2017 MacBook Pro fans spinning when connected to external displays

[andromedaan]

The problem:

• The fans on my 2017 MacBook Pro are nearly always spinning when connected to external displays

The cause of the problem:

• I have my MBP connected to two external 1080p displays, using a Thunderbolt 3 Dock. The weak graphics chip seems to have trouble keeping up..

What I've tried to solve this:

• I've tried connecting my two displays through several docks and USB-C hubs, but it didn't change anything. I have the entry level, 13" non-touchbar 2017 MacBook Pro. It has 8GB of ram, of which 2GB is reserved for graphics. It seems the graphics chip has a hard time driving two external displays
• When I disconnect the external displays, the MBP fans will turn off within two minutes. But I need the displays for my workflow.
• Using Safari instead of Chrome helps somewhat. But I rely on too many Chrome extensions to make the full switch to Safari sadly.

Is there anything else I could try?
I'm considering buying a new MacBook Pro, or maybe a Mac Mini. Does anyone know if they can handle two 1080p displays without making the fans spin?

 

[darkweather]

same problem, no solution yet: https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/samsung-28-ur550-uhd-4k.2237030/

 

[Christopher Kim]

To clarify, when you connect to the 2 external displays, are you also keeping your laptop display open? Or are you operating in closed-clamshell mode? If the former, maybe give closed-clamshell mode a try.

 

[andromedaan]

To clarify, when you connect to the 2 external displays, are you also keeping your laptop display open? Or are you operating in closed-clamshell mode? If the former, maybe give closed-clamshell mode a try.

I keep my laptop open and in front of me, as I use the keyboard. I could try clamshell mode but I'd have to buy a new keyboard. I will try to see if it helps tho, thanks for the suggestion.
[automerge]1590661186[/automerge]

same problem, no solution yet: https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/samsung-28-ur550-uhd-4k.2237030/

I believe the incredibly crappy graphics chips are to blame. I have the entry level MBP 13" and it doesn't have dedicated graphics. I only have 8GB of RAM of which 1,5GB is reserved for the graphics chip.

Not so "Pro" after all..