Best Laptop for Multiple Monitors: Top Picks for 2024
Written by: Hrishikesh Pardeshi, Founder at Flexiple, buildd & Remote Tools.
Last updated: Sep 03, 2024
The best laptops for multiple monitors are:
- Apple 2023 MacBook Pro M2 Pro 14.2-inch
- ASUS ROG Strix G17 Gaming Laptop
- ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 UX582 Laptop
- Razer Blade 14 Gaming Laptop (2023)
- 2018 Lenovo ThinkPad P52 Workstation Laptop
- Dell XPS 17 9720 Laptop
- Acer Swift 3 Thin & Light Laptop
- HP Pavilion X360 14 2-in-1 Laptop
- Lenovo Legion Y540 Gaming Laptop
- MSI GL75 9SEK-056 17.3" FHD 120Hz Gaming Laptop
As a staple in many kitchens, multiple monitor setups have become increasingly popular for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
These configurations offer a productivity boost and improved multitasking capabilities – allowing users to have several programs and windows open simultaneously. In this context, it's essential to have a laptop that can efficiently and effectively support multiple displays.
Laptops are known for their portability and convenience, but not all of them are designed with multiple monitor support in mind. Some factors to consider when searching for the best laptop for this purpose include port selection, GPU performance, and overall processing power.
An ideal laptop should have enough ports, such as HDMI or DisplayPort, that can accommodate the desired number of monitors. Additionally, a robust GPU will ensure smooth graphics rendering and prevent any potential performance issues, while a powerful processor can handle running multiple applications simultaneously.
When looking to purchase a laptop specifically for multiple monitor setups, it's important to review these critical aspects to make an informed decision. With so many options available on the market, finding the perfect laptop can be challenging.
To simplify this task, I have conducted extensive research and testing to identify the best laptops that will make managing multiple monitors an enjoyable and seamless experience.
Table of Contents
- Best Laptops for Multiple Monitors
- Apple 2023 MacBook Pro M2 Pro 14.2-inch
- ASUS ROG Strix G17 Gaming Laptop
- ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 UX582 Laptop
- Razer Blade 14 Gaming Laptop (2023)
- 2018 Lenovo ThinkPad P52 Workstation Laptop
- Dell XPS 17 9720 Laptop
- Acer Swift 3 Thin & Light Laptop
- HP Pavilion X360 14 2-in-1 Laptop
- Lenovo Legion Y540 Gaming Laptop
- MSI GL75 9SEK-056 17.3" FHD 120Hz Gaming Laptop
- Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
Best Laptops for Multiple Monitors
I've gathered a list of the best laptops for those who need to use multiple monitors. Take a look below and find the perfect choice for your desktop computer setup.
Apple 2023 MacBook Pro M2 Pro 14.2-inch
This MacBook Pro is an impressive choice for anyone seeking a laptop for multiple monitor setups, thanks to its powerful performance and advanced connectivity options.
Pros
Powerful M2 Pro chip with 12-core CPU and 19-core GPU
Stunning 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR Display
Wide array of connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 4
Cons
Expensive compared to other laptops
Limited to Mac OS software ecosystem
Heavier than other MacBook models
Yesterday, I had the chance to try out the Apple 2023 MacBook Pro M2 Pro 14.2-inch model, and I must say it exceeded my expectations when it came to handling multiple monitors. The M2 Pro chip's 12-core CPU and 19-core GPU ensured smooth performance even when multitasking across one or more external monitor, and works as a great primary display.
In addition to the laptop's incredible performance, the 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display made colors come alive and provided excellent visual clarity. This was especially helpful when working with high-resolution content, such as video editing or graphic design projects.
The MacBook Pro's diverse connectivity options were also a noteworthy feature. With three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an SDXC card slot, an HDMI port, and a headphone jack, I had no trouble hooking up all of my devices and accessories. The Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 capabilities also allowed for seamless wireless communication between my peripherals.
However, the laptop's price is undoubtedly on the higher side, and some users may find it hard to justify the expense. Additionally, the MacBook Pro is limited to the Mac OS software ecosystem, which might be a drawback for those who prefer using Windows apps.
Lastly, this model is slightly heavier than other MacBook options, but in my opinion, this trade-off is worth it for the stunning display and powerful performance.
In conclusion, anyone looking for a high-quality laptop to handle multiple monitor setups will find the Apple 2023 MacBook Pro M2 Pro 14.2-inch to be an excellent choice.
With its robust performance, beautiful display, and extensive connectivity options, it's an investment that's sure to boost productivity and enhance user experience.
ASUS ROG Strix G17 Gaming Laptop
The ASUS ROG Strix G17 is a powerful choice for anyone looking to run multiple monitors and enjoy high-quality gaming in one sleek package.
Pros
Powerful AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX processor
Ultra-fast 17.3" QHD 240Hz display
1TB PCIe SSD for rapid load times
Cons
Can get quite hot under heavy load
Touchpad sensitivity might be inconsistent
Bulky for those needing portability
I recently had the opportunity to test out the ASUS ROG Strix G17, and I have to say it truly lives up to its reputation as a top-tier gaming laptop. The AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX processor allowed me to multitask with ease, confidently handling multiple monitors and processor-intensive tasks without a hitch.
The 17.3" QHD 240Hz display was a real highlight for me, ensuring buttery-smooth visuals and vibrant, true-to-life colors during my gaming sessions.
Alongside this, the laptop's NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU stood out as a powerhouse, providing outstanding performance for both modern games and other graphic-intensive applications.
But as with any high-performing machine, there are trade-offs. During extended periods of intensive use, I noticed the ASUS ROG Strix G17 becoming quite hot, which may be a concern for those needing quieter and cooler operation.
Additionally, while the touchpad works well in most instances, its sensitivity seemed slightly inconsistent during my use.
Lastly, it's worth mentioning that if you're someone who values portability, this laptop could be quite cumbersome due to its large size. However, the powerhouse performance and high-quality display more than make up for this drawback. ASUS also makes some of the best laptops for streaming movies. You can check them out at the provided link.
ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 UX582 Laptop
The ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 UX582 is an excellent laptop for multitasking with dual 4K screens, powerful performance, and a sleek design.
Pros
-
Powerful performance with an Intel i7 processor and NVIDIA RTX 3060 graphics
Immersive 15.6-inch 4K OLED touchscreen display
Built-in secondary 4K touchscreen for enhanced multitasking
Cons
Can be quite heavy for everyday portability
Battery life could be better
Pricey compared to other laptops in its class
I recently had the chance to use the ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 UX582 and was impressed by its performance and overall design. As someone who constantly switches between different tasks, the dual screens were a game-changer. I found myself completing tasks more efficiently without having to switch between tabs or windows constantly.
The main 15.6-inch 4K OLED touchscreen was a pleasure to work on - the colors were vibrant and the visuals were crisp. The secondary 4K touchscreen, which tilts up for more comfortable viewing, was incredibly helpful in streamlining my workflow and organizing my tasks.
One of the drawbacks of the ZenBook Pro Duo 15 was its weight and size. While ideal for a desktop setup, carrying it around was a bit cumbersome. Also, the battery life wasn't as long-lasting as I would have liked, so I had to make sure I was near a power outlet for longer work sessions.
Although the price point is on the higher end, if you're looking for a powerful laptop with excellent multitasking capabilities, the ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 UX582 is well worth considering.
The combination of a sleek design, dual 4K touchscreens, and powerful performance makes it an attractive option for those who value productivity and multiple monitor usage.
Razer Blade 14 Gaming Laptop (2023)
This laptop is perfect for those looking for powerful performance and a portable gaming experience.
Pros
Impressive AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS CPU
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU
Lightweight and portable design
Cons
May run hot during intensive tasks
A bit pricey
Limited to 16 GB RAM out of the box
Ever since I got my hands on the Razer Blade 14 Gaming Laptop (2023), I've been blown away by its unmatched performance and portability. The AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS CPU and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU provide an astounding gaming experience without compromising on power.
The slim and lightweight design of the Razer Blade 14 makes it easy to carry around, fitting perfectly in my backpack. One thing I noticed is that during extended gaming sessions, the laptop tends to get quite warm. However, the optimized vapor chamber cooling system helps in managing the heat most of the time.
While the 16 GB DDR5 RAM does a great job in handling multitasking and gaming, I wish they offered the option for more RAM upfront. It's good to know that it's expandable up to 64 GB, though.
The battery life of the Razer Blade 14 is also a significant selling point. It lasted around 10 hours, allowing me to work and game on the go without having to worry about constantly charging it.
Overall, the Razer Blade 14 Gaming Laptop (2023) is an excellent choice for people looking for a powerful and portable gaming laptop. If you're ready to invest in a high-performance machine, then this laptop is definitely worth considering.
2018 Lenovo ThinkPad P52 Workstation Laptop
I highly recommend the Lenovo ThinkPad P52 for those who want a powerful workstation capable of handling multiple monitors with ease.
Pros
Impressive performance with Intel Core i7-8850H and 16GB RAM
Durable and professional design
Multiple ports for versatile connectivity options
Cons
Slightly heavier than other laptops in the same category
Pre-owned and refurbished, but professionally inspected
Non-touch display
My experience using the 2018 Lenovo ThinkPad P52 Workstation Laptop has been a very positive one. Its powerful Intel Core i7-8850H processor and 16GB RAM made it easy to multitask, seamlessly connecting to multiple monitors without facing any performance issues.
The NVIDIA Quadro P1000 graphics with 4GB VRAM delivered smooth visuals, whether I was working on a detailed design project or simply watching a movie.
The build quality of this laptop is top-notch, and I appreciated the spill-resistant, backlit keyboard with a full number pad, which made typing comfortable and accurate even in low-lit environments.
Additionally, the laptop has a variety of ports, including USB Type-C/Thunderbolt 3 and HDMI 2.0, allowing me to connect to various devices and peripherals without any hassle.
On the downside, the Lenovo ThinkPad P52 is slightly heavier than some of its competitors, which might not be ideal for those looking for a highly portable workstation.
Also, while the product is pre-owned and refurbished, I was pleased with its overall appearance and performance, which didn't seem far off from a brand new laptop. Lastly, the full HD IPS display is non-touch, something to consider for those who prefer touchscreen-capable devices.
In conclusion, the 2018 Lenovo ThinkPad P52 Workstation Laptop is a powerful, feature-rich laptop, ideally suited for those who require a high-performance workstation with multiple monitor support capabilities. If you can look past its weight and the fact that it's a pre-owned device, this laptop offers impressive value for its price.
Dell XPS 17 9720 Laptop
The Dell XPS 17 9720 is a decent choice for those seeking a powerful laptop for multiple monitors, but consider its pros and cons before purchase.
Pros
Highly efficient 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor
Impressive 17-inch FHD+ display
Fast and reliable Wi-Fi 6 connectivity
Cons
Average-quality built-in camera
Noisy during gaming sessions
Expensive compared to competitors
When I first unboxed the Dell XPS 17 9720 Laptop, I was immediately drawn to its sleek silver design and its stunning 17-inch FHD+ InfinityEdge display. The visuals on this screen are really sharp, which I found perfect for multitasking across multiple monitors. The 16GB DDR5 RAM also helps keep things running smoothly, and I rarely experienced any lag or delays while working on several tasks simultaneously.
One thing I noticed while using this laptop, though, is that the built-in camera isn't that great. While most of my web conferences and video calls were okay, I did find the camera output to be grainy and of lower quality than I expected.
If you frequently rely on video conferences, this aspect might be a bit disappointing. On the other hand, the laptop's Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6 connection is top-notch, providing fast and stable internet connectivity without any hiccups.
For gamers, it's worth noting that the Dell XPS 17 9720 packs a powerful NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card. However, despite its impressive gaming performance, the fans can get quite noisy under heavy load. I found this a bit distracting at times, and it may be an issue for some users who enjoy a quieter gaming experience.
Overall, the Dell XPS 17 9720 Laptop is a powerful machine with a fantastic display that's well-suited for use with multiple monitors. The high price tag, noisy fans during gaming, and average camera, however, might be dealbreakers for some users. Personally, I think it's a capable laptop, but assessing your needs and how much the cons affect you will determine if it's the best choice for you.
Acer Swift 3 Thin & Light Laptop
A great choice for those seeking a powerful and portable laptop for multitasking with multiple monitors.
Pros
Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 Octa-Core processor
Lightweight and sleek design
Excellent battery life
Cons
Mediocre display quality
Limited RAM capacity
No optical drive
After using the Acer Swift 3 for a while, I'm thoroughly impressed by its incredible performance, especially when it comes to handling multiple monitors. The AMD Ryzen 7 Octa-Core processor ensures a smooth experience, and the 8GB LPDDR4 memory is ample for most tasks. Its thin and light design is perfect for those who are always on the go, and the battery life lasts up to 11.5 hours, which is a huge advantage.
However, there are some drawbacks to this laptop. The display quality is not the best, with a 6-bit panel and not the more desirable 8-bit. Despite this, the 14" Full HD Widescreen IPS LED-backlit display is still reasonably good for everyday use, but may not be up to the standard of more demanding users. Additionally, the 8GB RAM may limit the laptop's capabilities when working with heavy multitasking or extensive applications.
One feature I genuinely appreciate is the backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader, adding a touch of convenience and security to the laptop. The Acer Swift 3 also comes with Intel Wireless Wi-Fi 6 AX200, which provides stable and fast internet connectivity, making it ideal for remote working.
In conclusion, the Acer Swift 3 Thin & Light Laptop is a fantastic option for those who need a powerful laptop capable of handling multiple monitors. Its sleek design, impressive battery life, and powerful processor more than make up for any shortcomings.
HP Pavilion X360 14 2-in-1 Laptop
The HP Pavilion X360 14 is a versatile and powerful laptop that provides a smooth experience in handling multiple monitors, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their setup.
Pros
Impressive 2-in-1 design with responsive touchscreen
Efficient 12th Generation Intel 10-Core i5-1235U processor
1TB SSD for ample storage
Cons
Battery life could be better when gaming or heavy usage
Might be slightly heavy for some users (3.32 lbs)
No dedicated graphics card
I recently had the opportunity to use the HP Pavilion X360 14 2-in-1 Laptop and was thrilled with its capabilities. The 12th Generation Intel 10-Core i5-1235U processor, paired with the 8GB RAM, made multitasking a breeze, especially when using multiple monitors. The 1TB SSD allowed me to store all my essential files and programs without worrying about running out of space.
The 14-inch FHD IPS touchscreen was incredibly responsive and made navigating through various applications feel natural. The hinge design allowed for easy transition between laptop and tablet mode, making it perfect for different work environments.
However, I did find that the battery life was somewhat lacking when gaming or using the laptop for extended periods. I found myself needing to charge it more frequently than I would have liked during long work sessions. Additionally, the 3.32-pound weight might feel slightly heavy for users who need a highly portable device.
Another thing to consider for those who work on graphics-intensive tasks is that the HP Pavilion X360 14 doesn't come with a dedicated graphics card. The Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics may not be enough for heavy-duty gaming or design work.
In conclusion, the HP Pavilion X360 14 2-in-1 Laptop is a great purchase for those who need a versatile and powerful device capable of handling multiple monitors. However, it might not be ideal for heavy gamers or graphic designers looking for a dedicated graphics card and a lighter device to carry around.
Lenovo Legion Y540 Gaming Laptop
The Lenovo Legion Y540 is definitely worth considering for those seeking a reliable laptop for multiple monitor setups with excellent gaming performance.
Pros
Impressive processing power
High-quality display with fast refresh rate
Generous storage options
Cons
Heavy for daily commute
Limited battery life
No built-in optical drive
I recently had the pleasure of using the Lenovo Legion Y540 Gaming Laptop, and it left quite an impression. First and foremost, I was blown away by its performance. The Intel Hexa-Core i7-9750H processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card ensured smooth gameplay and multitasking, even when using multiple monitors.
The 15.6-inch Full HD display is another standout feature. Its 144Hz refresh rate enabled razor-sharp visuals, making every gaming session utterly immersive. The backlit keyboard also added a touch of style and proved to be convenient during late-night gaming sessions.
Storage-wise, the Legion Y540 didn't disappoint. With a 1TB SSD and an additional 1TB HDD, I had plenty of space for all my games, files, and media. No more worrying about running out of room when expanding my gaming library!
Unfortunately, the laptop isn't perfect. Weighing in at over 5 pounds, it wasn't the most comfortable to carry around for daily commutes. The battery life, averaging around 5 hours, meant I had to keep the charger nearby for longer sessions.
Also, the lack of an optical drive might be a drawback for some, but it didn't affect my experience too much, as most software and gaming installations are now downloadable.
In conclusion, the Lenovo Legion Y540 Gaming Laptop is a fantastic choice for those looking to improve their gaming experience or set up a multiple monitor workstation. Despite some minor drawbacks, its performance, display, and storage capacity more than make up for them.
MSI GL75 9SEK-056 17.3" FHD 120Hz Gaming Laptop
This laptop offers outstanding performance for gamers and professionals alike.
Pros
Powerful Intel Core i7 processor
Stellar NVIDIA RTX 2060 graphics
Impressive 120Hz FHD display
Cons
A little on the heavy side
Limited storage space with a 512GB SSD
Lacks an optical drive for DVDs or CDs
I had the chance to use the MSI GL75 9SEK-056 gaming laptop, and I must say, it's a real powerhouse. The Intel Core i7-9750H processor delivers smooth and rapid performance, ensuring efficient multitasking and quick response times. Combined with the potent NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 graphics card, this laptop can handle most modern games with ease, and also excels at demanding tasks like video editing and 3D rendering.
One of the key features that I appreciated on this laptop was the stunning 17.3-inch FHD display. The 120Hz refresh rate provided a noticeably smoother gaming experience, eliminating visual tearing and stuttering. Additionally, the screen's IPS-level panel offers excellent viewing angles and vivid colors, making it a pleasure to work with, whether you're watching movies or creating content.
However, the trade-off for packing all that performance into the MSI GL75 9SEK-056 is its weight. At 6.39 pounds, it can be a burden to transport. So if you're constantly on the move, you might want to consider a lighter option.
Another potential drawback is the relatively limited storage space, as it only comes with a 512GB NVMe SSD. Though it's significantly faster than traditional hard drives, users with extensive game libraries or large media files may find themselves running out of space quickly.
Overall, the MSI GL75 9SEK-056 is a fantastic choice for users in search of a powerful gaming laptop equipped to handle demanding tasks. Just be aware of its heft and storage capacity limitations. If those aren't deal-breakers for you, then this laptop has a lot to offer.
Buying Guide
As someone who uses multiple monitors, I know how important it is to find the perfect laptop that can support this kind of setup. So, let me share some features you need to consider when choosing the best laptop for multiple monitors.
Ports and Connectivity
First and foremost, you'll want a laptop that has enough ports to connect the additional monitors without any issues. Some common ports for external displays include HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, and Thunderbolt 3. Make sure the laptop you choose has the necessary ports for your specific dual monitor setup. Additionally, consider the available adapters and docking stations that can expand the number of ports on your laptop.
Graphics Performance
Next, you'll need a laptop with a graphics card capable of handling dual monitors or more smoothly. While integrated graphics might be sufficient for dual displays, a dedicated graphics card is recommended when connecting three or more monitors. When browsing different laptops, pay attention to the graphics card's specifications and look for one that supports the number of monitors you need.
Processor and RAM
Running multiple applications on several monitors can consume a lot of your laptop's resources. This is why it's essential to have a laptop with a powerful processor and plenty of RAM. I'd suggest looking for a laptop with at least an Intel Core i5 or its AMD equivalent and a minimum of 8GB RAM to ensure smooth multitasking across your multiple monitors.
Display Settings
Depending on your needs and preferences, your laptop's built-in display might impact your overall experience with multiple monitors. Some people may prefer laptops with a high resolution, while others might prioritize the screen size or refresh rate. Keep in mind what's important for your specific use case while narrowing down your options.
To summarize, when searching for the best laptop for multiple monitors, consider the number of available ports, graphic performance, processing power, and display preferences. By focusing on these factors, you'll be well on your way to finding a laptop that can handle your multiple monitor setup with ease. Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some top laptops for managing multiple displays?
In my experience, laptops like the Dell XPS 15, MacBook Pro, and Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon are excellent for managing multiple displays. These devices have powerful processors and GPU, which makes it possible to efficiently run various screens simultaneously.
How can I find a laptop ideal for trading with various screens?
When looking for a laptop for trading with multiple screens, I always recommend focusing on a high-performance system. Consider factors such as a powerful CPU, ample system memory, and a dedicated graphics card. Models such as the Acer Predator Helios 300, ASUS TUF Gaming, and HP Omen are solid choices for this purpose.
Which laptops are best suited for use with 4K external monitors?
Laptops that can easily handle 4K external monitors include the MacBook Pro 16-inch, Razer Blade 15, and Dell XPS 17. These laptops typically come with powerful processors, dedicated graphics cards, and Thunderbolt 3 or HDMI 2.0 ports, which support 4K output.
What laptops have the capability to support 4 or more monitors?
To support 4 or more monitors, you'll need a laptop with a powerful GPU and that supports multiple monitors and display output options. I've found that the Alienware Area-51m, MSI GT76 Titan, and Acer Predator Triton 900 can support such configurations, thanks to their high-performance hardware and multiple display outputs.
How do I connect multiple monitors to a laptop using a docking station?
To connect multiple monitors to a laptop using a docking station, first, ensure that your laptop has a compatible docking connector or a Thunderbolt 3 port.
Next, find a docking station that supports the desired number of monitors and your preferred display connectors (e.g., HDMI, DisplayPort). Once you have the docking station, simply connect your laptop to the station and then attach the monitors to the appropriate ports on the docking station.
Which computers can efficiently handle three or more screens?
Computers that can efficiently handle three or more screens often have powerful GPUs and multiple display outputs. In my experience, the Lenovo ThinkPad P-series, ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo, and Apple MacBook Pro with M1 Max chipset are able to handle such workloads smoothly, thanks to their robust hardware and multiple display output options.