
Chromebook is one of the coolest gadgets to work on. They can be mirrored onto the external computer to mirror your screen. Or even better, spread it out on different desktops for a larger workspace. Which one do you prefer? Today, we will talk about the former option; connecting Chromebook to an external computer.
The solution is simple, and there isn’t just one. There are multiple methods to get the job done. You can try using an HDMI cable, a USB C-type, Chromecast, or taking the help of Chrome Remote Desktop.
Two are wired solutions out of the four options, while the other two are wireless. Most people do not prefer the wired options because it takes up space on the work desk. But if you have a way to encounter the tangled wires, you won’t mind any of these easy fixes.
More in this blog, we will be discussing each method in detail. In addition, we will give you a few bonus tips on how you can play with the Chromebook settings for an enhanced experience. So, without any further ado, let’s get on with it.
Method #1: Using an HDMI Cable
If your Chromebook has an outlet for the HDMI cable, follow these steps.
- Find a compatible HDMI cable.
- Insert one end of the cable into the Chromebook.
- Stick the other end into the external monitor.
- Go to “Settings” from the Chromebook’s taskbar if it does not automatically connect.
- On the left, select “Devices”.
- Skim through to find “Displays”.
- Check if there is an external device connected.
There are multiple ports on the monitor. However, a Chromebook may have either USB C-type or HDMI. Usually, the former is a more common port found than the latter. Hence, remember to buy a compatible cable; an HDMI, a USB C to USB C cable, or a USB C to an HDMI.
Method #2: Using a USB C-Type Cable
If your Chromebook does not have an HDMI port, don’t worry. You can use this method for a quick fix. But before we start with the steps, make sure that you have these cables in your hands; a USB C, a USB C cable to an HDMI adaptor, and an HDMI cable.
- Stick one end of the USB C cable into the adaptor and the other into the Chromebook.
- Connect one end of the HDMI to the adaptor and the other to the external monitor.
- If it does not automatically connect, go to the “Settings” on your Chromebook.
- Go to “Devices”, and then to “Displays”.
- Skim through the list to see if there is an external device connected.
In the Displays tab, you can also change other settings like picking the screen as a primary or Extended Screen. You can also adjust the quality by altering the Resolution.
Method #3: Using Chromecast
Chromecast is one of the easiest and most reliable options for mirroring your display. However, you should note that your external monitor must have a Chromecast built-in or you can purchase a Chromecast device that may attach to the monitor.
Since many people prefer this wireless method, here is a brief guide;
- Go to “Google Chrome”.
- Open the desired website that you want to cast on the big screen.
- At the top right corner, click on the three dots.
- Go to “Cast”.
- A pop-up will open, showing a list of available screens.
- Tap on the desired one to enable the feature.
This mirroring will allow you to cast one tab, a window, or the whole desktop onto the monitor. In the pop-up, you can select your desired mirroring through the “Sources” option.
To stop the mirroring;
- On the Google Chrome taskbar, click on the “Cast” icon.
- Now, tap on your device’s name to disable the feature.
Method #4: Using Chrome Remote Desktop
This unusual method, although not popular, is still preferred by many users. The reason that it is unpopular is that it is time-consuming and requires two different devices connected to the monitor.
One is the Chromebook, and the other system is any device with Google Chrome. After you have brought the devices onto the table, here is what you need to do,
- In the App Store of Google Chrome, search for “Chrome Remote Desktop”.
- Download the application by tapping on “Add to Chrome”.
- Now, press “Share My Screen” on both systems.
- On the Chromebook, click on “+Generate Code” under the “Share this Screen” tab.
- This will generate a 12-digit code. Note it down.
- On the other system, under the “Connect to Another Computer” tab, click on “Connect”.
- Enter the code.
- Give permission to enable the feature.
You can change the settings to enhance your experience with Chromebook by typing this onto the address bar: chrome://settings/display
. You can align the screen to the center, rotate the image, or extend your display to multiple screens.
Conclusion
Wrapping up: Connecting the Chromebook is an easy task. However, it depends upon you which method you choose to connect it. Although wireless solutions are simpler in comparison, they do require WIFI. We hope that our guide helped answer all of your questions.