Connect a display to your Mac

Mac computers support one or more external displays, depending on the Mac model. Here’s how to connect an external display.

Connect the display to a power source and your Mac

Use your display’s power cable to connect the display to a power source.
Use your display’s video cable to connect the display to your Mac, such as to a Thunderbolt or HDMI port. Different ports may look similar, so it’s important to identify the port correctly.
If the video cable requires a port that your Mac doesn’t have, you may be able to use an adapter with the video cable. Or replace the video cable with one that doesn’t require an adapter.
When your display has power and is connected properly, your Mac will detect the display automatically. You should then see your Mac desktop on the display, and you can configure display settings.

If your display isn’t detected or can’t use its highest resolutions or refresh rates, find out what to do if your display has a dark screen (no video) or low resolution.

From the Apple menu  in the corner of the screen, choose System Settings (or System Preferences), then click Displays. In display settings you can change display resolution, choose a refresh rate, arrange your displays and more.
If the display is not made by Apple, certain settings may only be available by using the display’s built-in controls and menu system. Check your display’s documentation for details.

Published Date: October 08, 2025