How to Connect a Chromebook to a Monitor or TV
Connect a Chromebook to a monitor or TV with an HDMI or USB-C cable, then choose mirror or extend. Here is how to set it up and fix common issues.
Key Takeaways
- Most Chromebooks connect to a display over USB-C or HDMI.
- Choose mirror to duplicate the screen, or extend for more space.
- Set it all up under Settings, Device, Displays.
- For a TV without cables, cast a Chrome tab with Chromecast.
On this page
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To connect a Chromebook to a monitor or TV, plug in a USB-C or HDMI cable, then open Settings > Device > Displays to choose mirror or extend. ChromeOS usually detects the screen on its own. Here is how to wire it up and arrange your displays.
Check your Chromebook's ports
Look at the sides of your Chromebook to see what you have.
| Port | What you need |
|---|---|
| USB-C | USB-C to HDMI cable or adapter |
| HDMI | Standard HDMI cable |
| USB-C only | A USB-C hub with HDMI |
Connect and set it up
- Plug the cable into the Chromebook and the monitor or TV.
- On the TV, select the matching HDMI input with its remote.
- On the Chromebook, open Settings > Device > Displays.
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Mirror or extend
- Mirror: shows the same thing on both screens. Good for presentations. Turn on Mirror Built-in display.
- Extend: gives you extra desktop space across both screens. Leave mirroring off and drag the display boxes to match how they sit on your desk.
You can also set the resolution and which screen is the "main" one from this page.
Connect to a TV without cables
If you have a Chromecast or a Chromecast-enabled TV, you can cast wirelessly.
- Open Chrome, click the three-dot menu, and choose Cast.
- Pick your TV from the list.
- Choose to cast a tab or your whole screen.
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Nothing showing on the second screen?
- Reseat the cable at both ends and confirm the TV is on the right HDMI input.
- Try a different cable or adapter, since cheap ones often fail.
- Make sure ChromeOS is current, see how to update your Chromebook.
Recap
Use USB-C or HDMI, pick the right TV input, then mirror or extend from Settings > Device > Displays. No cable? Cast with Chromecast.
Frequently asked questions
How do I connect my Chromebook to a monitor?
Plug in a USB-C or HDMI cable, then open Settings, Device, Displays to choose mirror or extend mode.
What is the difference between mirror and extend?
Mirror shows the same image on both screens. Extend treats the second screen as extra desktop space.
Can I connect a Chromebook to a TV wirelessly?
Yes, with a Chromecast or Chromecast-enabled TV. Open Chrome, choose Cast from the menu, and pick your TV.
About the author
The Mixstackrr Team is a group of writers and editors with more than 10 years of combined experience in SEO and consumer tech. We test devices, dig through settings, and turn everyday tech problems into clear, step-by-step guides anyone can follow.