As remote and back-to-office workers look for ways to enhance their desk setups, connecting a laptop to multiple external monitors is essential for creating a productive workspace. These days, a single monitor plus a laptop screen often isn't enough to multitask effectively and achieve maximum productivity. An ideal setup may involve connecting 3 monitors to a laptop, but how can you set up 3 monitors without running into technical challenges? This article will walk you through how to connect 3 monitors to a laptop, whether you're using a Windows laptop or a MacBook.

• Utilizing the Laptop Display Ports
• Monitors Equipped with Daisy Chain Capabilities 
• BenQ beCreatus DP1310 USB-C Hybrid Dock
• Illuminating Your Setup

Windows laptops can connect to multiple monitors relatively easily. If your laptop features an independent graphics card, two USB-C ports with Thunderbolt capabilities, and an HDMI port, you can have a 3-monitor setup with your laptop. For example, two monitors can be connected via USB-C, while the 3rd monitor connects through an HDMI cable. However, laptops with multiple ports and the necessary graphics output, as well as an independent graphics card, can be expensive. Additionally, the display quality may be limited by the specifications of your graphics card and the type of cables used. Another drawback is that your desk setup might become cluttered with cables, which need to be disconnected and reconnected whenever you want to go mobile with your laptop.

For MacBooks, only MacBook Pro models equipped with the Max chip can support connecting 3 monitors through their display ports. The process is similar to that of Windows laptops: you can connect monitors via Thunderbolt and HDMI ports to create a triple monitor setup. However, cable management remains an issue, and the visual performance depends on your device and cable specifications.

Ultimately, using your laptop’s built-in display ports to connect 3 monitors eliminates the need for additional equipment. However, your laptop must meet the required specifications to support such a setup, and managing the cables may prove to be inconvenient.

If your Windows laptop supports DisplayPort 1.2 (or higher) or USB-C Thunderbolt 3 (or higher), you can use monitors with Daisy Chain capabilities, such as the BenQ PD2725U, to create a streamlined 3-monitor setup with your laptop. The connection process is straightforward: connect from the laptop to Screen 1, from Screen 1 to Screen 2, and finally from Screen 2 to Screen 3. To ensure this setup works smoothly, enable the Multiple Streaming (MST) option when using DisplayPort. For additional details, check out this article: How to Use Daisy Chain When Connecting Multiple Monitors.

For MacBooks with M1 or M2 chips, the ability to connect multiple external monitors is limited. These models generally support only one external monitor. However, MacBook Pro models with higher-performing chips, such as the M2 Max, can connect to monitors equipped with Daisy Chain functionality but are limited to two monitors in this configuration. If you're unsure about your MacBook model, visit the Apple website for more information.

Using Daisy Chain monitors simplifies cable management, reducing clutter in your 3-screen monitor setup. However, both your laptop and monitors must support this feature. While this solution works well for many Windows laptops, MacBooks may have restrictions when connecting multiple monitors. Always verify the limitations of your laptop to ensure compatibility with your ideal desk setup.

No matter your device’s limitations, the beCreatus DP1310 USB-C Hybrid Dock is a game-changer for setting up 3 monitors on your laptop. With just one USB-C cable, you can connect your laptop to the DP1310 docking station to power up your workspace. The dock supports three external monitors via 2 HDMI ports and 1 DisplayPort while simultaneously charging your laptop with 100W Power Delivery (PD). By installing the DisplayLink software, you can enjoy a seamless triple monitor setup and keep desk organized, regardless of your laptop's native capabilities.

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For entry-level MacBooks such as the M1 and M2 series (e.g., MacBook Air), these devices are typically limited to a single external monitor due to hardware constraints. Even higher-end models like the M1 Pro or M2 Pro only support up to two external monitors. However, the DP1310 dock overcomes these restrictions, enabling any MacBook—entry-level or Pro—to support 3 extended monitors. This makes the dock a must-have for Mac users who want to elevate their setup beyond Apple’s inherent limitations and simplifies cable management.

Among the many leading docks brands—such as Plugable, TobenONE, Caldigit, and Anker—the BenQ beCreatus DP1310 stands out with unique features that make it an ideal choice for laptop users, delivering top-tier performance for both multi-display and multi-device setups.

Dual Input Support: Unlike most docks—including those from Plugable, TobenONE, Caldigit, and Anker—DP1310 offers both USB-C and HDMI 2.1 inputs. This dual-input design allows users to display two sources simultaneously on different monitors, making it easy to game on one screen while accessing online guides, streaming music, watching videos, or viewing live streams on the other.

Triple 4K 60Hz and 4K 120Hz Support: Powered by the latest DisplayLink chipset, DP1310 supports up to three external monitors through a single USB-C input, each at 4K 60Hz, creating a seamless and expansive workspace ideal for productivity and multitasking. Additionally, DP1310’s HDMI 2.1 OUT port allows an HDMI 2.1 input source to achieve 4K 120Hz on one of the connected displays, providing a smoother, more immersive experience that’s perfect for gaming on consoles like the PS5, PS5 Pro, and Xbox Series X/S.

Powerful 180W Total Output: DP1310 provides a robust 180W of total power, including 100W fast charging for your laptop and multiple ports to charge other peripherals simultaneously. One USB-C port even supports PD 36W charging, ideal for fast-charging smartphones or tablets. With its high-capacity 180W supply, DP1310 ensures stable performance even when fully loaded, allowing all connected devices to operate smoothly without power issues.

Enhanced Cooling with Aluminum Alloy Shell: DP1310 features a high-quality aluminum alloy shell that strengthens heat dissipation, while its ridged surface increases surface area to further boost cooling efficiency. This advanced thermal design ensures stable performance, allowing all connected devices to operate reliably without overheating issues.

DP1310 combines top-tier display support, powerful 180W charging, and efficient heat dissipation, making it ideal for high-demand, multi-tasking setups. With dual-source inputs (USB-C and HDMI), it seamlessly connects both desktop and laptop devices or pairs a laptop with a gaming console. DP1310 maximizes the productivity and capabilities of your laptop, delivering a fully integrated, multi-screen, and multi-source experience.

With a 3-monitor setup and a laptop, you may deal with glare on one of your screens depending on the angle. Having a ScreenBar or LaptopBar can help reduce glare, eye-strain, and keep your setup illuminated for late-night productivity. The ScreenBar series offers several options for ambient monitor light bars that fit most* BenQ monitors. The ScreenBar is the original design with integrated controls, the ScreenBar Halo has a wireless controller and backlight, and the ScreenBar Pro is the newest option with integrated controls and a new shape for sturdiness. The LaptopBar is a smaller lighting product that can be used anywhere, with flexible portability as a rechargeable battery and no cord.

Take your productivity on the go while maintaining eye comfort and ambient lighting, or enhance your 3-monitor setup with the right lighting product for you.