Want to set up multiple monitors with fewer cables? Many people dream of a clean, organized workspace with several screens, but don’t want messy cables everywhere. The truth is, HDMI doesn’t support native daisy chaining like other connection types. But don’t worry!
You can still achieve that clean multi-monitor setup using some clever workarounds. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to daisy chain monitors with HDMI using splitters and hubs, plus discover better alternatives like DisplayPort and USB-C for true daisy chaining.
Key Takeaways
- HDMI does NOT support native daisy chaining – it lacks Multi-Stream Transport (MST) technology
- You can achieve HDMI daisy chaining using HDMI splitters or MST hubs as workarounds
- DisplayPort (1.2 or higher) is the best option for true daisy chaining with MST support
- Thunderbolt and USB-C with DisplayPort alternate mode also support daisy chaining
- VGA cannot be daisy chained – consider upgrading to modern connection types
- Most setups can support 2-4 monitors depending on your graphics card and connection method
What Is Monitor Daisy Chaining?
Monitor daisy chaining means connecting multiple displays in a series, where one monitor connects to your computer and each additional monitor connects to the previous one in the chain. Think of it like a daisy chain flower necklace – each link connects to the next one in line.
This setup is different from traditional multi-monitor configurations where each monitor connects directly to your computer with separate cables. With daisy chaining, you only need one cable from your computer to the first monitor, then one cable between each monitor in the chain.
People love daisy chaining because it:
- Reduces cable clutter on your desk
- Saves ports on your computer for other devices
- Creates a cleaner, more organized workspace
- Makes it easier to add or remove monitors
Can You Daisy Chain Monitors with HDMI?
The short answer is no – HDMI does not support native daisy chaining. Unlike DisplayPort, which has Multi-Stream Transport (MST) technology built into version 1.2 and higher, HDMI was designed to connect one source device to one display device.
HDMI sends a single video signal from your computer to your monitor. It doesn’t have the technology to split that signal and send it to multiple monitors in a chain. This is why you can’t simply connect one HDMI monitor to another HDMI monitor and expect both to work.
Many people get confused about this because some monitors have multiple HDMI ports. However, having multiple HDMI ports doesn’t mean the monitor can send the HDMI signal out to another monitor – those ports are typically for input only.
The good news is that there are workarounds that let you achieve a similar result to true daisy chaining, even with HDMI monitors.
How to Daisy Chain Monitors with HDMI Using Workarounds?
Even though HDMI doesn’t support native daisy chaining, you can still connect multiple HDMI monitors using special equipment. Here are the most effective methods:
What Equipment Do You Need for HDMI Daisy Chaining?
Before you start, gather these items:
- Multiple monitors with HDMI input ports
- High-quality HDMI cables (one for each monitor)
- An HDMI splitter OR HDMI MST hub
- A computer with an HDMI output port
- (Optional) HDMI adapter if your computer doesn’t have HDMI
Step-by-Step Guide Using HDMI Splitters
An HDMI splitter takes one HDMI signal and duplicates it to multiple monitors. Here’s how to set it up:
- Connect one HDMI cable from your computer’s HDMI port to the HDMI splitter’s input port
- Connect separate HDMI cables from the splitter’s output ports to each monitor’s HDMI input port
- Power on all your monitors and your computer
- Your computer should detect all monitors automatically
- Right-click your desktop and select “Display settings” to arrange your monitors
Pro tip: HDMI splitters show the same content on all monitors (mirrored mode). If you want extended mode where each monitor shows different content, you’ll need an HDMI MST hub instead.
Step-by-Step Guide Using HDMI MST Hubs
An HDMI MST (Multi-Stream Transport) hub is more advanced than a simple splitter. It can create an extended display across multiple monitors:
- Connect one HDMI cable from your computer to the HDMI MST hub’s input port
- Connect HDMI cables from the hub’s output ports to each monitor
- Power on the hub (if it requires external power)
- Turn on all monitors and your computer
- Go to your computer’s display settings to arrange the monitors and choose extended mode
Real example: The Anker HDMI Switch lets you connect up to four HDMI monitors to a single HDMI port on your computer, giving you a true extended desktop experience across all screens.
Configuring Display Settings for HDMI Daisy Chain
Once your monitors are connected, you need to tell your computer how to use them:
- Right-click your desktop and select “Display settings”
- You’ll see boxes representing each monitor
- Click and drag the boxes to match how your monitors are arranged on your desk
- Scroll down to “Multiple displays”
- Choose “Extend these displays” for different content on each monitor
- Click “Apply” to save your changes
If you’re using a splitter, you’ll only see “Duplicate these displays” as an option since all monitors show the same content.
How to Daisy Chain Monitors with DisplayPort and HDMI?
DisplayPort is the king of daisy chaining. Unlike HDMI, DisplayPort 1.2 and higher includes MST technology that allows true daisy chaining. But what if you have a mix of DisplayPort and HDMI monitors?
Here’s how to handle mixed setups:
- Use DisplayPort for the daisy chain connection between monitors
- Connect your first monitor to your computer using DisplayPort
- Connect a DisplayPort cable from the first monitor’s DisplayPort OUT to the second monitor’s DisplayPort IN
- If your third monitor only has HDMI, use a DisplayPort to HDMI adapter
- Continue the chain for additional monitors
Important tip: The monitor in the middle of the chain needs both DisplayPort IN and OUT ports to pass the signal through. Not all monitors have this capability, so check your monitor’s specifications before buying.
For the best results, use monitors from the same manufacturer. They’re more likely to work well together in a daisy chain setup.
How to Daisy Chain Monitors Dell?
Dell offers several monitors that support daisy chaining, particularly their UltraSharp and Professional series. Here’s what you need to know:
Dell monitors that support daisy chaining:
- Dell UltraSharp U2723QE (DisplayPort 1.4 with MST)
- Dell UltraSharp U3223QE (DisplayPort 1.4 with MST)
- Dell P2722H (DisplayPort 1.2 with MST)
- Dell S2722DGM (DisplayPort 1.2 with MST)
Dell-specific setup steps:
- Enable MST on your Dell monitor by pressing the menu button
- Navigate to “Display Settings” > “MST”
- Set MST to “Enabled”
- Connect your computer to the first Dell monitor using DisplayPort
- Connect additional Dell monitors in the chain using DisplayPort cables
- Configure your display settings in Windows or macOS
Dell tip: Dell monitors work best when daisy-chained with other Dell monitors. If you mix brands, you might run into compatibility issues.
Can You Daisy Chain Monitors with VGA?
No, you cannot daisy chain VGA monitors. VGA (Video Graphics Array) is an older analog connection type that was designed long before daisy chaining technology existed. VGA sends a single video signal from computer to monitor with no capability to split or route that signal to additional displays.
Why VGA doesn’t work for daisy chaining:
- VGA is analog technology, not digital
- It lacks the bandwidth for multiple high-resolution displays
- No MST or similar technology exists for VGA
- Most VGA monitors only have VGA input ports (no output)
Solutions for VGA monitors:
- Upgrade to modern monitors with DisplayPort or HDMI
- Use a VGA splitter (shows same content on all monitors)
- Install a graphics card with multiple video outputs
- Use a USB to VGA adapter for additional connections
When to upgrade: If you’re still using VGA monitors, consider upgrading. Modern digital connections provide better image quality, higher resolutions, and support for features like daisy chaining.
How to Daisy Chain Monitors with USB-C?
USB-C can support daisy chaining, but only if it has DisplayPort alternate mode capabilities. Not all USB-C ports can do this, so you need to check your computer’s specifications.
USB-C daisy chaining requirements:
- Computer with USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 or higher
- USB-C port that supports DisplayPort alternate mode
- Monitors with USB-C or DisplayPort ports
- USB-C cables that support video transmission
Step-by-step USB-C setup:
- Check if your USB-C port supports DisplayPort alternate mode (look for a DP symbol next to the port)
- Connect your computer to the first monitor using USB-C
- Connect a USB-C or DisplayPort cable from the first monitor to the second monitor
- Continue the chain for additional monitors
- Configure display settings on your computer
USB-C advantage: Many USB-C connections also provide power to your monitor and can transfer data, making them truly “one-cable” solutions.
Daisy Chain Monitors Without DisplayPort?
What if your computer doesn’t have DisplayPort ports? Don’t worry – you still have options for connecting multiple monitors:
Alternative connection methods:
- HDMI splitters and MST hubs (as discussed earlier)
- USB to HDMI/DisplayPort adapters
- Docking stations with multiple video outputs
- Graphics cards with multiple outputs
Using adapters and converters:
- USB to HDMI adapter: Adds an HDMI port via USB
- USB-C to HDMI adapter: If you have USB-C but no HDMI
- DisplayPort to HDMI adapter: Use DisplayPort monitors with HDMI computers
- DVI to HDMI adapter: For older computers with DVI ports
Best solutions for non-DisplayPort setups:
- For laptops: Use a USB-C docking station with multiple video outputs
- For desktops: Install a graphics card with multiple DisplayPort/HDMI outputs
- For budget setups: Use HDMI splitters for mirrored displays or USB adapters for extended displays
Thunderbolt Daisy Chain Monitors?
Thunderbolt is the premium option for daisy chaining monitors. Developed by Intel, Thunderbolt combines high-speed data transfer with video output in a single connection.
Thunderbolt daisy chaining capabilities:
- Thunderbolt 3/4 supports up to two 4K displays or one 5K/6K display
- Bandwidth up to 40Gbps (Thunderbolt 3) or 80Gbps (Thunderbolt 4)
- Can daisy chain up to six Thunderbolt devices total
- Supports both video and data through the same connection
Thunderbolt vs DisplayPort comparison:
- Thunderbolt: Higher bandwidth, supports data and video, more expensive
- DisplayPort: Lower cost, excellent for video-only setups, widely supported
- Thunderbolt is better for professionals who need maximum performance
- DisplayPort is perfect for most home and office users
Setup guide for Thunderbolt daisy chains:
- Connect your computer to the first Thunderbolt monitor using a Thunderbolt cable
- Connect a Thunderbolt cable from the first monitor to the second monitor
- Continue for additional monitors (up to your Thunderbolt controller’s limit)
- Configure display settings on your computer
Thunderbolt tip: Use certified Thunderbolt cables for the best performance. Regular USB-C cables may not work for Thunderbolt daisy chaining.
Troubleshooting Common Daisy Chain Issues
Even with the best setup, you might run into problems. Here are solutions for the most common daisy chain issues:
Signal Degradation or Loss
If your monitors keep losing signal or showing poor quality:
- Check all cable connections and make sure they’re secure
- Use shorter, higher-quality cables
- Avoid running video cables near power cables (causes interference)
- Try different ports on your computer or monitors
- Update your graphics card drivers
Resolution Problems
If you can’t get your desired resolution:
- Lower the resolution on some monitors to free up bandwidth
- Make sure your cables support the resolution you want (HDMI 2.0 for 4K, etc.)
- Check your graphics card specifications for maximum supported resolution
- Try reducing the refresh rate (from 60Hz to 30Hz, for example)
Monitor Detection Issues
If your computer doesn’t detect all monitors:
- Restart your computer with all monitors connected
- Update your graphics card drivers
- Try connecting monitors one at a time
- Check if MST is enabled in your monitor’s settings menu
- Use Windows “Detect” button in display settings
Power and Cable Problems
If monitors aren’t turning on or cables aren’t working:
- Make sure all monitors have power
- Try different cables (cables can fail even if they look fine)
- Use powered hubs or splitters if needed
- Check that your computer’s power supply can handle multiple monitors
Frequently Asked Questions
Can all monitors be daisy chained using HDMI?
No, not all monitors can be daisy chained using HDMI because HDMI doesn’t support native daisy chaining. However, you can connect most monitors with HDMI input ports using an HDMI splitter or MST hub. These devices take the single HDMI signal from your computer and distribute it to multiple monitors. The key is that you need additional equipment to make it work – you can’t just connect HDMI monitors directly to each other in a chain like you can with DisplayPort.
What is the maximum number of monitors I can daisy chain?
The maximum number of monitors you can daisy chain depends on several factors. Most modern graphics cards support 3-6 monitors total. For DisplayPort daisy chaining, you can typically connect 2-4 monitors in a single chain. Thunderbolt setups can support up to two 4K displays or one 5K/6K display. The exact limit depends on your graphics card capabilities, the resolution and refresh rate of each monitor, and the type of connection you’re using. Higher resolutions and refresh rates require more bandwidth, which reduces the number of monitors you can connect.
Is there any loss in display quality when chaining multiple monitors?
Yes, there can be some loss in display quality when daisy chaining multiple monitors, but it’s usually minimal with proper setup. Signal degradation can occur over long cable distances, especially with lower-quality cables. The bandwidth limitations of your connection type might also force you to use lower resolutions or refresh rates when connecting multiple monitors. However, with high-quality cables, proper connections, and modern equipment like DisplayPort 1.4 or Thunderbolt, most users won’t notice any significant quality loss in a typical 2-3 monitor setup.
Does HDMI 2.1 support daisy chain?
No, HDMI 2.1 does not support native daisy chaining. Even though HDMI 2.1 offers significant improvements over previous versions – including support for 8K resolution, higher refresh rates, and increased bandwidth – it still lacks the Multi-Stream Transport (MST) technology needed for daisy chaining. HDMI 2.1 is designed for one-to-one connections between a source device and a display device. To connect multiple HDMI monitors, you’ll still need to use HDMI splitters, MST hubs, or connect each monitor separately to your computer’s available HDMI ports.
Can you daisy chain 2 4K monitors?
Yes, you can daisy chain two 4K monitors, but it depends on your connection method and equipment. With DisplayPort 1.4 or Thunderbolt 3/4, you can easily daisy chain two 4K monitors at 60Hz. For HDMI setups, you’ll need an HDMI MST hub that supports 4K resolution on multiple outputs. Make sure your graphics card can handle the bandwidth requirements of two 4K displays. Some older graphics cards might struggle with multiple 4K monitors, forcing you to lower the refresh rate or resolution to maintain stability.
Why is my daisy chain setup not working?
If your daisy chain setup isn’t working, several issues could be the cause. First, check that all cables are securely connected and that you’re using the right type of cables for your setup. Make sure MST is enabled in your monitor’s settings menu. Update your graphics card drivers to the latest version. Verify that your monitors actually support daisy chaining (not all do). For HDMI setups, ensure you’re using a splitter or MST hub, not trying to connect monitors directly to each other. If all else fails, try connecting each monitor directly to your computer to isolate whether the issue is with the daisy chain or with individual monitors.
Do I need special cables for daisy chaining?
Yes, you often need special cables for daisy chaining, especially for DisplayPort and Thunderbolt setups. For DisplayPort daisy chaining, you need DisplayPort cables that support the version required by your monitors (DisplayPort 1.2 or higher). Thunderbolt daisy chaining requires certified Thunderbolt cables, not regular USB-C cables. For HDMI workarounds, high-quality HDMI cables that support your desired resolution and refresh rate are recommended. Using the wrong type of cable is a common reason why daisy chain setups fail, so it’s worth investing in quality cables that match your equipment’s specifications.
Conclusion
Daisy chaining monitors with HDMI isn’t natively possible, but you have several excellent options to achieve that clean, multi-monitor setup you want. HDMI splitters and MST hubs provide workable solutions for HDMI monitors, while DisplayPort and Thunderbolt offer true daisy chaining capabilities with better performance.
For the best results, consider upgrading to DisplayPort monitors if possible – they provide the most straightforward daisy chaining experience with excellent performance. If you’re stuck with HDMI monitors, an MST hub is your best bet for creating an extended display across multiple screens.
Remember to check your equipment compatibility, use high-quality cables, and keep your drivers updated for the smoothest experience. With the right setup, you can transform your workspace into a productive, multi-monitor environment that helps you work more efficiently.
Ready to set up your multi-monitor workspace? Check out our guide on how to connect two monitors with one HDMI port for more options, or learn about different types of monitor connections to make an informed decision about your setup. For official information about display standards, visit DisplayPort.org or HDMI.org to learn more about the technical specifications and capabilities of different connection types.
