I have a 13', 2019 MacBook Pro running Sonoma 14 and a 27" iMac running High Sierra 10. I believe I should be able to use iMac as a display for MacBook but can't find correct cable specs. My MacBook Pro has 4 Thunderbolt 3 ports. Find if I need converter of some kind - just not sure - any ideas?
MacBook Pro 13″, macOS 14.6
Can't be done. You refer to Target Display Mode which Apple describes here.
Your MB Pro has a system too recent for this to succeed - it would need to be an older notebook with an OS not later than macOS Catalina.
Disappointing, but better to know sooner rather than later.
I understand, but don't feel too disappointed.
In my testing of TDM on Intel Macs whose hardware and OS versions both supported TDM, I found the video options restrictive compared to what I had with a free-standing external monitor. At least with the combo of bits I had available, I could only get TDM to mirror the Macbook Pro's display when what I really needed was to extend it. That is a non-issue with a regular external monitor.
The later also is easier to set up, works with standard, cabling, and uses less power that a fully-running iMac.
Dear David,
I appreciate the swift reply. I guess I didn’t understand the system requirements correctly. Disappointing, but better to know sooner rather than later. Hate to have no use for older Mac. If you have a suggestion please let me know. Thank you.
correct cable to use iMac as display for MacBook Pro
