As this issue os often misunderstood, I will expose the difference (and also similarities) between Thunderbolt and Mini DisplayPort.
Thunderbolt is fully compatible with Mini DisplayPort peripherals. Technically, the plug is the same and the only difference is that the Thunderbolt connector can carry – in addition to the classic Mini DisplayPort – a Thunderbolt signal, which is a signal PCI-Express (4 lines).
Specifically, a Mini DisplayPort adapter runs on a Thunderbolt plug.
However, there are some differences.
On the first generations of Mac equiped with Mini DisplayPort (MacBook Pro 2008/2009, etc), the sound is not transmitted on Mini DisplayPort. This is a limitation due to the motherboard. The Mini DisplayPort HDMI adapters and the 27 inches Apple Cinema Display screen can not receive sound on this type of machine.
For the sound, you need a MacBook Mid 2010 (GeForce 320M), a MacBook Air 2010 11-inch or 13-inch (Core 2 Duo), a MacBook Pro 2010 13-inch (GeForce 320M), a MacBook Pro 2010 15-inch or 17-inch (GeForce 330M), a Mac mini 2010 (Core 2 Duo), an iMac 2009/2010 21-inch, an iMac 2009/2010 27-inch, or a Mac Pro 2010 (please note that changing the graphic card does not bring the sound). It works with all the 2011 or 2012 models.
Of course, all Thunderbolt machines carry the sound on Mini DisplayPort.
Concerning the displays :
The 27-inch Thunderbolt display only works on a Thunderbolt Mac.
The LED Cinema Display 27 inch display works on all Macs on Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt. The only thing to know is that the sound will come on USB on older models, which is not a problem.
The LED Cinema Display 24-inch display works on all Macs on Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt.
Last but not least, the Target Display mode.
This is the only time when Thunderbolt is a real problem. With a 27-inch 2009 or 2010 iMac, it is possible to use the Mini DisplayPort output as an input : plug a Mini DisplayPort cable between the iMac and the other Mac, and use the first one as a display. The same adapters allow you to connect an HDMI source on an iMac.
With the Thunderbolt, it no longer works. You may use an old iMac as a display on a recent Mac, but not a recent iMac. Actually, the 21-inch and 27-inch 2011 and 2012 iMac are « Target Display » but only on Thunderbolt. And only with the Apple Thunderbolt cable. HDMI adapters do not work (yet) on iMac 2011 or iMac 2012.
I hope everything is clear, if not you may ask your questions in the comments.
I have a question.
Latest generation Macbook Pro retina display (15″ model) has 2 thunder bolt ports mounted. May i know can i used Mini Display to DVI adapter to connect to the Thunderbolt there and have another display (simultaneously) ? My other monitor is having DVI & VGA inputs only. Do suggest me best way to have another Monitor attached to my Macbook pro.
Would like to comment here that i am not bothered about the sound to be transmitted or not via thunderbolt as i can listen from MAC’s native speakers and that will do for me.
Thanks and Advance.
You can use 3 external monitor with Retina 15 inch, i have tested that.
You can use a second MiniDisplayPort to DVI, or a HDMI to DVI on the HDMI port for a second screen. The limit is 3 screen with the graphic card.
For the sound, you can choice the output on the Preferences Panel.
Thanks for the info. I am applying this to a camcorder and attempting to view the live feed on a computer monitor rather than a TV screen. If understand this correctly, using the HDMI out of a camcorder with an adapter to mini display port and pressing command F2 used to allow my camcorder’s live feed to show up on the Mac screen, but thunderbolt makes this an impossibility. Is there any convertor or software that might allow the iMac monitor to display my camcorder HDMI feed? I am using an HDMI to mini display port adapter; are the HDMI to thunderbolt adapters different, and if so do you think that might solve the issue? Thanks
Kanex has a adapter for that, but it works only with iMac 27 inch 2009 or 2010, not the Thunderbolt version.
http://www.kanexlive.com/xd
You can aslo use a BlackMagic Ultra Studio Recorder
Hi…I have an old macbook unibody (release date 2008) which has a displayport connection. Somebody recently offered me a Focusrite Saffire pro 24 Audio Interface which is specifically designed to run on Firewire / Thunderbolt connection. Can I still use the displayport connection (i.e plug in thunderbolt / firewire adapter) to connect Saffire Pro to my mac?
Thanks.
callum
No, sorry. With the MacBook aluminium 2008, it’s a big problem : no Thunderbolt and no FireWire.
Hello,
I’m trying to use a 2010 27″ iMac as an external monitor for a 2012 cMBP (13″). I have a Thunderbolt cable and thought that would suffice, but since it doesn’t work – and after also reading this post of yours – it looks like I must have a mini display-cable instead? Or a Thunderbolt to mini display?
Guidance would be highly appreciated.
Best regards
Björn
For the 2010 iMac (especially this model), you must use a miniDP to miniDP câble, not a Thunderbolt cable.
I have a 27″ late-2009 imac which I would like to use as an external screen for my new Macbook Pro 15″ Retina. What cable should I use for this configuration?
With a 2009 model, you must try to find a Mini DisplayPort to Mini DisplayPort cable (*not* a Thunderbolt cable)
Hey there…I’m not too good with all the tech talk above…I have an iMac 09/10 and I want to connect it to my tv ..can I use the mini display to hdmi cable
Yep, no problem for that.
hello, does the late 2013 iMac support the mini displayport through the thunderbolt socket? Do I need to purchase mini display port to mini displayport to connect a mini displayport monitor? Or would it just work with a thunderbolt cable?
Thanks.
To connect a display, a (mini)DP to (mini)DP works, not a Thunderbolt cable.
It depends of the display : many use a classic DP connector on the connector. You can find miniDP to DP cable on Amazon.
I have a question,
I have a Lenovo ThinkPad T430 with a Mini DisplayPort and I am trying to use a Thunderbolt cable for presentations… will this pose a problem?
Yep. It will not work.
Only use Thunderbolt cable with Thunderbolt computer.
Hello,
I have a 2011 27″ iMac and a 2015 Macbook pro retina but when i try to use my iMac as a screen with target display mode (with thunderbolt cable and hitting command F2 on the iMac’s keyboard) it doesn’t work. But if i plug the thunderbolt cable in my dad’s 13″ macbook pro (2012) or my friends 15″ macbook pro (2012) it does work. I have searched the web for this but can’t find a solution anywhere…
Thank you!
Hi Pierre, please can you help me with a query:
I have a 2010 Macbook pro 13″, and a 27″ inch Mac monitor (With thunder port connection). They don’t work, as most people know already.
The question is, can I replace the mini display port on my Macbook pro to a thunder port? Or would I need to replace the mother board along with the port? Is this even possible?
You can’t add Thunderbolt.
You can swap the motherboard with a MacBook Pro 2011 motherboard, but it’s a best idea to find a complete MacBook Pro.
Or just find a LED Cinema Display 27 inch, it’s the same display with Mini DisplayPort
i have 2011 mid IMAC 27inch and macbookpro 2013 late retina im trying to connect with thunderbolt cable after connecting both together on my imac and macbook pro thunderbolt port shows inactive but when i connect macbook air 2012 with my imac,it immediately become active and also i can see macbook air display on imac … ????
Can I use a 2015 Mac mini with a 2008 Mac LCD 27″ display with mini display plug and usb? Merci.
Hi Pierre,
My query is this: Can I use my iMac (2006) 20 inch, 2 GHz Intel Core Duo Processor, Screen Resolution 1680 x 1050, with Mini-DVI port, as an external display screen for my MacBook Pro 6,2 (mid 2010), 2.66 GHz, Intel Core i7, Screen Resolution 1440 x 900, with Mini DisplayPort, – non thunderbolt. Both have USB 2.0. I am not knowledgeable on these things and I do not know the difference between DVI and VGA. Both can be used on both computers. I simply want to use the bigger screen on my old iMac if I can as I want to work on Adobe Photoshop. If I can do this, what exactly do I need?
Thanks for your help.
It’s not possible to do that, sorry.
It works only with iMac 27 inches from 2010 (and many models with Thunderbolt)
Is it possible to use an iMac with a thunderbolt port as a second screen with another iMac with a thunderbolt port using a mini display port cable?
Nope. Only with Thunderbolt vable if you use a Thunderbolt iMac
I have a MacBook Pro (mid 2012) with Thunderbolt, a Dell screen with DP and Mini DP in and DP out. The MacBook can use the Dell as screen with a Mini DP to DP calbe, which I checked. Question: can I connect a Thunderbolt hard drive to the Dell screen (with a DP to mini DP cable) and will it work?
Nope. For that, you must use a Thunderbolt Display.
I just got my brand new MacBook Pro 15″ Touch 2016, but there seems to be a problem with connecting to my 27″ Cinama Display. I think they are from when they was build with Mini Display port. I bought an apple adapter on their webshop Thunderbolt to USB-C, but that doesnt work. Then I spoke with Apple support and they could’nt help. I Googled a little and found an MacWorld article about the problem, they wrote that the problem could be solved by buying a adapter on Amazon.com and so I did… But… this dosent work aswell :-( My Powerbook Pro does still not have any connection to my Cinama Displays…
Do anybody have a solution?
Yep : find a USB-C to Mini DisplayPort.
The Apple adapter is a Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2, and works only with Apple Thunderbolt Display, not the LED Cinema Display.
hi I have a mid-2009 macbook air and I can’t connect it with the 27inch apple display. any ideas why?
1 : have you a Mini DisplayPort on the Mac ? (i suppose, because only the 1st MacBook Air use Micro DVI).
2 : is this a Thunderbolt Display (with FireWire and Ethernet on the back) or a LED Cinema Display (with only USB on back) ?
If it’s a Thunderbolt Display, you can’t connect it to an old MacBook Air. There is no way. With the second display, it will works.
I have 27″ iMac (2009-2010) which I would like to connect to a Apple LED 27″Cinema Display. The Cinema Display has a MiniPort Display Cable (female) which fits perfectly into the minidisplay port on a MacBook Air , for example, but not with the port on the iMac. So far, unable to find any solution in the UK.
Appreciate any suggestion.
It’s weird : the Mini DisplayPort is the same as the Thunderbolt connector and i have no problem to use my LED Cinema Display with a MacBook Air with Thunderbolt.
Hi Pierre,
I have an old iMac 20″ Late 2006 that I want to use as a screen with my Macbook Pro 13″ mid 2012 laptop, will it work and what cable(s) do I need?
Thanks
You can’t, it’s not possible.
Hello
I have 24″ Apple Cinema Display with built in cable for connecting to a MiniDisplay Port jack. Can Mac Mini 2014 work with this?
It works with my Macbook Pro 15″ 2010
Thanks
No problem for that
Merci beaucoup, Pierre.
How do you know all of this? Did you work for Apple?
Nope, i’m journalist for a french magazin, i’m not working for Apple ;)
Just i like the firm and i read and test many things for my works
That still must cost some money over the years.
This page and site are excellent resources, Pierre.
Well done and thank you!!
Hi Pierre,
I’m thinking of buying a mac mini so I can connect it to my late 2009 27inch imac.
Would the standard apple thunderbolt cable be able to do this?
Also based on your article am I right in understanding that I wouldn’t have sound through the imac?
thanks
With a new Mac mini (with Thunderbolt), you can use the iMac as a display, but with a DisplayPort cable, *not* a Thunderbolt Cable.
For the sound, it works with « recent » Mac without problems. (with Mac mini, 2010 or better)
I have a Macbook Pro 15″ (Mid 2010—Display port) and a Macbook Air 13″ (2013—Thunderbolt) and I want to purchase Apple 27″ Display. But which one should I buy that can work on both of my Macs? the 27″ Thunderbolt Display or 27″ LED Cinema Display?
The 27 inch LED Cinema Display.
The Thunderbolt version will not work on 2010 Mac.
Bonjour Pierre.
I have a 2010 MB Pro 15″ and a 2011 Macbook Air. Both have Mini Display Ports.
Can I use a Thunderbolt G-Tech Drive to back up these two laptops thru the Mini Port, at high speeds typical of Thunderbolt?
The drive has a « thunderbolt » cable that connects to its single port.
Merci,
Pete
No.
A Thunderbolt drive works only with Thunderbolt port. There is a thunder icon on the Mac to see that.
The MacBook Air 2011 has a Thunderbolt Port, not the MacBook Pro 2010.
Hi Pierre
Can an Apple 24″ Cinema Display support a Retina 2015 MB Pro?
Resolution near Retina native?
Thanks
You can connect the Display to a Mac, but it’s not Retina.
Trying to connect Lenovo T460s with mini DisplayPort to Mid 2011 21.5 iMac with thunderbolt. Do I need mdp to mdp cable?
You can’t. It works only with a Thunderbolt source, like a Mac
Hi, means I can connect to a Mac Pro 2010 the thunderbolt display but I can see the video output but the sound will not work?
You can’t use a Thunderbolt Display on a Mac Pro 2010.
You can use the LED Cinema Display (the model without Thunderbolt) and the sound will work with the USB cable.
Hi! How i could use wacom cintiq pro 16 on iMac late 2009 if it only have mini display port and not Thunderbolt? Would there be any way possible?
Thanks in advance
Wacom say you can, with the Wacom Link : http://www.wacom.com/en/products/pen-displays/wacom-cintiq-pro-16
But only with 2 560 x 1 440 definition, not Ultra HD
Yes, I know but it does not work. In wacom screen appears NO SIGNAL
Acabe de comprar un Apple Cinema Display 27 pulgadas, y mi macbook pro es finales 2012 al conectar el DVI al puerto thunderbold la imagen es perfecta y tiene sonido el problema es al conectar el USB 2.0 de la Apple Cinema Display en el puerto del Macbook pro, NO FUNCIONA se supone este usb transmite la camara, micrófono y habilita los puertos del Apple cinema Display, le revise en las preferencias del Sistema en la Sección de USB/Perifericos me da la información de los componentes del Apple cinema aparecen la cámara, micrófono pero no los puedo usar y tampoco los USB del apple Cinema Display.
Porfavor alguién que me oriente.
Hello Pierre, I am using a mid-2014 rMBP 15″ and trying to connect a 24″ LED Cinema Display. Based on my understanding of the hardware, the Mini DisplayPort from the Cinema Display should connect just fine to my rMBP Thunderbolt/Mini DisplayPorts. However, the rMBP will not even recognize the Cinema Display when it is plugged in. The rMBP screen flickers twice but it won’t recognize the external monitor. Strangely, the Cinema Display works just fine with a late-2012 rMBP 13″. Have you heard of anything like this happening?
It’s strange
Normally, there is no problem to do that.
Try to connect the display, go to Display Preference, press option key (alt) and try « detect display ». And try to see if the display is detected on « About this Mac »
Hi there, I was wondering if there is an adapter available that will allow me to use both the thunderbolt cable (for internet) and mini display cable (for an external monitor) on my MacBook Air 2013 13″, as it only has one thunderbolt port
You can use a Thunderbolt dock for that : all of them contain a RJ45 connector for network and a second Thunderbolt port for daisy chaining.
But there is no « little » adapter to do that.
Hi Pierre, i’m actually a bit confused over the thunderbolt connection. I bought a mac mini recently and would like to set up the Mac mini with my iMac late 2013 as display, both having thunderbolt port at the back, should i get thunderbolt to thunderbolt cable or mini display cable instead?
Another one which I couldn’t get it at all from Google, can I port the old Wacom Cintiq 12wx to this latest Mac mini as a main display so I can work directly with only 1 main display unlike other port it to MacBook Pro so they would have 2 displays. Simply because the old wacom 12wx only have DVI and VGA port, should I get either DVI – thunderbolt or VGA – thunderbolt in order to make it works?
Thank you.
For the Mac mini to iMac : a Thunderbolt cable. It works only with a Mac mini with Thunderbolt capabilities (2011 and up), not before.
If you want to connect the Wacom and another display on a Mac mini, you can use a HDMI to DVI to connect the Cintiq, or a Mini DisplayPort to DVI (Apple offer that). It’s better to use DVI, VGA is old (and not good)
Hi Pierre,
I’ve a late 2008 macbook(alum) with a minidisplay port and an iMac (2014) model with Thunderbolt. I would like to use my iMac as second screen for my macbook. I wonder if its possible and if so which cable would I need to use?
Thanks,
Redd
It’s not possible.
Irt works only with mini DisplayPort to mini DisplayPort (like MacBook Pro to old iMac) or Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt. You cannot use miniDP to Thunderbolt.
How can I connect my iMac (27-inch, Mid 2010) that has a mini display port to a new mac mini with a thunderbolt port? What cable do I need to buy? Will a thunderbolt 2 or thunderbolt 3 cable work? Or do I need a thunderbolt 2 or 3 to mini port cable ? or do I need a mini port to hdmi cable? Thanks.
For that, you must use a Mini DisplayPort to Mini DisplayPort cable.
If you can’t find one, a Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort with an adapter will work too (female DisplayPort to male Mini DisplayPort)
NOT a Thunderbolt cable, NOT a Mini DisplayPort to HDMI.
how do I connect my early 2015 mac air 13″ to apple 23″ cinema display (Aug 2008?
your assistance will be certainly appreciated.
With a 23 inches, just a Mini DisplayPort to DVI (classic version, cheap)
The only problem with a MacBook Air : you can’t use the FireWire port on the display without a Thunderbolt Dock.
Hi Pierre,
I have a 2015 MACBOOK PRO. Trying to connect it to a 2009 MacBook Pro. I bought an Apple Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt cable. Pressed Command-F2 on the MacBook Pro. Nothing happens. Would a mini displayport to mini displayport cable work better?
You can’t do that with a MacBook Pro.
It works only with an iMac
Sorry Pieere, I mistyped. I have 2015 Macbook Pro I am trying to connect to a 2009 IMAC. It should work?
With an iMac 2009 (27 inches only) and a DisplayPort cable it will work.
You must use a mini DisplayPort to mini DisplayPort cable, not a Thunderbolt cable.
If you can’t find a miniDP to miniDP, a DP to mini DP (just bought one on Amazon) with a DP (female) to miniDP (male) works OK, it’s passive.
Hi Pierre,
First of all thanks a lot for your post and for answer all these responses during so many time.
I’ve got an iMac 27 » (late 2013) and a MacBook Pro (2017) and would like to use the iMac as second screen, do you know if it’d be possible to do it by using a USB-C to mini DisplayPort cable?
I was thinking about something like this one:
https://www.amazon.es/DisplayPort-CHOETECH-MacBook-dispositivos-Thunderbolt/dp/B073W6QWY5/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1514532118&sr=8-1&keywords=usb+c+a+mini+displayport.
Thanks!
Nope. You must use a Thunderbolt (1 or 2) cable and the Thunderbolt 2 to Thunderbolt 3 adapter from Apple.
Attention, the Target Display will not work with 5K iMac, only with 1440p iMac.
I have a MacPro Tower 2010, with a ATI Radeon HD 5770 1GB Graphis Card, I have two Thunderbolt 27 inch screens they plug in but dont work. what graphics card do I use or what cables I use
You can’t. For a Thunderbolt display, you must use a Thunderbolt Mac.
I have a 2010 i mac and I would like to use as a monitor for my latest (2017) Mac Book Pro. I got an HDMI and display port cable, which I like to plug the displayport to my old i mac and the other end which is an HDMI to the new 2017 mac book pro ( I use an adapter for my laptop to plug the HDMI cable). BUt, the display port did not fit into my i mac. Well, what should I do to get my i mac work as my monitor for my macbook pro 2017? Thank you!
With a 2010 27 inch iMac – it will not work with a 21 inch -, you must simply use a USB-C (on the MacBook Pro) to Mini DisplayPort cable.
Or a USB-C to DisplayPort (female) and a DisplayPort (male) to Mini DisplayPort (male).
NOT a Thunderbolt 3 to 2.
It’s common on Amazon.
Hi Pierre thanks in advance for answering
I currently own a Mac Pro and an Eizo display and HDMI cable seems not a stable connection.
I am going to try and use the display port to mini display port, do you think this will works?
Regards
Leo
I think there is no problem with a Mac Pro. Just try before with the graphic card : if you own a non Apple card, you can have problem with display out.
I would be really grateful if you can answer my question:
I have three 27 inch apple cinema display (model A1316, bought around 2012) at three locations which I connect my MacBook Pro (mid 2010 model) which I connect with the cinema screens everyday. I just bought a new MacBook Pro 13 inch three thunderbolts, 3 ports. I bought the USBC to thunderbolt 2 and it can be connected with the Cinema Display but no graphics…. I even went to the apple store and they exchanged the adapter, however it still does not work. I called apple care and they said the older Cinema Display does not work with the new MacBook Pro with touch bar… I really need to know how I can keep using the Cinema Display which works perfectly. The people in the apple store said the display should work with the new MacBook Pro… I am wondering if I need to change to a different adaptor, like one from USBC to mini port… But I read that mini display port should with thunderbolt adaptor…
Look forward to hear any inputs!
Thanks!
The Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter is for Thunderbolt only (not Mini DisplayPort).
You must use a USB-C to Mini DisplayPort (like this : https://amzn.to/2HSGFwq). I use this at home with a LED Cinema Display 27 inches and a MacBook Pro 2017 : it works. You must have too a USB-C to USB-A (the classic) to connect the USB cable form the display : without USB, you can’t use the USB port on the back or the camera (sound will work). And i think without USB, you cannot change brightness.
It works only with LED Cinema Display (the one with USB, Mini DisplayPort and MagSafe), not the Thunderbolt version of the display.
I have a 2010 iMac 27. It has mini display port. I now also have a 2011 iMac with thunderbolt. I want to use the most recent iMac as a monitor only as the spec on the older one is much greater. Can I do this? I bought a thunderbolt cable but it doesn’t work. Maybe mini display cable will? Please.
Nope.
To use the iMac with Thunderbolt as a display, you must have another iMac with Thunderbolt.
But it will work if you use the old iMac (2010) with Mini DisplayPort as a display, with a Mini DP to mini DP cable.
Hello, I have old Mini display port vs HDMI cable. Now I wanted to try it on my wifes MACbook Air with one thunderbolt port (I think its 2015) and it was not working even with Philips old monitor nor with LG TV. So is problem in cable and I should by new Thunderbolt vs HDMI cable? Thank you and have a nice day.
Hi, I have a early 2009 mb pro, that’s having some trouble booting up, I’ve tried all recovery options and can’t get it to boot,
So I was suggested to try target disk mode to see if I can access the drive to save the files, (I know i should have had them backed up) as a last option before sending it to a recovery service.
My early 09 pro, which is malfunctioning will act as a external when booted in target disc mode, the 2nd Mac Pro has a thunderbolt port,
I this case can I use the mini display port and connect via thunderbolt to the working Mac?
Thanks I know this is old but thought I’d ask before buying adapters
K.
With a 2009 MacBook Pro, you can use the FireWire 800 with a Thunderbolt to FireWire 800 câble on the 2nd Mac.
But not connect Mini DisplayPort to Thunderbolt, it’s not compatible.
I have a mid 2010 iMac and a mid 2011 iMac both 21.5 inch screens, which cable do I use to extend one of the monitors? can you send me a link please
You can’t use one of the iMac as a screen with this setup.
The is no « Target Display » on the 2010 21 inch model and the 2011 model need a Thunderbolt source to act as a screen, and the 2010 is not Thunderbolt.
I have a mid 2009 macbook pro (15in) and a new 27″ cinema display with thunderbolt. Is there ANY way to connect these?
Nope. You can’t
Hi, I have a 2011 iMac 27” and an early 2008 Mac Pro with a GtX 680 card (with HDMI and Display Port). Can I use the iMac as the display for the Mac Pro? Thanks!
Nope. For that, you must have a 2010 iMac, without Thunderbolt.
Can I come out of the display port on a dual core duo mac mini into an external GPU to improve the graphics?
Short answer : No.
Long answer : It works only with Mac mini with Thunderbolt (2011 and later), and you must modify system files with a script. And it’s not a good idea with Thunderbolt 1 and old CPU like that.
Hi Pierre, I’m trying to use my iMac 27” (2012) as a monitor for my work HP laptop. The iMac has a thunderbolt port. The HP laptop has VGA, USB and DisplayPort ports. Firstly, is it actually possible to use the iMac with this laptop? If so, I understand I would need thunderbolt cable input to the iMac, but which output would be best to use from the laptop -VGA, USB or DisplayPort? Many thanks.
It’s not possible.
To do that, you must have Thunderbolt on the two side. And i have not tested from a PC with Thunderbolt to an iMac, i’m not sure it will work.
You may have addressed prior (if so, I apologize), but…
Can I use a Thunderbolt 2 cable (instead of a Mini Display Port cable) to connect a new (2018) Mac Mini to an iMac 27″ (mid 2010) in Target Display Mode, and use iMac 27″ as monitor (and speakers)?
Nope. You must use a DP to DP cable.
If you can’t find a mini DP to mini DP, just use a mini DP to DP and one adapter.
Hi. Can I use a Thunderbolt Dock like CalDigit CTS-60 with my MacBook Pro 17 mid 2010 (having mini display port)?
If yes wit lh what kind of cable?
Thanks a lot
Nope. For a Thunderbolt Station, you must have a Mac with Thunderbolt (2011 for the first compatible Mac)
My iMac 21″ 2011 has Thunderbolt and fails to boot all the way, but it can go into Target Disk Mode. My MacBook Pro 2017 with Thunderbolt 3 and an adapter to Thunderbolt 2 won’t see anything attached. The cable is MiniDP to MiniDP. Do I need a Thunderbolt-toThunderbolt cable, instead? Or do I have to find a Firewire solution?
You need a Thunderbolt cable.
Or a Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2, with Thunderbolt to FireWire, and FireWire 800 to FireWire 800 cable.
Hi there, I have a Logiix HDMI cable from a few years ago that I would use on my old MacBook Pro (circle late 2011). One end is a MDP. I have a new MacBook Pro from September 2018 that only has Thunderbolt outlets. The MDP is way too big to fit into the Thunderbolt plugs so I’m confused.
the article does not address the iMac 2007 :::Thunderbolt and Mini DisplayPort : differences and compatibility :::completely. The 2007Imac port is physically bigger.. but no one mentions this, thus this make it hard to find an adapter. they only supply the thunderbolt SIZE plug. so it ends up they talk about two different plugs with only one name.
Sorry I don’t Speak French. But I found other comments in English.
Thank You.
Actually, the iMac before 2009 (from 2006 to 2008 included) do not use Mini DisplayPort.
It’s a Mini DVI port, like many MacBook.
You can find Mini DVI to DVI adapter, Mini DVI to VGA adapter and even Mini DVI to « video » (omposite, or S-Video).
It’s not compatible with Mini DisplayPort (or Thunderbolt)
Hi Pierre, I have aa 2009 imac as well as a 2009 macbook pro and am just trying to connect and use the imac as a mirror screen from the macbook. I have tried to connect with a thunderbolt but it does not seem to work. Is there a difference if I use a Microport display cable instead of the thunderbolt? because they look the exact same.
Yep, there is difference.
A Mini DisplayPort cable is just a cable. Inside Thunderbolt cable, there is a chip to maintain integrity (« active cable »).
Actually, witn a 27 inches iMac (not the 21 inch) and a Mini DP cable, it will work. If you can’t find a mini DP to mini DP, you can use a common mini DP to DP and a DP female to mini DP male adapter.
Hi Pierre,
I have a 2018 15″ MacBook Pro with 4 Thunderbolt ports. I plan on buying some monitors to connect to my MacBook Pro. I have a few questions regarding my connection options.
Option 1: Daisy Chain Connection – If the monitor has a DisplayPort connector (not a Mini DisplayPort connector), can I use a cable with a DisplayPort connector on one end and a USB-C (or Thunderbolt) connector on the other end to connect the monitor to the MacBook Pro? And then connect the first monitor to the second monitor using a cable with DisplayPort connectors on both ends? Or do I need to find monitors with either a Mini DisplayPort or a USB-C connector to connect the monitors to the MacBook Pro, if I want to use a Daisy Chain connection? I know that a monitor with a USB-C connector will easily connect to the MacBook Pro so my question is really about whether I can also do a Daisy Chain connection using a monitor that has either only a DisplayPort or a monitor with only a Mini DisplayPort? And what cables or adapters would I need to buy to make the connection work?
Option 2: If my monitors only have a VGA, a DVI and a HDMI connectors, what would be the best method to connect them to my MacBook Pro? Assuming I have 2 extra monitors, would it be best to connect them using the HDMI ports on the monitors? And what cables and/or adapters would I need to buy to make it work?
Thanks in advance for the info. Keep up the good work. It is much appreciated!
You can’t daisy chain monitors with macOS. The OS don’t support that with DisplayPort.
Actually, you just need USB-C to DP (the best choice), HDMI, DVI or VGA.
It’s possible to use Thunderbolt 3 « display hub » if you want to share a USB-C connector with two display, but it’s expansive.
Thank you again Pierre!
Is it possible to use the mini Displayport of a 2012 macbook pro to serve as a fast usb3 connection to a usb3 hard drive? If so, is such an adaptor available (male miniDisplayPort to usb3)? Otherwise the laptop only has much slower usb2 ports.
The MacBook Pro 2012 is compatible with USB 3.0.
If it’s a 2011 MacBook Pro, with Thunderbolt and not USB 3.0, you can use a Thunderbolt to USB 3.0 (lke the Kanex adapter : https://www.kanex.com/category/adapters#adapter-thunderbolt)
If it’s a 2010 MacBook Pro, you can’t.
To make the difference : if there is a thunder icon on the « Mini DisplayPort » connector, you have a Mac with Thunderbolt.
or juste make -> about this Mac.
Hi have the late 2013 mac book pro, it has 2 thunderbolt connectors and a hdmi connector – i want to buy the LG 32inch 4k 3840×2160 display, can i go hdmi to hdmi? or do i have to go dipay port to thunderbolt?
Is this a 13 or a 15 MacBook Pro ?
By the way, with a model like this, you can’t use HDMI : it’s not possible to have 60 fps. If it’s work, it’s only at 30 Hz.
With a Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort, and if you have a 15 inches MacBook Pro, it will work.
Hi Pierre
Thank you for you help in advance and your continued updates since 2013!
I have a 21.5 inch mid 2010 iMac with a mini display port. I want to use it as a monitor for my MBP mid 2012 which has a thunder bolt connection.
Is this possible? What cable/adapter would I need?
It’s not possible with a 21 inches, sorry
Hi Pierre
Trying to connect a mid 2011 Mac with Thunderbolt to a Monitor with USB and Mini Display cables coming out of it. Do they make an adapter? Thanks
I do not understand.
Just plug the mini DsplayPort on the Thunderbolt port on the iMac, and the USB port into a USB port. It will work.
If you want an adapter with USB female and miniDP female, there is many Thunderbolt dock for that, but it’s expansive.
i have a macbook pro retina 15 mid 2015, and i want to use my imac mid 2011 27inch as 2n monitor, i bought a mini display port to mini display port, but can make it work, any suggestions?
It will work, but with a Thunderbolt cable.
The miniDP to mini DP is for 2009/2010 iMac. For a 2011 iMac, you must use a Thunderbolt cable
Hi Pierre
Would appreciate your help.. do ‘t see my scenario her in this string. We have a 27” iMac (2014) with Thunderbolt 2 that is the primary computer. The second computer that we would like to use as a display is an iMac 2009, 24” . From what I am reading, am I correct in thinking that the only cable that will work is mini dp to mini dp? Is there a problem with my target display being a different size than the primary?
Thank you
With a 24 inch iMac, you can’t.
It works only with a 27 inches from (late) 2009
Hello Pierre,
I had mid 2011 iMac 21.5 and would like to extend the display to an LG 4K monitor. Can I just use a miniDP from my 2011 iMac to Displayport on my LG 4K to get 4k resolution on the LG 4K? I tried a miniDP to HDMI , but the resolution is capped at 1080p on my LG 4K. Is my 2011 iMac capable of pushing 4k resolution to my 4k LG monitor?
It’s not possible. The graphic card from 2011 Mac can’t handle 4K.
With a mini DP to DP, it’s may be possible to have 4K @ 30 Hz, but it’s very uncomfortable : the mouse cursor is not fluid with 30 Hz.
Actually, the best definition you can use is 2560×1440
Hi Pierre,
Can I connect my Akitio egpu to my late 2009 27 inch IMac as external monitor?
Will it work with a DisplayPort to Mini DP cable?
Currently I’m running my 2018 MAC mini with the Akitio and Dell 4K monitor.
Many thanks in advance.
It will work, yes.
Nice to know and thanks for the prompt reply. Another question can I connect IMac pro to the 2009 Imac as external display using thunderbolt 3 to Mini DP adapter?
Thanks again!
Yep, you can find USB-C to Mini DP and it works, it cost ~10 $
Hi Pierre,
With this set up can the 2009 IMac be a second display monitor or will it only mirror my Imac Pro?
Thanks again.
I have a macbook pro retina mid 2015 and bought a Dell U2718Q UltraSharp 4k. The connecting cable supplied is a mini-displayport to displayport. But the indications are to connect the mini end to the monitor and the displayport end to the mac (my mac has the thunderbolt 2 ports which correspond to the mini, but not the displayport.) I am confused at this point.
The U2718Q manual: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/lit_files/353145.pdf
My Mac specs: https://support.apple.com/kb/sp719?locale=en_US
I think it will work with DisplayPort on the display, and mini DP on the Mac.
if not, you can find a mini DP male to DP female, it’s cheap. Or a mini DP to mini DP.
Many thanks, Pierre! Success!
Hi, I have a mid 2011 iMac which has the older more square thunderbolt outs – I’ve just got a new 2019 iMac and want to use the older iMac as a second display.
I’m more that a bit confused as to which cable to order? Any help or guidance would be great – can’t seem to find the right answer on any website i’ve visited.
Thanks in advance,
Gerry
A Thunderbolt 2 to Thunderbolt 3 adapter by Apple + a Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt cable (withe the old connector).
Connect the Thunderbolt 3 connector (« USB-C ») on the new iMac, and use the Thunderbolt cable between the old iMac and the adapter.
Thanks for the article. I’ve just bought an SSD external for my mid 2011 iMAC. It comes with thunderbolts and USB 3 cables but my understanding is that they may not wok or it will be slow on my model which has USB2 and a mini displayport rather than thunderbolt. Which cable do I need to go from USB to mini please? I can’t seem to see any on amazon etc. Any info you have is appreciated, thanks
Actually, the iMac 2011 has Thunderbolt. To verify, it’s simple : watch the icon on the Mini DisplayPort : if it’s a thunder, it’s Thunderbolt.
If the hard drive use a « USB-C » connector, it’s a Thunderbolt 3 hard drive. Apple sell a Thunderbolt 2 to 3 adapter.
Hi Pierre;
I’ve read through all the questions and reply but did not see the exact scenario I have a question for. I have a MBP 13” mid 2009 w/MDP and a mid 2011 27” iMac w/TB. I would like to use the 27” iMac as a display for doing Photoshop work on my 13” MBP. Go or no-go?
Many thanks in advance.
Not possible, sorry
I have a Mac book pro Mid 2012 15″ and i am trying to connect my Camcorder and also live feed live streaming with lyrics and logo. I use Easy worship software. Kindly assist if i can use the Mini port Adapter to HDMI and feed my Mac then on output what should i do to feed the Screens in the main Auditorium. I am trying to broadcast the same signal
I need to feed thew same signal both live streaming and on the Screens in the Auditorium, kindly assist.
Hi and thanks for the excellent page.
Just be entirely clear: I cannot connect a mid-210 mini with mini display port to a thunderbolt 27” screen, right? I have tried with a thunderbolt to HDMI adapter plugged into the back of the screen (and HDMI into the mini) to no avail. Any suggestions? My alternative is using the Tv monitor via HDMI on both sides, but I would prefer the Thudenrbolt screen if at all possible. Thanks!
Yep, you can’t use a Thunderbolt with a 2010 mini DP Mac.
Thank you
Hi Pierre,
I wonder if you can help me. I wish to use my iMac (20-inch, 2008) as a monitor to my MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, 2015). Is this possible at all? The iMac seems to have a display port of some kind and the MacBook Pro has HDMI and 2 Thunderbolt 2 ports.
If this does not work, can you confirm / explain what the display port on the iMac is actually for please?
Thank you in advance for your knowledge.
You can’t.
The mini DisplayPort on the Mac is not Input, it’s Output. It’s to connect a second display to the iMac.
Hello, I have an imac 27inch 2013 model running mac osx 10.7 with 2 thunderbolt ports which am trying to use in Target Display mode, connecting a 2013 mac book air with a thunder port using a minidisplay cable. Is this possible or do I need a thunder bolt cable?
It’s possible, but with a Thunderbolt cable and not a Mini DisplayPort cable. You’re right : you need a new cable.
I want to use my late 2010 Mac Book Air to connect with my 2019 21.5 iMac as a monitor. Will a Thunderbolt cable do the job?
Nope. The 2019 cannot do that.
I have a 2013 21.5 imac with thunderbolt 2 ports which I want to use with my windows laptiop as an external monitor when working from home. What type of cable makes this possible, i read that a thunderbolt 2 to mini display would do the trick
It’s possible only if the laptop has Thunderbolt.
If it’s not the case, you can’t
I am hoping to connect a mid-2010 27″ i7 iMac as a the secondary monitor for my 27″ i9 iMac. Following the thread in Apple Support, I got the Mophie USB-C cable with Mini DisplayPort connector; however, the mophie Mini DisplayPort connector will not fit into the mid-2010 i7 Mini DisplayPort. Apple Support told me this cable should have worked and told me to buy a second one in case the first was defective.
What brand of cable do you recommend for connecting to the mid-2010 i7 Mini DisplayPort and to Thunderbolt on the i9?
Good question.
I have a noname USB-C to mini DP and it works (i have found that on Amazon)
Dear Pierre,
I have a 4k iMac (late 2015). It has thunderbolt 2 ports. I want to use it as a second display to my windows laptop. My laptop has USB C port that carries data and audio as well. What kind of cables / adapters should I use to make it work, if at all?
It’s not possible with 4K and 5K Mac
Hi Pierre,
I have a 21 iMac mid 2010 I want to use as a second screen. Is it possible with any updated technology or third party programs? Is there a way to force the screen detection? Also how come I can use this iMac with a second screen however be restricted to use it as the second screen?
You can’t
It works only with 2011 iMac 21 inches, not the 2010.
Hi, I am trying to connect a macbook mid 2012 to an iMac late 2009, the iMac being the monitor. Will a thunderbolt 2 (both ends) cable work for me to connect them and use the iMac as monitor? Thank you!
Nope. If it’s a 27 inch 2009 iMac, a mini DisplayPort to mini Display Port will work.
If you can find one, a mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort (common) and a adapter DisplayPort (female) to mini DP (male) will work too
Hello Pierre,
I have a mid 2011 iMac (21.5 inch) and i would like to connect my Camcorder as video source to be used as a webcam for streaming purpose. Can i use my HDMI output from my camcorder into a HDMI/Mini display port-thunderbolt adapter connected to iMac to get the camcorder video feed into my iMac? I know there are devices like camlink or Blackmagic mini recorder which provides this functionality but i just wants to know if there’s a cheaper alternative to realize the same functionality without bringing another hardware device in picture. Appreciate your response.
Thanks,
Sarab
Nope, you can’t.
It’s not a acquisition input, just a way to use the iMac as a display. The best way is obviously the Camlink, but you mus have an USB 3.0 Mac (not a 2011 iMac).
Hi Pierre,
Thank you for clarifying on HDMI to Thunderbolt/Mini DP restrictions for Video Input functions on iMac 2011. I know 2011 iMac has only USB 2.0 ports, do you think connecting a Caldigit or Akitio thunder dock can help providing a USB 3.o input for iMac to connect Camlink or any other recorder hardware to provide external camera as an option for webcam. Thanks..
Not really, when i have tried with my Camlink and a Thunderbolt 2 dock, i have many artefacts beacuse the bandwith is smaller than with a « real » USB 3.0 controller.
Actually, a Blackmagic card for Thunderbolt is a better choice for that. Or a card with compression, like Elgato Game Capture.
Hi Pierre
I have an early 2015 Macbook pro and want to use my mid-2011 imac as a monitor. I bought a mini displayport cable and connected the two, but nothing happens. Reading through your advice above, it looks as if I should have bought a thunderbolt cable and that the mini DP cable won’t work. Before I do, can you confirm this is right.
Many thanks for the service you’ve been providing for so many years.
Nils
It will work with a Thunderbolt cable
Hi Pierre
I just upgraded to a newer 27 in display with TB. It works on my MacBook Pro 2013 but it is not turning on with the Mac which shows the mini display icon
Is there an adapter I need?
The Mac Pro is a mid 2010
Nope, there is no adapter, sorry. You can’t use a Thunderbolt display on a Mac with mini DisplayPort only.
Can you replace the md on a MacPro with a tb or a usb-c?
Hi Pierre,
I have an iMac (21.5inch, mid 2011) and a MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Early 2015). I want to use the iMac as a secondary screen, but am having trouble when following all the instructions and it’s not working.
However I believe we had been trying to a minidisplay port and hdmi adapters. Will it work if I simply get the specific thunderbolt to thunderbolt cable? The OS on both meet the requirements and such.
Thank you.
You must use a Thunderbolt cable. It will work only with this kind of cable (no adpater)
Hi Pierre,
Is the any way to connect an iMac 27″ late 2012 to PC (available connectors: Display Port, USB C and HDMI / no thunderbolt port) and use it as an external monitor?
Thanks
Nope. Ypu must have a Thunderbolt connector
Hi Pierre, bonjour,
apologies upfront if this is an annoying and/or outdated question. I have a mid 2011 iMAc to which I want to connect a secondary monitor; the iMac has a Thunderbolt port; the monitor has only HDMI and Display Ports. Based on what I read, using a Mini DP connector for the Thunderbolt iMac port should work for simple screen mirroring. Unfortunately, with a HDMI-Mini DP cable it doesn’t. Neither is the « Arrangement » tab in the Display settings showing. Did I misunderstand something? What would be the right connector for the old iMAC? (The monitor is ok, I tested it with a HDMI-HDMI cable on a HP laptop).
Thanks much, Merci beaucoup
It’s weird, it will work.
Is this a 4K display ?
Yes, it’s a new LG27UL650, which I specifically bought because LG is known to be Mac compatible (vs i.e. Dell)
You can’t use à 4K display on a 2011 Mac, the graphic card cannot handle that. I suppose it’s possible to force 1080p mode, but i’m not sure. You can search into the menu from the display : if there is an option for DisplayPort, force the « 1.1 » mode and not the « 1.2 ».
wow – you are amazing!! Merci!
Couldn’t force the DisplayPort into 1.1 mode as a setting, BUT was able to get the monitor recognized via a mini-DP-to-DP cable and could then choose lower resolution. Not pretty, but good enough to bridge a few months to when (supposedly??) the new iMac is released (am I over stretching my luck asking if you know anything about that?).
Thank you so much, Pierre – you are amazingly generous with your time and knowledge … and patient … plus doubling it all up in English for the less linguistically skilled – merci beaucoup et bon week-end!
Came across this blog post after stumbling upon a MacBook vs docking/screen compatibility issue. It’s very kind and nice you are still answering questions after such a long time :).
Here goes mine: I’ve got a LG 27UD58-B (4k 60hz display) and a Dell D6000 USB C dock and a MacBook Pro Mid 2012 with Catalina.
First off: connecting the Macbook with HDMI -> Mini Displayport adapter directly to the screen, doesn’t work. It sees the display, but the display itself remains black (I’ve tried mirroring, extending etc.). Should this work?
I haven’t been able to test Displayport yet as I have no adapter for that. I do have a Displayport -> Mini Displayport cable lying around at work so that might be an option.
Best situation would be where I’d purchase a USB-C -> Mini Displayport (or Thunderbolt?) adapter, and it would work with the dock and the display.
If you could be of any help here, that would be amazing :).
So, many things.
First, the 4K60 will not work with a 2012 Mac, it’s too old. Actually, you can use 1080p60.
For the HDMI to miniDP, it’s not the good orientation. It’s for use à HDMI display on a mini DP Mac (or PC). It’s not bidirectional.
Actually, you can use a mini DP to DP or a DP to DP cable.
For the dock : if it’s a Thunderbolt 3 dock (and not only ISB-C), you can use Thunderbolt 2 to Thunderbolt 3 adapter.
Thanks for your quick response!
I actually got it working with the right DisplayLink drivers and software on the Macbook, together with connection via USB 3.0 (the dock provides a USB C and USB 3.0 connector).
Sadly enough the dock is not powerful enough to charge my XPS 15 (9550), so I’ll have to replace it. But thanks for the suggestion about Thunderbolt -> I’ll look for a proper dock with USB C powerdelivery and Thunderbolt.
Thanks again! :)
I have a late 2013 27″ iMac – appears to have thunderbolt ports.
For work, I have an E15 ThinkPad with HDMI & USB-C, with Power Delivery and DisplayPort Alt Mode.
Is it possible to use the iMac as a display?
No.
You must have a Mac with Thunderbolt (i’m not sure if the Target Display can work with a PC)
Dear Pierre,
I want to use my 2010 iMac 27″ as a screen for my 2019 MacBook Pro. What type of cable/adapter combination should I get?
Thanks xxx
It will work, i mean, with a USB-C to mini DisplayPort.
Bonjour Pierre,
We have a late 2009 iMac 21.5″ that we would like to use as an extended display to our late 2013 iMac 27″.
We purchased a minidisplay port to minidisplay port cable, but it does not register a connection on either machine.
Before we splash out on an Apple thunderbolt to thunderbolt cable, could you please advise us whether it will work?
It’s not possible.
Target Display works only with 27 inches 2009 iMac, not the 21,5 inches.
Thankyou for the quick reply Pierre.
hi
i have a macbook pro 15″ (late 2011) – am trying to connect it to my tv, but can’t get it to work – it has a thunderbolt port – i have what i thought was a thunderbolt to hdmi adatper, but turns out the symbol on the adapter is for a mini display port to hdmi adapter – when i connect it up, it says ‘no device connected’ in the thunderbolt properties tab
do i need to find a specific thunderbolt to hdmi adapter that has the thunderbolt symbol on it rather than the mini display port symbol?
thanks
Ian
Actually, it’s the same thing.
For video only, you can use a mini DP to HDMI, and it’s not in the Thunderbolt tabs, beacuse it’s DisplayPort, but it’s normal.
What is your TV ? It will work with a 1080p TV and a mini DP to HDMI.
Thanks Pierre
it is just a basic tv – it is 720p
do i need to upgrade the tv to 1080p?
regards
Ian
Hi,
I bought a late 2013 imac with thunderbolt and i have dell laptop for work. Do you think I can use imac as a second screen with Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adaptor + USB C to HDMI adaptor and a HDMI cable?
I really hope so..
Thanks.
Katrina
Nope.
In theory, it will work with a laptop with Thunderbolt 3, but i’m not sure (and Thunderbolt 3 to 2 cable). But not with HDMI.
Hey all, just discovered this wonderful thread.
Quick question, can I run any mini-displayport to HDMI from a 2012 Macbook Air to drive a 4K display @60 or 30Hz, or do I need a specific certified Thunderbolt-to-HDMI converter?
Thanks :)
Any miniDP to HDMI will work on a 2012 MacBook Air, but only at 30 Hz. The GPU cannot drive a 4K display at 60 Hz.
Hey I have a let 2013 MacBook Pro and I would like to use it as a second display monitor for my 2017 iMac. Is this possible if so what cable do I need to use?
You can’t use a laptop as a second display.
Hello i have a iMac (21.5-inch, Mid 2010) and i would like to connect them with a windows laptop over the Display port from the Windows Client. Is there any chance to do that ??
Nop. You can’t do that with a 21,5 inches.
Hi there. Firstly many thanks for providing such a valuable resource for those of us who need it.
I have an iMac (27-inch, Late 2013) which I’m trying to use as target display for the new MI chip Mac mini 2020. Apple initially advised to connect HDMI out from the Mac mini through an adapter to mini display port on the iMac. This didn’t work and then they suggested to use a Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter and connect with a thunderbolt cable to both machines. This also hasn’t worked to my surprise as this seems to be the correct way to do it. Any ideas?.
Many Thanks
Hi Pierre….you’re a fantastic resource and so patient…thanks so much in advance.I want to connect my 2017 15 in MacBook Pro (source) to my mid 2011 27 in iMac as the Monitor. .The iMac has Thunderbolt.If I interpret correctly do I need to get a thunderbolt 3 to thunderbolt 2 converter ,then a thunderbolt 2 cable plugged into thunderbolt on my iMac.? Will this supply sound as well?.Do amazon purchased products work properly or best to play safe with Apple purchased cables.Does it connect via the target mode command?thanks again….Cheers
It’s right.
You must use a Thunderbolt 3 to 2 (from Apple) and a Thunderbolt classic cable. You can buy it on Amazon, for Thunderbolt, the cable are generally good.
And after that, you must power up the iMac and use the target command (command + F2) it will work as a display and sound.
Trying to connect MacBook Pro (15-inch, Late 2008) to an iMac 2011 (21.5 inch) as external monitor. thunderbolt cable doesn’t seem to work. I have a mini display port cable with HDMI, but don’t know how to connect that to the iMac! Thank you!
You can’t. It works only with Thunderbolt and you need a Thunderbolt equipped MacBook Pro (2011 and up)
Thank you for such a fast reply ! And for saving me hours of wasted time on the Internet, as I was wondering if I could use FireWire, but now I know not to look into it. Thanks again!
hi pierre,
I have read your blog after looking for a fix to the problem I’m having.
I bought two mid 2009 20″ iMac’s both have mini display ports, is it possible to set the up as hauls displays for video editing?
I have tried connecting the two via ta Mini DisplayPort to Mini DisplayPort cable but can’t seem to find any settings allowing me to find the other display.
If this is not possible via the Mini DisplayPort would you happen to know of another way of making this possible?
Many thanks for taking the time to answer so many questions for so many years, the world needs more people like you.
You can’t. It works only with 2009/2010 27 inches iMac
Hi Pierre
I have a Mid 2010 imac with mini-display port and a 2015 Mac book Air with a thunderbolt 2 port – is there anyway to connect the imac to be an external monitor for the mba?
If the iMac is a 27 inches, yep, with a mini DisplayPort to mini DisplayPort cable (not a Thunderbolt cable)
Hello,
thank you for your very informative post!
I think I might have already found the answer I was looking for here, but I’m still slightly confused so I’d like to ask for a final clarification from you.
I have an iMac 27 inches mid 2011 and a MacAir 11 inches mid 2013. I’d like to use the iMac as an external monitor for the MacAir. I was ready to buy the (… thankfully cheaper… ) Mini Displayport cables I had found, but it seems that 2011 iMacs will only respond to Thunderbolt cables, am I right? And in that case it should be either Thunderbolt 1 or 2, right?
Thank you a lot in advance!
cheers
You must use a Thunderbolt cable (1 or 2, it’s the same). It’s the simplest configuration.
Thanks a lot!
Back to Apples prices I guess… -_- But at least thanks to you I won’t waste money on the wrong cable
Cheers!
Hi there,
Hoping you can help me I’ve being going round in circles trying to figure out what will work and your explanation at the top seems very comprehensive however with the different years and models I’m aware it changes things a lot.. I have an old 2009 iMac 21inch 10.6.8 and a 2019 MacBookPro 15inch which I’m trying to connect up and use the iMac purely as a second screen. Please advise how on earth I do this!?
Thank you in advance.
It’s not possible with a 21 inches from 2009.
Hi, I have a MBP late 2013 with 2 Thunderbolt ports. Has this laptop the 1.2 Display Port standard or the 1.1? Thanks in advance.
Raul
If it’s a 15 inches, it will be 1.2 (Thunderbolt 2). With the 13 inches, 1.1, i mean (because Intel HD)
Hi Pierre
I have a MacBookpro mid 2010 that has Mini DisplayPort and Apollo twin mk2 (audio interface) that has thunderbolt2 port. If I got a min display to thunderbolt 2 cord would it work?
Nope. Thunderbolt devices works only with Thunderbolt enabled Mac (after 2011)
Hi Pierre,
Thanks for all your hard work, I just stumbled across your blog whilst searching for a solution read through it all and I can see you have helped many people, so I just saying thanks even if you are unable to help me with a solution.
I excitedly bought a M1 Mac Mini as Apple stated on their website it can use dual monitors, what Apple didn’t say ( as im sure many hope wouldn’t have bought them if they knew) was that you can only use usb-c and HDMI to achieve this.
My predicament is that I have to thunderbolt Apple Cinema Display and even with the usb-c to thunderbolt 2 from Apple only one screen will display at a time.
Ive tried every cable and combination under the sun to get them working.
The thunder bolt display is working via usb-c along with my 30″ Cinema Display working at the same time.
However I would like to get both Thunderbolt Cinema displays working at the same time.
Can I use HDMI out of the M1 mini to DP cable into the Thunderbolt Display ?
It’s not possible. There is no HDMI to Thunderbolt adapter.
Hello,
Thanks very much for your article!
I want to use a 2011 iMac as an external monitor for the 2015 MacBook Pro. What do I need? I’ve tried using an official Apple Thunderbolt cable, but nothing happens when I plug them in. Nothing happens when I boot the iMac into Target Disk Mode.
What cable should I use? The 2011 iMac should be an external monitor for the 2015 MacBook Pro.
Thanks very much for your help!
I want to add this to my last message. The 2011 iMac is formatted as Mac OS Journaled, and the 2015 MacBook Pro is formatted as APFS. I can reformat the iMac to APFS is that will help?
Thanks for your advice!
Normally, it will work with a Thunderbolt cable.
Just try to press command + F2 (on the iMac).
It just makes the « donk » sound when I connect the Thunderbolt cable and press CMD + F2. Nothing happens. Also, when I restart the iMac in Target Disk Mode and connect the MacBook Pro, nothing happens.
My girlfriend has also tried it on her 2017 MacBook Pro. We used a Thunderbolt Cable + Thunderbolt to USB-C Adapter. Nothing happens when we plug it in and press Cmd + F2. It just makes the same negative « donk » sound.
What is the problem? Should the HD formats be the same (Mac OS Journalled or APFS)? What else could be causing it not to sync up?
The iMac is on High Sierra and the MacBook Pro is on Big Bur.
Thanks very much for your help and advice so far!
Can you verifiy the exact model ? Is there a thunder on the port with the iMac ?
With -> About this Mac -> System info, can you see Thunderbolt info ?
I have fixed it! The Thunderbolt cable needed to be switched around! I’m don’t know why, as I thought that both sides were exactly the same. Now I just have the problem of the Target Disk Mode stealing access to my new Apple Magic Keyboard!
How do you stop it? My Apple Keyboard is wireless.
I have a Mac mini late 2012 and have just purchased a M1 Mac mini I have connected M1 Mac mini to 27” thunderbolt screen via built in thunderbolt cable. Can I connect the Mac mini late 2012 to the same screen using the Apple thunderbolt .5 m cable as the info on the cable says late 2014 Mac mini and later. I appreciate that you cannot have two active computers attached to the same screen so would switch one off before booting the other. This system would be better than unplugging each computer as eventually the cable or plug would get broken. Please advise.
I suppose it will work if the second Mac is switched off.
When you say « 27 inches Thunderbolt », is this a 5K display from LG or the Apple one ? With the 5K from LG, it will work with a Mac mini 2012, but not at the right definition, even with an adapter.
Hi ,
I have a MacBook Pro Retina 2012 that I’d like to connect to a usb-c monitor.
Would this mophie sold only by apple work ?
https://www.apple.com/be-fr/shop/product/HN8B2ZM/A/câble-usb%E2%80%91c-de-mophie-avec-connecteur-mini-displayport
Not sure it is bidirectional actually ?
Also, if I’d like to connect my company laptop which is only usb-c, with the same cable usb-c to mibi-DP + an additional Mini-DP to USB-C adapter would it work ?
I think I’ll loose the power and the USB upstream.
This is just to keep the same cable for both laptops.
Thanks !
I’m not sure actually.
I think it will work with a display with USB-C female input if the display use is own power supply. In this cas, it’s like a DisplayPort cable.
And in this case, yes, you will lose the USB and the power supply.
For the company laptop, it will work too (without power and USB), i mean, but it’s complicated : you must just use a USB-C cable.
I have a iMac mid 2010 that I have upgraded with an ssd that has a mini display port. I also have a iMac 2011 that has a thunderbolt port. I want the iMac 2010 to be the main computer and use the 2011 as the display monitor. Is this possible?
Nope.
You can use the 2010 as a display with a mini DisplayPort to mini DisplayPort cable, but not use the 2011 as a display (the main computer must be compatible with Thunderbolt to do that)
Hello, Pierre! I’ve read through your article and the comments but I’m still not sure so here goes my question:
I have an A1466 model MacBook Air (2013) with one Thunderbolt 1 and two USB 3.0 port. I want to connect a display pen tablet by XP-Pen, its model is Innovator 16 (max. 1080p res. by the way) and needs to be connected with HDMI to one’s computer.
Can I use ANY mini display port to HDMI cable for this? I’ve found this https://mcstorey.com.tr/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=2866 and am wondering if it would do what I need. If not, could you help me out how I may do the connection?
Thanks so much for helping after all this time!
I think you can, yes. For 1080p, there is no problem for compatibility
Hi Pierre,
I was wondering if you can insert a Mini DisplayPort in Thunderbolt 1 ( I want to buy a Mini DisplayPort to Displayport but I’m not sure if it will work)
Yes, you can, no problem for that
Hi PIerre, I have an imac 27 inch late 2015, retina 5k, and a wacom one tablet.
But the screen of the wacom one tablet is black (the signal doesn’t reach the tablet).
What adapter should I use to make this work ?
Bonjour Pierre,
Can I can use an HDMI cable to connect a Mac PowerBook G4 (circa 2007?) and a MacBook Air (early 2015)? The G4 has data (mostly text files) that I need, but I can’t get them off it as it won’t accept USB cables or CDs (they don’t mount on the desktop). Using e-mail doesn’t work either. So perhaps my last resort could be the video ports?
The G4 has Firewire and the Air has Thunderbolt. I have a Thunderbolt-to-HDMI adapter and a double-ended HDMI cable. So all I need is an HDMI-to-Firewire adapter/plug for the G4 end. I’ve searched all over, but when I enter “Firewire”, the results show Mini DisplayPort adapters instead. Would the Firewire port accept Mini DP?
I notice that the G4 readily accepts the Thunderbolt plug, yet the port is a slightly different shape. So are the differences between MiniDP-Firewire-Thunderbolt technical rather than anatomical?
Merci beaucoup for any guidance you can offer.
You can’t do that.
The best way, i mean, is to use a FireWire cable (on the G4) and a Thunderbolt to FireWire on the MacBook Air. Connect the 2 cable, shut down the PowerBook G4, then press T and power on the G4. It will mount as a hard drive on the MacBook Air.
Hello – I have a 2011 MacBook Air (13″) and want to connect it to an newer Acer screen.
I have a thunderbolt port. And the peeps at the computer store i just needed a mini display connector to hdmi (i have the hdmi to hdmi cable)
But it didn’t work.
i don’t know if it’s a bad cable or mdp cable won’t work b/cuz thunderbolt.
i don’t want to buy a mess of mdp cables all for them to not work.
I don’t know if i need an actual thunderbolt cable to hdmi.
do you know what i need?
Thank you.
Is this a 4K display ?
MiniDP to HDMI will work with Thunderbolt, it’s the same things in this case.
Hello Pierre,
I have a 27” Thunderbolt Display (2016) and a 13” MacBook Pro (2017)
Which cable or adaptor can I use to connect the Thunderbolt to my MacBook, so that I can use it as a second display/monitor? For example to play a lecture video/PowerPoint on the display while taking notes on my MacBook :-)
Can you recommend one that is not too expensive?
Merci beaucoup!
Sorry, I meant to ask — which cable or adaptor should I use to connect my Thunderbolt Display and MacBook Pro, so I can use the monitor as a second screen when studying :-)
The Apple Thunderbolt 2 to Thunderbolt 3 adapter will work for that (i use the same things at home)
Bonjour Pierre, I have an imac 2011 27 inch and i just bought a dell optiplex 3080 mini pc with display port/hdmi ports. I have read conflicting advice on being able to use the old imac as a monitor in target display mode using a display port to mini display port/thunderbolt 1 cable. I read your old messages on here and see you say that the imac 2011 thunderbolt 1 port can only accept thunderbolt apple cable. Is that right? So there is no way to use it as an external monitor for the dell. I just want to find some way to use the imac 2011 monitor as its a lovely screen. Thanks for any advice.
With the 2011 iMac, it’s not possible. You must have a Mac (i have not tried with an PC) with a Thunderbolt cable (explicitly Thunderbolt).
Greeting:
I have a 2015 Macbook Pro that I would like to connect to a 24″ Cinema display. Can I connect the Cinema DisplayPort into the Thunderbolt port on the MacBook pro or do I need an adapter and if so, which do you recommend?
Thank you in advance!
Daniel
With a 2015 MacBook Pro, no problem.
You can connect the mini DisplayPort into the Thunderbolt (2) port.
Hello,
i have a question without displays…
I want to connect a Thunderbolt 1 Storage device.
Can i take a PCI Card with mini Displayport and a thunderbolt 1/2 cable to connect ?
Cause technically i read only the cable itself makes the difference (built in chips) and the connectors should be the same.
thanks
kind regards
Dee
Hi Pierre
I have a iMac 27″ mid2010 to use as a display and a MBP 13″ early 2011 as the source. I used the mini display port to mini display port cable. However after pressing Command F2 on iMac, only the MBP screen background shows up on the iMac display but nothing else. Is this a cable problem or do I have to actually use an Apple thunderbolt cable?
Normally, it will work. But by default, it’s an « extended display », i suppose you can move the cursor from the MacBook to use the iMac display.
You can go to display into System preference to change that.
Hi Pierre
Thank you for your time and answering questions.
I have an M1 Max MacBook Pro and a thunderbolt display that works fine. But I want to know if I can daisy chain a 27” Cinema Display off the Thunderbolt Display?
It’s possible, but with a constraint : you must add a Thunderbolt 1 between the Thunderbolt Display and the LED Display. Like a Thunderbolt Dock with 2 Thunderbolt connector.