Closed clamshell mode This setup is ideal for those who want to use their laptop as a desktop replacement or for those who prefer a larger screen and a more comfortable typing experience. This feature enhances productivity and expands workspace for various tasks. Jun 21, 2023 · Fernando Silva of 9to5Mac came up with a clever workaround to have ‘clamshell mode’ in iPadOS 17 when an iPad is connected to an external display. ” ———- Using Two Screens white in Clamshell Mode: Make the Mac not sleep when the screen is closed. Connect a USB keyboard and mouse (or Bluetooth ones). The key things you need for clamshell mode to work are: An external display connected via USB-C, Thunderbolt, or using an adapter (USB-C to HDMI or DisplayPort, depending on your monitor). With the older G14's it absolutely will just log out of windows and turn off the laptop as it gets too hot with the screen closed. Apr 16, 2020 · Need to use your Mac with the lid closed? Learn how to use closed-clamshell mode and prevent your Mac from overheating. Thanks. Learn how to connect macbook pro or air to monitor closed and use clamshell mode in this video. Expose the Air Intakes at the Bottom The G14 has two intakes at the bottom of the chassis. Oct 14, 2025 · 2. The solution is to use MacKeeper’s Memory Cleaner and release inactive RAM, close unnecessary background processes, and help your Mac perform smoothly with just a Hi, my preferred setup is to attach the G14 to an external monitor and close the lid. May 10, 2022 · I think there is a way for me to connect a monitor to my MacBook, then shut the MacBook and use the monitor on its own. Laptop goes to sleep every time you close the lid whilst connected to an external monitor? Change what closing the lid does and enjoy the bigger screen hassle-free. I would also like to run two monitors with the lid CLOSED. Feb 21, 2021 · Why would you want to do that? Well, I want my MacBook Pro to go to sleep whenever I close the lid, even when I am connected to external display and connected to power. Aug 12, 2025 · Is it OK to use a laptop in clamshell mode? Using your laptop in clamshell mode (with the lid closed) is generally fine, but there are some things to keep in mind. Make the most of clamshell mode for MacBook with the best tips found. The catch: it doesn’t really turn off the iPad’s built-in display. us/HPmUGc7HDMI Cord: ht Dec 27, 2014 · If you have an external keyboard/mouse/trackpad and close the lid on the Mac, then moving the mouse or using a key on the keyboard should let you use your Mac/Windows normally by waking the Mac up and using the external monitors normally. com Oct 10, 2022 · To use Mac with lid closed (in clamshell mode), Connect your Mac and external monitor with a Thunderbolt cable > Then connect a keyboard 2 days ago · If you have a problem with your Mac’s screen, you can pay to fix it or go rogue and use MacBook clamshell mode. Nov 4, 2024 · Discover how to close MacBook and use monitor in your workplace setup. I think it's 100% safe to run the Zephyrus G14 in clamshell mode so long as you do it right. How do I continue using the laptop while it's closed using a second monitor? Nov 9, 2023 · Change your laptop's settings to prevent it from shutting down when you close the lid by accessing Windows Settings and selecting "Change what closing the lid does. What do I mean by that? There are, in my opinion, three things that need to be done to use your Zephyrus G14 in clamshell safely. Dec 1, 2020 · Want to use MacBook in clamshell mode without power adapter with external monitor? Here is how to use MacBook with lid closed without connecting AC adapter. Jul 10, 2023 · How to Activate Clamshell Mode on MacBook Using System Boot Since newer MacBooks have native Clamshell support, you can start them up in Clamshell mode by closing the lid after turning it on. If he closes the screen, then the video to the external display is power off. Oct 10, 2021 · Does your MacBook Pro sleeps when lid closed with external monitor connected? Here's how to use MacBook in clamshell mode using an app. Learn how to setup and operate Apple MacBook Pro and MacBook Air laptops in closed-screen clamshell mode. Clamshell mode, or closed display, offers the perfect solution. Your MacBook will automatically switch to "Clamshell Mode," where the internal display turns off, and the external displays become your primary screens. Setup tips, common fixes, and performance boosts with iMyMac PowerMyMac. I guess this is playing in clamshell mode? Apr 18, 2025 · Clamshell Mode Relevant source files Overview Clamshell mode allows users to close their laptop lid while connected to an external display without the system going to sleep or shutting down. Although I found no setting to change the behavior of permanently turned on Clamshell mode in macOS, I found a service that does just that and it works perfectly as of now. Dec 9, 2024 · Clamshell mode for macOS and Windows allows you to use a monitor as your main display, even when using battery power. Use the Control Panel ---not Windows 10's Settings app---to change this behavior. Enable "Clamshell Mode" (Lid Closed Mode) With your external displays connected and set up, close the lid of your MacBook. Jan 27, 2025 · MacBook Air users can now enjoy the benefits of dual monitors. I had a similar setting with my old Surface Pro 4, but the display was damaged (yellow marks). Feb 5, 2021 · In Windows 10 and earlier versions, by default, the laptop goes into the sleep mode when you close the laptop lid (screen). What are the settings to allow the laptop screen to be closed and still be able to get May 13, 2025 · Yes, the MacBook Air M4 can operate in clamshell mode with a non-Apple monitor, and this has been a well-supported feature of macOS for years now. Aug 6, 2023 · Hello! I have an Asus Zephyrus G14 and I would like to know if it is possible to use it with the screen closed? Windows has the option to work this way, but is there any risk in using the closed screen? Here's a tutorial on How To Connect your Macbook To an External Monitor in Clamshell Mode (while closed) Found my video helpful? Click the subscribe button to get more content like this May 1, 2021 · My company provided me a Dell Latitude 5410 running Windows 10. Can I use an external monitor with my MacBook closed in clamshell mode? Yes, you can use an external monitor with your MacBook closed in clamshell mode, but you’ll need to make sure your MacBook is set up to allow this. If you do this, be careful! Closing your laptop's lid and throwing it in your bag while it's still on could cause some serious problems due to poor Apr 9, 2015 · If, like me, you accidentally disconnect your MacBook from power while it’s in this closed-clamshell mode, it may look like your Mac shut down. Close your lid, and your Mac will enter clamshell mode. Nov 5, 2024 · Adjust the resolution, refresh rate, and other settings as needed. Here how's to set it up correctly. The monitors are connected using a HDMI splitter to a hub that is connected to the laptop. Giving the impression that clamshell is the issue. Dec 21, 2019 · Closed-Clamshell or Closed-Display Mode Can this operating mode be harmful to the MacBook Pro? Is it safe in terms of heating etc, no damage to the screen in the long run ? Running Win10 with lid closed (i. #macbookpro #apple #mactips Products used in Video:USB-C to HDM Oct 13, 2023 · Clamshell mode allows you to use your MacBook with the lid closed. See full list on macworld. This works fine when you're connected to the power adapter, but it doesn't work when running on battery. However, it often results in sluggish performance and unresponsive apps due to memory overload. To keep your MacBook on when the lid is closed (clamshell mode), you'll need to have an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse connected. Mar 26, 2022 · I run my Macbook Pro with M1 Max in clamshell mode most of the time and have a Caldigit TS4 Thunderbolt dock and Apple Studio Display connected. 3. Jul 8, 2025 · Clamshell Mode on MacBook Clamshell mode allows you to use your computer while it’s closed, which is an absolutely excellent feature. And…that’s the logistical reason for not powering down - there’s no access to the power button. Jun 18, 2021 · Clamshell mode on MacBook Before diving straight into Amphetamine, here’s what you need to know about clamshell (closed-display) mode on MacBook. G-Helper's clamshell mode implementation automatically Dec 5, 2017 · It appears that the configuration for the monitor in open clamshell mode is different to that in closed clamshell mode, and I'm trying to find out how to re-configure the closed clamshell mode when it does not display anything with it closed. Here's how to close a laptop and use a monitor on Windows. It will then immediately go into sleep mode because the lid is closed. The Complete Guide to Mac Clamshell Mode: Using Your MacBook While Closed What is Clamshell Mode? Clamshell mode (also called closed-display mode) is a feature that allows you to use your MacBook with the lid closed while connected to an external display, keyboard, or mouse. Therefore I want to close the cover/lid. If the screen / lid is closed the screen turns off but if you set the behaviour to do nothing the pc is still working. Additional Tips on Using the Clamshell Mode ith the lid closed, but there are some other tips to keep in mi Jan 11, 2012 · One of our employees has an HP Pavilion G6 laptop. Feb 18, 2025 · What is Clamshell Mode? Clamshell mode, also known as closed-clamshell mode, is a laptop setup where the device is placed in a vertical position, with the lid closed, and an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse are connected. This can be a problem when hooking your laptop up to an external monitor. Whether you’re looking to expand your workspace, improve your workflow, or simply want to use your MacBook with a larger display, clamshell mode allows you to close your MacBook while still using it with an external monitor. I would like to be able to use my laptop in clamshell mode (closed). Sep 30, 2025 · Here's guide to use Macbook Clamshell Mode (Closed lid) With External monitor or Display. Until recently, I was able to unlock the Mac using my external Touch ID Magic Keyboard. Has anyone ever been successful getting two monitors to work in clamshell mode? Thanks in advance! The M1 Macs support one external display. How To Use MacBook Pro With The Lid Closed In Clamshell Mode To put your MacBook into clamshell mode, first plug your mac into a power source and connect it to an external display. To sleep the Mac and the external display, I would suggest a Hot Corner, but you can also select Sleep from the Apple menu. Jun 30, 2025 · Learn how to use MacBook with lid closed in clamshell mode. It will sleep and resume to an external usb keyboard button press. Any advices? If you need more information, I would be glad to provide it to you! Thank you in advance! Mar 25, 2024 · Both MacBooks fail to wake when switched via KVM in closed display mode, requiring manual opening to activate the external monitor. Enabling Clamshell Mode Clamshell mode allows you to use your laptop with the lid closed while connected to an external monitor. Apr 15, 2010 · Clamshell mode is when the laptop lid is closed but the machine is hooked up to an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse, effectively turning your portable Mac into a desktop. Any solutions? What is Clamshell mode? (Connecting a MacBook To a Monitor Whilst Closed) 😱 This shorts video will show you how to connect your MacBook to your monitor and Oct 10, 2024 · To change the lid close action on Windows 11, open Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Power Options, and change the action for closing lid. Aug 10, 2020 · You can use your Mac laptop in closed-display mode (also known as “clamshell” mode) if you have an external display attached. By unplugging my multi hub (bon. Here's how. This feature is particularly useful for users who want to use their ASUS laptop with an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse in a desktop-like setup. . However, laptops tend to overheat when you close the lid. You can just fold your MacBook and keep it away while you work. This will initiate clamshell mode, which will allow you to power on your laptop with the lid closed. However, it's a little inconvenient because you have no way to turn on the MacBook when the lid is closed. if the screen is connected it will detect this as part of windows and your main and only screen will be displayed. Mar 18, 2025 · “ M4 MacBook Air clamshell mode: I am happy that my new M4 MacBook Air can run two monitors with the lid open. Please also see How to use your Mac notebook computer in closed-clamshell (display closed) mode with an external display - Apple Suppor…. Would like some help configuring to use clamshell mode with two monitoris. " Choose "Do Nothing" under the "On Battery" column if you want your laptop to stay awake while unplugged and with the lid closed. The M3 MacBook Air can handle up to two external displays with impressive resolutions. Opening the lid switches back to "Extended", but all windows which were on the extended desktop are on the laptop screen. Here's how to change that setting. To run with the lid closed, you must start up with lid open and have an external display connected. Every time I close my laptop, the laptop goes to sleep. Oct 26, 2024 · What is Clamshell Mode? Clamshell mode is a feature that allows you to use your MacBook Pro with the lid closed, while it’s connected to an external display, keyboard, and mouse. At home, I run my MacBook in clamshell mode (closed lid, external display). Nov 4, 2024 · Key Takeaways The M3 MacBook Air significantly enhances user experience by supporting two external displays in clamshell mode, unlike its M2 predecessor which was limited to a single monitor. Essential Accessories for Clamshell Mode To seamlessly transition to clamshell mode, certain accessories become indispensable. With the lid closed both monitors are showing mirror images. This mode is specifically designed for using your MacBook as a desktop replacement, leveraging the power of your laptop while utilizing a larger screen and potentially an external keyboard and mouse. This effectively transforms your laptop into a desktop setup, providing a cleaner workspace while taking full advantage Apr 25, 2023 · SOLVED: Touch ID on Magic Keyboard not working on Mac when in Clamshell I use my 13inch M1 Mac in clamshell mode hooked up to a monitor, mouse, and Magic Keyboard with Touch ID. Apr 16, 2013 · If the lid is closed, your Mac should start up on schedule. The external monitor goes to sleep mode when the ThinkPad lid is closed with the power button on. Closed Display. The computer will still try and go to sleep (e. This is by design: Why is it required to have your MacBook Pro plugged-in in closed-clamshell mode with an external display attached? I am assuming you have either a 2020 Intel or M1 MacBook Air as it was the only models with Type-C ports. How to Connect MacBook to Monitor Closed (Clamshell Mode) in 2021 - EASY. Dec 25, 2023 · Using your MacBook with an external monitor and peripherals works best when you close its lid and put it into the so-called clamshell mode. For this, you will need an external monitor, an external keyboard and an external mouse or trackpad. Oct 30, 2024 · Sometimes you'll want to close your laptop lid and use an external monitor. How to connect and display your Macbook on your monitor when closed (Clamshell Mode) in 2023. For a new Apple Silicon Mac, the consider should be different. Oct 4, 2023 · Note that this mode of operation is called the clamshell mode and refers to a working laptop that has the lid shut off. Also Fix the all issues if it's not working. elk ELK-80029-R . How to choose multiple displays, and how to use closed-clamshell mode on Mac and Windows May 14, 2025 · This guide delves into the intricacies of effectively running your laptop in clamshell mode, exploring the numerous benefits it offers, and addressing potential caveats and best practices to ensure optimal performance. Benefits of The good news is that it is indeed possible, through a mode called “clamshell mode”. Mar 30, 2025 · Additionally, consider closing any unnecessary applications or background processes to free up system resources. , with the screen closed) is a fantastic option. Aug 5, 2025 · The feature that allows you to use the MacBook Air/Pro with the lid folded is called Clamshell mode or closed-display mode. As soon as I close the lid of my Latitude 5511, the desktop mode changes to "Second screen only". To enable multi-display Jun 4, 2021 · How to keep extended desktop with closed lid ? Hello, I am using an external monitor in the "Extended" desktop mode. May 9, 2019 · Windows 10 normally puts your laptop into low-power sleep mode when you close the lid. Here’s how to close MacBook and use monitor. This setup allows users to transform their laptop into a desktop-like experience, providing a larger screen, improved ergonomics, and increased productivity. It is currently not. In clamshell mode, you can detach your MacBook’s screen and still use it with an external display, keyboard, and mouse without having to keep the device open. What is closed-clamshell mode? Closed-clamshell mode (also called closed-display mode) allows you to use your laptop while it’s conveniently tucked away. ) May 20, 2010 · The M3 MacBook Air will support 2 external displays only in clam shell mode, in other words only when the lid is closed and the internal display is off/disabled It is not clear if this capability can be utilized on an M2 MacBook Air. And when we say drastically, we really mean it. Because of this, most users keep the lid open even while using only the external monitor (second screen). I believe it's called Clamshell Mode for your Mac, but I don't know how to do it. GuideRealm Want to use your MacBook with the lid closed while working on a bigger screen? In this video, I’ll show you exactly how to set up Clamshell Mode so your MacBook runs seamlessly with an external Jul 8, 2025 · Keep Laptop On with the Lid closed on Windows 11/10. May 9, 2023 · Find out how you can use an external monitor with your laptop closed. This is why the extended display works on battery power, but drops off when you close the lid. I am afraid that this will affect the battery life for my MacBook. This appears to be a deliberate design choice by Apple's engineers to avoid overheating your Mac. To wake the Mac and the external display, just tap a key or the trackpad (mouse?). Feb 5, 2023 · How do I activate clamshell mode with extended external display? I have my laptop connected to a second monitor (extended display mode). Go Here: Set Sleep and Wake Many people are using the closed-clamshell mode to take advantage of the bigger screens. This multi-display capability is ideal for increased productivity and enhanced multitasking, allowing users to spread out work across more screens for a more efficient workflow. Now before readers start spamming the comments, this is not true clamshell Nov 9, 2023 · JohnJohnsonIII wrote: I would like to use my MacBook Air M1 with dual monitors in clamshell mode and have heard about DisplayLink-compatible hubs that allow you to use dual monitors, but mostly seem to have trouble operating in clamshell mode. e. Apple’s latest M3 MacBook Air models support two external displays when the laptop is closed in clamshell mode. I would be using a cooling pad to elevate the laptop? I heard the disabling of boosting helps lower the temps - would it then be viable to game on without it shutting down? Thanks! Hi! I have Lenovo P15V Gen 2i (hope it would help) and decided to use the external monitor and show external screen only (Project -> on Win11). Enabling Clamshell mode allows you to continue using your MacBook through an external display while the lid remains closed. Jul 16, 2010 · In clamshell mode, you'll keep the MacBook Air lid closed all of the time. May 18, 2023 · How to use MacBook Pro in clamshell mode without charging it? I use my MacBook with a bigger display but it needs me to charge the MacBook all the time in the clamshell mode. Learn how to wake Windows 11/10 laptop from sleep with lid closed via Device Manager or BIOS settings. Nov 4, 2022 · This guide will show you the settings you need to change to use a laptop with an external monitor and lid closed on Windows 11. Learn how to connect macbook to monitor closed in this video. Feb 6, 2023 · In this guide, I have talked about how to close the display of your MacBook Air or Pro and then still be able to use it via Clamshell Mode. On Windows 11, you can simply type the word "lid" into your taskbar search to pull up the correct settings. Jul 2, 2023 · When my Macbook Pro is in clamshell mode, (lid closed & connected to an external display, keyboard, and mouse) I am unfortunately unable to wake the computer unless I open the lid. Jun 11, 2023 · But what's trickier is using your MacBook with its lid closed, also known as the clamshell or closed-display mode. g. 4. Oct 19, 2024 · Connecting your MacBook to a monitor in clamshell mode can offer a whole new level of productivity and convenience. To make this possible I have to adjust the power settings so that the display of the Surface remains active even if the cover/lid is closed. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of Aug 17, 2022 · Closed-clamshell mode (also called closed-display mode) allows you to use your laptop while it’s conveniently tucked away. I would use the device in this way for several hours a day. Dec 18, 2009 · Is this enough? Can constantly using the laptop with its lid closed damage it? (For the intel MacBook Pro, I only use the clamshell mode in the last couple of years, which is near the end of its life. … I need to remove the MacBook from the vertical laptop stand, open it, press the power button, close it, and then put it again on the vertical laptop stand. clamshell mode) with an external display? Before you say it, changing the power options doesn't solve anything. Jun 10, 2025 · The official term for running your MacBook with the lid closed is “Clamshell Mode”. Benefits of Clamshell Mode Using your MacBook Pro I just reset my W10 PC and I use a monitor with my PC and I noticed that It reverted to staying on when the lid is closed while using the monitor but going to sleep w/o the monitor if I close the lid. One thing I wish my older G14 could do is play games with the screen closed with it on my desk. Here's the thing, why close the lid? Using my laptop right now, its screen is playing a youtube video while I am typing this on the monitor screen. I get the "Do you want to close multiple tabs" message in Firefox) even when I change the settings to "do nothing". It essentially docks the MacBook Air/Pro and allows the GPU to power solely an external display, which can level up the performance of some games and graphics-intensive workloads. Aug 17, 2022 · Now, a brief introduction to the closed clamshell mode of the notebook: 1. In that case, running your laptop in clamshell mode (i. This occurs with ThinkPad P70 when plugged into the docking station and connected with an external monitor. Free up your desk space by learning how to shut your laptop while using a monitor. For more videos like this then please leave a like. Close the lid of your laptop and press the external keyboard’s spacebar. The setup was meant for space-saving and using a single set of peripherals and I'd intended on keeping my macbooks in a vertical stand to save space. Mar 20, 2024 · Closing the lid, or running the MacBook Air in clamshell mode as it has become known, can drastically reduce the performance of the machine according to new tests. Thanks to this feature, you can close your laptop and essentially convert your laptop into a desktop computer. Mar 1, 2025 · Macbook Clamshell Mode What is MacBook Pro Clamshell Mode? Clamshell Mode (also known as Closed-Display Mode) is a feature on MacBook Pro (and other MacBooks) that allows you to use the laptop while the lid is closed, typically when connected to an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Apr 3, 2024 · If you’re interested in getting a brand new M3 MacBook Air and running in clamshell mode to take advantage of the dual external display support, be aware that system performance may be reduced when the MacBook Air is run in clamshell mode (clamshell mode, meaning the lid is closed but the MacBook is powered on). Jan 6, 2025 · By default, your PC is put to sleep when you close the lid, which isn't ideal if you want your laptop out of sight while it's docked on your workspace. GuideRealm is the home of technology-based h Jul 5, 2023 · On Windows 10, you can change what your laptop does when closing the lid in your Power & sleep settings. However, you’ll need to change some power settings. Jan 21, 2023 · While in closed clamshell mode, you must maintain power. However, I am wondering whether it is okay to use the external monitor only while the lid on my Thinkpad would be closed. So I didn't care too much about any potential damage. He uses an external display at work but has to keep the screen of the laptop open. Jun 24, 2023 · In closed clamshell mode, your portable Mac is now behaving as a desktop. Clamshell mode allows you to use larger displays without your laptop's smaller display getting in the way. Products in VideoUSB-C to HDMI: https://geni. Read more about this topic FIX: Laptop not locking when the lid is closed 4 easy tips to change the lid close action on Windows 11 Can I close my laptop lid while Windows is updating? Sep 28, 2023 · Clamshell mode will not operate unless there is a mains power source if lid is closed. I am trying to set up and configure it to run in clamshell mode (laptop closed) and use two Samsun CF391 monitors. pco zuouvxn ydrcv wopnhlrx extpak hanhb dgcpr glq evgh swgpri uqux zgstf iowagr cmpchcl fgcbs