Connecting an external display to a MacBook involves a straightforward process, but the specific steps and capabilities depend on your Mac model, available ports, and the type of display. Most MacBooks support at least one external display, while higher-end models (like those with M1 Pro, M1 Max, or M2 Pro chips) can handle two or more. The process typically requires a compatible cable or adapter—such as Thunderbolt/USB-C or HDMI—and adjusting settings in macOS for optimal performance.

Key findings from the sources:

• Basic connection: Power on the display, connect it to the MacBook using a video cable (Thunderbolt/USB-C or HDMI), and use an adapter if needed. The Mac should automatically detect the display ^[1].
• Display settings: Configure resolution, brightness, and arrangement via System Settings > Displays. Options include mirroring or extending the desktop ^[2][3].
• Model limitations: M1/M2 MacBooks (non-Pro/Max) typically support only one external display natively, while M1 Pro/Max and M2 Pro/Max models support two or more. Workarounds like DisplayLink software or docking stations can expand capabilities ^[5][6][8].
• Troubleshooting: Common issues include unrecognized displays, blurry text, or incorrect color profiles. Solutions involve checking cables, updating macOS, or adjusting scaling settings ^[2][10].

Connecting External Displays to Your MacBook

Step-by-Step Connection Process

To connect an external display, start by identifying the ports on your MacBook and the inputs on your monitor. Most modern MacBooks use Thunderbolt/USB-C ports, while some monitors may require HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-A. Adapters (e.g., USB-C to HDMI) are often necessary if the ports don’t match.

Once connected:

1. Power on the display and ensure it’s set to the correct input source (e.g., HDMI 1, DisplayPort).
2. Connect the cable to your MacBook. If using an adapter, plug it into the MacBook first, then connect the display cable to the adapter.
3. Wait for detection: The Mac should recognize the display automatically. If not, check the cable connection or try a different port ^[1][10].
4. Configure display settings: - Open System Settings > Displays (or System Preferences > Displays on older macOS versions). - Choose between Mirroring (same content on both screens) or Extended Desktop (separate workspaces). - Adjust resolution, refresh rate, and color profile as needed ^[2][3].

For non-Apple displays, refer to the monitor’s manual for optimal settings, as some may require specific resolutions or color modes (e.g., "M-Book Mode" on BenQ monitors for accurate colors) ^[10].

Common issues and fixes:

• No signal: Recheck cable connections, try a different port, or restart the Mac.
• Blurry text: Adjust scaling in Display Settings or enable "Default for display" resolution.
• Color mismatch: Enable the correct color profile (e.g., sRGB or DCI-P3) in System Settings > Displays > Color Profile ^[2][10].

Support for Multiple Displays: Limitations and Workarounds

Apple Silicon MacBooks (M1, M2, M3, M4) and Intel-based models vary in their support for multiple external displays. Here’s what the sources confirm:

Native support by model:

• M1/M2 MacBook Air and base M1/M2 MacBook Pro: Support only one external display (up to 6K at 60Hz) ^[5][6].
• M1 Pro/M1 Max/M2 Pro/M2 Max MacBook Pro: Support up to two external displays (e.g., two 6K displays or one 6K + one 4K) ^[6].
• M1/M2 Mac mini: Supports two displays (one via HDMI, one via USB-C/Thunderbolt).
• M4 MacBook Air/Pro: Expanded support for two external displays (even on base models) ^[7].

Workarounds for unsupported setups: If your MacBook doesn’t natively support multiple displays, these solutions can help:

• DisplayLink adapters/docks: These create a virtual display by offloading graphics processing to the CPU. Examples include:
• Wavlink USB-C Dock (supports dual 4K displays, ~$150).
• CalDigit TS4 (Thunderbolt 4 dock, supports dual 6K displays, ~$400).
• StarTech USB-C to Dual HDMI Adapter (budget option, ~$80) ^[5][9].
• Limitations: DisplayLink may cause lag in video playback, higher CPU usage, and incompatibility with DRM-protected content (e.g., Netflix, Apple TV+) ^[8].
• Daisy-chaining: Some monitors (e.g., LG UltraFine) support daisy-chaining via Thunderbolt, but this requires compatible hardware and doesn’t increase the total number of displays beyond the Mac’s native limit ^[6].
• Software solutions: Apps like Duet Display or AirPlay can use an iPad as a secondary screen, though performance may vary ^[1].

Troubleshooting multi-display setups:

• If only one display is detected:
• Ensure both monitors are connected to separate ports (e.g., one via HDMI, one via USB-C).
• Avoid hubs that split a single port into multiple outputs—these rarely work for dual displays ^[6].
• Update macOS and the DisplayLink Manager app (if using DisplayLink) ^[9].
• For clamshell mode (MacBook closed):
• Connect an external keyboard/mouse and power adapter.
• The MacBook must remain plugged in to power the displays ^[9].