How to Keep Your Laptop Closed and Use a Monitor

Using your laptop with an external monitor while keeping it closed can save space and improve your workspace ergonomics. Here’s how to do it:

1. Connect Your Monitor: Plug your monitor into your laptop using the appropriate cable (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, etc.).
2. Adjust Power Settings (Windows): Go to Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Power Options > Choose what closing the lid does. Set it to “Do nothing” when the lid is closed.
3. Adjust Power Settings (Mac): Connect your MacBook to a power source and external keyboard/mouse. Close the lid, and your MacBook will switch to the external monitor.
4. Arrange Displays: On both Windows and Mac, go to Display settings to arrange your displays and set the external monitor as the primary display.

This setup allows you to use your laptop as a desktop replacement efficiently.