Apple’s range of MacBooks that use the company’s own Silicon M1 or M2 processors cannot natively connect more than one external monitor, which is a massive limitation on the previous Intel-based generation of Mac laptops that could run two displays when connected to a USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 docking station or hub.
Multi-display support is available on the M1 Pro & M1 Max Mac laptops.
We had hoped that M2 would lose its M1 limitation. However, it continues to use plain M2; M2 Pro, M2 Max, and M2 Max will support more displays as their M1 sibling.
M1 MacBook Air: Limit one external display
M2 MacBook Air: One external display is allowed
M1 MacBook Pro: One external display is allowed
M2 MacBook Pro: Limit one external display
M1 Pro MacBook ProMaximum two external displays
M1 Max MacBook ProMaximum three external displays
There are however ways to circumvent this M1/M2 limitation. You can run two external displays from an M1/M2 MacBook. We will explain these options here. There’s a software driver plus dock workaround and a hub/adapter workaround.
There are risks associated with the software workaround. You will need to install third-party drivers. These drivers might not be supported by future macOS updates. Additionally, you will probably need at least one adapter where previously, a dock with a display cable per external monitor would have sufficed.
The hardware solution is a dual-HDMI connector that will require some tweaking in System Preferences during setup.
If you waited for Apple’s latest 14in or 16in M1 Pro MacBook Pro M1 Max MacBook ProThese laptops support multiple external displays, so you’re in luck. MacBooks with M1 Pro laptops can connect to up two external displays of up to 6K resolution at 60Hz. MacBooks with M1 Max laptops can connect to three external monitors with up 6K resolution and one external monitor with 4K resolution at 60Hz. MacBooks with M1 Max laptops can connect to four external displays with up 6K resolution. MacBooks with M1 Max have the option to connect up to three external displays up to 6K at 60Hz. MacBooks with M1 Max laptops can connect to three external monitors with upto 6K resolution, as well as well as an external display with 4K at up to 60Hz.
Save money for the new MacBook Pro for M1/M2 users. Read on.
External displays: a problem for M1 & M2 Macs
Apple’s Mac mini, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro 13in were the first Macs to feature the Apple-designed M1 CPU. These Macs received praise for their speed improvements over Intel laptops, which was also noted here at Macworld.
Compare the results of our tests 13in MacBook Pro (M1) vs MacBook Pro (Intel) MacBook Air (M1 Silicon) vs MacBook Air (Intel). We also looked at the differences in the Mac mini (M1) & Mac mini (Intel).Take a look at what you can expect from the New M2 Macs.
However, if you have more than one external monitor in your MacBook setup, there is a problem. Apple’s M1 or M2 chips simply won’t consider it—at least natively.
Apple states in the M1 and M2 MacBook Air and MacBook Pro tech specs that they support only “one external display with up to 6K resolution at 60Hz”.
Apple
While the M1 and M2 MacBooks natively support just one monitor, the M1 Mac Mini does natively support up to two external monitors—one via the HDMI port and a second via USB-C. However, the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro M1 models only support one external monitor.
Apple appears to have They promised to fix the problem in a future macOS update, but the arrival of the later M1 Pro and M1 Max—and more recently the M2—suggest that M1 owners could be waiting a long time. This guide is available to you. What you need to know about monitors for M1 Macs before buying.We also cover the basics. How to connect your Mac and an external monitor.
Solution #1: Install DisplayLink drivers
You can use a combination of display technologies to get around the M1/M2 MacBooks’ single-monitor limitation. This should work with most third-party docks, although some manufacturers, such as Caldigit, don’t recommend it.
For example, Plugable’s multi-display docks use a combination of native USB-C Alternate Mode (native “Alt Mode” video output) and DisplayLink technology. This combination is a solution to the M1/M2 platform that supports only one external display via USB.
DisplayLink requires that a third-party driver be installed on your Mac. DisplayLink driver versions vary and each one brings their own compromises.
DisplayLink macOS and DisplayLink Manager apps are two ways to enable DisplayLink technology on macOS. This app is also available in a Installer standaloneInstead, use the mac App Store.
1.Download the most recent version of the app. Mac DisplayLink driver.
DisplayLink Manager GraphicsConnectivity App v. 1.7.0 can be used with macOS Catalina 10, macOS 11 Big Sur, and macOS 12 Monterey. DisplayLink icon can be used to manage the DisplayLink icon from the Apple Menu Bar.
The macOS requires the user to permit “Screen Recording” in order for DisplayLink devices to work properly. This can be found in System Preferences under Privacy in Security & Privacy; navigate to Screen Recording in the list on the left, then tick the Screen Recording permission for DisplayLink Manager after unlocking the padlock using your admin password. DisplayLink Manager may need to be quit and restarted.
This article provides more information on DisplayLink Manager under macOS Big Sur and Catalina. DisplayLink support page.
It is easy to install. Older versions did not support laptops’ closed-display/Clamshell mode, but 1.7.0 does support Clamshell mode if the MacBook is Intel-based running macOS 12 or if the MacBook is M1-based running macOS 11 or 12.
Other limitations include incompatibility to display rotation. DisplayLink Manager 1.6+ is required with macOS 12+ to rotate Apple M1/M2.
There’s an option in DisplayLink manager to “launch at startup”, or you can drag the DisplayLink Manager to your Login Items in Users & Groups.
2.Connect the MacBook to a dock.
3. For the first screen you can connect via the dock’s DisplayPort or HDMI Port, and this will be handled natively by the M1/M2 MacBook.
You could also connect the first external display via the dock’s other display ports or via a Thunderbolt or USB-C to HDMI or DisplayPort adapter.
The HDMI or DisplayPort output uses Alternate Mode (Alt Mode), and as it is basically a pipeline directly to the system’s native GPU, it will behave just like if you hooked up a USB-C to HDMI dongle to your laptop. This doesn’t require any driver installation.
DisplayLink software will be used to control the third and fourth displays. DisplayLink converts graphics data from the system to data packets using an installed driver. The data packets are then sent over the cable and converted to video information. They are then output to the monitors via DisplayLink chips in the docking station.
2. Install InstantView software
Another third-party software solution is SiliconMotion’s InstantView, which operates in a similar way to DisplayLink and works with two of the hardware hubs and adapters we review below.
The initial setup is easier than DisplayLink with the hubs from Hyper but smilar with teh Satechi hub—but it suffers the same challenge that Apple’s software updates can disable it, which will entail installing a newer version and allowing the necessary security & privacy settings for screen recording, just as with DisplayLink.
The can be downloaded here Download the latest InstantView version.
Both are simple and both performed well in our tests, as you will see below.
What docks support InstantView and DisplayLink?
In the beginning, dock manufacturers did NOT support DisplayLink setups on Macs. While the solution is working, dock manufacturers warned that future macOS versions could cause problems. Drivers may need to be updated every time there is an OS update.
Plugable has now officially supported this configuration, however, following some testing and improvements. Plugable has tested compatibility for Macs on both Intel and Apple platforms with at least macOS 11 running. It has validated both Intel and Apple platforms running at least macOS 11.
Find out more about the The best Thunderbolt docking stationYou can reach us by a simpler link for more information. USB-C hub. You should look for docks with at least two display ports. These ports should be able to connect directly to your displays without the use of an adapter. Anker’s Apex dock has two display ports, but Anker advises against using it with Macs. DisplayLink should be able to work around this problem.
Thunderbolt 4 hubs and docksThere is often no dedicated display port, but three available TB4 connections that can be used directly to a USB C monitor or via adapters to HDMI and DisplayPort monitors. While you may have to buy an adapter cable, 40GBps Thunderbolt 4’s port flexibility and backwards compatibility are recommended for users of modern Macs such as the M1 and M2 MacBooks.
The docking station and hub manufacturers have been actively marketing their products in response to the M1/M2 limitation on external displays. DisplayLink is required for all of these products. These hubs provide the same multi-port benefits as external monitor solutions.
You can attach two or three displays to your dock or hub using one of the spare USB A ports. StarTech.com USB3.0 to HDMI / DVI Adapter. This costs £80 or US$80, so needs to be factored in when pricing an M1/M2 MacBook purchase if you require multiple monitors and want to use the USB-A port rather than a display port such as HDMI or DisplayPort. You can also use the DisplayPort or HDMI port. Plugable’s USB Dual 4K Display Adapter.
This adapter transforms an USB-A3.0 port into one DVI–I or VGA (with DVI to VGA adapter) and one HDMI output. Each display can simultaneously support the maximum resolution of 2048×1152 at 60Hz. You should use an active HDMI DisplayLink adapter capable of supporting 4K at 60Hz. Some are limited to 4K @ 30H
Multiscreen adapters and hubs for MacBook M1 and M2 MacBooks.
Below are the best multiscreen docks and hubs. Note that these listed (and tested) below use USB-C rather than Thunderbolt, so don’t benefit from the MacBook’s potential 40Gbps data bandwidth. You can also install DisplayLink using a Thunderbolt Dock if you prefer Thunderbolt.
Ugreen USB C Triple Display Docking Station
Pros
- Three external displays are supported at 4K 60Hz
- 12 ports, 10Gbps USB C or USB-A at a minimum
The Ugreen USBC Triple Display Docking Station supports up to 3 external displays on a MacBook (nonPro or –Max) if DisplayLink software is installed.
Priced at $329/£369, it features two HDMI ports and a DisplayPort and can support three 4K displays at 60Hz on a Mac. There are 12 ports, including Gigabit Ethernet, card reader, 10Gbps USB A/C, and Gigabit Ethernet. It can be connected to the MacBook via 10Gbps USB–C.
You need to install DisplayLink on your Mac—instructions above. Ugreen has a link that could help you make this process easier.
Hyperdrive Dual 4K HDMI 10-in-1 USB-C Hub
Pros
- Two external displays are supported at 4K
- 10 ports, with 5Gbps USB C or USB-A at the maximum
- InstantView is simpler than DisplayLink
Cons
- Second 4K Display is 30Hz, rather than 60Hz
- Requires USB C charger
The Hyperdrive Dual 4K HDMI 10-in-1 USB-C Hub doesn’t use DisplayLink and instead uses SiliconMotion’s InstantView.
Hyper says that it works “without having to download cumbersome drivers” but there is some software installation involved, and you need to allow InstantView access to your Privacy settings in System Preferences. You need to connect the adapter or hub with your M1 MacBook. Next, open the HyperDisplay application that is displayed in a Finder Folder sidebar. Double-click on the macOS InstantView button and follow the System Preferences instructions. Once you have completed this, your MacBook will now automatically recognize the adapter.
It’s an easier solution than DisplayLink but with the same ability to allow M1 and M2 Macs to connect to multiple external displays.
This hub is still compact and includes 10 ports including the important 2x HDMI. The HDMI and DP alt-mode add the first 60Hz display and the InstantView adds the second at 4K30Hz via HDMI.
Gigabit Ethernet and MicroUSB card reader are also included.
A further USB-C PD port allows you to charge the connected laptop at up to 100W—handy as the hub itself uses up one of your M1 or M2 laptop’s two Thunderbolt ports.
Satechi USB-C Multimedia M1 Adapter
Pros
- Two external displays are supported at 4K
- 6 ports, including 5Gbps USB C and 2x5Gbps USB A
Cons
- Second 4K Display is 30Hz, rather than 60Hz
- Requires USB C charger
The Satechi USB-C Multimedia M1 Adapter uses InstantView, but the installation process works almost the same if you follow this manual.
It has 2 HDMI ports. One can support a 4K screen at 60Hz, and the other at 30-Hz.
It’s more than a mere display adapter, though, as it also boasts USB-C PD passthrough charging at up to 85W, one 5Gbps USB-C port and two 5Gbps USB-A ports.
It is named after the M1 processor that it uses to fix the multiple display front. However, it can also be used with M2 MacBooks.
Hyperdrive Dual 4K HDMI Adapter
Pros
- Two external displays are supported at 4K
- InstantView is simpler than DisplayLink
Cons
- Second 4K Display is 30Hz, rather than 60Hz
- Passthrough charging is the only other port available
- Requires USB C charger
Like the Hyperdrive Dual 4K HDMI 10-in-1 USB-C Hub, Hyper’s cheaper Dual 4K HDMI Adapter uses the simpler InstantView software rather than DisplayLink.
Lacking any other ports, it’s not a hub and so just facilitates the dual-display function on M1 and M2 Macs. While it’s cheaper than its 10-port sibling, we’d recommend the more able hub—unless you need three displays, in which case you’d need to look at the other hubs and docks reviewed here.
One HDMI port supports 4K displays at 60Hz while the other supports 30Hz.
Passthrough USB-C ports require a USB charger, but can provide 100W to the connected notebook.
If you’re based outside the US, beware as Hyper charges $80 international shipping, making this adapter more expensive than its 10-port sibling.
Alogic Dual 4K Universal Compact docking station
Pros
- Two external displays supported at 4K 60Hz
- 7 ports, including 10Gbps USB C and USB A
- DisplayPort and HDMI versions
The Alogic Dual 4K Universal Compact Docking Station comes in two models—the CH2, which features two HDMI 2.0 ports; and the CD2, with two DisplayPort ports—so you can choose which best suits the external displays you already own.
For most people, two external screens will suffice. Three external screens is sufficient for most people. You can see other docks and hubs here. Both screens can support 4K resolution at 60Hz. Installing DisplayLink software on M1 or M2 Macs is easy.
This neat, compact dock doesn’t feature as many ports as others mentioned here but what it has are top-rated: both the USB-A and USB-C ports support 10Gbps data transfer. You will also find a Gigabit Ethernet connection and a UHS II SD card reader.
A passthrough USB-C port—you need to add a suitably powerful charger—can handle 100W, although 22W is required by the dock so leaving 78W for laptop and device charging. To enable device charging, the dock needs to be connected to your laptop.
EZQuest Ultimate Plus USB-C Multimedia Hub
Pros
- Three external displays are supported (2x4K; 1xHD).
- VGA if it is needed
- 12 ports, inc 4x 5Gbps USB-A
Cons
- Requires USB C charger
- Second 4K Display is 30Hz, rather than 60Hz
- HD display. Not 4K.
The EZQuest Ultimate Plus USB-C Multimediahub has two HDMI ports, a VGA port and supports one 4K video at 60Hz and one at 30Hz via HDMI. Also, it can support 1080p HD via VGA. You can also get three 4K displays with the Ugreen Triple Display Dock.
It also includes 5Gbps USB A ports and Gigabit Ethernet as well as card readers.
It is similar to the Ugreen dock and requires a USB C charger to power. It can connect via USB-C at a slower 5Gbps speed to the MacBook connected to it, but can only pass through 85W.
Baseus 17 in-1 Docking Station
Pros
- Three external displays are supported at 4K 30Hz
- 15 (actual) ports
- 85W PD
Cons
- Requires USB-C charger for laptop
- 30Hz 4K, not 60Hz
Baseus 17-in-1 Docking Station comes with three HDMI ports. Each HDMI port can connect to an external 4K monitor at 30Hz. The Ugreen Triple Display Dock, which can connect to three 4K external displays at 60Hz will be more than sufficient for your needs. Baseus will save money if you are happy with 30Hz. Gaming enthusiasts will prefer 60Hz because it provides smoother video.
Although it claims to have 17 ports, one of them is for the external power supply which powers only the dock at 12W. One to power the dock with a USB-C charger, and the other one to charge the laptop. It also has 15 additional ports, including an upstream 5Gbps USB C connection to the MacBook and card readers, and 5Gbps USB A and USB C ports.
Cautionary tales
DisplayLink and InstantView drivers can need to updated whenever there is an OS upgrade.
Plugable doesn’t recommend the workaround for gaming, video editing, digital audio workstations (DAWs), and protected-content (HDCP) playback. For these workloads, users will want the full throughput of a “bare-metal” native GPU connection—such as provided by the DisplayPort or HDMI port on the dock using Alt Mode.
DisplayLink is not recommended by Caldigit as it can be unreliable and would cause problems with the driver and dock. According to Apple, DisplayLink requires third-party drivers, so users will need to use the latest versions.
This combination of display technology allows M1 and M2 MacBooks (and the M1 Mac Mini) to run more then one external monitor. More manufacturers are releasing docks and hubs to support it.
The only risk is that it could stop working at any time, although it wouldn’t harm your system if it did, and you could simply uninstall DisplayLink.
DIsplayLink or InstantView may be temporary workarounds, but compatibility will likely be restored at some point if the worst happens and you would have your multi-monitor setup back.
The Hyperdrive dual 4K HDMI hardware solution is the more expensive but stable workaround of the two—but if you want up to three displays you’ll need a dock such as one of those reviewed above and the DisplayLink solution.
Check out our M1 MacBook Air reviewHere’s everything you need about the M2 MacBook Pro M2 MacBook Air.
If you are wanting to use a second display with your Mac and not have your Mac’s screen on, read our feature How to turn a Mac’s screen off.
