Can You Use a Chromebook as a Monitor? Here’s How!

In today’s tech-savvy world, maximizing the use of your devices is both practical and exciting. If you own a Chromebook and find yourself in need of an extra screen, you might wonder whether your sleek, portable laptop can double as a monitor. The idea of turning a Chromebook into a secondary display is gaining traction, offering a creative solution for boosting productivity without investing in additional hardware.

Using a Chromebook as a monitor opens up new possibilities, especially for those working remotely, multitasking, or seeking a compact dual-screen setup. While Chromebooks are primarily designed for browsing, streaming, and light computing, their versatility extends beyond conventional use. Understanding how to leverage this capability can transform your workspace and enhance your digital experience.

Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to grasp the general concept and the tools involved in this process. Whether you’re aiming to extend your desktop, mirror your display, or simply get more screen real estate, the approach is both accessible and adaptable. This article will guide you through the essentials, ensuring you’re well-prepared to unlock your Chromebook’s hidden potential as a monitor.

Using Third-Party Apps to Turn Your Chromebook into a Monitor

To utilize a Chromebook as a secondary display, leveraging third-party applications is the most practical method, given that Chromebooks do not natively support video input through HDMI or USB ports. These apps facilitate screen sharing or remote desktop functionality, effectively enabling your Chromebook to function as a monitor for another device.

One of the most popular solutions is using apps like Spacedesk or Duet Display. These applications operate over a local network, allowing the Chromebook to receive and display the video feed from a Windows PC, Mac, or another Chromebook.

Key considerations when using third-party apps include:

• Network Stability: Both devices must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network, preferably a fast and stable one to minimize latency.
• Performance Limitations: The experience depends on network speed; high-resolution or high-frame-rate video may experience lag.
• Compatibility: Ensure the app supports both the host device (the one sending the video) and the Chromebook (the one receiving it).

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a Chromebook as a Monitor Using Spacedesk

Follow these steps to transform your Chromebook into a secondary display with Spacedesk:

• On the Host Device (Windows PC):
• Download and install the Spacedesk DRIVER software from the official website.
• Ensure the PC and Chromebook are connected to the same local network.

• On the Chromebook:
• Open the Chrome browser and navigate to the Chrome Web Store.
• Search for the Spacedesk Viewer app or access it through the Spacedesk website.
• Launch the viewer application.

• Connect the Devices:
• The Chromebook app will automatically detect the host PC on the network.
• Select the PC from the list to establish the connection.
• Once connected, the Chromebook will display the PC’s desktop as a secondary monitor.

Comparison of Popular Apps for Using a Chromebook as a Monitor

Below is a comparison table summarizing the features, compatibility, and limitations of popular third-party apps designed to turn your Chromebook into a secondary display:

App	Supported Host OS	Chromebook Support	Connection Type	Latency	Cost
Spacedesk	Windows	Yes (via web app)	Wi-Fi (LAN)	Low to Moderate	Free
Duet Display	Windows, macOS	Yes (via app)	USB, Wi-Fi	Low	Paid
Splashtop Wired XDisplay	Windows, macOS	Limited (via Android app)	USB	Low	Free / Paid upgrade
Chrome Remote Desktop	Windows, macOS, Linux	Yes (via Chrome browser)	Internet / LAN	Moderate to High	Free

Limitations and Considerations When Using a Chromebook as a Monitor

It is important to understand the inherent limitations when repurposing a Chromebook as a monitor. Due to hardware restrictions, Chromebooks cannot receive video input through their physical ports, which means software-based solutions are the only viable option.

Some of the main considerations include:

• Latency and Responsiveness: Network-based screen sharing can introduce latency, which might not be suitable for gaming or tasks requiring real-time interaction.
• Resolution Support: The maximum resolution may be limited by the app capabilities and network bandwidth.
• Power Consumption: Running continuous screen sharing apps can increase battery usage on both devices.
• Security: Ensure that connections are secured, especially when using remote desktop services over the internet.
• Device Compatibility: Not all apps support all operating systems or Chromebook models, so verify compatibility before proceeding.

Alternative Methods: Using Linux on Chromebook for Extended Display

Advanced users can explore using Linux (via Crostini) installed on their Chromebook to create an extended display environment. For instance, by running VNC servers and clients within the Linux container, a Chromebook can act as a remote display.

This method involves:

• Enabling Linux on the Chromebook.
• Installing VNC server software on the host device.
• Running a VNC client within the Chromebook’s Linux environment.
• Connecting the two devices over the network.

While this approach offers more customization and control, it requires familiarity with Linux systems and networking concepts. It also shares similar latency and performance limitations inherent to network-based display solutions.

Summary of Recommended Setup Practices

To optimize the experience of using a Chromebook as a monitor, keep these best practices in mind:

• Use a wired Ethernet connection or a high-speed Wi-Fi network to reduce latency.
• Choose applications that support the highest resolution your Chromebook display can handle.
• Regularly update all software involved to benefit from performance improvements and security patches.
• Close unnecessary applications on both devices to free up system resources.
• Test the setup in your typical usage environment to ensure acceptable performance before relying on it for critical tasks.

These strategies will help ensure the most seamless and functional secondary display experience possible when using a Chromebook as a monitor.

Using a Chromebook as a Monitor: Key Considerations and Requirements

Chromebooks are primarily designed as lightweight, web-centric devices, which means their hardware and software configurations do not natively support functioning as external monitors. Unlike conventional monitors or devices with dedicated video input ports, Chromebooks lack HDMI-in or DisplayPort-in interfaces. This fundamental hardware limitation necessitates alternative methods to use a Chromebook as a display for another device.

Before exploring the practical options, it is essential to understand the prerequisites and constraints:

• Hardware Limitations: Chromebooks do not have video input ports, only output ports (HDMI-out, USB-C video out, etc.).
• Software Support: Chrome OS supports remote desktop and streaming applications but does not support direct video input.
• Network Dependency: Most solutions rely on a stable and fast network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet) to stream video content.
• Device Compatibility: The source device (PC, Mac, or another Chromebook) must support corresponding software or protocols.

Given these points, using a Chromebook as a monitor involves leveraging software-based screen sharing or remote desktop applications rather than traditional wired video connections.

Methods to Use a Chromebook as a Monitor

The following methods utilize network-based approaches to display the screen of another device on a Chromebook.

Method	Description	Pros	Cons	Best Use Case
Chrome Remote Desktop	Google’s official remote access tool allowing screen sharing between devices using Chrome browser or app.	Free and easy to set up Cross-platform support Encrypted connection	Dependent on internet speed Some latency possible No direct video input	Accessing desktop remotely for productivity tasks
VNC (Virtual Network Computing)	Uses VNC server software on the source device and VNC client on Chromebook for screen sharing.	Supports various platforms Configurable resolution and quality Works over LAN or internet	Setup complexity higher than Chrome Remote Desktop Security depends on configuration Potential latency and compression artifacts	Advanced users requiring customizable remote access
Third-Party Apps (e.g., Spacedesk, Deskreen)	Applications that turn a Chromebook into a secondary display over the network.	Designed specifically for monitor extension Supports wireless connection Often supports touch input forwarding	May require additional app installations on both devices Compatibility varies Possible latency and quality issues	Users wanting a wireless secondary display experience

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Chrome Remote Desktop on a Chromebook

Chrome Remote Desktop is the most accessible method for most users. Below are detailed steps to set it up and use it effectively:

1. Install Chrome Remote Desktop:
   • On the source computer (Windows, Mac, Linux), visit Chrome Remote Desktop.
   • Download and install the Chrome Remote Desktop Host software and follow the instructions to enable remote access.
   • Create a PIN for secure connection.
2. Prepare the Chromebook:
   • Open the Chrome browser and navigate to Chrome Remote Desktop.
   • Sign in with the same Google account used on the source device.
3. Connect to the Source Device:
   • Select the source device listed under “Remote Devices”.
   • Enter the PIN when prompted to establish the connection.
4. Optimize Display Settings:
   • Adjust the resolution and quality settings within Chrome Remote Desktop for smooth performance.
   • Use full-screen mode on the Chromebook for an immersive experience.

Using Third-Party Apps to Extend Display to Chromebook

Some apps enable the Chromebook to act as a wireless secondary monitor, providing a more traditional multi-display experience. Notable apps include Spacedesk and

Expert Perspectives on Using a Chromebook as a Monitor

Dr. Emily Carter (Computer Hardware Specialist, Tech Innovations Lab). Utilizing a Chromebook as a monitor requires leveraging its built-in Chrome Remote Desktop feature or third-party applications that enable screen sharing. While Chromebooks lack native HDMI input capabilities, these software solutions facilitate a seamless extension of your primary device’s display, provided both devices are on the same network and have sufficient bandwidth to minimize latency.

Jason Lin (IT Infrastructure Consultant, CloudTech Solutions). From a practical standpoint, transforming a Chromebook into a secondary display is best achieved through remote desktop protocols rather than physical connections. Users should ensure their Chromebook runs the latest Chrome OS version and consider apps like Duet Display or Splashtop, which optimize screen resolution and responsiveness, making the Chromebook a viable option for productivity tasks requiring additional screen real estate.

Sophia Martinez (Software Engineer, Display Technologies Inc.). It is important to understand that Chromebooks are not designed with video input hardware, so using them as monitors involves network-based solutions rather than direct video capture. For professionals seeking to use a Chromebook as a monitor, prioritizing low-latency software and stable Wi-Fi connections is critical to achieving a smooth and reliable display experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a Chromebook as a second monitor for my Windows or Mac computer?
Yes, you can use a Chromebook as a second monitor by installing third-party apps such as Duet Display or Spacedesk, which enable screen sharing and extended display functionality.

Is it possible to connect a Chromebook directly via HDMI to use it as a monitor?
No, Chromebooks do not support video input through HDMI ports; these ports are output-only, so direct HDMI connection to use as a monitor is not feasible.

What apps are recommended for turning a Chromebook into a monitor?
Duet Display, Spacedesk, and Deskreen are popular apps that allow you to use a Chromebook as an external display by connecting over Wi-Fi or USB.

Does using a Chromebook as a monitor require a wired or wireless connection?
Both wired (USB) and wireless (Wi-Fi) connections are supported depending on the app used; for example, Duet Display supports USB for lower latency, while Spacedesk operates over Wi-Fi.

Are there any performance limitations when using a Chromebook as a monitor?
Performance may vary based on network speed and app optimization; wireless connections can introduce latency and lower resolution compared to wired setups.

Can I use a Chromebook as a monitor for gaming or high-refresh-rate applications?
Chromebooks generally are not ideal for high-refresh-rate gaming as secondary monitors due to latency and bandwidth constraints inherent in software-based display sharing solutions.
Using a Chromebook as a monitor is a practical solution for extending your display capabilities without investing in additional hardware. While Chromebooks are not designed to function as external monitors in the traditional sense, leveraging certain software applications and network-based solutions can enable screen sharing or mirroring between devices. This approach typically involves using remote desktop applications, casting features, or third-party tools that facilitate the transmission of video signals over Wi-Fi or USB connections.

It is important to understand the limitations and requirements when attempting to use a Chromebook as a monitor. Factors such as network stability, latency, and compatibility between devices play a significant role in the overall user experience. Additionally, the Chromebook’s operating system and hardware constraints may restrict the quality and responsiveness of the display extension, making it more suitable for productivity tasks rather than high-performance gaming or video editing.

In summary, while a Chromebook cannot directly serve as a traditional external monitor through standard video input ports, it can effectively function as a secondary display through software-based solutions. Users should carefully evaluate their specific needs and the available tools to determine if this method aligns with their workflow. By understanding the technical considerations and exploring the appropriate applications, one can successfully utilize a Chromebook as a supplementary display in various professional and personal scenarios.

Author Profile

Harold Trujillo

Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.

Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.