How do I connect a MacBook to a monitor?

Last checked November 14, 2026

Short answer

Most MacBooks from 2016 on have USB-C (Thunderbolt) ports, so use a USB-C to HDMI or USB-C to DisplayPort adapter to match your monitor. 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pros from 2021 on also have an HDMI port, and older MacBooks used Mini DisplayPort.

Find your port, get the right part

Look at the side or back of your device and pick the one that matches.

If you have: USB-C or Thunderbolt, monitor has HDMI

MacBook Air and most MacBook Pros from 2016 on

ComputerUSB-C
adapter
TVHDMI

USB-C to HDMI adapter

Your laptop's USB-C port carries video and your screen takes HDMI, so a plain adapter does the job.

See the Belkin USB-C to HDMI + Charge Adapter (4K) on Amazon

If you have: USB-C or Thunderbolt, monitor has DisplayPort

Common on PC monitors and higher refresh rates

ComputerUSB-C
adapter
MonitorDisplayPort

USB-C to DisplayPort adapter

Your laptop's USB-C port carries video and your monitor takes DisplayPort, so a direct adapter fits.

See the Belkin USB-C to DisplayPort 1.4 Cable (2 m) on Amazon

If you have: HDMI port on the MacBook

14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro from 2021 on, and some 2012 to 2015 Pros

ComputerHDMI
cable
TVHDMI

HDMI cable

Both ends are HDMI, so a standard HDMI cable connects them.

See the Belkin 8K HDMI 2.1 Cable (2 m) on Amazon

If you have: Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt 2

MacBooks from 2015 and older (some Airs to 2017)

ComputerMini DisplayPort
adapter
TVHDMI

Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapter

Your computer's Mini DisplayPort (or Thunderbolt 1 or 2) port outputs video and your screen takes HDMI.

See the Belkin Mini DisplayPort to HDMI Adapter on Amazon

How to connect it

  1. Check your MacBook's ports and the monitor's ports, then get the matching part.
  2. Connect the MacBook to the monitor and switch the monitor to that input.
  3. Open System Settings, then Displays, to arrange the screens or turn mirroring on or off.

Check this first

  • MacBooks with a base M1 or M2 chip support one external screen; a base M3 MacBook Air supports two only with its lid closed. Check Apple's specs for yours before buying a second monitor.
  • If the monitor has a USB-C port that carries video, a single USB-C cable that lists video can be all you need.

Questions people ask

Can I use two monitors with my MacBook?

Macs with Pro or Max chips can drive several screens directly. Base-chip MacBooks are limited, so they need a DisplayLink dock for a second external screen.

Does the adapter charge my MacBook too?

Only if it has a charging (power pass-through) port. Many USB-C to HDMI adapters do; check the listing.

Not sure which port you have?

Take a photo of it, or tap through the finder, and we will tell you.

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