How to Daisy Chain Monitors: A Complete Guide
If you’re looking to expand your screen real estate for work or play, a daisy chain monitor setup is an excellent solution. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about daisy chaining displays, from what it means to how to set it up with different connection types.
What is daisy chaining monitors?
Daisy chaining monitors means connecting multiple displays in a series, creating a daisy chain monitor setup where each monitor is linked to the next, rather than connecting each one directly to your computer. This setup allows you to expand your desktop across multiple screens while minimizing cable clutter.
Benefits of daisy chaining monitors
- Expand your workspace with multiple displays
- Reduce cable clutter on your desk
- Simplify your setup with fewer connections to your computer
- Potentially save ports on your computer for other devices
- Easily daisy chain multiple monitors to create an expansive and efficient workspace
How to daisy chain monitors
The process for daisy chaining depends on the type of video connection you’re using. To successfully daisy chain monitors, you will need to use DisplayPort Multi-Stream Transport (MST) technology, which allows multiple monitors to be connected in a series. The most common methods are:
DisplayPort daisy chaining
- Ensure your graphics card and monitors support DisplayPort 1.2 or higher with Multi-Stream Transport (MST) support.
- Connect the first monitor to your computer using a DisplayPort cable.
- Connect a DisplayPort cable from the DisplayPort Out on the first monitor to the DisplayPort In on the second monitor.
- Repeat for additional monitors (up to the limit supported by your graphics card).
Thunderbolt daisy chaining
- Verify your computer and monitors have Thunderbolt 3 or 4 ports.
- Connect the first monitor to your computer using a Thunderbolt cable. Using a high-quality USB-C cable can ensure a stable and efficient connection between your Thunderbolt devices.
- Connect a Thunderbolt cable from the Thunderbolt Out on the first monitor to the Thunderbolt In on the second monitor.
- Repeat for additional monitors (up to the limit supported by your Thunderbolt controller).
Can you daisy chain monitors with HDMI?
While true daisy chaining isn't supported by HDMI, some monitors offer HDMI pass-through which can achieve a similar result. Check your monitor's specifications to see if this feature is available. Need to connect your laptop to a TV with HDMI? That's a simpler process that only requires a single cable connection.
Can you daisy chain monitors with VGA?
VGA does not support daisy chaining. For older systems, consider using a DisplayPort to VGA adapter on the computer side if your monitors support DisplayPort daisy chaining. This allows you to connect the initial monitor to the subsequent monitors in the chain.
Recommended monitors for daisy chaining
Best All-Around Monitor for Daisy Chaining
The HP Z27u G3 QHD Display is an excellent choice for professionals looking to create a daisy chain monitor setup. With its 27-inch QHD resolution screen, this monitor provides ample screen real estate while maintaining crisp image quality. The DisplayPort 1.4 with MST support allows for seamless daisy chaining, making it easy to expand your workspace.
- 27-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) resolution
- DisplayPort 1.4 with MST support
- USB-C with 100W power delivery
- 99% sRGB color gamut
Whether you’re a creative professional working on complex designs or a data analyst comparing multiple spreadsheets, the HP Z27u G3 QHD Display’s color accuracy and daisy chaining capabilities make it an ideal choice for enhancing productivity in multi-monitor setups.
Best Compact Monitor for Daisy Chaining
1722454318191133.png?impolicy=Png_Res&imdensity=1&imwidth=1000 "HP E22 G4 FHD monitor (2).png")
For those with limited desk space who still want the benefits of a daisy chain monitor setup, the HP E22 G4 FHD monitor is the perfect solution. This 21.5-inch monitor offers a compact footprint without sacrificing screen quality or daisy chaining capabilities. Its FHD resolution ensures sharp text and vivid images, ideal for detailed work.
- 21.5-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) resolution
- DisplayPort 1.2 with MST support
- 4-way ergonomic stand
- HP Eye Ease always-on blue light filter
The HP E22 G4 FHD monitor is particularly well-suited for software developers or financial professionals who need to view multiple windows simultaneously but are working in tight spaces. Its daisy chaining support allows you to easily connect multiple monitors, creating an expansive workspace in even the most compact office environments.
Best High-Performance Monitor for Daisy Chaining
The HP P27 G5 FHD Monitor is designed for professionals who demand high performance from their daisy chain multiple monitors setup. This 27-inch display offers Full HD resolution and excellent color accuracy, making it suitable for various professional applications. Its daisy chaining capabilities ensure a seamless multi-monitor experience.
- 27-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) resolution
- 1000:1 contrast ratio
- 5ms GtG (with overdrive) response time
- IPS panel for wide viewing angles
The HP P27 G5 FHD Monitor is an excellent choice for professionals who need a reliable and high-performance display for their multi-monitor setup. Its combination of features and affordable price point makes it a great option for expanding your workspace efficiently.
Setting up your daisy chained monitors
- Connect your monitors using the appropriate cables as described above.
- Ensure that your cables and monitors support Multi-Stream Transport (MST) to enable daisy chaining.
- Power on all monitors and your computer.
- On Windows, right-click the desktop and select “Display settings.”
- Arrange your monitors in the desired configuration.
- Choose to either extend or duplicate your desktop across the monitors.
When setting up your daisy chained monitors, consider the layout of your gaming computer desk. A good gaming desk can accommodate multiple monitors while providing ample space for your other gaming peripherals. The reduced cable clutter from daisy chaining pairs well with a desk designed for cable management, resulting in a clean and efficient gaming setup.
Troubleshooting daisy chained monitors
If you’re having issues with your daisy chained setup:
- Ensure all cables are securely connected
- Check that your graphics card driver is up to date
- Verify that DisplayPort Multi-Stream Transport (MST) is enabled in your monitor’s on-screen display menu
- Confirm your graphics card supports the number of monitors and resolution you’re attempting to use
Conclusion
Daisy chaining monitors is an efficient way to create a daisy chain monitor setup with minimal cable clutter. Whether you’re using DisplayPort or Thunderbolt, the process is straightforward and can significantly enhance your productivity or gaming experience.
Have more questions about daisy chaining monitors or need help choosing the right display for your setup? Contact our experts at 1-800-HP-INVENT for personalized assistance.
