Connect an external display to your iMac
Your iMac has two or four USB-C ports that support video output. With the two port model, you can connect up to one external 6K display, a projector, or an HDTV to either of these ports. The four port iMac can support up to two external 6K displays. For more information about the ports, see Take a tour of iMac.
Note: If you connect multiple devices to a single port and one of the devices is an external display, the display must be the last device in the connection. This doesn’t apply when you use a multiport adapter or hub.
Tip: If you have an HDTV connected to an Apple TV, you can use AirPlay to mirror your iMac screen in up to 1080p HD. See Stream content on a larger screen with AirPlay for details.
If your display has a connector that doesn’t match the port you want to use, you may be able to use it with an adapter (sold separately). Visit apple.com, your local Apple Store, or other resellers for more information and availability. Review the display’s documentation or check with the display’s manufacturer to make sure you choose the right product. See the Apple Support article Adapters for the Thunderbolt or USB-C ports on your Mac.
To connect this device | Use this cable or adapter |
|---|---|
Apple Pro Display XDR | Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) cable |
Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) display | Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) cable |
USB-C display | USB-C (USB 3.1) cable |
Thunderbolt 2 display | Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 adapter |
HDMI display or HDTV | USB-C to HDMI adapter or a USB-C Digital AV Multiport adapter |
VGA display or projector | USB-C VGA Multiport adapter |
DisplayPort or Mini DisplayPort display | USB-C to DisplayPort or Mini DisplayPort adapter |
DVI display or projector | USB-C to DVI adapter |
Adjust and arrange displays. After you connect an external display or projector, use Displays settings in System Settings to set how the displays are arranged, turn screen mirroring on or off, and make other adjustments to color, resolution, and more. See Connect a display to your Mac.
Troubleshooting. If you’re not sure how many external displays your iMac supports, check your Technical Specifications. Open System Settings, choose Help > iMac Specifications, then locate Video Support (you may need to scroll). To troubleshoot an issue with an external display, see If your external display is dark or low resolution.