You can use the laptop as an Xbox One monitor via an HDMI or wireless connection. Though, laptops are not made to be used as monitors. However, a laptop can be a good solution if you do not have a TV monitor or your laptop’s screen is better.
Also, it is simple to connect your laptop to Xbox One. The portability gives you more freedom to customize your gaming setup.
What Is Xbox One?
Microsoft’s Xbox One is a gaming console that was manufactured and developed by the company. In 2013, it was first introduced as the Xbox 360’s successor.
Besides gaming, it also allows users to enjoy movies and TV series and gives access to a variety of entertainment apps. Xbox One is a popular gaming console among gamers worldwide, thanks to its high-definition video output and ability to connect to the internet for online gaming and streaming.
How to connect the Laptop to Xbox One
There are two easy ways to connect your laptop and Xbox One: using an HDMI cable or connecting wirelessly.
HDMI Connection: An HDMI cord is the standard solution to transmit audio and video. Video and audio are transmitted from the HDMI output, and the HDMI input receives and translates them.
This way, the Xbox will be able to transmit audio and video to your laptop. But before you set it up, follow these steps:
- Turn off your Xbox One and laptop properly.
- Make sure to close unnecessary programs on your laptop.
- Connect the HDMI output port to your Xbox One.
- Connect the HDMI input port to your laptop.
- Start by turning on your Xbox One.
- Within a few seconds, the laptop will detect the connection and switch on the display.
- Make sure to configure the display and resolution settings from the Xbox dashboard.
Wireless Connection: The wireless connection is a fantastic alternative if you are unable to use an HDMI cord. However, a decent Wi-Fi connection is necessary, and the laptop and Xbox One must join the same Wi-Fi network.
To make a wireless connection, you need to have the latest version of Windows (Windows 10 or 11) installed. Then download the Xbox One app and DirectX. Both are available on the Micros Store.
After finishing the installation, follow these steps:
- From the Windows Start Menu, launch the Xbox One app.
- Scroll down and select “Connection.”
- Select your Xbox device from the list.
- Select “Stream.”
- Your laptop will start sharing Xbox’s audio and video.
Advantages of using a Laptop as an Xbox Monitor
Using a laptop as an Xbox display has several benefits, such as:
- Space-friendly: Using a laptop as a monitor eliminates the need for a separate monitor. It saves space.
- Portability: A laptop is designed to be transported easily from one location to another. Therefore, you can easily move your gaming setup.
- Profitable: Using a laptop as a monitor for your Xbox One can be profitable. A laptop is more affordable than many TV monitors. Besides, you can easily multitask on a laptop.
- Others: If you need to share your TV screen with your family, using a laptop as a monitor comes in handy. It is also easy to set it up anywhere.
Disadvantages of using a Laptop as an Xbox Monitor
While there are many benefits, it is also important to consider the potential drawbacks such as:
- Screen size: Most laptops have smaller screens compared to dedicated gaming displays. Therefore, it might get difficult to see small details on the laptop screen.
- Overheating: Using a laptop’s screen as Xbox One monitor for a long time may cause overheating issues. This can lead to internal damage to the laptop.
- Availability: There’s a chance that many laptops won’t have HDMI ports in the future. Hence, a wireless connection will be your only choice. However, an HDMI connection is preferred by the majority of professional gamers.
Conclusion
Despite having all those negative aspects, using a laptop as an alternative to a TV monitor is quick and easy. This will benefit you if you often move your gaming set up or don’t have a TV.
Besides, if your TV becomes occupied, connecting to your laptop screen will solve your problem immediately. Just follow those two methods mentioned above and enjoy gaming.