How to connect macbook pro to iMac to use as a display

Question

Level 1

4 points

How to connect macbook pro to iMac to use as a display

I want to use my 2012 iMac running OS Catalina as a display for my 2021 Macbook pro. What cable do I need? Thank you for your help!

MacBook Pro 14″, macOS 12.4

Posted on Jul 18, 2022 10:27 AM

Reply

Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Phil0124

Community+ 2024

Level 10

205,547 points

Jul 18, 2022 10:37 AM in response to spghzoo

You cannot do that as clearly explained in the support document you posted from.

The 2021 MacBook Pro cannot use a 2012 iMac as a display. It can only use 2018 or later Macs running Monterey as displays.

To use the 2012 iMac as a display you need a 2019 Mac or earlier running Catalina or earlier.

Reply

Answer 2

spghzoo Author

Level 1

4 points

Jul 18, 2022 11:06 AM in response to rkaufmann87

Thanks! I ordered the new Studio Display back around when it was released, but it still has not arrived. Was hoping there was a way to use my iMac as a temporary solution. Meanwhile, I can still design on my 14" pro.

Reply

Answer 3

spghzoo Author

Level 1

4 points

Jul 18, 2022 11:07 AM in response to rkaufmann87

Thanks! I ordered the new Studio Display back around when it was released, but it still has not arrived. Was hoping there was a way to use my iMac as a temporary solution. Meanwhile, I can still design on my 14" pro. I appreciate your concrete answer, I will stop looking now:)

Reply

Answer 4

rkaufmann87

Level 10

143,688 points

Jul 18, 2022 10:49 AM in response to spghzoo

+1 What you asked about will not work. You are MUCH better off just buying an external display for the 2021 Mac . Far more reliable, cheaper ( no expensive cables needed) and simple to set up.

Reply