrome Remote Desktop.
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How it works:
- Install Software: Install remote desktop software on both laptops.
- Configure Settings: Configure the software on the laptop you want to control (the "source" laptop) to allow remote access.
- Connect: On the other laptop (the "target" laptop), use the remote desktop software to connect to the source laptop. You'll likely need the source laptop's IP address or account credentials.
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Considerations: This method relies on a network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet). Performance can vary depending on the network speed and software used. It's primarily for controlling the remote laptop, not displaying graphically intensive applications seamlessly.
3. Using an HDMI to USB adapter (less recommended and may not work)
While technically possible, this method is often less reliable.
- What it is: An adapter that converts an HDMI signal to USB.
- Why it might not work: Laptops HDMI ports are usually output only. This is not a reliable method.
Important Considerations
- Laptop HDMI Ports: Most laptop HDMI ports are designed for output only. This means they are intended to send video signals from the laptop to an external display, not receive them.
- Latency: Using a video capture device or remote desktop software introduces latency (delay). The amount of latency depends on the hardware, software, and network connection. This can be problematic for real-time applications like gaming.
- Compatibility: Ensure your chosen method and devices are compatible with both laptops' operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux).
- Performance: The performance of the target laptop may be affected when displaying another laptop's screen.
