Connecting your Surface Pro to a monitor can be done by plugging it directly into the proper port on the monitor. The cable you use depends on the Surface Pro you have. You can also connect wirelessly to many monitors with a Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter.
While the Surface Pro is a wonderful and versatile device, in some cases, it can’t compare to a monitor that is multiple times larger. Whether you are watching a movie, a video from your favorite YouTuber, or getting some work done, you want to see as many details as you can.
But how can you connect this device to the monitor of your choosing for a better viewing and/or working experience? Check out our guide to learn more.
Contents
Key Takeaways
- Connecting your Surface Pro to a monitor is done by using a cable to plug the device into the monitor. However, the cable you do this with will depend on which kind of Surface Pro you have. In some cases, you can also connect wirelessly to a monitor.
- On your Surface Pro 7 or newer, you will use a USB-C cable or adapter to connect to a monitor.
- On your Surface Pro 6 or older, you will have to use a Mini DisplayPort cable to connect to a monitor.
Connecting a Surface Pro 7 or Newer
If you have a Surface Pro 7 or newer, you can connect to it using a USB-C cable. Simply connect one end of the cable to the monitor, and the other end to your Surface Pro. Make sure the USB-C cable you use isn’t only for charging, but can also handle data transmission.
When the connection is made, the monitor will instantly recognize the Surface Pro and you will be able to see your screen contents on the monitor. In most cases, the USB-C port will be found on the right side of the Surface Pro device.
If your monitor doesn’t have a USB-C port, the solution is to purchase a USB-C to HDMI adapter, and use that to connect to the monitor.
Connecting a Surface Pro 6 or Older
Now, if you have an older version of the Surface Pro (the Surface Pro 6 or older), the idea is similar but you will need to use a different cable. These models use a Mini DisplayPort connection, so you will likely need to find a Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapter to use.
Once you have the proper cable, the method for connection is the same, as you simply connect the device to the monitor with the cable. Once connected, the monitor should detect the Surface Pro and will duplicate the screen.
While duplicating a screen is an option when connecting (either with Mini DisplayPort or USB-C), you may also be able to use the monitor as an extension of the screen.
Wirelessly Connecting to a Monitor
In addition to using cables, you can also connect the device to a monitor wirelessly with the Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter. This method can give you a lot more freedom to move around with the device or keep it closer to you, without being tethered to a monitor.
First, you need to purchase the adapter, and then download the Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter app for free onto your Surface Pro.
To connect the adapter, attach the HDMI part of it to the proper port on your monitor, and then the USB end of the adapter to a USB port on the TV. Make sure the monitor is on the correct input setting.
Next, go to the Action Center/Quick Settings menu on the Surface Pro, select Connect, and then choose the Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter option. Once this is done, you should be connected wirelessly.
Some monitors may also support Miracast, and you will be able to wirelessly connect to these without an adapter. Simply go to the Action Center/Quick Settings menu, choose Connect, and pick your monitor from the list of available devices to connect to.
Keep in mind that not all monitors will support Miracast, but if yours does, it is a simple and easy way to connect wirelessly from the Surface Pro without an adapter.
FAQs
Here are a few frequently asked questions about connecting a Surface Pro to a monitor, as well as their answers.
What to do if the Surface Pro won’t connect?
If the device won’t connect, the first thing to do is check the cables and make sure nothing is loose. You could also be on the wrong input setting, could have damage on the device or monitor, or it could be due to a bug/software issue with either the Surface Pro or the monitor.
Can you only connect a Surface Pro to a single monitor?
No, you can connect a Surface Pro to multiple monitors at the same time. To do this, you will need to use the Surface Dock, and potentially any adapter if you want to connect to more than two monitors at a time.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are watching a video, editing photos, or doing some work, having a bigger screen than the one that a Surface Pro provides can improve your experience and make it easier to see certain details.
We hope this guide has helped simplify the process of connecting your Surface Pro to a monitor.
What’s your reason for wanting to connect your Surface Pro to a monitor? Watch videos, streamline your work experience or something else altogether? Let us know in a comment.
