External monitor or HDMI not detected

Quick checks

1. Turn the monitor on and choose the right input with its buttons (HDMI 1, HDMI 2 or DisplayPort).
2. Press Windows + P and choose Extend or Duplicate.
3. Detect the monitor: Settings > System > Display > Multiple displays > Detect.
4. Check both ends of the cable, then try another cable.

Check your connection type

• USB-C to HDMI or DisplayPort adapters only work in USB-C ports that support video. Look for a DisplayPort or Thunderbolt symbol next to the port.
• Two monitors from one port need a dock or a monitor that supports daisy-chaining.
• Older VGA monitors need an active adapter from HDMI or DisplayPort.

Picture blurry, stretched or the wrong size?

• Set the resolution for that monitor to Recommended in Settings > System > Display.
• Adjust its Scale separately from the laptop screen (article 47).

Still not detected

• Update the graphics driver with your maker's tool (article 66).
• Restart with the monitor already connected and turned on.
• Using a dock? See Docks and external monitors (article 25).

Laptop closed with a monitor attached? To keep it running, open Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what closing the lid does and set When I close the lid to Do nothing for Plugged in.