How to Duplicate Screen on Windows 11

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How to Duplicate Screen on Windows 11

When using a Windows 11 computer, you may often find the need to share your screen with colleagues during a presentation, to help troubleshoot a friend’s computer, or simply to enjoy a movie on a larger display. Duplicating your screen, also known as mirroring, allows you to display the same content across multiple screens. This guide will walk you through the various methods to successfully duplicate your screen in Windows 11, including keyboard shortcuts, settings adjustments, utilizing the Settings app, and managing multiple displays effectively.

Screen duplication refers to the process of showing the same image on multiple displays connected to your computer. This feature is particularly useful in various scenarios, such as:


  • Presentations:

    Giving a presentation in a classroom or boardroom where your laptop connects to a projector or external monitor.

  • Collaborations:

    Working with teams where you need to share your screen in meetings.

  • Entertainment:

    Watching videos or playing games on larger screens.

Windows 11 provides a seamless approach to manage multiple displays and enables users to duplicate their screens with ease.

Before you can duplicate your screen, you need to connect your external display. This can be done via HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, or any compatible cable that your computer and external display support. Follow these steps:

Windows 11 makes it easy to duplicate your screen using the built-in Settings app. Follow these steps:


Open the Settings App:

  • Press

    Windows + I

    to open the Settings.


Go to System Settings:

  • Click on “System” in the left sidebar.


Select Display:

  • In the display settings, you will see your available screens represented as numbered boxes.


Detect Second Display:

  • If your external display isn’t automatically detected, click on “Detect.” Windows will search for any connected displays.


Select Display Settings:

  • Once your external display is recognized, scroll down to the “Multiple displays” section. Here you’ll see a dropdown menu.


Choose Duplicate these Displays:

  • Click the dropdown menu and select “Duplicate these displays.” This will mirror your primary screen onto the secondary display.


Adjust Resolutions (if needed):

  • Depending on the displays used, you might need to adjust the resolution settings for both screens. It’s advisable to set the resolution to match the external display’s native resolution for optimal clarity.


Apply Changes:

  • After selecting your preferred settings, click “Apply.” Windows will prompt you to keep the changes or revert. Choose to keep the changes once you’re satisfied with how it looks.

Windows offers a quick way to duplicate your screen using keyboard shortcuts, providing an efficient alternative to navigating through menus.


  • PC screen only:

    Only your main display is used.

  • Duplicate:

    Displays the same content on both screens.

  • Extend:

    Expands your desktop across both displays.

  • Second screen only:

    Only the external display will showcase the content.

Windows 11 has a built-in projection feature that enables wireless connection options for duplicating your screen. Note that this method works with compatible Miracast devices like smart TVs and wireless displays.


Ensure your device supports Miracast

: Both your PC and the external display must support Miracast technology.


Open Action Center:

  • Click on the network icon in the taskbar and then select “Project.”


Select Connect to a Wireless Display:

  • Click on “Connect,” and your PC will search for available wireless displays.


Choose Your Display:

  • Select your desired wireless display from the list.


Choose Duplicating Option:

  • After selection, you’ll be prompted to choose between extending or duplicating your screen. Select “Duplicate” to mirror your display.

While most duplication methods are straightforward, you may encounter common issues when trying to duplicate your screen. Here are some potential problems and how to address them:


Display Not Detected:

  • Ensure that the display is powered on and set to the correct input source.
  • Check the cable connections and try a different port if available.


Incorrect Resolution:

  • If the duplicated screen appears distorted or has a black border, it may be related to a resolution mismatch. Adjust the display resolution in the Settings app.


Screen Flickering:

  • Screen flickering can occur due to incompatible refresh rates. Check the refresh rate settings for both displays and ensure they are compatible.


No Sound on External Display:

  • If the external monitor or TV does not provide audio when duplicating, ensure you’ve selected the correct playback device. Right-click the speaker icon in the system tray, choose “Sounds,” and select the appropriate output device.


Keyboard Shortcuts Not Working:

  • If for some reason the

    Windows + P

    shortcut does not function, try restarting your PC or checking if the keyboard drivers need updating.

Windows 11 offers extensive options to customize how you work with multiple displays, whether you would like a duplicated view or an extended desktop.


Identify Displays:

  • In the Display settings, click on “Identify” to see which display corresponds to which number. This will ensure you know which screen is your primary display and which is the external display.


Choose Primary Display:

  • Select the display you want as your primary one and check the box that says “Make this my main display.” Your taskbar and desktop icons will move to this screen.


Orientation and Scale:

  • You have the option to set the orientation of each display to Landscape or Portrait and to adjust the scaling settings for better visibility.


Rearranging Displays:

  • You can click and drag the display boxes to rearrange how Windows 11 treats your monitors. This is particularly useful if your monitors are physically positioned differently.


Advanced Graphics Settings:

  • For users needing specialized graphics control, explore the settings provided by your graphics card manufacturer (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel), usually accessible from the desktop context menu.

Duplicating your screen on Windows 11 is a relatively simple process that can greatly enhance your productivity and presentation capabilities. Whether through the Settings app, keyboard shortcuts, or wireless projection, Windows 11 has provided users with multiple ways to easily achieve screen duplication.

As a powerful tool in both personal and professional settings, mastering the art of screen duplication can help bridge communication gaps, enhance collaboration, and create enjoyable viewing experiences. The tips outlined in this guide will assist you in utilizing this feature effectively, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—your content and your audience.

By understanding and experimenting with the various duplication methods and settings available in Windows 11, you will empower yourself to effectively manage your workspace, whether it involves meetings, presentations, or entertainment. Whether you’re a business professional or a casual user, being able to seamlessly duplicate your screen enhances your overall computing experience.

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