2018 MacBook Pro Target Display Mode Not Working

Has anyone successfully used Target Display Mode with the new 2018 15" MacBook Pro? We just purchased one last week, and I am trying to use a late 2013 27" iMac as a second monitor via Target Display Mode.


When I hit command-F2 it does try to switch over, however the screen either a) remains black b) shows my screen but blinks every other second c) shows the screen but it's static-like and has crazy zig-zag colors across the background and flashes and such.


I have done all the recommended trouble shooting steps per the knowledge base article and am wondering if this is a problem with the new MacBook Pros. It is very frustrating to not be able to work on my brand new computer; I need the larger monitor for graphic design.


Both have latest versions of High Sierra. I have tried two different Thunderbolt 2 - USB-C adaptors. I have tried two different Thunderbolt 2 cables. One I have used for four years so I know it works. I have reversed the cables and tried all the different Thunderbolt ports on both machines. I connected them using Target Disk Mode to transfer my data and that worked.


I reset the SMC and zapped the PRAM. I booted in safe mode on both machines and then restarted. I have spent a good bit of time on this, but since this is a work machine I can't keep wasting time on it as I need to actually get work done, which unfortunately means still using the older iMac.


Any other thoughts?

MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2018)

Posted on Aug 2, 2018 7:53 AM

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Posted on Sep 12, 2018 1:15 PM

hey guys, just want to confirm that I used Belkin Thunderbolt 2 Express F4U085TT to connect my MacBook Pro 2018 with an iMac 2013. The iMac can be used as a target display. No flickering, no dark display. It just worked flawlessly.

Basically, you need a Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter and the Thunderbolt 2 cable that comes with the dock to connect your MacBook Pro to the dock. then need another thunderbolt 2 cables to connect the dock to the iMac. I know it sounds stupid but it works.

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2018 MacBook Pro Target Display Mode Not Working

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