Buy a USB-C to HDMI adapter → plug into either left-side USB-C port → done. No additional setup needed.
What can I use to connect my new laptop version 7 surface+copilot to a second screen that has an HDMI input
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Deborah Muchmore
0
Reputation points
I need to know what port I can use to plug an adapter from HDMI to one of the ports on my surface pro laptop + copilot version 7 laptop. Do any of the ports export video? If so, which ports (visual of the side of the PC and port) and what adapter do I need from HDMI to plug into the laptop. Also, do I need to change any settings or update anything from the factory settings other than the display settings which I understand. Thank you.
Surface | Surface Laptop | Display and screen
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S.Sengupta 32,016 Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator2026-06-28T23:56:47.2433333+00:00 -
Deborah Muchmore 0 Reputation points
2026-06-29T00:21:11.5+00:00 I ordered one. Should be here tomorrow. USB-C to HDMI through the Surface docking station did not work, neither did the surface travel hub. Hopefully the adapter will be a more direct connection and work better. I'll report back.
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AI answer
2026-06-28T17:27:17.4033333+00:00 Surface Laptop, Copilot+ PC (7th Edition) uses USB-C ports that support video output. To connect to an external display that only has HDMI, use a USB-C–to–HDMI solution.
Which port to use
Use one of the USB-C ports on the side of the Surface Laptop. These ports can output video to an external display via the correct cable or adapter.
What cable/adapter to use
For best results and compatibility:
- Prefer Designed for Surface or Surface USB-C to display adapters:
- See the recommendations in Connect Surface to an external display for using Designed for Surface Accessories or Surface USB-C to display adapters.
- Use a USB-C to HDMI cable or adapter:
- Connect the USB-C end to the Surface Laptop USB-C port.
- Connect the HDMI end to the HDMI input on the monitor/TV.
- If using a dock or hub (for example, Surface USB-C Travel Hub):
- Plug the hub into the Surface USB-C port.
- Then connect an HDMI cable from the hub’s HDMI port to the monitor’s HDMI input.
Cable quality and type
For reliable video:
- Use high‑quality cables; USB4/Thunderbolt 4–certified USB‑C cables are recommended.
- If using HDMI, ensure the cable is HDMI 2.0 rated.
- Keep cable length short (ideally ≤ 6 ft / 1.8 m) to avoid signal issues.
Settings and updates
Beyond basic display settings, check the following:
- Display input on the monitor
- Set the monitor/TV input to HDMI (or the correct port name) using its on‑screen menu.
- Windows display mode
- Press Windows logo key + P and choose Duplicate or Extend as desired.
- System updates on Surface
- Open the Surface app → Help & support → check update status → select Check for updates to install any available driver/firmware updates.
- Cable/adapter seating
- Firmly reinsert the USB‑C adapter/cable into the Surface and the HDMI cable into the monitor.
If there are still issues, follow the troubleshooting guidance for external displays and video cables in the referenced articles.
References:
AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information. - Prefer Designed for Surface or Surface USB-C to display adapters: