Getting a Microsoft Windows 10 laptop connected to a projector or TV can be the most annoying part of getting ready for a presentation. Here’s everything you need to know to get up and running.
Making a Wired Connection
There are so many different types of display ports. So there are many different ways your laptop might connect to a TV or projector.
| Technology | Photo | Cable Required |
| HDMI |  | Standard HDMI cable. Audio routed. |
| DisplayPort |  | DisplayPort to HDMI cable. Audio routed. |
| Mini HDMI |  | Mini HDMI to HDMI cable. Audio routed. |
| VGA |  | VGA to VGA cable. Audio not routed. |
| USB/DisplayLink |  | Adapter allows video through USB to HDMI or VGA. |
Connect via any of the methods above and ensure the input selection on the TV or projector is toggled to the input you are using with your laptop.
Laptop Connection Settings
Once connected, hold down the Windows Key and press “P” to toggle the selection to the desired setting:
- Duplicate
- Extend
- Second screen only
In some cases, you may need to utilize the “fn” key and one of the function keys (F3, F4, F5) along the top of the keyboard.
Common Problems
Driver Update Needed
It is common (especially on Lenovo ThinkPad machines) to experience problems connecting your laptop to a TV or projector. If the video is blank on one screen or flashes black or white, an upgrade to the display adapter drivers usually fixes the issue.
There have been some occasions where a BIOS update has fixed a display problem.
To obtain the latest display adapter drivers and BIOS software, visit the website of manufacturer of your laptop. You may also be able to simply Google the “model number of your laptop + display drivers.”
Start With Everything Off
In some cases, you may need to start with both the laptop and projector off. Once you have the proper cable connected, turn the projector on. Once the projector is started, power on the laptop. This order is usually the most successful.
Mitch Bartlett says
Helen, you should be able to use a VGA to HDMI cable for that connection.
Helen says
I have a Lenovo T420 Thinkpad – it looks like I need an output of a VGA cable but the input on the Projector is HDMI – would this be right (before I go off and buy the wrong thing!)?
SOFIA CARSON says
Informative article. Thanks for sharing such an valuable article.this is best article .
magdaline says
my projector has started displaying half dark. its connected to a tv. whats the problem ?
Rich says
BRILLIANT! – “Once connected, hold down the Windows Key and press “P” to toggle the selection to the desired setting:” Just curious, is this available somewhere in Settings/Display/???
Derrick Poko says
I have purchased a Projector & tried to connect to a Lenovo Laptop but no signs indicated. When I switched on the projector, then some preeceded icons from the projector appeared while it doesn’t communicate with the laptop. When I connect the VGA cable into the laptop, no signs indicated at all. Thus, is there any option were I can apply to solve this problem?
Andrew Wyatt says
That was really a tricky post, Mitch. Do you have another article that shows, how to connect a projector to Linux system?