I have quite a lot of experience with Target Display Mode, so I can offer some clarifications for you. 1:25 - Target Display Mode was only supported on the 27" iMacs from Late 2009 and Mid 2010. It is not present on any other 2009 iMac (20", 24", 21.5") or the 21.5" 2010 iMac. Starting in 2011 both the 21.5" and 27" iMacs supported TDM. 1:40 - Yes, you can use an HDMI to DisplayPort adapter to connect an HDMI source to a 2009 or 2010 27" iMac. I do this all the time with a cheap adapter from Amazon (it's BENFEI branded). I suspect you might have been referring to cables that have Mini DP on one end and HDMI on the other. These are uni-directional cables, so they won't work. You need an active, powered adapter (like the BENFEI unit I mentioned earlier) that will convert an HDMI signal to a DisplayPort signal. The adapter I use has a full-size DisplayPort output, so I just use a DP to Mini DP cable to connect it to the iMac. Using this adapter I've had success connecting all sort of devices, including game consoles, an Apple TV, etc. It does work at the full 2560x1440 resolution, too, and sound works just fine as well. Just make sure you have the volume turned up in macOS on the iMac. 1:50 - The CMD + F2 shortcut has zero effect on 2009 and 2010 27" iMacs. They automatically enter Target Display Mode when you connect a DisplayPort source to the Mini DP connector on the back. CMD + F2 is only needed on non-Retina iMacs from 2011-2014, which are the models that use Thunderbolt. For those later models both the 21.5" and 27" iMacs support TDM, but only the 27" iMac is supported for the Late 2009 and Mid 2010 models. 2:46 - This is correct, the Thunderbolt iMacs that support TDM will not work with non-Mac sources, even through a Thunderbolt connection. They only work with other Thunderbolt-equipped Macs from 2011-2019, and I can confirm that they do not work with M1 Macs. The software support is not as important as Apple makes it seem. They say that the iMac must be running High Sierra or older and the source Mac must be running Catalina or older, but I can confirm that this is not true at all. I regularly use TDM with a 2012 iMac running Catalina and a MacBook Pro running Ventura, and I know several people who have had success with other "unsupported" combinations as well. These iMacs also tend to be a bit annoying when trying to enter TDM. I've had mixed experiences with TDM over Thunderbolt using a variety of Macs. Sometimes it works fine, but sometimes audio doesn't work quite right. Sometimes I can't get screen brightness control working, but sometimes it does work. I've also had it just drop out entirely, which doesn't happen with my 2009 and 2010 27" iMacs. Also, these Thunderbolt iMacs require the use of the CMD + F2 shortcut, and they almost never work with a non-Apple keyboard. Using a Thunderbolt iMac in TDM is far more annoying than a 2009 or 2010 27" iMac, though you do get the benefit of being able to use the camera and microphone built into the iMac with the source Mac. Overall, great video. I like seeing older hardware repurposed for newer uses.
Thanks for the info! I've pinned your comment, since I think it could be very helpful to other people. There's surprisingly very little info on Target Display, and as we both know Apples docs are "official" but not accurate as to what is actually supported. You're right, I was referring to the passive cable. I didn't know an active cable existed, although I'm not surprised. I did notice the screen flashed, and other people reported the Mac entering TDM automatically. For some reason mine flashes, but doesn't enter TDM. Either it doesn't like my cable (which is brand new and works perfectly to DP monitors), or it has something to do with my modded GPU. Mine I need to keep mashing CMD + F2 repeatedly to get it to connect. Either way, it's good to have you confirm and know how it's supposed to work. I presume TDM on 09/10 models is pretty reliable outside of my specific issues I was having. Ya, the Thunderbolt iMacs seemed really fiddly from what I read. Don't have one, but maybe that's for the better, lol. Almost better to just do the Juicy Crumb mod, or similar, on these models if all you need is a screen. Thanks again for taking the time to comment, and clarify some of the unknowns around TDM!
@@danimation4391 For the 21.5 inch, you'd have to use a solution like AirPlay/Screen Mirroring, the Sunshine/Moonlight combo if you're connecting a Windows PC, or Parsec if connecting another Mac. If you want to permanently convert the 21.5" into a monitor and are really tech savvy, there are converter boards available online where you could DIY a solution similar to the Juicy Crumb. If you want to use your 21.5" as a monitor for another Mac, your best bet is probably Parsec. It works exactly like how I did Sunshine/Moonlight in the video, except you'll install Parsec instead on both computers.
@@BeechF33A Your M2 Mac Mini should output Mini DisplayPort signal via Thunderbolt connector, and your 2010 iMac should accept a Mini DisplayPort input signal via the DisplayPort connector. So you shouldn't need the more expensive BENFEI active HDMI to DisplayPort, you should only need a cheap straight through Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt cable.
For target display mode... IT WAS THE KEYBOARD!!! Fantastic Video - thank you! NONE of my 27 inch 2011 iMacs would connect in target display mode until I switched to the long flat wired keyboard with numeric keypad on the right. Like was mentioned in one of these helpful videos - the keyboard that came with the iMAC. Keyboard model A1243 EMC 2171. Now all four DO connect to my Macbook pro. The iMac wireless ones, Imac long wired ones with typewriter-like keys - none of these worked. Just the flat long keyboard (17 inch x 4.5 inch x less than 1/2 inch)
Thanks!! Ya, it doesn't fully make sense why, but entering Target Display is finicky without a genuine Apple keyboard. Even though the same keys exist on other keyboards, for some reason they don't work the same. Must be an "Apple thing" I guess. Glad you got it working!!
Interesting. So as I understand you are now sending the display signal through the RJ45 port? To be fair, I have actually seen something similar done in a manufacturing facility, where the machine had no dedicated display ports, but the signal was sent out via RJ45 instead. So the displays were actually having custom cables. I still wish there was a homebrew solution to decrypt the original target display signal and send it out via the same port (thunderbolt) but as a display signal. Should work fine.
just a little update if anyone is reading the comments.. I put OCLP on the 2013 imac so it's now running Ventura. I'm able to wirelessly share my screen from my 2015 macbook pro running Monterey. Initialising TDM with thunderbolt 2 and cmd F2 works only for a few seconds, before the screen goes black.. .. so the airplay screen mirroring is the only option, except it isn't as responsive as TDM by a long way... and there are other things like: the 2 screens no longer share the same screen saver, and there's some funky stuff with the sound sources changing too..also on my Udemy course, the video blocks out when I'm screen mirroring, but not when using TDM.. . so TDM is much better than the wireless sharing imho... When the other 2012 imac arrives I'm just gonna leave it on Catalina, in the hope that the TDM works better... and actually considering changing the 2103 imac back from Ventura to Catalina..
That's very interesting... Maybe it has something to do with Thunderbolt TDM and the OpenCore updates. The 2009 iMac I used is upgraded to Monterey via OpenCore. I can confirm that I had issues entering TDM, but after getting it running it worked perfectly. The only difference I can see between yours and mine, is that you're using Thunderbolt and I'm using DisplayPort. Thanks for posting back, it's always great to have these types of tests documented for future people experiencing issues!
@@vehmann6831 sorry I bought it so long ago I can’t recall the specific brand, I would suggest most any Mini/display to whatever port you have should work maybe just try finding one that specified Mac compatibility. I am not sure as I write this what date my iMac is but I can say I have a 2011 and a 2012 and both connect to PC with target display so any 2011 should work fine. The 2012 is a bit more fidgety tho. FYI if you attempt anything like this due note you will need a keyboard and mouse as well for the Mac here n there to access the target display mode.
Awesome video! I’m looking to use an iMac as a display monitor. I saw a comment mentioning you can go from DP to Mini DP. So my question is, is the Mini DP only offered for the 27” 2009, and 2010? Or do the smaller display sizes for the 2009 and 2010 also offer a Mini DP?
Thanks for the comment! All models should have a Mini DP plug, but only the 27" 09/10 models accept a video input in the Mini DP port. The smaller ones use that port as video out only. The only option for smaller iMacs is the Sunshine/Moonlight or Parsec method, or a paid proprietary solution like Luna Display or Duet Display.
hey.. glad I found your video.. I have a Macbook pro from 2015 running Monterey, connected to a 2013 iMac, using thunderbolt 2.. it works great.. what I was looking at doing was getting another cheap imac from the same era, to have 2 screens...unfortunately though only one of my thunderbolt 2 ports is working... and I understand that daisy chaining display mode isn't an option.. so I was thinking of using a 3rd party app or dongle for one of them, and a thunderbolt for the other... is it right about the daisy chaining? i guess repairing the thunderbolt port just isn't work it.
Hi, I don't have a 2013 to check, but I believe you are correct - Thunderbolt 2 supports daisy chaining with standalone monitors, but I don't think iMacs support this with Target Display mode. If you had older iMacs (2009/2010), I think you could use Thunderbolt 2 to produce dual DisplayPort connections (one for each iMac). But with a 2013, I don't even think you can use a hub to get an extra plug. Question though; are you sure the connector is broken? Does Apple support running two iMacs over Thunderbolt 2 Target Display? With the older 2009/2010 iMacs it treats them as a standalone monitor, but with the 2011 onward it does some special communication (it's not just a standard Thunderbolt monitor). I'm wondering if your port is fine, but Apple just doesn't support it? Another option though - If you use OpenCore to upgrade another cheap iMac to Monterey, you can use Airplay for the other screen. Depending on what you use it for, I don't know if some lag on the secondary screen would be acceptable or not. Or if you get a standalone Thunderbolt-supported monitor (admittedly, this may not be a "cheap" option), and daisy chain the iMac through the standalone monitor. In theory this should work, although make sure the monitor is going to be returnable if it doesn't. Target Display does some weird things; it is not a standard Thunderbolt monitor connection, so standard supported features like daisy chaining monitors may not work in conjunction with Target Display As far as standard monitors go though, I believe it is officially supported to daisy chain 2 monitors over Thunderbolt 2.
hey. maybe it's easier to omit the macbook laptop from the set up altogether.. I only need two screens for basic stuff.. so I could pick up an old imac and Target display the two together.. think that's the easiest.@@rebootretro
@@elixirix True. If you want one for JUST a monitor, I do recommend the 2009/2010 27" models. They're the ONLY ones that accept a standard DisplayPort signal, and will work with any device. Later models are limited to supported hardware and Mac OS versions. Just note that the 2009-2011 models were VERY common to have GPU failures, although they're replaceable which is a huge plus :) As a bonus, if you find one for cheap (or even free) with a dead GPU, people have successfully used these where they have artifacts/crashing in Mac OS but work perfectly in Target Display. I'm told the only criteria is that Mac OS needs to be able to boot, and I think it works in Safe Mode too.
ok great. I was looking for a 21, 5 inch to match the first one... just found one from late 2012 for 99 pounds... so gonna OCLP with them both and run a thunderbolt cable... I don't do anything power hungry on the imac so it should be fine... and will have an identical monitor : ) cheers for the back and forth! @@rebootretro
I am using an early iMac in target with my M1 Mac mini. It's so dumb. There are 2 Thunderbolt ports but you can only use one. If you want a second monitor it has to come from the Mini's HDMI port with and HDMI to Thunderbolt cord. But you can't get that nice Mac monitor look with side by side monitors.
Sorry if this is already answered by you -- My situation is a 2015 iMac 27" to be paired with my M1 Macbook Pro. Which do you believe would be the best route?
I think out of the ones shown, only Sunshine/Moonlight method would work for a 2015 iMac (possibly AirPlay method would work too, but only if the iMac was running OpenCore and modded). You might also consider trying Parsec. Parsec works like Sunshine/Moonlight, but is easier to set up with Mac to Mac. It is important to know that Parsec requires an internet connection to work (even if using LAN, it requires internet for sign-in), while Sunshine/Moonlight can work entirely local. Hope this helps!
Hi! I hope you could help me :), I have a MacBook Pro M2 2022 13in, Would it be possible for me to use my old 27” iMac from late 2013 as an external monitor?
Hi! The 2013 iMac is very difficult to use as an external monitor for an M2 Mac. The best method is Target Display, which does not work on Apple Silicon Macs (M1/M2). If you upgrade your iMac using OpenCore, you can use the AirPlay method. However, the easier method in your case would probably be similar to the Sunshine/Moonlight solution like so: Because you want to connect Mac to Mac instead of Mac to PC, you would need to use something like Parsec instead (parsec.app/downloads). The concept works just like in the video, BUT you will use Parsec Host and Parsec Client instead of Sunshine and Moonlight. You would install Parsec Host on your M2 MacBook Pro, and you would install Parsec Client on your 2013 iMac (requires minimum Mac OS 10.15 Catalina). Parsec will allow you to remotely connect from your iMac to your MacBook Pro just like I did. Important to know you cannot use as dual screens, you only get to see the main screen. There is another product called Luna Display which can do this much easier (astropad.com/product/lunadisplay/), but it isn't free. I've never used it and can't vouch for it personally, but they've been around for a long time. It should be easier to set up and is less "hacky" than my free solution. It also lets you use dual screens. Hope this info helps!!
I have a late 2013 IMac, what cable would I need to use the IMac as a monitor for my Xbox X? Would it need to be one of this active mini display to hdmi? If so do you have a link?
The active mini DisplayPort to HDMI only works on the 2009/2010 models. The 2011 onward models work only with Mac to Mac for Target Display Mode (and only certain models/OSes). The only way to hook up an Xbox to a 2013 would be to use a USB HDMI capture card. Keeping in mind a capture card will likely add some input latency/lag, so whether this is an option for you depends how competitive you are while gaming.
If have iMac with USB C Thunderbolt 3 and Dell XPS 9510 with TB4 would I be able to connect iMac as a monitor direct to laptop with no adapters? And which cable do I need TB4 cable or TB3? Thanks!
No, Target Display with Thunderbolt does not work between any PC and Mac. Instead, use the last method in the video with Sunshine/Moonlight. The Sunshine/Moonlight method will work with almost every Mac/PC combo; it will work over WiFi or direct Ethernet connection (preferred).
The best method is Target Display, but Apple discontinued this I think after 2014. In your case for a 2021 iMac, you would need to use the AirPlay method or the Parsec method (similar to Sunshine/Moonlight, but Parsec works Mac to Mac) If you are using it as a secondary screen for text, documents, email, internet browsing, the AirPlay method is probably best. If you will be doing multimedia, gaming, video editing/playback, then Parsec is better. Both those options are free. There are other non-free options such as Duet Display and Luna Display which also work similarly, although I haven't tested these personally.
@@kalatravis8467 Using the AirPlay method, you can use a 2019 iMac as a secondary display. I know it works on Monterey, but I'm not sure about older. Like shown in the video, it works great for text but video can be a little laggy.
I am attempting to run my iMac (2019) as a monitor for my gaming pc but can't figure out what I need to be able to run it, if I can. This is with all information I find resolving around target display mode for much older iMacs. just wondering whether you or anyone else knows whether you: 1. are able to run a newer iMac as a monitor for a pc, and if so 2. how?
There is no Target Display for 2019, but you can use the Sunshine/Moonlight method. You install the Sunshine server on the gaming PC, preferably wire Ethernet between PC and Mac, the run Moonlight client on Mac. Use Mac normally, but when you want to use gaming PC just open Moonlight and connect to PC. You can even move gaming PC to another room to keep your setup clean.
*Thank you. I have an old iMac (either 2009 or 2010 I believe) that's unusable but would like to make something of the screen, still looks so good I can't just throw it away :(. Wondering if I could use it as a basic display for a PC mini or any PC setup... You're giving me hope. I'll have to go check if there's any luck. 🥲 Edit: I've been using my iMac through the Windows partition I had once made. Will this process be any different there?...
I haven't test it myself, but people have said the Mac must boot into Mac OS to use Target Display. I can confirm it works with Monterey. Good news is that both 2009 and 2010 27" models work with ANY DisplayPort input, including Windows PC! You can try it from Windows on the iMac, but if it doesn't work you can always reinstall Mac OS (any supported version) just to make Target Display work. If you do have a 2009 or 2010 27" iMac, these are the absolute best models to use as a monitor! Good luck! :)
I am havin an 2009 imac i am trying to upgrade it with the help of bootable usb but iam unable to access boot menu in it when I am holding the option button its just showing a blank white screen
Hi! I have a Macbook Air M3 with a late 2013 27" iMac running Catalina I hope to use as a second monitor. Would that work with a Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter and a Thunderbolt 2 cable? Just plugging it in doesn't seem functional.
@@jessefrankema4836 Target Display with Thunderbolt is extremely limited to Mac certain Mac models and certain Mac OS models. The 2009 model shown doesn’t use Thunderbolt, it uses DisplayPort - which was used for 2009 and 2010 before they switched to Thunderbolt and is compatible with any DisplayPort signal. For a 2013, they do not work with any of the M chip Macs, so you’d have to use one of the other methods - like Sunshine/Moonlight, Parsec, AirPlay (the 2013 may support AirPlay if modded). Hope this helps!
I have a 2013 iMac with a Thunderbolt port, could I use it as my main monitor for my pc if I used a thuderbolt to displayport cable? or do I have to use the sunshine/moonlight thing?
Yes, you'd need to use the Sunshine/Moonlight, or Parsec, or AirPlay. Thunderbolt only works Mac to Mac, and theres some limitations with models and OS versions too. The 2009/2010 models are the only ones that work with a generic DisplayPort signal.
Hello! Thank you for your video! I was hoping you could answer some questions for me. I currently work from home and was provided an HP laptop from my company to work. They offered me an hp monitor to use as well but I have a 27 in 2019 mac that runs macOS Sanoma (the most recent update), and I would like to continue to use my mac as a monitor so it doesn't start collecting dust. Is it possible for me to use my Mac as a monitor from my HP laptop? Do I need to go back to an earlier OS? What are my possible options?
Hi! Sonoma should work the same way. With the method in this video, you can use the iMac as a screen but you won't have dual screens (both will show the same screen). On the plus side, this solution is completely free. Also, it won't work if your IT department blocks you from installing programs. To use as a secondary display (dual screens), you could use AirParrot (www.airsquirrels.com/airparrot/features/win) on your Windows PC, then enable AirPlay Receiver on your Mac (under Settings/Sharing/AirPlay Receiver). Then choose to extend your Windows desktop screen to your AirPlay iMac. I've used this product before; it's not bad, but a little laggy just like AirPlay extended screens from Mac to Mac. AirParrot is a pretty reasonable one-time cost for the software license. Another option for secondary display, there is a product that might work better for you called Luna Display (astropad.com/step-by-step-guide-how-to-use-your-imac-as-a-monitor/). I've never used it personally and can't personally recommend it, but I understand they are a reputable company. You need to buy a 1 time purchase dongle to use this product. Another product which does dual screens is Duet (duetdisplay.com). I don't know much about this company, but their product will allow you to use any computer/device as a second screen. The downside is that there's a monthly fee, which isn't ideal. Ultimately, you first need to find out if you are able to install software on your work PC, or if your IT department blocks it. If they block it, most of these options probably won't work. Hopefully this gives you some help or ideas! Feel free to post back if you have any questions, and hopefully myself or someone will be able to answer :)
I'm having some problems with my setup. Im running a IMac 2012 with Catalina and a Macbook Pro Big Sur. I have a dock where my macbook pro is connected through TB3. I bought a cable for the IMac, mini-display to displayport, hence the dock (CalDigit 3) outputs through displayport and TB3. Im not getting any proper results. Is it because my mac's software is too new for TDM? Or should I get a different cable for the IMac (directly to usb-c/tb3 for instance). Cheers!
Unlike the 2009 and 2010 models which accept a standard DP signal and will work with any source (despite the specs listed by Apple), the 2011 onward have some actual limitations as they use some weird Apple proprietary protocol as I understand. Apple says specifically that it only works if your iMac has High Sierra or older and your MacBook is 2019 or older with Catalina or older. My understanding is that it does not work at all with Apple Silicon Macs (not sure if that's what you're using?). Some people claimed to get it working with Catelina on the iMac, but the results don't seem to be consistent. I think if you have any chance to make it work with that config, it would be with a direct cable - you're completely right, the docks can cause issues. Either way you're in somewhat uncharted waters. If you can't get it working and want dual displays, an alternative would be to install OpenCore on your iMac, upgrade to Monterey or later, and enable AirPlay Receiver like shown in the video. If you only need a primary display, the Sunshine/Moonlight or Parsec option will result much smoother performance.
Okay I have a 2017 IMac 21.5 inch. It doesn’t have a display port, so I bought a usb to hdmi adapter. Do you think I will be able to connect my gaming console (ps5) and use my iMac as a display or should I just send the iMac back and get a Mack mini and a monitor?
The USB to HDMI is for display output from the iMac, not an input from a video source like a game console. The only option from a game console would be a USB capture card - it would need to be a Mac compatible one, and would add some latency to your gaming. A Mac Mini would with a monitor would be a much better option. If you get a monitor with 2 HDMI inputs, you will be able to switch between Mac and console without unplugging and plugging cables each time. If you don't have a separate sound system, then make sure to get a monitor with speakers.
Yes, for a 2017 iMac as a screen for PC, you would use Sunshine/Moonlight method. If you are using 2017 iMac as a screen for another Mac, you can use AirPlay (less smooth video, but easy setup) or you can use Sunshine/Moonlight, or Parsec. Parsec works like Sunshine/Moonlight, but is easier to set up on Mac.
Yes, you could. It's not perfect, you do see some minor graphical blocking from compression and you do waste some resources on the PC encoding the stream. I wouldn't recommend buying a MacBook just to use as a monitor, but if you want/need a MacBook anyway and also want PC gaming, this is a great way to hide a messy tower rig! :D
I have been considering, however I’m probably going to use the even cleaner Apple Cinema Display. There is a model that comes in 24 inches and is 16:10 which is perfect for me
Hello RR, I learned a lot about my old iMac 2009 21,5inch these days. One of it: it doesn't support TDM and here Iam, trying to find ANY solution to make this iMac a second screen for my Macbook 14inch, 2021. Is it really not possible? I've read and watched videos about a HDMI dummy plug (but with a newer iMac targeted as the Monitor) or installing Ventura on the iMac to be able to use Airdrop -> Airplay receiver. Have you ever heard of one of the two solutions or know if they work? Thank you very much for any hint.
You can do the Airplay method; it works just like shown in the video. You don't need Ventura, it works with Monterey... BUT your WiFi card has to be supported or else AirDrop, AirPlay receiver, etc don't work. But you can fix by buying a compatible USB dongle (has to be a particular Broadcom chip to work - check the docs on Dortania GitHub), or changing the WiFi card in the Mac. Another method is remote connection using Parsec (same as Sunshine/Moonlight, but for Mac). This lets you use your MacBook from your iMac, but not dual screen. The only other option I'm aware of is something like Luna Display or Duet Display. Luna Display is a physical dongle you plug in (maybe that's what you're referring to with "dummy plug"?), and can use another computer as a screen. I haven't tried it myself, but it says minimum 2011 for primary screen (your MacBook side) with Mac OS 10.11 El Cap, but only Mac OS 10.11 El Cap for secondary. I can't vouch for if it works or how well, but the specs suggests you can do it with your MacBook and 2011 iMac.
I have a Linux desktop with Thunderbolt 3, a Windows 11 laptop with Thunderbolt 4, and two mid-2011 imacs with what I assume to be Thunderbolt 1 or 2? Can My imac's work as target displays for my thunderbolt linux and windows computers or does it have to be mac os? Can potentially hackintosh my desktop so thats still a possibility if mac os only, but would prefer not to.
Thunderbolt for Target Display only works with certain Mac models and Mac OS versions, although I don't remember all the specific combinations. Unlike the 2009/2010 iMacs which accept any DisplayPort signal, the 2011+ doesn't work like a generic Thunderbolt display and is proprietary. From research, they will not work at all with any Apple Silicon Macs and won't work with any Windows/Linux. Your best bet is probably Sunshine/Moonlight or Parsec in your situation.
i have a question i got a m1 macbook pro and a 2013 21.5 inch imac. Can i use a usba to usbc cable to connect them to eachotherthen use airplay or could i just connect it wirelessly if so how? or both of these ways cant work???
No, you can't connect USB A to C. You can use AirPlay over WiFi, but on a 2013 model AirPlay Receiver is disabled by default. On a 2013 you must enable AirPlay Receiver, which should be possible by installing OpenCore and upgrading to Mac OS Monterey or newer. If you want to use the iMac as your main display and do not need secondary display, you can use Sunshine/Moonlight method or Parsec (Parsec works like Sunshine/Moonlight in the video, but is easier to set up especially on Mac).
The PS5 only outputs HDMI signals and iMac 27 inch 2009/2010 only accepts DisplayPort signals. If you use an ACTIVE converter (not passive cable, but one that has converter electronics built-in) then it will work. It will not work on any other iMac, except 2009 and 2010 27 inch models. To use other Macs, you need to use HDMi capture hardware.
Hey, thanks for the video I have a question please When using the Moonlight solution, Can you connect the Windows PC as a host with the iMac as a client together with an ethernet cable without routers ?
Yes you can, and I would highly recommend doing that. Going through a router will create loads of extra network congestion, which is why a direct Ethernet cable is better. Important though: I think network discovery did not work without a router. Instead, allow both computers to obtain a self-assigned IP address, check the host to confirm the address, then enter that address manually in Moonlight. You could also manually assign an IP to each computer.
@@rebootretro Thanks a lot man for pointing out this solution, i almost gave up on the idea, as 2011 iMacs cant TDM with windows PC's, however i connected the ethernet cable directly and moonlight seems to have caught up the host's ip address by itself, i used a cat5 cable as its the only cable available at the moment in my house and it was much better than wifi, will get a cat6 cable which will sure give better results and get me the maximum bitrate in moonlight
@@SheriffKoder9 Glad you got it connected! It should not make a difference between CAT5 or CAT6 cable. CAT5e can handle 1Gbps connection, which is the maximum the iMac can handle. For best quality though, make sure you go into the Sunshine and Moonlight settings like I did and tweak quality. Default settings are designed for use over internet, but locally you can crank them up because you have much more bandwidth :)
@@rebootretro Yep, if this solution worked well it will let me avoid getting one of these hdmi controllers, remove iMac's internal hardware and strip it all apart. which is a shame because these are all good hardware parts (excluding the failed gpu lol) You are correct also the cat5e and cat6 will get the same quality. but my network settings displayed that the connection speed is only 100mbps, this could be because the cable i used is a standard cat5 not cat5e which caused moonlinght to struggle beyond 70mbps bit rate when playing a game, lets see how these 1gbps cables can function on the higher bitrates like 150mbps in moonlight without any struggles And regarding the settings in sunshine, i haven't touched them yet, but sure will check them out based on your advice ✌
If you have the 27" 2010 model, it should support DisplayPort as input from your M2 Mini. I haven't tested it, but the documentation says Mac OS needs to be running. You CAN do it without opening the Mac: Get a large USB flash drive (32GB is probably big enough) and install a fresh copy of Mac OS on that flash drive as if it were a hard disk. Boot from the flash drive "hard disk", go into System Preferences and set the Startup Disk to the flash drive so it boots automatically every time you power the iMac up. Connect your iMac as a monitor to your M2 Mini. You basically use the USB flash drive as a stand-in hard drive so the system boots and can operate Target Display. Since you're not actually running any applications on the iMac, the poor flash drive performance shouldn't matter much.
It would be much more difficult on a 2006 iMac, since Moonlight requires at least Mac OS 10.13 High Sierra. You might be able to do it still if you install Windows inside Boot Camp, and run Moonlight from Windows. It is below the typical hardware specs, so performance might suffer. Moonlight does recommend a hardware-accelerated H.264 GPU; CPU decoding will likely have very poor performance. You can always try it, and see how it goes! Possible? probably.. but usable? I suspect not, unfortunately.
Hi! The 2009 and 2010 versions work exactly like a DisplayPort monitor, and work perfectly with Apple Silicon. However, with 2011 models Apple switched from standard DisplayPort to a proprietary Thunderbolt connection which only works with certain Macs. The 2011 iMac onward does not officially support Apple Silicon. BUT, you can still use a non-Apple method like: - Sunshine/Moonlight (Sunshine free/open source but is still "experimental" on Mac) - Parsec (free for personal use) - Luna Display or Duet Display (costs money) You may also be able to use the AirPlay method as well, but you may require a WiFi card upgrade to do it on a 2011. Later models should work fine natively for the AirPlay method.
It's true, you cannot change brightness with iMac or with Windows during Target Display. I could not find any solution either. I suspect if someone made an app to send the necessary command, it should work. If you use the Sunshine/Moonlight method instead of Target Display, brightness should work fine though.
@@rebootretro I did read about one solution that works for me. Connect a second keyboard to the Mac monitor and adjust its brightness that way. I had a spare Apple wireless keyboard and did that -- it works!
Great video, thanks! I have one question after reading several comments. I have an iMac mid 2010 27" and the new macbook air M2 (2023). Will the Target display port work if I use a straight cable from thunderbolt 2 to thunderbolt 3 (without adapters)? Or does the new macbook not give a sufficient output for Target display port at all? Indicating that there is no way of directly using the iMac as a second screen with a new macbook air M2? Many thanks in advance!
Thanks! You're pretty much on the right track. The MacBook has a Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port which outputs DisplayPort video signal. Although physically and visually the same as a Thunderbolt 2 port, the 2010 iMac's port is actually a Mini DisplayPort. Although I haven't tested your combo specifically, the exact correct cable would be Thunderbolt 3 to Mini DisplayPort cable. And since Thunderbolt 2 is backwards compatible with DisplayPort, you are correct that a direct Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 cable SHOULD work like you suggest. If you can't manage to find a direct cable, you should be able to use a Thunderbolt 3 to DisplayPort cable, and then an adapter from DisplayPort to Mini DisplayPort. Sorry for going into so much detail. Apple did a lot of confusing things with those ports. I thought some more info on it might be helpful if you end up needing to troubleshoot after connecting it. Hope this helps!
That combo doesn't support direct connection. But you can do it by using Sunshine/Moonlight. Parsec would also work, and is easier to set up when connecting Mac to Mac. Basically you run Sunshine/Parsec server on the Mac Mini, and then you use the iMac with Moonlight/Parsec client as the viewer.
My iMac is not capable of starting the Mac OS version it had, hard drive problem I guess. I tried many solutions to make it work as Target Display with my M1 Mac, having no success. The only thing I was able to do was to make it boot ubuntu 20, which works fine, but I cannot install obviously, so I can't do nothing more than web browsing and toying around with some terminal scripts and similar things. Is this it? Can't I make it screen mirror another source, maybe from a windows computer?? Or should I try to destroy it and transform it to a monitor permanently. Thanks in advance.
Hi! Not sure what year it is. If it is a 2009 or 2010, it should work for Target Display to ANY computer, including your M1. I'm told that Mac OS MUST be running in order for Target Display to work. If it is 2011 onward, than you're right - M1 will not be compatible. The best solution would be to open the iMac and install a replacement SSD (so long as you can do it safely - remember, there is an exposed power supply inside which can be very dangerous!). If you don't want to open the iMac, it is possible to run the entire system from an external hard drive. Get a USB enclosure, install an SSD and leave it plugged into a USB port. You may loose some performance via USB (depending on your iMac the ports may be 2.0), but it is entirely usable. You can definitely install Mac OS, and you can probably install Linux this way too. The screen conversion method is an option. It cost some $ to buy the converters. If you want the cleanest method with the custom pre-built PCB, it's a little bit of a pricy upgrade although some would still argue worthwhile. Ultimately, if your goal is purely to have a monitor, the screen conversion method is probably best providing you don't mind spending money on the parts, putting in a lot of effort, and know how to safely work around the internal power supply. If you want the cheapest and easiest method, I'd grab a USB enclosure and a cheap SSD and use iMac permanently with an external hard drive. Hopefully this helps, or gives some ideas. Good luck.
It depends which method you are using. Target Display does not work on 2015 and newer iMacs, and the AirPlay method doesn't work on stock 2015 Macs without OpenCore mods (Apple blocks the feature, but most hardware support it if unlocked with the mod). If you are using Sunshine/Moonlight (or alternatively Parsec which is easier to set up on Mac), that should work fine with a 2015 iMac and M3 MacBook.
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So i can use and old 2009 imac like a monitor for my Mac Mini M2?
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Sorry i was full of joy and dont listen at firts jajajaja
Yes, the Sunshine/Moonlight method should work on a 2015 iMac. If you want an easier method, you can try the Parsec app. It works the same as Sunshine/Moonlight, but I think it would be easier to set up on a Mac. Unlike Sunshine/Moonlight, Parsec will allow you to use your computer from anywhere in the world - not just the same network.
Yes, you could do that with the Sunshine/Moonlight combo, or with Parsec. Just set up in reverse, with the Mac set up as the server and the Windows PC as the client.
@ I don’t have one, but if you need something easy to setup you could try Parsec. It works like Sunshine/Moonlight, but is more a commercial solution than DIY one (they have a free version though). Just install and follow instructions. It requires an internet connection even for local LAN connections, unlike Sunshine/Moonlight.
Hi hi. I have a 2011 imac (21.5") and would like to use my 2010 imac (27inch) as a monitor. is that possible? The 2010 has display port, but the 2011 has thunderbolt. I'm not sure how to connect them.
Yes, the 27" 2010 will work as a monitor for the 2011 21.5", but not the other way around. The 2010 accepts a DisplayPort video input via Mini DisplayPort connector. The 2011 Thunderbolt connector ALSO doubles as a DisplayPort output. So you should be able to connect the Thunderbolt port on the 2011 to the Mini DisplayPort on the 2010 and it should work. Although they have 2 different names, both the Thunderbolt port and the Mini DisplayPort will accept a Mini DisplayPort cable. Hope this helps!
E invece posso proiettare un tower Windows con displayport su un monitor imac del 2011 ? (Utilizzo un cavo displayport to minidisplayport) Grazie @@rebootretro
IS THERE ANY WAY TO USE MY 2011 27" IMAC with sierra to use it for an xbox one monitor? I bought an "alza" branded minidisplay to hdmi adapter cable, and its just dont do anything. Can smb help? Any options? Am I using a wrong adaptor? Its just a single cable no other power required Pls help 😢
There may be 2 separate issues here. It looks like your outputting HDMI signal from XBOX and inputting directly into Mini DisplayPort on the iMac, which will not work. Although that basic cable will work for outputting DisplayPort video to an HDMI monitor, you MUST use an active converter to translate signals to go the other way (HDMI to DP monitor). A 2009 and 2010 iMac 27" will accept XBOX video if it is converted from HDMI to DisplayPort signal using a powered/active converter. Unfortunately, 2011 iMacs are completely different and ONLY accept Thunderbolt video (no DisplayPort or HDMI), and only from certain Mac models and Mac OS versions. To connect an XBOX to a 2011 iMac, the only option I think would be an HDMI to USB capture device. You would need a capture device that is compatible with Mac, and then you could use something like VLC to view the live video. This method would likely have significantly more lag, which might not be ideal for gameplay depending on which capture device you got and how picky you are. The image quality will also get degraded some with this method. If you're not fussy about lag or image quality, the HDMI USB capture could work for you.
Yes, last method (Sunshine + Moonlight) will work for a Windows laptop + 2011 iMac. Important to know the last method will only work as single monitor, not dual monitor.
@@markarkron8443 The Sunshine/Moonlight (and Parsec) works like screen mirroring (both screens appear identical). To use as a secondary screen you would need to use AirPlay or a third party product (like Luna Display or Duet Display).
I have a Imac 21inch late 2013 running OS 10.9 (i think) It also has boot camp which I mainly use. I want to build a gaming PC so if I connect it to the Imac with an ethernet cable using the 2 programs I can use the imac as a Monitor. Is the Imac os version ok.
According to the Moonlight (Mac side program), you need to upgrade to at least Mac OS 10.13 High Sierra. But if you're already running Boot Camp, you can just use Windows instead (Moonlight also has a Windows client). This way you'll still run the Sunshine server on your Windows gaming PC like normal, but run the Moonlight client on Windows in Boot Camp instead of Mac OS.
Thanks for replying. So if I setup to use it on the os is it easy to exit it so my wife can use the iMac. Then how easy is it to reconnect. Does it save settings so would it just be a click of a button. Is it possible you could put some links to the 2 programs required.
@@paulweinling1832 Hi, sorry for the lack of reply!! TH-cam's comment system is awful! In the Creator Studio, it always shows the initial comment but not replies. When I'm on TH-cam, replies show up as a notification... MOST of the time but not always. Thanks for reaching out again, I truly didn't see your last reply until now! Yes, it is very easy! I don't recall the hotkey on Windows (it's similar, you'll need to check), but on Mac OS with a PC keyboard you quit by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Q. Keep Moonlight in your dock, and relaunch by opening and clicking on the remote PC. That simple. I jump back and forth to my Windows box frequently at times, it's virtually no hassle. Also, thank you for pointing out the lack of links!! I can't believe I forgot to put them in the description. They are: Sunshine: github.com/LizardByte/Sunshine Moonlight: moonlight-stream.org/ I don't think your wife will have issues getting out of the remote PC. The hardest part is remembering what the key sequence is, which can be solved by a sticky on the monitor :)
If you take HDMI source ---> HDMI to DisplayPort Converter ---> iMac 2010 then yes, it will work. Your adapter MUST be an ACTIVE adapter/converter, not just a pass-through cable. A basic pass-through cable will NOT work. To clarify, a passive adapter will change the physical connector from HDMI to DisplayPort, but the signalling will still be HDMI which the iMac won't see. An active adapter changes the connector AND converts the signalling to DisplayPort signals. Hope this makes sense :)
I think the PlayStation only does HDMI out, not DisplayPort. You'll need an ACTIVE HDMI to DisplayPort adapter (the kind with a chip inside, not the passive cable that just passes pins through). With an active HDMI adapter, you should be able to connect a PlayStation to a 2009/2010 iMac. You're correct, a 2011 does not work because it only accepts a proprietary connection to certain Macs. The 2009 and 2010 models accept a generic DisplayPort signal and will work with any device that can supply it, including non-Apple devices. My 2 cents though, if you're buying an entire iMac just to use as a monitor, I'd probably instead just buy a 27" monitor. A used 27" monitor should not be significantly higher cost than a 2009/2010 iMac. The monitor will sip very little power, while the iMac will consume significantly more - I measured over 100W of power on mine. And you can even use the standalone monitor as a secondary screen for your existing 2011 iMac too. Also, if the iMac computer portion dies or if the GPU fails (which they are prone to), it can in some cases prevent using it as a monitor too. The 2009/2010 iMac makes a great monitor if you already have one hanging around, but if I was going to buy something to use solely as a monitor, I'd take a standalone monitor any day. But that's just my 2c :)
@@rebootretro I have a 27 thunderbolt not sure of what year but I think maybe 2011 as well *I bought it second hand But I can’t use the thunderbolt as well I’m assuming as jus a display for ps5
@@blacxice Correct, you can't use Thunderbolt for video in on a 2011 or newer. The problem is that not only does it require a Thunderbolt connection, it also communicates between the other Mac to negotiate. So you cannot even use a 2011 as a screen for a PC, much less a PlayStation. You can, however, buy an HDMI video capture device and use a video player like VLC to watch. The latency and video quality are probably not going to be great, but it's a potentially cheap option. The adapter I had was only around $15. The one I have works on Windows and Linux, not sure about Mac. So if you go that route you'll need to make sure to get one that supports Mac OS.
Just so I understand, you say you're trying to use a 2019 iMac as a mirror to a Dell monitor... Do you mean you have a Dell Windows PC and you want to use the iMac as a second screen? Or are you trying to connect a Dell standalone monitor to a 2019 iMac? If I understand exactly what equipment you're trying to connect and how you want to connect it, I'll point you in the right direction :)
I have a Dell laptop with a Dell docking station..I have 2 monitors currently connected to the docking station and working but I am trying to figure out if there is a way to add my iMac (2019) to my current set up as the third monitor..
There isn't really a way to add a third one using the methods in the video. A couple of ideas though: Assuming you're not using the laptop screen, use Sunshine/Moonlight to mirror your laptop screen to the iMac, then use the 2 external monitors which gives you a total of 3 usable displays (but total 4 connected displays including the built-in laptop display). If you're wanting the iMac as a 3rd monitor + keeping the laptop screen as a 4th, then this won't work. The other option would be to use a 3rd party device like Luna Display or Duet Display, which allows you to use almost any spare device as a monitor for almost any other device. Both these cost money though. I've not personally tried either, but I've seen Luna Display I think on Linus Tech Tips many years ago and it seemed pretty good. From recent research, that'd be the one I'd try. Luna lets you plug in a dongle into your Dell, then run the Luna app on Mac, and your Dell will see the Mac as a standalone monitor. Again, can't vouch for Luna or Duet personally, but they're probably your best bet to try if you need 2 monitors + iMac + built-in laptop display = 4 displays total. I hope this makes sense!
Sunshine/Moonlight method works fully offline, it just requires a network connection but does not require internet. If you mean your Ethernet connection is in use already for internet, you can get a USB Ethernet adapter - use one for internet and the other for your network video feed.
You can, but the 2011 models cannot work as a DisplayPort monitor like the 2009 and 2010 models can. BUT, you can still use a non-Apple method like the Sunshine/Moonlight method shown towards the end of the video.
This is a good solution, but does not work well with 27" iMac 5K (2014-2020), the max resolution is 4K and can't drive full 5K resolution (Network/ethernet limitation). otherwise it a very capable software and runs great.
It's true, not a perfect solution. It's really unfortunate that Apple dropped Target Display on older models. As far as I know, there isn't currently any option that works better at this point. Maybe one day there will be 5K support and even improved quality/latency.
@@rebootretro there is one one option that can drive full 5K@45Hz from the iMac (use Thunderbolt cable for best performance) using Luna Display Adapter, but Mac-to-Mac mode works better than PC-to-Mac. Only PC that can works like Mac with this adapter is Intel NUC since the built-in Thunderbolt is technically the same as the Mac version used by apple.
@@rebootretro some forums said they do work and i saw videos too Tbh I dont have like display port cable so wanna make sure if it works. Can u help me out in this?
@@Geekytravells Sorry, my mistake... It does support TargetDisplay on the 2009 24" only (according to Apple). My 24" is a 2008, which doesn't support it. If you have a 2009, it SHOULD work exactly the same as my 2009 27" in the video with a mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cable. One and to the iMac, other end to the Windows PC. If the video doesn't start, use the hotkey CMD F2 on an official Apple Keyboard.
@@partial7707 You might be able to use Sunshine/Moonlight or Parsec. The trouble is with 2006 hardware, it may not be fast enough for smooth video. I think you have a good chance it will run though. I think it’s worth trying and testing.
I have mac mini late 2012 with thunderbolt 2 port. Can i connect it to imac 27 2009 with mini display port as target mode and if yes what type cable i need to buy?
Yes it can. A Mini DisplayPort only transmits/relieves DisplayPort signals, but a Thunderbolt 2 port transmits both Thunderbolt and DisplayPort signals. You can use a Mini DisplayPort to Mini DisplayPort cable. Also, I believe Thunderbolt 2 cables are built to a higher spec and will also work as Mini DisplayPort cables.
I am havin an 2009 imac i am trying to upgrade it with the help of bootable usb but iam unable to access boot menu in it when I am holding the option button its just showing a blank white screen
Hey guys... I have a iMac 2017 which the display fell off (long story) and now, the technician says that the display can't work in its internal display port due to the fact that it's connector is broken or with an electrical damage. So I want to use my old late 2012 iMac as a Display for that 2017 one. Is there a way to achieve that with a cable (I did't using native remote access but is very slow and bad graphic quality) or there is a piece of hardware that allow me to convert my 2017 display to an external one and plug it to the external usb-c display ports? Or even more crazy, can I connect my fully functional 2017 retina display screen to my late 2012 iMac? Thanks for your help.
You can use official Target Display over Thunderbolt cable, according to Apple's docs: support.apple.com/en-us/105126 It looks like your 2012 iMac must be running High Sierra or older, and your 2017 must be running Catalina or older. Although Apple says such things for the 2009 model, which absolutely works with new versions, so it might be worth testing regardless. Alternatively, you can use the Sunshine/Moonlight method in the video (also works with Parsec - which is easier to set up on Mac). There is also a product called Luna Display which is a little dongle you use on one Mac, then run an app on the other Mac to use as an external display. I've not used this product personally, but it looks to be reputable IMO. It costs money, but seems a little more polished that some other methods. The easiest free option though is probably setting up Parsec on both computers.
I am havin an 2009 imac i am trying to upgrade it with the help of bootable usb but iam unable to access boot menu in it when I am holding the option button its just showing a blank white screen
I am havin an 2009 imac i am trying to upgrade it with the help of bootable usb but iam unable to access boot menu in it when I am holding the option button its just showing a blank white screen
I have quite a lot of experience with Target Display Mode, so I can offer some clarifications for you.
1:25 - Target Display Mode was only supported on the 27" iMacs from Late 2009 and Mid 2010. It is not present on any other 2009 iMac (20", 24", 21.5") or the 21.5" 2010 iMac. Starting in 2011 both the 21.5" and 27" iMacs supported TDM.
1:40 - Yes, you can use an HDMI to DisplayPort adapter to connect an HDMI source to a 2009 or 2010 27" iMac. I do this all the time with a cheap adapter from Amazon (it's BENFEI branded). I suspect you might have been referring to cables that have Mini DP on one end and HDMI on the other. These are uni-directional cables, so they won't work. You need an active, powered adapter (like the BENFEI unit I mentioned earlier) that will convert an HDMI signal to a DisplayPort signal. The adapter I use has a full-size DisplayPort output, so I just use a DP to Mini DP cable to connect it to the iMac.
Using this adapter I've had success connecting all sort of devices, including game consoles, an Apple TV, etc. It does work at the full 2560x1440 resolution, too, and sound works just fine as well. Just make sure you have the volume turned up in macOS on the iMac.
1:50 - The CMD + F2 shortcut has zero effect on 2009 and 2010 27" iMacs. They automatically enter Target Display Mode when you connect a DisplayPort source to the Mini DP connector on the back. CMD + F2 is only needed on non-Retina iMacs from 2011-2014, which are the models that use Thunderbolt. For those later models both the 21.5" and 27" iMacs support TDM, but only the 27" iMac is supported for the Late 2009 and Mid 2010 models.
2:46 - This is correct, the Thunderbolt iMacs that support TDM will not work with non-Mac sources, even through a Thunderbolt connection. They only work with other Thunderbolt-equipped Macs from 2011-2019, and I can confirm that they do not work with M1 Macs. The software support is not as important as Apple makes it seem. They say that the iMac must be running High Sierra or older and the source Mac must be running Catalina or older, but I can confirm that this is not true at all. I regularly use TDM with a 2012 iMac running Catalina and a MacBook Pro running Ventura, and I know several people who have had success with other "unsupported" combinations as well.
These iMacs also tend to be a bit annoying when trying to enter TDM. I've had mixed experiences with TDM over Thunderbolt using a variety of Macs. Sometimes it works fine, but sometimes audio doesn't work quite right. Sometimes I can't get screen brightness control working, but sometimes it does work. I've also had it just drop out entirely, which doesn't happen with my 2009 and 2010 27" iMacs.
Also, these Thunderbolt iMacs require the use of the CMD + F2 shortcut, and they almost never work with a non-Apple keyboard. Using a Thunderbolt iMac in TDM is far more annoying than a 2009 or 2010 27" iMac, though you do get the benefit of being able to use the camera and microphone built into the iMac with the source Mac.
Overall, great video. I like seeing older hardware repurposed for newer uses.
Thanks for the info! I've pinned your comment, since I think it could be very helpful to other people. There's surprisingly very little info on Target Display, and as we both know Apples docs are "official" but not accurate as to what is actually supported.
You're right, I was referring to the passive cable. I didn't know an active cable existed, although I'm not surprised.
I did notice the screen flashed, and other people reported the Mac entering TDM automatically. For some reason mine flashes, but doesn't enter TDM. Either it doesn't like my cable (which is brand new and works perfectly to DP monitors), or it has something to do with my modded GPU. Mine I need to keep mashing CMD + F2 repeatedly to get it to connect. Either way, it's good to have you confirm and know how it's supposed to work. I presume TDM on 09/10 models is pretty reliable outside of my specific issues I was having.
Ya, the Thunderbolt iMacs seemed really fiddly from what I read. Don't have one, but maybe that's for the better, lol. Almost better to just do the Juicy Crumb mod, or similar, on these models if all you need is a screen.
Thanks again for taking the time to comment, and clarify some of the unknowns around TDM!
Thank you for this
Us there any options for 2009 21.5 inch mac since target display mode isn't an option
@@danimation4391 For the 21.5 inch, you'd have to use a solution like AirPlay/Screen Mirroring, the Sunshine/Moonlight combo if you're connecting a Windows PC, or Parsec if connecting another Mac.
If you want to permanently convert the 21.5" into a monitor and are really tech savvy, there are converter boards available online where you could DIY a solution similar to the Juicy Crumb.
If you want to use your 21.5" as a monitor for another Mac, your best bet is probably Parsec. It works exactly like how I did Sunshine/Moonlight in the video, except you'll install Parsec instead on both computers.
Do you think a BENFEI adapter would successfully enable me to use my 2010 27-inch iMac as a monitor for my new M2 Mac Mini?
@@BeechF33A Your M2 Mac Mini should output Mini DisplayPort signal via Thunderbolt connector, and your 2010 iMac should accept a Mini DisplayPort input signal via the DisplayPort connector. So you shouldn't need the more expensive BENFEI active HDMI to DisplayPort, you should only need a cheap straight through Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt cable.
For target display mode... IT WAS THE KEYBOARD!!! Fantastic Video - thank you! NONE of my 27 inch 2011 iMacs would connect in target display mode until I switched to the long flat wired keyboard with numeric keypad on the right. Like was mentioned in one of these helpful videos - the keyboard that came with the iMAC. Keyboard model A1243 EMC 2171. Now all four DO connect to my Macbook pro. The iMac wireless ones, Imac long wired ones with typewriter-like keys - none of these worked. Just the flat long keyboard (17 inch x 4.5 inch x less than 1/2 inch)
Thanks!! Ya, it doesn't fully make sense why, but entering Target Display is finicky without a genuine Apple keyboard. Even though the same keys exist on other keyboards, for some reason they don't work the same. Must be an "Apple thing" I guess. Glad you got it working!!
Interesting. So as I understand you are now sending the display signal through the RJ45 port? To be fair, I have actually seen something similar done in a manufacturing facility, where the machine had no dedicated display ports, but the signal was sent out via RJ45 instead. So the displays were actually having custom cables. I still wish there was a homebrew solution to decrypt the original target display signal and send it out via the same port (thunderbolt) but as a display signal. Should work fine.
just a little update if anyone is reading the comments.. I put OCLP on the 2013 imac so it's now running Ventura. I'm able to wirelessly share my screen from my 2015 macbook pro running Monterey. Initialising TDM with thunderbolt 2 and cmd F2 works only for a few seconds, before the screen goes black.. .. so the airplay screen mirroring is the only option, except it isn't as responsive as TDM by a long way... and there are other things like: the 2 screens no longer share the same screen saver, and there's some funky stuff with the sound sources changing too..also on my Udemy course, the video blocks out when I'm screen mirroring, but not when using TDM.. . so TDM is much better than the wireless sharing imho... When the other 2012 imac arrives I'm just gonna leave it on Catalina, in the hope that the TDM works better... and actually considering changing the 2103 imac back from Ventura to Catalina..
That's very interesting... Maybe it has something to do with Thunderbolt TDM and the OpenCore updates. The 2009 iMac I used is upgraded to Monterey via OpenCore. I can confirm that I had issues entering TDM, but after getting it running it worked perfectly. The only difference I can see between yours and mine, is that you're using Thunderbolt and I'm using DisplayPort. Thanks for posting back, it's always great to have these types of tests documented for future people experiencing issues!
I still use 2011 iMac and it can connect just fine to PC I actually use a Thunderbolt mini display - “display” input cable.
Do you have a link please and thank you?
Can you please share a link to this item? Do you have a mid 11 IMac? Thx
@@vehmann6831 sorry I bought it so long ago I can’t recall the specific brand, I would suggest most any Mini/display to whatever port you have should work maybe just try finding one that specified Mac compatibility. I am not sure as I write this what date my iMac is but I can say I have a 2011 and a 2012 and both connect to PC with target display so any 2011 should work fine. The 2012 is a bit more fidgety tho. FYI if you attempt anything like this due note you will need a keyboard and mouse as well for the Mac here n there to access the target display mode.
Does the 2012 imac work with pc as source? @bigtimmothy7795
Awesome video! I’m looking to use an iMac as a display monitor. I saw a comment mentioning you can go from DP to Mini DP. So my question is, is the Mini DP only offered for the 27” 2009, and 2010? Or do the smaller display sizes for the 2009 and 2010 also offer a Mini DP?
Thanks for the comment! All models should have a Mini DP plug, but only the 27" 09/10 models accept a video input in the Mini DP port. The smaller ones use that port as video out only. The only option for smaller iMacs is the Sunshine/Moonlight or Parsec method, or a paid proprietary solution like Luna Display or Duet Display.
hey.. glad I found your video.. I have a Macbook pro from 2015 running Monterey, connected to a 2013 iMac, using thunderbolt 2.. it works great.. what I was looking at doing was getting another cheap imac from the same era, to have 2 screens...unfortunately though only one of my thunderbolt 2 ports is working... and I understand that daisy chaining display mode isn't an option.. so I was thinking of using a 3rd party app or dongle for one of them, and a thunderbolt for the other... is it right about the daisy chaining? i guess repairing the thunderbolt port just isn't work it.
Hi, I don't have a 2013 to check, but I believe you are correct - Thunderbolt 2 supports daisy chaining with standalone monitors, but I don't think iMacs support this with Target Display mode. If you had older iMacs (2009/2010), I think you could use Thunderbolt 2 to produce dual DisplayPort connections (one for each iMac). But with a 2013, I don't even think you can use a hub to get an extra plug.
Question though; are you sure the connector is broken? Does Apple support running two iMacs over Thunderbolt 2 Target Display? With the older 2009/2010 iMacs it treats them as a standalone monitor, but with the 2011 onward it does some special communication (it's not just a standard Thunderbolt monitor). I'm wondering if your port is fine, but Apple just doesn't support it?
Another option though - If you use OpenCore to upgrade another cheap iMac to Monterey, you can use Airplay for the other screen. Depending on what you use it for, I don't know if some lag on the secondary screen would be acceptable or not.
Or if you get a standalone Thunderbolt-supported monitor (admittedly, this may not be a "cheap" option), and daisy chain the iMac through the standalone monitor. In theory this should work, although make sure the monitor is going to be returnable if it doesn't. Target Display does some weird things; it is not a standard Thunderbolt monitor connection, so standard supported features like daisy chaining monitors may not work in conjunction with Target Display
As far as standard monitors go though, I believe it is officially supported to daisy chain 2 monitors over Thunderbolt 2.
hey. maybe it's easier to omit the macbook laptop from the set up altogether.. I only need two screens for basic stuff.. so I could pick up an old imac and Target display the two together.. think that's the easiest.@@rebootretro
@@elixirix True. If you want one for JUST a monitor, I do recommend the 2009/2010 27" models. They're the ONLY ones that accept a standard DisplayPort signal, and will work with any device. Later models are limited to supported hardware and Mac OS versions.
Just note that the 2009-2011 models were VERY common to have GPU failures, although they're replaceable which is a huge plus :)
As a bonus, if you find one for cheap (or even free) with a dead GPU, people have successfully used these where they have artifacts/crashing in Mac OS but work perfectly in Target Display. I'm told the only criteria is that Mac OS needs to be able to boot, and I think it works in Safe Mode too.
ok great. I was looking for a 21, 5 inch to match the first one... just found one from late 2012 for 99 pounds... so gonna OCLP with them both and run a thunderbolt cable... I don't do anything power hungry on the imac so it should be fine... and will have an identical monitor : ) cheers for the back and forth! @@rebootretro
I am using an early iMac in target with my M1 Mac mini. It's so dumb. There are 2 Thunderbolt ports but you can only use one. If you want a second monitor it has to come from the Mini's HDMI port with and HDMI to Thunderbolt cord. But you can't get that nice Mac monitor look with side by side monitors.
Apple often does have some weird limitations. An active HDMI to DP adapter should work, but you’re right it seems like a needless limitation.
Sorry if this is already answered by you -- My situation is a 2015 iMac 27" to be paired with my M1 Macbook Pro. Which do you believe would be the best route?
I think out of the ones shown, only Sunshine/Moonlight method would work for a 2015 iMac (possibly AirPlay method would work too, but only if the iMac was running OpenCore and modded). You might also consider trying Parsec. Parsec works like Sunshine/Moonlight, but is easier to set up with Mac to Mac. It is important to know that Parsec requires an internet connection to work (even if using LAN, it requires internet for sign-in), while Sunshine/Moonlight can work entirely local. Hope this helps!
Hi! I hope you could help me :), I have a MacBook Pro M2 2022 13in, Would it be possible for me to use my old 27” iMac from late 2013 as an external monitor?
Hi! The 2013 iMac is very difficult to use as an external monitor for an M2 Mac. The best method is Target Display, which does not work on Apple Silicon Macs (M1/M2). If you upgrade your iMac using OpenCore, you can use the AirPlay method. However, the easier method in your case would probably be similar to the Sunshine/Moonlight solution like so:
Because you want to connect Mac to Mac instead of Mac to PC, you would need to use something like Parsec instead (parsec.app/downloads). The concept works just like in the video, BUT you will use Parsec Host and Parsec Client instead of Sunshine and Moonlight.
You would install Parsec Host on your M2 MacBook Pro, and you would install Parsec Client on your 2013 iMac (requires minimum Mac OS 10.15 Catalina). Parsec will allow you to remotely connect from your iMac to your MacBook Pro just like I did. Important to know you cannot use as dual screens, you only get to see the main screen.
There is another product called Luna Display which can do this much easier (astropad.com/product/lunadisplay/), but it isn't free. I've never used it and can't vouch for it personally, but they've been around for a long time. It should be easier to set up and is less "hacky" than my free solution. It also lets you use dual screens.
Hope this info helps!!
Thank you so much, I'll try with your solutions! @@rebootretro
I have a late 2013 IMac, what cable would I need to use the IMac as a monitor for my Xbox X? Would it need to be one of this active mini display to hdmi? If so do you have a link?
The active mini DisplayPort to HDMI only works on the 2009/2010 models. The 2011 onward models work only with Mac to Mac for Target Display Mode (and only certain models/OSes). The only way to hook up an Xbox to a 2013 would be to use a USB HDMI capture card. Keeping in mind a capture card will likely add some input latency/lag, so whether this is an option for you depends how competitive you are while gaming.
If have iMac with USB C Thunderbolt 3 and Dell XPS 9510 with TB4 would I be able to connect iMac as a monitor direct to laptop with no adapters? And which cable do I need TB4 cable or TB3? Thanks!
No, Target Display with Thunderbolt does not work between any PC and Mac. Instead, use the last method in the video with Sunshine/Moonlight. The Sunshine/Moonlight method will work with almost every Mac/PC combo; it will work over WiFi or direct Ethernet connection (preferred).
Have you tried using a more recent iMac as a monitor for a macbook pro? I'm trying to use a 2021 iMac as an extra display for a 2019 Macbook Pro.
The best method is Target Display, but Apple discontinued this I think after 2014. In your case for a 2021 iMac, you would need to use the AirPlay method or the Parsec method (similar to Sunshine/Moonlight, but Parsec works Mac to Mac)
If you are using it as a secondary screen for text, documents, email, internet browsing, the AirPlay method is probably best.
If you will be doing multimedia, gaming, video editing/playback, then Parsec is better.
Both those options are free. There are other non-free options such as Duet Display and Luna Display which also work similarly, although I haven't tested these personally.
Hi, can a 2019 IMac be used as a secondary monitor?
@@kalatravis8467 Using the AirPlay method, you can use a 2019 iMac as a secondary display. I know it works on Monterey, but I'm not sure about older. Like shown in the video, it works great for text but video can be a little laggy.
I am attempting to run my iMac (2019) as a monitor for my gaming pc but can't figure out what I need to be able to run it, if I can. This is with all information I find resolving around target display mode for much older iMacs. just wondering whether you or anyone else knows whether you: 1. are able to run a newer iMac as a monitor for a pc, and if so 2. how?
There is no Target Display for 2019, but you can use the Sunshine/Moonlight method. You install the Sunshine server on the gaming PC, preferably wire Ethernet between PC and Mac, the run Moonlight client on Mac. Use Mac normally, but when you want to use gaming PC just open Moonlight and connect to PC. You can even move gaming PC to another room to keep your setup clean.
*Thank you. I have an old iMac (either 2009 or 2010 I believe) that's unusable but would like to make something of the screen, still looks so good I can't just throw it away :(. Wondering if I could use it as a basic display for a PC mini or any PC setup... You're giving me hope. I'll have to go check if there's any luck. 🥲
Edit: I've been using my iMac through the Windows partition I had once made. Will this process be any different there?...
I haven't test it myself, but people have said the Mac must boot into Mac OS to use Target Display. I can confirm it works with Monterey.
Good news is that both 2009 and 2010 27" models work with ANY DisplayPort input, including Windows PC!
You can try it from Windows on the iMac, but if it doesn't work you can always reinstall Mac OS (any supported version) just to make Target Display work.
If you do have a 2009 or 2010 27" iMac, these are the absolute best models to use as a monitor! Good luck! :)
I am havin an 2009 imac i am trying to upgrade it with the help of bootable usb but iam unable to access boot menu in it when I am holding the option button its just showing a blank white screen
Hi! I have a Macbook Air M3 with a late 2013 27" iMac running Catalina I hope to use as a second monitor. Would that work with a Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter and a Thunderbolt 2 cable? Just plugging it in doesn't seem functional.
@@jessefrankema4836 Target Display with Thunderbolt is extremely limited to Mac certain Mac models and certain Mac OS models. The 2009 model shown doesn’t use Thunderbolt, it uses DisplayPort - which was used for 2009 and 2010 before they switched to Thunderbolt and is compatible with any DisplayPort signal. For a 2013, they do not work with any of the M chip Macs, so you’d have to use one of the other methods - like Sunshine/Moonlight, Parsec, AirPlay (the 2013 may support AirPlay if modded). Hope this helps!
I have a 2013 iMac with a Thunderbolt port, could I use it as my main monitor for my pc if I used a thuderbolt to displayport cable? or do I have to use the sunshine/moonlight thing?
Yes, you'd need to use the Sunshine/Moonlight, or Parsec, or AirPlay. Thunderbolt only works Mac to Mac, and theres some limitations with models and OS versions too. The 2009/2010 models are the only ones that work with a generic DisplayPort signal.
Hello! Thank you for your video! I was hoping you could answer some questions for me. I currently work from home and was provided an HP laptop from my company to work. They offered me an hp monitor to use as well but I have a 27 in 2019 mac that runs macOS Sanoma (the most recent update), and I would like to continue to use my mac as a monitor so it doesn't start collecting dust. Is it possible for me to use my Mac as a monitor from my HP laptop? Do I need to go back to an earlier OS? What are my possible options?
Hi! Sonoma should work the same way. With the method in this video, you can use the iMac as a screen but you won't have dual screens (both will show the same screen). On the plus side, this solution is completely free. Also, it won't work if your IT department blocks you from installing programs.
To use as a secondary display (dual screens), you could use AirParrot (www.airsquirrels.com/airparrot/features/win) on your Windows PC, then enable AirPlay Receiver on your Mac (under Settings/Sharing/AirPlay Receiver). Then choose to extend your Windows desktop screen to your AirPlay iMac. I've used this product before; it's not bad, but a little laggy just like AirPlay extended screens from Mac to Mac. AirParrot is a pretty reasonable one-time cost for the software license.
Another option for secondary display, there is a product that might work better for you called Luna Display (astropad.com/step-by-step-guide-how-to-use-your-imac-as-a-monitor/). I've never used it personally and can't personally recommend it, but I understand they are a reputable company. You need to buy a 1 time purchase dongle to use this product.
Another product which does dual screens is Duet (duetdisplay.com). I don't know much about this company, but their product will allow you to use any computer/device as a second screen. The downside is that there's a monthly fee, which isn't ideal.
Ultimately, you first need to find out if you are able to install software on your work PC, or if your IT department blocks it. If they block it, most of these options probably won't work.
Hopefully this gives you some help or ideas! Feel free to post back if you have any questions, and hopefully myself or someone will be able to answer :)
I'm having some problems with my setup. Im running a IMac 2012 with Catalina and a Macbook Pro Big Sur. I have a dock where my macbook pro is connected through TB3. I bought a cable for the IMac, mini-display to displayport, hence the dock (CalDigit 3) outputs through displayport and TB3. Im not getting any proper results. Is it because my mac's software is too new for TDM? Or should I get a different cable for the IMac (directly to usb-c/tb3 for instance). Cheers!
Unlike the 2009 and 2010 models which accept a standard DP signal and will work with any source (despite the specs listed by Apple), the 2011 onward have some actual limitations as they use some weird Apple proprietary protocol as I understand. Apple says specifically that it only works if your iMac has High Sierra or older and your MacBook is 2019 or older with Catalina or older. My understanding is that it does not work at all with Apple Silicon Macs (not sure if that's what you're using?). Some people claimed to get it working with Catelina on the iMac, but the results don't seem to be consistent. I think if you have any chance to make it work with that config, it would be with a direct cable - you're completely right, the docks can cause issues. Either way you're in somewhat uncharted waters. If you can't get it working and want dual displays, an alternative would be to install OpenCore on your iMac, upgrade to Monterey or later, and enable AirPlay Receiver like shown in the video. If you only need a primary display, the Sunshine/Moonlight or Parsec option will result much smoother performance.
I’m trying to use my IMac as a mirror monitor to a Dell monitor..it’s a 2019 iMac…is it possible?
Okay I have a 2017 IMac 21.5 inch. It doesn’t have a display port, so I bought a usb to hdmi adapter. Do you think I will be able to connect my gaming console (ps5) and use my iMac as a display or should I just send the iMac back and get a Mack mini and a monitor?
The USB to HDMI is for display output from the iMac, not an input from a video source like a game console. The only option from a game console would be a USB capture card - it would need to be a Mac compatible one, and would add some latency to your gaming. A Mac Mini would with a monitor would be a much better option. If you get a monitor with 2 HDMI inputs, you will be able to switch between Mac and console without unplugging and plugging cables each time. If you don't have a separate sound system, then make sure to get a monitor with speakers.
is there any way to get a 2017 imac to be either a second display for another 2017 imac OR for a second display for a pc?
Yes, for a 2017 iMac as a screen for PC, you would use Sunshine/Moonlight method. If you are using 2017 iMac as a screen for another Mac, you can use AirPlay (less smooth video, but easy setup) or you can use Sunshine/Moonlight, or Parsec. Parsec works like Sunshine/Moonlight, but is easier to set up on Mac.
Does this mean I could get a MacBook Pro (Lets say 16 inch 2019 model) and use that as a monitor and keyboard + trackpad for a PC build?
Yes, you could. It's not perfect, you do see some minor graphical blocking from compression and you do waste some resources on the PC encoding the stream.
I wouldn't recommend buying a MacBook just to use as a monitor, but if you want/need a MacBook anyway and also want PC gaming, this is a great way to hide a messy tower rig! :D
I have been considering, however I’m probably going to use the even cleaner Apple Cinema Display. There is a model that comes in 24 inches and is 16:10 which is perfect for me
Hello RR,
I learned a lot about my old iMac 2009 21,5inch these days. One of it: it doesn't support TDM and here Iam, trying to find ANY solution to make this iMac a second screen for my Macbook 14inch, 2021.
Is it really not possible?
I've read and watched videos about a HDMI dummy plug (but with a newer iMac targeted as the Monitor) or installing Ventura on the iMac to be able to use Airdrop -> Airplay receiver. Have you ever heard of one of the two solutions or know if they work?
Thank you very much for any hint.
You can do the Airplay method; it works just like shown in the video. You don't need Ventura, it works with Monterey... BUT your WiFi card has to be supported or else AirDrop, AirPlay receiver, etc don't work. But you can fix by buying a compatible USB dongle (has to be a particular Broadcom chip to work - check the docs on Dortania GitHub), or changing the WiFi card in the Mac.
Another method is remote connection using Parsec (same as Sunshine/Moonlight, but for Mac). This lets you use your MacBook from your iMac, but not dual screen.
The only other option I'm aware of is something like Luna Display or Duet Display. Luna Display is a physical dongle you plug in (maybe that's what you're referring to with "dummy plug"?), and can use another computer as a screen. I haven't tried it myself, but it says minimum 2011 for primary screen (your MacBook side) with Mac OS 10.11 El Cap, but only Mac OS 10.11 El Cap for secondary. I can't vouch for if it works or how well, but the specs suggests you can do it with your MacBook and 2011 iMac.
if i have a 4k 2015 monterey imac would i be able to use that as a monitor for my gaming pc running windows?
Yes, using the Sunshine/Moonlight method (or Parsec if preferred).
I have a Linux desktop with Thunderbolt 3, a Windows 11 laptop with Thunderbolt 4, and two mid-2011 imacs with what I assume to be Thunderbolt 1 or 2? Can My imac's work as target displays for my thunderbolt linux and windows computers or does it have to be mac os? Can potentially hackintosh my desktop so thats still a possibility if mac os only, but would prefer not to.
Thunderbolt for Target Display only works with certain Mac models and Mac OS versions, although I don't remember all the specific combinations. Unlike the 2009/2010 iMacs which accept any DisplayPort signal, the 2011+ doesn't work like a generic Thunderbolt display and is proprietary. From research, they will not work at all with any Apple Silicon Macs and won't work with any Windows/Linux. Your best bet is probably Sunshine/Moonlight or Parsec in your situation.
i have a question i got a m1 macbook pro and a 2013 21.5 inch imac. Can i use a usba to usbc cable to connect them to eachotherthen use airplay or could i just connect it wirelessly if so how?
or both of these ways cant work???
No, you can't connect USB A to C. You can use AirPlay over WiFi, but on a 2013 model AirPlay Receiver is disabled by default. On a 2013 you must enable AirPlay Receiver, which should be possible by installing OpenCore and upgrading to Mac OS Monterey or newer. If you want to use the iMac as your main display and do not need secondary display, you can use Sunshine/Moonlight method or Parsec (Parsec works like Sunshine/Moonlight in the video, but is easier to set up especially on Mac).
Will this work with a ps5 ? Like can I connect my ps5 to my iMac?
The PS5 only outputs HDMI signals and iMac 27 inch 2009/2010 only accepts DisplayPort signals. If you use an ACTIVE converter (not passive cable, but one that has converter electronics built-in) then it will work. It will not work on any other iMac, except 2009 and 2010 27 inch models. To use other Macs, you need to use HDMi capture hardware.
Hey, thanks for the video
I have a question please
When using the Moonlight solution, Can you connect the Windows PC as a host with the iMac as a client together with an ethernet cable without routers ?
Yes you can, and I would highly recommend doing that. Going through a router will create loads of extra network congestion, which is why a direct Ethernet cable is better.
Important though: I think network discovery did not work without a router. Instead, allow both computers to obtain a self-assigned IP address, check the host to confirm the address, then enter that address manually in Moonlight. You could also manually assign an IP to each computer.
@@rebootretro Thank you so much 🙏 gonna try that 👍
@@rebootretro Thanks a lot man for pointing out this solution, i almost gave up on the idea, as 2011 iMacs cant TDM with windows PC's, however i connected the ethernet cable directly and moonlight seems to have caught up the host's ip address by itself, i used a cat5 cable as its the only cable available at the moment in my house and it was much better than wifi, will get a cat6 cable which will sure give better results and get me the maximum bitrate in moonlight
@@SheriffKoder9 Glad you got it connected! It should not make a difference between CAT5 or CAT6 cable. CAT5e can handle 1Gbps connection, which is the maximum the iMac can handle. For best quality though, make sure you go into the Sunshine and Moonlight settings like I did and tweak quality. Default settings are designed for use over internet, but locally you can crank them up because you have much more bandwidth :)
@@rebootretro Yep, if this solution worked well it will let me avoid getting one of these hdmi controllers, remove iMac's internal hardware and strip it all apart. which is a shame because these are all good hardware parts (excluding the failed gpu lol)
You are correct also the cat5e and cat6 will get the same quality. but my network settings displayed that the connection speed is only 100mbps, this could be because the cable i used is a standard cat5 not cat5e which caused moonlinght to struggle beyond 70mbps bit rate when playing a game, lets see how these 1gbps cables can function on the higher bitrates like 150mbps in moonlight without any struggles
And regarding the settings in sunshine, i haven't touched them yet, but sure will check them out based on your advice ✌
Any way to use a 2010 iMac as a display that has a dead HDD, without opening it up and changing the drive? Would connect it to a M2 Mini.
If you have the 27" 2010 model, it should support DisplayPort as input from your M2 Mini. I haven't tested it, but the documentation says Mac OS needs to be running. You CAN do it without opening the Mac:
Get a large USB flash drive (32GB is probably big enough) and install a fresh copy of Mac OS on that flash drive as if it were a hard disk. Boot from the flash drive "hard disk", go into System Preferences and set the Startup Disk to the flash drive so it boots automatically every time you power the iMac up. Connect your iMac as a monitor to your M2 Mini.
You basically use the USB flash drive as a stand-in hard drive so the system boots and can operate Target Display. Since you're not actually running any applications on the iMac, the poor flash drive performance shouldn't matter much.
What about a late 2006 20” Intel Core Duo iMac? Can it be used as a display for a late 2015 i7 iMac?
It would be much more difficult on a 2006 iMac, since Moonlight requires at least Mac OS 10.13 High Sierra. You might be able to do it still if you install Windows inside Boot Camp, and run Moonlight from Windows. It is below the typical hardware specs, so performance might suffer. Moonlight does recommend a hardware-accelerated H.264 GPU; CPU decoding will likely have very poor performance. You can always try it, and see how it goes! Possible? probably.. but usable? I suspect not, unfortunately.
Hey! I have 2011 27 inch iMac and i am going to use it as monitor for MacBook Pro with M1 Pro. Is it possible? Or apple silicon doesn’t support?
Hi! The 2009 and 2010 versions work exactly like a DisplayPort monitor, and work perfectly with Apple Silicon. However, with 2011 models Apple switched from standard DisplayPort to a proprietary Thunderbolt connection which only works with certain Macs. The 2011 iMac onward does not officially support Apple Silicon. BUT, you can still use a non-Apple method like:
- Sunshine/Moonlight (Sunshine free/open source but is still "experimental" on Mac)
- Parsec (free for personal use)
- Luna Display or Duet Display (costs money)
You may also be able to use the AirPlay method as well, but you may require a WiFi card upgrade to do it on a 2011. Later models should work fine natively for the AirPlay method.
My iMac 2015 doesn’t have TDM and It has Catalina OS. Without having to upgrade to Monterrey, can moonlight or sunshine work to use as a display?
The docs seem to indicate Moonlight is compatible with Catalina. It should work fine.
Target display with windows to imac 2009, 2010 not allow brightness control?
It's true, you cannot change brightness with iMac or with Windows during Target Display. I could not find any solution either. I suspect if someone made an app to send the necessary command, it should work. If you use the Sunshine/Moonlight method instead of Target Display, brightness should work fine though.
@@rebootretro I did read about one solution that works for me. Connect a second keyboard to the Mac monitor and adjust its brightness that way. I had a spare Apple wireless keyboard and did that -- it works!
Great video, thanks! I have one question after reading several comments. I have an iMac mid 2010 27" and the new macbook air M2 (2023). Will the Target display port work if I use a straight cable from thunderbolt 2 to thunderbolt 3 (without adapters)? Or does the new macbook not give a sufficient output for Target display port at all? Indicating that there is no way of directly using the iMac as a second screen with a new macbook air M2? Many thanks in advance!
Thanks! You're pretty much on the right track.
The MacBook has a Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) port which outputs DisplayPort video signal. Although physically and visually the same as a Thunderbolt 2 port, the 2010 iMac's port is actually a Mini DisplayPort.
Although I haven't tested your combo specifically, the exact correct cable would be Thunderbolt 3 to Mini DisplayPort cable. And since Thunderbolt 2 is backwards compatible with DisplayPort, you are correct that a direct Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 cable SHOULD work like you suggest.
If you can't manage to find a direct cable, you should be able to use a Thunderbolt 3 to DisplayPort cable, and then an adapter from DisplayPort to Mini DisplayPort.
Sorry for going into so much detail. Apple did a lot of confusing things with those ports. I thought some more info on it might be helpful if you end up needing to troubleshoot after connecting it. Hope this helps!
Did you get this to work with your M2? I have a 2012 iMac 27” and a M2 so we are in the similar situation.
Hi, is there any way to connect my late 2013 27-inch iMac as a monitor for a Mac mini M2 Pro? Thanks
That combo doesn't support direct connection. But you can do it by using Sunshine/Moonlight. Parsec would also work, and is easier to set up when connecting Mac to Mac. Basically you run Sunshine/Parsec server on the Mac Mini, and then you use the iMac with Moonlight/Parsec client as the viewer.
My iMac is not capable of starting the Mac OS version it had, hard drive problem I guess. I tried many solutions to make it work as Target Display with my M1 Mac, having no success. The only thing I was able to do was to make it boot ubuntu 20, which works fine, but I cannot install obviously, so I can't do nothing more than web browsing and toying around with some terminal scripts and similar things. Is this it? Can't I make it screen mirror another source, maybe from a windows computer??
Or should I try to destroy it and transform it to a monitor permanently. Thanks in advance.
Hi! Not sure what year it is. If it is a 2009 or 2010, it should work for Target Display to ANY computer, including your M1. I'm told that Mac OS MUST be running in order for Target Display to work. If it is 2011 onward, than you're right - M1 will not be compatible.
The best solution would be to open the iMac and install a replacement SSD (so long as you can do it safely - remember, there is an exposed power supply inside which can be very dangerous!). If you don't want to open the iMac, it is possible to run the entire system from an external hard drive. Get a USB enclosure, install an SSD and leave it plugged into a USB port. You may loose some performance via USB (depending on your iMac the ports may be 2.0), but it is entirely usable. You can definitely install Mac OS, and you can probably install Linux this way too.
The screen conversion method is an option. It cost some $ to buy the converters. If you want the cleanest method with the custom pre-built PCB, it's a little bit of a pricy upgrade although some would still argue worthwhile.
Ultimately, if your goal is purely to have a monitor, the screen conversion method is probably best providing you don't mind spending money on the parts, putting in a lot of effort, and know how to safely work around the internal power supply. If you want the cheapest and easiest method, I'd grab a USB enclosure and a cheap SSD and use iMac permanently with an external hard drive.
Hopefully this helps, or gives some ideas. Good luck.
can't seem to get this to work on my 2015 iMac to m3 MacBook. is there a solution that im missing?
It depends which method you are using. Target Display does not work on 2015 and newer iMacs, and the AirPlay method doesn't work on stock 2015 Macs without OpenCore mods (Apple blocks the feature, but most hardware support it if unlocked with the mod). If you are using Sunshine/Moonlight (or alternatively Parsec which is easier to set up on Mac), that should work fine with a 2015 iMac and M3 MacBook.
So i can use and old 2009 imac like a monitor for my Mac Mini M2?
Sorry i was full of joy and dont listen at firts jajajaja
It works great if its the 27" 2009 model. Make sure to use a DisplayPort cable, not HDMI.
is there any way I could do this with a 2015 27" iMac? The airplay display options aren't working and I don't want to tear it down
Yes, the Sunshine/Moonlight method should work on a 2015 iMac. If you want an easier method, you can try the Parsec app. It works the same as Sunshine/Moonlight, but I think it would be easier to set up on a Mac. Unlike Sunshine/Moonlight, Parsec will allow you to use your computer from anywhere in the world - not just the same network.
@@rebootretro thank you very helpful.
Any idea if it’s possible to connect by FireWire?
No, FireWire is for TargetDisk mode, not compatible with TargetDisplay.
Can we use windows laptop as a monitor for mac mini ?
Yes, you could do that with the Sunshine/Moonlight combo, or with Parsec. Just set up in reverse, with the Mac set up as the server and the Windows PC as the client.
@rebootretro any video tutorials? Or more detailed info anywhere?
@ I don’t have one, but if you need something easy to setup you could try Parsec. It works like Sunshine/Moonlight, but is more a commercial solution than DIY one (they have a free version though). Just install and follow instructions. It requires an internet connection even for local LAN connections, unlike Sunshine/Moonlight.
Hi hi. I have a 2011 imac (21.5") and would like to use my 2010 imac (27inch) as a monitor. is that possible? The 2010 has display port, but the 2011 has thunderbolt. I'm not sure how to connect them.
Yes, the 27" 2010 will work as a monitor for the 2011 21.5", but not the other way around.
The 2010 accepts a DisplayPort video input via Mini DisplayPort connector.
The 2011 Thunderbolt connector ALSO doubles as a DisplayPort output.
So you should be able to connect the Thunderbolt port on the 2011 to the Mini DisplayPort on the 2010 and it should work. Although they have 2 different names, both the Thunderbolt port and the Mini DisplayPort will accept a Mini DisplayPort cable.
Hope this helps!
E invece posso proiettare un tower Windows con displayport su un monitor imac del 2011 ? (Utilizzo un cavo displayport to minidisplayport)
Grazie @@rebootretro
IS THERE ANY WAY TO USE MY 2011 27" IMAC with sierra to use it for an xbox one monitor? I bought an "alza" branded minidisplay to hdmi adapter cable, and its just dont do anything. Can smb help? Any options? Am I using a wrong adaptor? Its just a single cable no other power required
Pls help 😢
There may be 2 separate issues here. It looks like your outputting HDMI signal from XBOX and inputting directly into Mini DisplayPort on the iMac, which will not work. Although that basic cable will work for outputting DisplayPort video to an HDMI monitor, you MUST use an active converter to translate signals to go the other way (HDMI to DP monitor). A 2009 and 2010 iMac 27" will accept XBOX video if it is converted from HDMI to DisplayPort signal using a powered/active converter. Unfortunately, 2011 iMacs are completely different and ONLY accept Thunderbolt video (no DisplayPort or HDMI), and only from certain Mac models and Mac OS versions. To connect an XBOX to a 2011 iMac, the only option I think would be an HDMI to USB capture device. You would need a capture device that is compatible with Mac, and then you could use something like VLC to view the live video. This method would likely have significantly more lag, which might not be ideal for gameplay depending on which capture device you got and how picky you are. The image quality will also get degraded some with this method. If you're not fussy about lag or image quality, the HDMI USB capture could work for you.
Low tech person here, I have 2011 21.5 iMac and a window laptop. Is it possible to use the iMac as the external monitor with the last method.
Yes, last method (Sunshine + Moonlight) will work for a Windows laptop + 2011 iMac. Important to know the last method will only work as single monitor, not dual monitor.
@@rebootretro U meant screen mirroring?
Or that you would have both MacBook and iMac workspaces
@@markarkron8443 The Sunshine/Moonlight (and Parsec) works like screen mirroring (both screens appear identical). To use as a secondary screen you would need to use AirPlay or a third party product (like Luna Display or Duet Display).
I have a Imac 21inch late 2013 running OS 10.9 (i think) It also has boot camp which I mainly use. I want to build a gaming PC so if I connect it to the Imac with an ethernet cable using the 2 programs I can use the imac as a Monitor. Is the Imac os version ok.
According to the Moonlight (Mac side program), you need to upgrade to at least Mac OS 10.13 High Sierra. But if you're already running Boot Camp, you can just use Windows instead (Moonlight also has a Windows client). This way you'll still run the Sunshine server on your Windows gaming PC like normal, but run the Moonlight client on Windows in Boot Camp instead of Mac OS.
Thanks for replying. So if I setup to use it on the os is it easy to exit it so my wife can use the iMac. Then how easy is it to reconnect. Does it save settings so would it just be a click of a button. Is it possible you could put some links to the 2 programs required.
@rebootretro if you have a moment can you reply to my question above.
@@paulweinling1832 Hi, sorry for the lack of reply!! TH-cam's comment system is awful! In the Creator Studio, it always shows the initial comment but not replies. When I'm on TH-cam, replies show up as a notification... MOST of the time but not always. Thanks for reaching out again, I truly didn't see your last reply until now!
Yes, it is very easy! I don't recall the hotkey on Windows (it's similar, you'll need to check), but on Mac OS with a PC keyboard you quit by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Shift+Q. Keep Moonlight in your dock, and relaunch by opening and clicking on the remote PC. That simple. I jump back and forth to my Windows box frequently at times, it's virtually no hassle.
Also, thank you for pointing out the lack of links!! I can't believe I forgot to put them in the description. They are: Sunshine: github.com/LizardByte/Sunshine
Moonlight: moonlight-stream.org/
I don't think your wife will have issues getting out of the remote PC. The hardest part is remembering what the key sequence is, which can be solved by a sticky on the monitor :)
Thank you for taking the time to reply. Told all I need to know. Cheers
If I use a displayport adapter connected to HDMI, and from this displayport adapter I connect my 27-inch 2010 model imac, can it work?
If you take HDMI source ---> HDMI to DisplayPort Converter ---> iMac 2010 then yes, it will work. Your adapter MUST be an ACTIVE adapter/converter, not just a pass-through cable. A basic pass-through cable will NOT work.
To clarify, a passive adapter will change the physical connector from HDMI to DisplayPort, but the signalling will still be HDMI which the iMac won't see. An active adapter changes the connector AND converts the signalling to DisplayPort signals.
Hope this makes sense :)
@@rebootretro thanks 🫂
I plan on buying a 2009 strictly to connect it to my PlayStation can I do that?
I have a 2011 iMac but that’s when I found out it wasn’t supported
I think the PlayStation only does HDMI out, not DisplayPort. You'll need an ACTIVE HDMI to DisplayPort adapter (the kind with a chip inside, not the passive cable that just passes pins through). With an active HDMI adapter, you should be able to connect a PlayStation to a 2009/2010 iMac.
You're correct, a 2011 does not work because it only accepts a proprietary connection to certain Macs. The 2009 and 2010 models accept a generic DisplayPort signal and will work with any device that can supply it, including non-Apple devices.
My 2 cents though, if you're buying an entire iMac just to use as a monitor, I'd probably instead just buy a 27" monitor. A used 27" monitor should not be significantly higher cost than a 2009/2010 iMac. The monitor will sip very little power, while the iMac will consume significantly more - I measured over 100W of power on mine. And you can even use the standalone monitor as a secondary screen for your existing 2011 iMac too. Also, if the iMac computer portion dies or if the GPU fails (which they are prone to), it can in some cases prevent using it as a monitor too.
The 2009/2010 iMac makes a great monitor if you already have one hanging around, but if I was going to buy something to use solely as a monitor, I'd take a standalone monitor any day. But that's just my 2c :)
@@rebootretro thanks for the reply!!!
@@rebootretro I have a 27 thunderbolt not sure of what year but I think maybe 2011 as well *I bought it second hand
But I can’t use the thunderbolt as well I’m assuming as jus a display for ps5
@@blacxice Correct, you can't use Thunderbolt for video in on a 2011 or newer. The problem is that not only does it require a Thunderbolt connection, it also communicates between the other Mac to negotiate. So you cannot even use a 2011 as a screen for a PC, much less a PlayStation.
You can, however, buy an HDMI video capture device and use a video player like VLC to watch. The latency and video quality are probably not going to be great, but it's a potentially cheap option. The adapter I had was only around $15. The one I have works on Windows and Linux, not sure about Mac. So if you go that route you'll need to make sure to get one that supports Mac OS.
I have 24" imac early 2009
And wa windows pc
How and what shoudl i do
use any Mac as a monitor huh?
iMac not mac
I'm not a mac I'm a peterbilt!
@@Alexei1727imac is mac
@@StraightOuttaUrbex yes but you can't use ANY mac as a monitor, only the iMacs
I can’t tell in the video where the airplay feature is in settings
Just so I understand, you say you're trying to use a 2019 iMac as a mirror to a Dell monitor... Do you mean you have a Dell Windows PC and you want to use the iMac as a second screen? Or are you trying to connect a Dell standalone monitor to a 2019 iMac? If I understand exactly what equipment you're trying to connect and how you want to connect it, I'll point you in the right direction :)
I have a Dell laptop with a Dell docking station..I have 2 monitors currently connected to the docking station and working but I am trying to figure out if there is a way to add my iMac (2019) to my current set up as the third monitor..
There isn't really a way to add a third one using the methods in the video. A couple of ideas though:
Assuming you're not using the laptop screen, use Sunshine/Moonlight to mirror your laptop screen to the iMac, then use the 2 external monitors which gives you a total of 3 usable displays (but total 4 connected displays including the built-in laptop display). If you're wanting the iMac as a 3rd monitor + keeping the laptop screen as a 4th, then this won't work.
The other option would be to use a 3rd party device like Luna Display or Duet Display, which allows you to use almost any spare device as a monitor for almost any other device. Both these cost money though. I've not personally tried either, but I've seen Luna Display I think on Linus Tech Tips many years ago and it seemed pretty good. From recent research, that'd be the one I'd try. Luna lets you plug in a dongle into your Dell, then run the Luna app on Mac, and your Dell will see the Mac as a standalone monitor.
Again, can't vouch for Luna or Duet personally, but they're probably your best bet to try if you need 2 monitors + iMac + built-in laptop display = 4 displays total.
I hope this makes sense!
Thank you!
Thanks!
5:01 I really want a solution that doesn’t need the Internet to work, I need a hard wire connection
Sunshine/Moonlight method works fully offline, it just requires a network connection but does not require internet. If you mean your Ethernet connection is in use already for internet, you can get a USB Ethernet adapter - use one for internet and the other for your network video feed.
@ oh ok if that’s the case then I don’t got to much of a problem
can i use my imac mid 2011 27’ as pc monitor
You can, but the 2011 models cannot work as a DisplayPort monitor like the 2009 and 2010 models can. BUT, you can still use a non-Apple method like the Sunshine/Moonlight method shown towards the end of the video.
This is a good solution, but does not work well with 27" iMac 5K (2014-2020), the max resolution is 4K and can't drive full 5K resolution (Network/ethernet limitation). otherwise it a very capable software and runs great.
It's true, not a perfect solution. It's really unfortunate that Apple dropped Target Display on older models. As far as I know, there isn't currently any option that works better at this point. Maybe one day there will be 5K support and even improved quality/latency.
@@rebootretro there is one one option that can drive full 5K@45Hz from the iMac (use Thunderbolt cable for best performance) using Luna Display Adapter, but Mac-to-Mac mode works better than PC-to-Mac. Only PC that can works like Mac with this adapter is Intel NUC since the built-in Thunderbolt is technically the same as the Mac version used by apple.
Imac 2009 early 24" how can i use that thing
Please help if that worked
I'll save money of buying a monitor
The 24" models do not support TargetDisplay. For this model, you need to use Sunshine & Moonlight.
@@rebootretro some forums said they do work and i saw videos too
Tbh
I dont have like display port cable so wanna make sure if it works. Can u help me out in this?
@@Geekytravells Sorry, my mistake... It does support TargetDisplay on the 2009 24" only (according to Apple). My 24" is a 2008, which doesn't support it. If you have a 2009, it SHOULD work exactly the same as my 2009 27" in the video with a mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cable. One and to the iMac, other end to the Windows PC. If the video doesn't start, use the hotkey CMD F2 on an official Apple Keyboard.
@@rebootretro thanks alot bro
One of the best guy i found on this platform
Virtual Hug
Im really happy❤️❤️❤️😘🙂
@@rebootretro one more doubt
I have installed mac os Catalina after some yt again
Do i need to come back to high seria
i have a 2006 model, am i cooked?
@@partial7707 You might be able to use Sunshine/Moonlight or Parsec. The trouble is with 2006 hardware, it may not be fast enough for smooth video. I think you have a good chance it will run though. I think it’s worth trying and testing.
Plz help😢😢😢
No
I have mac mini late 2012 with thunderbolt 2 port. Can i connect it to imac 27 2009 with mini display port as target mode and if yes what type cable i need to buy?
Yes it can. A Mini DisplayPort only transmits/relieves DisplayPort signals, but a Thunderbolt 2 port transmits both Thunderbolt and DisplayPort signals. You can use a Mini DisplayPort to Mini DisplayPort cable. Also, I believe Thunderbolt 2 cables are built to a higher spec and will also work as Mini DisplayPort cables.
I am havin an 2009 imac i am trying to upgrade it with the help of bootable usb but iam unable to access boot menu in it when I am holding the option button its just showing a blank white screen
hey can you tell me how will i use a late 2015 imac as a monitor for my windows laptop?
You would want to use the Sunshine/Moonlight method shown in the video.
Hey guys... I have a iMac 2017 which the display fell off (long story) and now, the technician says that the display can't work in its internal display port due to the fact that it's connector is broken or with an electrical damage. So I want to use my old late 2012 iMac as a Display for that 2017 one. Is there a way to achieve that with a cable (I did't using native remote access but is very slow and bad graphic quality) or there is a piece of hardware that allow me to convert my 2017 display to an external one and plug it to the external usb-c display ports? Or even more crazy, can I connect my fully functional 2017 retina display screen to my late 2012 iMac? Thanks for your help.
You can use official Target Display over Thunderbolt cable, according to Apple's docs: support.apple.com/en-us/105126
It looks like your 2012 iMac must be running High Sierra or older, and your 2017 must be running Catalina or older. Although Apple says such things for the 2009 model, which absolutely works with new versions, so it might be worth testing regardless.
Alternatively, you can use the Sunshine/Moonlight method in the video (also works with Parsec - which is easier to set up on Mac).
There is also a product called Luna Display which is a little dongle you use on one Mac, then run an app on the other Mac to use as an external display. I've not used this product personally, but it looks to be reputable IMO. It costs money, but seems a little more polished that some other methods.
The easiest free option though is probably setting up Parsec on both computers.
@@rebootretro Thanks... I will give it a try and come back with the results. You are most kind.
I am havin an 2009 imac i am trying to upgrade it with the help of bootable usb but iam unable to access boot menu in it when I am holding the option button its just showing a blank white screen
I am havin an 2009 imac i am trying to upgrade it with the help of bootable usb but iam unable to access boot menu in it when I am holding the option button its just showing a blank white screen