How can I use a Macbook Air + Macbook Pro Screen

[zeva]

Hi,

I use a Macbook Air M1, mostly with a second monitor. When I'm out, I miss having the second monitor. Is there any way to use my 2018 Macbook Pro as a second screen to the Air? Then I could carry two laptops, instead of buying a second portable screen.

I'm wondering if there are any tools/services what might allow such functionality?

The Pro isn't in use and it would be great to use it, if there's a way?

Thanks

Happy Holidays!

 

[Smoovejayy]

I don't think this is possible.

 

[zeva]

I don't think this is possible.

Thanks. I've never seen it. But I know there are all kinds of new and clever hardware and software technologies springing up all the time. So just checking if something exists nowadays.

🙏

 

[FreakinEurekan]

Actually yes you can. The 2018 MacBook Pro supports "AirPlay to Mac" and you can use it as an external display for another Mac or iOS device.

That said - a portable display is pretty cheap (especially if you don't need 4k) and is a LOT thinner/lighter than a 2018 MacBook Pro.

 

[zeva]

Actually yes you can. The 2018 MacBook Pro supports "AirPlay to Mac" and you can use it as an external display for another Mac or iOS device.

Wow FreakinEurekan, you've just made my christmas even better! That's excellent news. I can't try now but look forward to doing so.

I've seen the portable displays and that may be a way to go, but I noted on the lower priced models comments and grumblings about battery life being a dissapointment. It'll be great to experiment with the Pro. Else, a portable display could be next option.

Much appreciated and Happy Holidays!

 

[navaira]

My first thought is an iPad and Sidecar. Of course if you already have the MBP and don’t want to buy a 13” iPad Pro, that’s probably preferable.

Looking forward to hearing how ‘AirPlay to Mac’ works for you, lag-wise especially – is there after all an easy solution to the lack of Target Mode Display?! (I looked at the link and our 2017 iMac won’t benefit, I’d still love to know how it goes for you.)

 

[zeva]

I'll post an update once an answer is known.

 

[FreakinEurekan]

is there after all an easy solution to the lack of Target Mode Display?!

I’ve played with it… used my MacBook Pro as an external (3rd) display for my Mac mini. It works “okay,” about like any other AirPlay display in that it does have some latency as compared to old Target Display Mode but fine for general use (no good for gaming). Also of course you need to be able to START it so it isn’t ideal as an “only” display from a Mac mini, for example.

IMO it’s helpful “in a pinch” but if it were me in the OP’s place, I’d get an inexpensive 16” external display. It’s a fraction of the space & weight of the MacBook Pro, doesn’t have latency or setup issues, and if you don’t need 4k it’s under $100.