You can make a difference in the Apple Support Community!

When you sign up with your Apple Account, you can provide valuable feedback to other community members by upvoting helpful replies and User Tips.

Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

Using MacBook Air with iMac as an External Monitor

Hi there:

I have a Macbook Air (M1, 2020) and I have an iMac (21.5" 2017). I'd like to use the iMac as an external monitor when I want a bigger screen. I'm struggling to use a thunder cord or even a USB-C to connect the two computers as it appears as if they don't want to talk to one another. Is there a way to do this or are they incompatable? Can use screen share without connecting any wires (like a sidecar or airplay)? Someone lend me a hand and let me know how to do this, please.

MacBook Air 13″, macOS 11.1

Posted on May 10, 2021 1:42 PM

Top-ranking reply

Jack-19

Level 8

46,050 points

Posted on May 10, 2021 1:48 PM

Hi historyprof1210,

Sorry, but it simply cannot be done. No method supports it.

The 2017 iMac is too new.
Apple Silicon Mac models doesn't support Target Display Mode.
macOS Big Sur doesn't support Target Display Mode.
You can't use Sidecar.

Cheers,

Jack

View in context

Using MacBook Air with iMac as an External Monitor

Similar questions