How to connect an HP laptop to a monitor
💡 Need to know
- HDMI is the easiest wired option. One cable connects your laptop to a compatible monitor.
- USB-C may work too. Just make sure your laptop's USB-C port supports video output.
- Want to go wireless? Use Windows + K to connect to a monitor that supports Miracast.
- Choose your display mode. Duplicate mirrors your screen, while Extend gives you more workspace.
An extra monitor can make a big difference when you're juggling spreadsheets, video calls, or approximately 47 open browser tabs. But getting everything connected shouldn't require a desk full of cables.
At Asurion, we help people set up and troubleshoot their computers every day. Here's how we'd connect an HP® laptop to an external monitor, whether you're using a cable or going wireless.
How to connect your HP laptop to a monitor with HDMI
For most HP laptops and monitors, HDMI is the simplest connection. Check that both devices have an HDMI port, then:
- Connect the HDMI cable to your laptop and monitor.
- Turn on the monitor and select the correct HDMI input.
- Press Windows + P on your laptop.
- Choose Duplicate to mirror your screen or Extend to use both displays separately.
No HDMI port? A USB-C to HDMI adapter may work if your laptop's USB-C port supports video output.
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How to connect an HP laptop to a monitor wirelessly
If your monitor supports Miracast, Windows can connect without an HDMI cable.
- Turn on the monitor's wireless display or screen-mirroring feature.
- Press Windows + K on your HP laptop.
- Select your monitor and follow the prompts.
Not every monitor supports wireless display connections, so check its specifications first.
How to adjust your monitor settings
Once connected, open Settings > System > Display. From there, you can rearrange the screens, change their resolution, and choose which one is your main display.
If you're using the monitor as extra workspace, select Extend these displays so you can move windows between screens.
What if your HP laptop won't detect the monitor?
Before changing drivers or digging into Windows settings, we'd check the connection itself.
- Make sure the monitor is on the correct input.
- Disconnect and reconnect the cable at both ends.
- Try another HDMI cable or compatible port.
- Open Settings > System > Display > Multiple displays and select Detect.
If the monitor works with another computer, check for graphics driver updates on your HP laptop. If neither device recognizes the monitor, the cable or monitor may be the problem. For more help, check out our guide on what to do when your HP laptop is not detecting your monitor.
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FAQ
Can I connect any monitor to my HP laptop?
Most modern monitors will work as long as your HP laptop has a compatible video output, such as HDMI or USB-C with video support. An adapter may be needed.
How do I use two screens on my HP laptop?
Connect the monitor, press Windows + P, and select Extend. This lets you use your laptop screen and external monitor as separate workspaces.
Why isn't my HP laptop detecting my monitor?
A loose cable, incorrect input, incompatible adapter, or graphics driver issue could be responsible. We'd start by checking the cable and monitor input before changing Windows settings.
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