Hi guys,
We have a lot of 27 iMacs that we would like to repurpose and use as displays only for use with the new Mac Mini M2. My understanding from searching around was that you can use the USB C to Thunderbolt connection and then use Target Display.
I've purchased a Mac Mini M2 and have tried this with the iMac 27" 2013, but having no luck. Is there any work around for this at all (third party connections etc)
Cheers !
There are no work arounds, hacks, or magic wands that will work to use a 2013 iMac as a display. Apple dropped iMacs being able to be used as a display back in 2015 and dropped the ability for Macs to use iMacs in 2020.
I have a late 2013 iMac and have verified this as a fact.
There are no work arounds, hacks, or magic wands that will work to use a 2013 iMac as a display. Apple dropped iMacs being able to be used as a display back in 2015 and dropped the ability for Macs to use iMacs in 2020.
I have a late 2013 iMac and have verified this as a fact.
alanhealy wrote:
Ok cool. So my next option is using Luna Display. Have you used this ? Looks like it could be an option ? https://astropad.com/product/lunadisplay/
A 27" iMac only has a resolution of 2560x1440 pixels. It's a nice 2560x1440 display, but these days, you can get basic 27" 2560x1440 or 3840x2160 (UHD 4K) monitors with IPS panels and near-100% sRGB coverage for $300 to $350.
If you have to spend $80 (?) on a Luna Display device and run an additional cable between your new Mac and the old iMac to help carry video data, just to use the old iMac as a second-rate second monitor, you have to ask if the cost and trouble is worth it. Especially if you are talking about a Mac mini with the base M2 chip that only has two USB-C (Thunderbolt) ports.
That iMac supports Target Display Mode, but the M2 Mac mini does not support using any iMac as a Target Display.
Ok cool. So my next option is using Luna Display. Have you used this ? Looks like it could be an option ? https://astropad.com/product/lunadisplay/
Save your self headaches and end up with a lower electric bill and just get a monitor.
in the past I has used my late 2013 27" iMac occasionally as a display with an old MacMini and MacBook Pro and it was just such hassle that it was just not worth it.
Stuff like Luna Display are quite laggy, especially if used via WiFi and are not much better than something like Apple Screen Sharing.
So, get a display for the Mini and repurpose the iMac or sell it or give to some family member that needs a computer. As far as repurpose, I use mine as a media device in my bedroom for movies, music, podcasts and TV shows.
If you look at Luna's support page, you will see this:
If you only want you iMac as the main display to show static windkws and pallets, fine. If you need a fully functional no-lag display, apply the $80 to a decent external monitor.
Thanks for the reply
Using iMac 27inch (late 2013) as monitor for Mac Mini m2
