Easy Ways to Set 2 or 3 Monitors on a Windows 10 PC

The trend of using multiple monitor systems on a single computer is becoming a necessity thanks to its ability to boost productivity in almost any work scenario. If you want to use an additional monitor, then there are some special settings that must be applied first.

And the following is a guide for setting up 2 monitors on a Windows 10 computer (and laptop).

INFO: The tutorial assumes that you are using a graphics card that supports two or more monitors and that all output comes from the graphics card. Output from different sources may require slightly more complex settings. Below is the general configuration.

#1 First, connect monitor with PC

Sounds trivial, but it’s not always the case. The monitor connector with the port on the computer is often different and requires an extra converter. Not only that, VGA type connectors usually require an ‘active converter’ capable of converting analog signals to digital on modern ports, such as HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI-D, etc.

Since there are so many different types of converters, I recommend always reading product function descriptions and reviews before buying them. Error selecting a converter can cause some features to be lost, effects appear flickeringuntil the monitor does not work at all (No Signal).

#2 Update the graphics card driver to the latest version

Turn on the computer, then you will see a rather strange screen display; looks blurry and everything seems too big. To fix this, you just need to install the latest graphics card driver. For an instant driver update process, I recommend taking a look at how to update all these Windows 10 drivers.

In addition, it’s also a good idea to update Windows 10 in case there are compatibility issues with the new drivers.

#3 Enable ‘Extend’ mode on Windows

Next, we’re going to make the other monitor appear to blend in with the main monitor. You do this by pressing the button Windows+P on the keyboard then select Extend. For a moment the monitor will turn off and on again to apply the mode.

#4 Fix the virtual monitor position

After activating the Extend mode, the monitor position usually looks out of alignment. For example, when you move the mouse pointer to one monitor, it appears from the other direction. Therefore we need to tell Windows about the actual monitor position.

See the following guide.

1. Right click on the desktop and select Display settings.
2. Click button Identify to find out the monitor number.
3. Adjust its position by clicking, then holding down the monitor number, and releasing it to the correct position.
4. Finally, click the button Apply.

#5 Set monitor resolution to native

It is possible that the primary monitor is now displaying the right image resolution, but not the secondary monitor. To enable the native resolution aka the default resolution, see the following guide.

1. Right click on the desktop and select Display settings.
2. Click on the monitor number for which you want to set the resolution.
3. On Display resolutionselect the resolution labeled ‘Recommended’.
4. It is also recommended to set Scale and layout on 100%.

Have questions about computers with dual monitors? Please write in the comments column!