macOS Tahoe External Monitor Not Working/Recognizing? Fixed!

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When it comes to portability and durability, the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro are often top choices. However, with screen sizes ranging from only 13 to 16 inches, many users choose to connect a second, larger monitor for both professional tasks and entertainment. Setting up a separate display on a MacBook is straightforward: simply connect the external monitor to your Mac using the appropriate port and cable.

But sometimes, things don't go as planned. If your Mac isn't detecting your external monitor, especially after the macOS Tahoe update, don't worry. After identifying the possible causes, we have gathered 6 proven solutions to help resolve the macOS Tahoe external monitor not working issue.

Let's go.

Why Is My External Monitor Not Detected on macOS Tahoe?

Understanding what may have caused the external monitor not to be detected by your MacBook can help you quickly find the right solution. If you're unsure what's causing the problem, here are some common reasons for macOS Tahoe external display not working:

• Temporary system glitches
• Incompatible cable or adapter
• Loose connection
• Incorrect display settings
• Outdated macOS
• Hardware issues with the ports or display

How to Fix the "macOS Tahoe External Monitor Not Working" Issue

Resolving the issue of a second monitor not working on a Mac involves addressing both hardware and software problems. You may have attempted some of these solutions already, but reviewing them here ensures you can try them again in case you overlooked any key details.

Fix 1. Restart Your Mac

Occasionally, your Mac may experience glitches that prevent it from immediately recognizing connected external devices. Restarting your Mac can prompt it to detect external devices, including another monitor. This method often fixes common macOS Tahoe external monitor issues.

You can restart your Mac by clicking the Apple logo and selecting Restart. Alternatively, force a restart by holding down the power or Touch ID button for 5 seconds, then pressing the same button to turn your Mac back on.

Fix 2. Make Sure the Cable Connection Is Secure

Since your external display is connected to your MacBook with a wired cable, ensure the connection is secure. Unplug the cable and plug it back in, making sure both your Mac and the monitor are firmly connected.

Fix 3. Check if You Are Using the Correct Cable, Port, or Adapter

First, confirm your cable is compatible with both your Mac and the monitor. Macs often require specific types of cables, such as USB-C, Thunderbolt, HDMI, or DisplayPort.

Here is how to check the supported cable by Mac:

Step 1. Choose from the Apple menu and select System Settings.

Step 2. Click Help from the top menu bar.

Step 3. Choose [Your Mac Model] Specifications, such as MacBook Pro Specifications.

Step 4. Scroll down to Display Support or Video Support.

For MacBook Airs, an external monitor typically connects through a USB-C or Thunderbolt port, while MacBook Pros commonly use the HDMI port. If one port doesn’t work, try another, and make sure you are using the correct adapters or dock. This can help resolve macOS Tahoe external monitor not working or macOS Tahoe not detecting a second display issues.

Fix 4. Adjust the Display Settings

If your Mac doesn't detect an external monitor, manually force it to scan for connected displays. This technique is useful for a macOS Tahoe external display not working problem.

Step 1. Choose Apple menu > System Settings.

Step 2. Go to the Displays option in the sidebar.

Step 3. Press and hold the Option key to unhide the Detect Displays button.

Step 4. Click Detect Displays to help your Mac recognize the connected external monitor.

Fix 5. Check for any signs of hardware damage

Inspect the ports on your Mac and monitor for physical damage. Debris or deformed ports can prevent detection. Test the display with another computer; if it still doesn't work, the monitor may be faulty.

Fix 6. Update macOS

If your external monitor remains undetected, updating macOS Tahoe can resolve underlying system issues.

Step 1. Go to Apple menu > System Settings.

Step 2. Select General > Software Update.

Step 3. Click Update Now or Upgrade Now if available.

Improve Your Mac's Performance for Faster External Display Detection

When your Mac runs slowly, it may struggle to detect external devices. Closing unnecessary apps, managing startup items, and freeing up storage can improve detection speed.

BuhoCleaner optimizes storage and boosts overall Mac performance, enhancing macOS Tahoe external monitor detection.

Key features:

• Remove large, duplicate, and junk files to free up storage
• Uninstall apps that may conflict with the external display
• Free up RAM for external monitor detection
• Manage startup items for faster external display recognition
• Monitor system status in real time

Conclusion

If your Mac is not detecting an external display, this article provides 6 ways to fix macOS Tahoe external monitor issues, including cases where the external display is not working or a second display is not detected. Start by restarting your Mac, checking connections, cables, ports, and adapters. Adjust display settings and ensure macOS is up to date.

After resolving the macOS Tahoe external monitor not working issue, install BuhoCleaner to enhance your Mac's performance and speed up recognition of connected displays.