Using Microsoft Surface Pro As A Second Screen or Monitor

Dual monitors are increasingly common in a home and business setting. They are particularly popular in industries such as web design, web development, graphic design, digital marketing, CAD, or multimedia production.

Of course, dual monitors can be useful in a variety of businesses settings since they increase productivity. Research reveals that there is on average a 42% increase in productivity when using multiple displays.

Not only is productivity increased, but also the quality of the work output is improved with a 20% reduction in errors for workers using multiple monitors.

Dual monitors aid working habits because they boost concentration. They enable users to view two sets of information at once, rather than having to keep pulling up separate windows. This can save time and energy regardless of the industry. It is useful in data compiling, research, and writing, using software and drafting reports, and almost every activity you can imagine.

Dual monitors have been becoming more popular in the home setting among gamers for several years.  However, demand for dual monitors is now increasing in the home environment as more people are working from home.

If you have a Microsoft Surface device, you can easily utilise it as a second monitor.

The Flexibility and Strength of Microsoft Surface

The Microsoft Surface family covers a range of high quality and highly adaptive devices. These members of the Surface collection can be easily utilised as a second monitor with an existing laptop or computer.

Some of the most versatile devices for a business setting are the 2-in-1 table/laptop options. This includes the Microsoft Surface Pro 8, Pro X, Surface Book and Surface Go. This hardware provides the portability of a tablet device with the power and stability of a laptop. These devices are especially suited to be used as second screens.

Additionally, the Surface range has the Surface laptop, Surface Duo, Surface Hub and Surface Studio. With the 2-in-1 range you can use your device as a standalone laptop, a powerful tablet or use two of them as dual monitors for even more productive work. This offers yet more flexibility and new ways of working for Surface owners.

How to Use Surface Devices As A Second Monitor  

Before configuring your Surface device as a second monitor first ensure the following:

• Both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
• Both devices are running a recent version of Windows 10.

To get started using your Surface device as a second monitor, simply carry out the following steps:

Step 1) Place both monitors next to one another.

Step 2) On both devices you must separately navigate to the Windows 10 settings.

Step 3) Search for Projection Settings.

Step 4) If the projection setting is greyed out, you must install Optional Features, including the Wireless Display. (Click Optional Features, then Add a Feature. Search for Wireless Display and click the check box then install the feature.)

Step 5) To configure your devices for dual monitors open settings on both devices then navigate to Systems.

Step 6) Navigate to Projecting to this PC.

Step 7) You should see a drop down menu entitled Some Windows and Android Devices Can Project to this PC. Choose from available anywhere or available on secure networks. Though the former is easier.

Step 8) In the next drop down select Ask to project to the PC.

Step 9) Click Every Time a Connection is Required.

If you want to use the Surface device as a second monitor while it is on battery power, you must toggle Off on the final optional box.

Step 10) Now, press the Windows key and P on the main keyboard.

Step 11) Choose Extend from the list.

Step 12) There should be an option for Connect to a Wireless Display. Search for your second device’s name and click it.

Step 13) On your second device you will be sent a prompt. Choose Always Allow and click ok. Do this on both devices.

Now you should be able to use your Surface device as your second monitor.

For a visual guide, follow the instructions in this short video: