Can You Use an iMac as a Monitor? How to Use It as a Second Screen

Learning how to use an iMac as a monitor can be a practical way to make use of an older Apple display, but whether it works depends on the exact iMac model, its macOS version and the computer you want to connect. Apple’s Target Display Mode allows certain older iMacs to work as displays for compatible Macs, while newer iMacs require alternative solutions such as AirPlay, screen sharing or third-party software.

If you are asking can I use my iMac as a monitor, the short answer is: yes, but only with certain iMac models and compatible setups. This guide explains which iMacs can be used as displays, how to connect them, whether you can use an iMac with a MacBook, Mac mini or PC, and what to do if your iMac does not support Target Display Mode.

Key Takeaways

• Older iMacs can work as external displays: Apple supports Target Display Mode on iMacs introduced in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and mid-2014, provided the required macOS versions and connecting Mac also meet Apple’s requirements.
• The cable depends on the iMac: 2009 and 2010 24-inch and 27-inch iMacs use Mini DisplayPort, while iMacs introduced from 2011 through mid-2014 use Thunderbolt or Thunderbolt 2.
• Target Display Mode is not available on newer iMacs: Apple does not provide this traditional wired display mode on later iMac models, so newer systems need another approach.
• Mac-to-Mac setups have the best native support: A compatible older iMac can be used with another compatible Mac, while Windows PCs cannot use Apple’s Target Display Mode.
• Newer Macs can use other display-sharing methods: Compatible Macs can receive AirPlay from another Mac, iPhone or iPad when AirPlay Receiver is supported and enabled.
• Check the exact model before buying cables: The iMac’s release year, macOS version, ports and the source computer all affect whether the setup will work.

What Does It Mean to Use an iMac as a Monitor?

When you use an iMac as a monitor, you are using the iMac’s built-in display to show the output from another computer instead of using a separate external monitor.

For example, you might want to use an older iMac as a display for a MacBook or another Mac. This can be particularly useful if you already own an iMac with a good-quality screen and want to avoid purchasing another monitor.

Searches such as iMac as a second monitor, using an iMac as a monitor and can you use an iMac as a monitor generally refer to the same basic idea: using the iMac’s display to show content from another computer.

However, an iMac is not automatically an external monitor simply because it has a high-resolution screen. The hardware and software must support the required display mode.

Which iMac Models Can Be Used as a Monitor?

The most important factor is the iMac’s introduction year.

Apple currently lists the following iMacs as compatible with Target Display Mode:

These older iMacs must also be running macOS High Sierra 10.13.6 or earlier when being used as the display. The Mac connecting to the iMac must be a Mac introduced in 2019 or earlier and running macOS Catalina 10.15.8 or earlier.

This means you should not assume that every Intel iMac can be turned into a monitor. The specific model and operating system matter.

How to Use an iMac as a Monitor with Target Display Mode

If you have a compatible older iMac, Apple’s Target Display Mode is the simplest way to use its screen as an external display.

What You Need

You will need:

• A compatible iMac from the supported model years
• A compatible Mac to use as the source computer
• The appropriate Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt cable
• Compatible versions of macOS on both Macs

For 2009 and 2010 iMac models, Apple specifies a Mini DisplayPort connection. For iMac models introduced from 2011 through mid-2014, a Thunderbolt or Thunderbolt 2 connection is required.

Steps to Activate Target Display Mode

• Turn on both Macs and make sure the source Mac is logged in.
• Connect the two computers using the appropriate cable.
• On the iMac being used as the display, press Command (⌘) + F2.
• The iMac should switch to showing the desktop of the connected Mac.
• Press Command + F2 again when you want to leave Target Display Mode.

If Command + F2 does not work, Apple recommends checking the keyboard settings and, in some configurations, using Command + Fn + F2. Apple also recommends using the keyboard that came with the iMac when troubleshooting Target Display Mode.

Can You Use an iMac as a Monitor for a MacBook?

Yes, a compatible older iMac can be used as a monitor for a MacBook, provided both computers meet Apple’s Target Display Mode requirements.

This is one of the most common reasons people want to repurpose an old iMac. Instead of purchasing a separate display, you can potentially use the iMac’s built-in screen for the MacBook.

The important point is that the MacBook also has to meet Apple’s requirements. The connecting Mac must have been introduced in 2019 or earlier and run macOS Catalina 10.15.8 or earlier for Target Display Mode.

Therefore, having a compatible iMac alone is not enough. Check both computers before purchasing a cable or adapter.

Can I Use My iMac as a Monitor for a Mac mini?

A Mac mini can be the source computer in an iMac-as-display setup, but the same Target Display Mode restrictions apply.

If you have a compatible older iMac and a compatible Mac mini, connect the two Macs using the required cable and press Command + F2 on the iMac.

However, a modern Mac mini cannot simply be connected to any iMac and expected to work as an external display through Target Display Mode. The source Mac and iMac must satisfy Apple’s supported hardware and software requirements.

For newer Mac mini and iMac combinations, consider a supported wireless display method or a dedicated external monitor instead.

Can You Use an iMac as a Monitor for a PC?

If you mean using Apple’s Target Display Mode, the answer is no. Apple specifically states that Target Display Mode does not support Boot Camp or Windows. It is designed for compatible Mac-to-Mac connections.

That means you cannot simply connect a Windows PC to a compatible iMac with a Thunderbolt or Mini DisplayPort cable and expect the iMac to behave like a conventional PC monitor.

If you want to use an iMac as a monitor for PC, you need to consider alternative approaches.

Options for Using an iMac with a PC

Remote desktop or screen-sharing software can allow you to access a Windows PC from the iMac. This is convenient for general office tasks, but it does not turn the iMac into a conventional wired monitor.

A video capture device is another possibility. The PC sends its video output to the capture hardware, which then displays the captured signal on the iMac through compatible software. This can involve additional hardware and may introduce latency.

For professional or high-performance use, a dedicated external monitor is usually the simpler and more reliable solution.

How to Use a Newer iMac as a Second Screen

If your iMac does not support Target Display Mode, you may still have ways to display content from another Apple device.

One option is AirPlay to Mac. Apple supports using compatible Macs as AirPlay receivers, allowing another Mac, iPhone or iPad to stream or mirror content to the Mac. Supported Mac models include iMac models introduced in 2018 or later, with the relevant macOS requirements.

To use AirPlay:

• Make sure the receiving Mac supports AirPlay Receiver.
• Enable AirPlay Receiver in the Mac’s settings.
• On the source Mac, open the display or Screen Mirroring controls.
• Select the receiving Mac.
• Choose the available mirroring or display option.

AirPlay is different from Target Display Mode. It sends display content over a network rather than creating the same type of direct wired display connection available on older compatible iMacs.

Other Alternatives for Newer iMacs

If AirPlay is not suitable, there are other ways to access another computer from an iMac.

Screen Sharing

macOS includes Screen Sharing for remotely viewing and controlling another Mac. It can be useful when you need access to files, applications or another Mac’s desktop rather than a full-performance external display.

Third-Party Display Software

Third-party applications can provide additional ways to use a Mac as a secondary display. Availability, performance and compatibility vary by software and operating system, so check the current requirements before choosing an application.

Dedicated External Monitor

If you need a reliable second display for design work, video editing, gaming or other performance-sensitive tasks, a dedicated monitor is usually a better choice than trying to repurpose an incompatible iMac.

What If You Have an Old iMac You No Longer Need?

An older iMac does not necessarily have to sit unused. If it is compatible with Target Display Mode, you may be able to continue using its screen with another Mac.

If the iMac itself is obsolete or no longer practical for your daily computing needs, you can also consider replacing it with a newer machine and using a dedicated monitor for your workspace.

For temporary projects, exhibitions, conferences and business events, buying equipment is not always necessary. Hire Tablets UK provides technology rental services across the UK, including iMacs and display equipment for short-term requirements.

If you specifically need Apple desktop equipment, you can explore iMac Rental for events, exhibitions, presentations and business projects.

For broader computer requirements, Computer Rental is another option when you need computers for a temporary project without purchasing equipment outright.

How to Check Your iMac Before Connecting It

Before buying a cable, adapter or third-party application, identify the exact iMac model.

Check:

• The iMac’s introduction year.
• Whether it is a 24-inch, 27-inch or another model.
• Which ports are available.
• Which version of macOS is installed.
• The model and macOS version of the computer you want to connect.
• Whether you are trying to create a true external display connection or simply access another computer remotely.

This information can prevent you from buying a cable for a setup that cannot work.

Common Problems When Using an iMac as a Monitor

If you have a compatible iMac but the display does not switch when you press Command + F2, check the basics first.

Make sure both Macs are turned on and meet Apple’s requirements. Confirm that you are using the correct cable for the iMac generation and that both ends are securely connected.

If Command + F2 does not activate Target Display Mode, check whether your keyboard requires the Fn key. Apple also recommends logging out of the iMac and returning to the login window before trying the shortcut again.

Remember that an iMac’s ports and built-in camera are not automatically available to the connected Mac while Target Display Mode is active. External devices should be connected directly to the source Mac when required.

Conclusion: Is an iMac a Good Monitor?

An iMac can be used as a monitor, but the answer depends heavily on the exact model and the computer you want to connect.

Older compatible iMacs can use Apple’s Target Display Mode with another supported Mac, while newer models need alternatives such as AirPlay, screen sharing, third-party software or a dedicated external monitor. Windows PCs cannot use Apple’s Target Display Mode, so PC users should consider alternative display solutions.

Before purchasing a cable or adapter, check the model and macOS version of both computers. If you simply need additional Apple computers or displays for a temporary event, exhibition or business project, renting can be a more practical option.

Hire Tablets UK offers iMacs, computers, touch-screen monitors and other technology for temporary requirements across the UK. For Apple desktop requirements, see iMac Rental, or explore Computer Rental for wider computer rental options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my iMac as a monitor?

Yes, but only certain older iMac models support Apple’s Target Display Mode. Apple currently lists 2009 and 2010 24-inch and 27-inch iMacs, along with iMacs introduced in 2011, 2012, 2013 and mid-2014, subject to the required macOS versions and compatible source Mac.

Can you use an iMac as a monitor for another Mac?

Yes, if both Macs meet Apple’s Target Display Mode requirements. The iMac acts as the display while the other Mac provides the content.

Can an iMac be used as a second monitor?

A compatible older iMac can be used as a second display through Target Display Mode. Newer Macs may support alternative methods such as AirPlay to Mac, depending on the models and operating systems involved.

Can you use an iMac as a monitor for a MacBook?

Yes, a compatible older iMac can work as a display for a compatible MacBook. The source Mac must also meet Apple’s Target Display Mode requirements.

Can I use an iMac as a monitor for a Mac mini?

Yes, but only when the iMac and Mac mini meet the requirements for the display method being used. For Target Display Mode, both computers must satisfy Apple’s supported model and macOS requirements.

Can I use an iMac as a monitor for PC?

Not through Apple’s Target Display Mode. Apple states that Target Display Mode does not support Windows or Boot Camp.

You may need screen-sharing software, a capture solution or a separate external monitor instead.

What cable do I need to use an iMac as a monitor?

The cable depends on the iMac model. Apple specifies Mini DisplayPort for supported 2009 and 2010 24-inch and 27-inch iMacs, while supported iMacs introduced from 2011 through mid-2014 use Thunderbolt or Thunderbolt 2.

How do I activate Target Display Mode?

Connect the compatible Macs using the appropriate cable and press Command + F2 on the keyboard of the iMac being used as the display. Press the same shortcut again to exit the mode.

Can a newer iMac be used as an external display?

Newer iMacs do not support Apple’s traditional Target Display Mode. Depending on the Mac model and software version, AirPlay to Mac or other software-based approaches may provide an alternative.

Can I rent an iMac for an event in the UK?

Yes. Hire Tablets UK provides iMac rental for events, exhibitions, conferences and temporary business requirements across the UK.