Unable to Project MacBook Pro Screen to Old iMac [duplicate]
I have a Surface Pro 4 and an iMac (late 2019). I would like to connect my Surface Pro to the iMac to use the iMac screen as a second monitor. Is that possible?
What are the requirements to use an iMac as a second screen?
No. You cannot do this. The 2019 iMac is not supported for Target Display Mode.
This is an attempt to write a canonical QA for this issue, as per the Meta post: Where is the list of canonical questions stored for Ask Different? I expect it to be periodically edited with the goal of becoming a comprehensive information resource.
Which iMac Models Support Target Display Mode?
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General Rule of Thumb: If it's after 2014, Target Display Mode isn't supported.
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27 inch iMacs from 2009 - 2010 support TDM via Thunderbolt or mini DisplayPort (mDP)
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All iMacs (21 inch and 27 inch) from 2011 through mid 2014 support TDM via Thunderbolt only.
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Retina iMacs from late 2014 and on do not support TDM at all.
Which Mac models can you use as a source?
All Mac models through 2019 that meet the above requirements can use Target Display Mode. Currently, 2020 Macs will not connect (i.e. 2020 MacBook Pro running Catalina), but a 2019 MacBook Pro also running Catalina works fine.
What version of macOS is required?
- On the Target iMac, it must be running High Sierra or earlier.
- TDM is not supported on any iMac running Mojave or later.
- It doesn't matter what version of macOS you're using on your source computer
Can I use my iMac as a Target Display for a PC?
Yes! As long as the target Mac meets the above requirements and the PC has the proper port; Thunderbolt or mDP. The OS on the source computer doesn't matter at all.
Can I use a "bricked" or broken iMac as a Target Display?
No. Your iMac must be a fully functional iMac running High Sierra or later.
Sources & Further Reading:
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Use your iMac as a display with target display mode
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iMac and connected external displays, all as monitors for MacBook Pro?
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Using iMac late 2013 as external monitor to HP EliteBook 820 G3 on Windows 10
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How could i use an iMac as secondary monitor for a Windows 7 laptop
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Using an iMac as a display for PC laptop in dual mointor configuration