Open the Apple menu and go to System Preferences > Software Update to update macOS. If your external monitor isn’t working in any way, the first thing to do is make sure everything is updated. There’s your operating software (macOS), the particular app you’re using, and firmware built into the monitor, Mac, or even cables. Various pieces of software are involved in making an external monitor work with your Mac. If your Mac’s external monitor isn’t working but you can’t find the exact problem above, you still might be able to fix it with the tips below.

This list isn’t exhaustive, but it covers the most common external monitor problems.

Everything appears too large or too smallĪ blurry monitor might be the result of using the wrong resolution.

External display appears blank or black.

To make sure this is the best article for you, here is a short list of the issues we’ll show you how to fix: The tips below can fix a wide number of problems you might experience with your Mac’s external monitor.

External display shows black screen with macOS Catalina and other issues? Check these tips.

How to connect a TV or external monitor to a MacBook.

How to share your Mac’s screen with another computer.

Before long, you’ll have no problems using your external monitor to multitask across two screens again. If your external monitor isn’t working with your Mac, these troubleshooting tips can help you fix it.

Use the external display to extend your desktop, mirror your screen, or keep working on a larger monitor while your MacBook is closed. Connecting an external monitor to your Mac makes it easier to work with many apps at once.

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