Use iMac As MAIN MONITOR For M1/M2/M4 Mac Mini With THIS! 🤯

[@LamarMK]

Products Featured in this Video ⬇️ Luna Display on Website: shop.astropad.com/products/luna-display?sca_ref=1718173.7n0JoP9lUg Luna Display on Amazon: amzn.to/3CQMXe6 OWC Thunderbolt Dock on Amazon: amzn.to/3Lv5qhb Cable Matters USB-C SSD Enclosure on Amazon: amzn.to/3G8ZAkK Thunderbolt 3 Cable on Amazon: amzn.to/3G8ZAkK 1TB SSD Drive on Amazon: amzn.to/3lxcsaS Ethernet Adapter on Amazon: amzn.to/3wD1lCh 120GB SSD Drive on Amazon: amzn.to/39FHTga SSD SATA Connector on Amazon: amzn.to/3wzDaWk Monitor Arm on Amazon: amzn.to/3GkcHzH M1 Mac Mini on Amazon: amzn.to/3LCsoTA LG Ultrawide Monitor on Amazon: amzn.to/3PLv0Cb iMac(Newer Model compared to mine) on Amazon: amzn.to/3PBdrnU Magic Keyboard on Amazon: amzn.to/3LyU0ZK Magic Mouse 2 on Amazon: amzn.to/3MAGV3D USB-C to DisplayPort Cable on Amazon: amzn.to/383x4US Logitech Speakers on Amazon: amzn.to/3NrWN8B Mandalorian Funko Pop on Amazon: amzn.to/3MDWZSi As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I may earn commissions for purchases made through the links above.

[@helensimpson65]

Hi I'm thinking about buying the imac mini rather than a new imac due to finances but I ddont have another monitor only my imac so can I still use the imac mini with my imac as my monitor? Thanks

[@LamarMK]

@@helensimpson65 Hi, are you getting a Mac Mini? If yes, then you can use it with your iMac as the monitor just as I showed in the second half of the video.

[@helensimpson65]

@@LamarMK hey yes Mac mini thanks that's great! I'll be sure to watch all the video again to set it up when I buy it cheers 😊

[@LamarMK]

@@helensimpson65 Awesome, sounds good. Hope it works great for you. 😊

[@surjadharma3518]

Hi Lamar, pls help with short description what I need to buy if just want to connect MacMini 2023 to iMac late 2012 as main display? Thanks

[@MarieGlynn]

June 2023 update: updates to the Luna software and Mac OS Ventura make it easier to set the old iMac as your main display. Once you’ve got the Luna apps up and running on both computers, the Primary Luna will ask do you to choose between left, right and custom. If you click custom, you are taken to the display settings in your new Mac’s OS where you can choose Luna Display as your main display. That choice is not the first option in that menu but is found under ‘color profiles.’

[@LamarMK]

Thanks for sharing! 👍💪

[@dufrain79]

Do you know what the supported resolutions are or have you had a chance to try 4k for 27’?

[@GUTTAANDSAINT]

I have a Mac mini and a 2012 iMac. Will the connection stay consistent while live streaming and or editing a final cup pro?

[@LamarMK]

The best consistent connection would be connecting the Luna Display over Ethernet or Thunderbolt.

[@GUTTAANDSAINT]

@@LamarMK I appreciate your content and the quick response big fella! I edit a lot in Final Cut Pro and really don’t want to spend the money on buying monitor for my Mac mini.

[@LamarMK]

@@GUTTAANDSAINT Thanks, I’m glad you appreciate the content, I try my best with them. From the comments I’ve seen some people use this setup for video editing as well rather than buying a new monitor. It’s truly unique!

[@zacharylonsway2024]

Zero lag method. You can use a thunderbolt2 to thunderbolt3 adapter and a thunderbolt3 cord or USBc to USBc (depending on year of IMac).The only issue is you have to have keep a keyboard synced to the iMac. Wake the connected iMac and press cmd+f2 on its keyboard. It syncs immediately. I also use this method to use my 2014 iMac as a monitor for my newer MacBook Pro.

[@LamarMK]

Luna Display now supports thunderbolt connections as well. 👍💪

[@nikolatesla7983]

Please clarify this meyhod: you use theis both cables/adpaters attached and your macbook pro is a M1 chip using a Imac as monitor ? And does it work like a ols Target Display Mode ? Thank you

[@mrhobs]

​@@nikolatesla7983 Yes, I too would like some clarification (or even a video) diving into this, weighing out the pros and cons. (Hopefully all pros, but... there's probably some reason people don't do this...)

[@dariofromthefuture3075]

TELL US MORE. I'm weighing getting a new monitor which i really do no want to do.

[@surjadharma3518]

So thats mean you don't need to use Luna display anymore? I want to connect iMac 2012 to newest Mac Mini 2023. Can you help describe more detail what I should do? Thanks

[@andrewbrown8148]

I'm looking at buying the new M4 Mac Mini to replace my 2012 iMac and would love to use the iMac as the monitor. Will have to check this out~!

[@LamarMK]

💪

[@alomfaizal4873]

is it working now?

[@denisemc607]

I have tested it long term it isn't great until Luna upgrade the software. On sleep it disconnects and the speakers don't work :-( Had to abandon it

[@ScottRedstone]

Just got new mini M1. IMac getting slow. Was looking for new monitor then found out I can use iMac as a monitor. Saved me from spending lots of money for a lesser quality monitor than on my iMac. Now to get Luna up and running.

[@LamarMK]

Congrats! Great way to save money and keep the iMac going. 👍💪

[@4rc3l14]

How did you set it up ? Could you please tell me how? I just got a mini m2 but I don’t want to spend more money on a monitor. I have an iMac 2011 27”

[@zoltanzerohero3099]

I would like to know too how you connected. Thx.

[@Art-G-photo]

@@4rc3l14did you figure it out? I have the same monitor

[@bradyvelvet9432]

I will keep this video in mind when my 2017 27" imac becomes obsolete It would be a shame to lose such a great 27" screen Also a shame Apple couldn't just make things easier and just kept target display features . . . Great Video!

[@aragianmarko]

does it work, i have the same ideas. Thinkuing of buying an m1 mini but not sure if i can use my 2017 i5 as a display Thanks !

[@LamarMK]

Good idea! Thanks, Glad you liked the video. 👍💪

[@LamarMK]

@@aragianmarko You should be able to. 👍💪

[@chudopalov1977]

Unfortunately this video is an advertising. You can’t use 5k mode.

[@bazwillrun]

@@chudopalov1977 dont be an asshole all your life take a day off...its not advertising anything

[@KitchenPlatform]

Luna Display costs around 14k in India, there may be additional customs duty and shipping charges. New 4k monitor costs around 22k...

[@LamarMK]

For your location it might make sense to just buy a Monitor, unless you just want something cool. 👍💪

[@LoodgieterDenHaagStad]

sound also works on the imac

[@LamarMK]

Sound comes from the M1 Mac Mini or any speakers you have connected to it. 👍💪

[@scrow9]

Once I set this up, I wasn't clear how I can switch back to using my iMac as a computer (vs just a monitor) and when I do so will I be able to use my new external monitor as a secondary monitor for the iMac? Oh and thanks for the great series of videos you've posted on this topic!

[@scrow9]

I think I caught on second viewing that you can just hit the escape key to switch back to the regular iMac, am I right?

[@LamarMK]

@@scrow9 You’re welcome, glad you like the videos. Yes, all you have to do is press and hold the escape key to go back to the regular iMac. 👍💪

[@mattalber]

Thanks alot man. Looks like the price is now $119 but well worth it...maybe =) Do you happen to know if Luna will work connecting an M1 iMac to an older 2011 iMac as well? I have a thunderbolt to ethernet adapter for my M1 iMac. Will it work the same as the M1 Mini?

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome man! It works with Macs 2011 and newer. Yes, it should work the same. 👍💪

[@johncaccioppo1142]

This is an insane amount of effort for a second monitor compared to pc's that take three clicks and a second hdmi cable. But kudos to you for figuring it out and doing such a detailed job of explaining it.

[@LamarMK]

Lol thanks. Things are sometimes more complicated with Apple. 😁👍💪

[@johncaccioppo1142]

​@@LamarMK Yeah, and I don't really want to complain because I don't understand the system I'm complaining about as much as I know MS, which I know enough to despise thoroughly. Here's a question for you: is it possible to create a user account for security purposes the same way you would in Windows or is that not something you do? I tried and all I figured out is that a guest account doesn't work for that because you can't save anything.

[@NathanKozyra]

Keep in mind he's not connecting to a second monitor, he's connecting to *another computer*. Connecting a second monitor is just as trivial on a Mac as it is on a PC.

[@johncaccioppo1142]

@@NathanKozyra not my Mac.

[@NathanKozyra]

@@johncaccioppo1142 Not your mac what? If you have HDMI out (like most Macs back to 2010) and Thunderbolt or USB-C or Firewire or a Display port (like most other Macs), you can easily plug in two monitors without any extra work. This is specifically for repurposing an iMac as a monitor. It's not analogous to just plugging in a separate monitor, regardless of operating system.

[@Mr-Roberto-Flak7]

Great Idea & Insight.... I just did not want to buy a new monitor as I have a 27" iMAC Only 4 years old...yet Intel... So sad that Logic Pro x does not support some features only for the new Silicone chips... This would enable me to be make good of something I did not want to just throw away !!! Thanks !!!

[@petethompson6689]

This is perfect for my new Mac Mini M2 pro coming. I have an iMac 5K 27" and dont want to pay $2000 for studio display. Thanks

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome, happy to help! I have another video where I show how to use the Mac Mini with an iPad as well. 👍💪

[@hazimrozmi2352]

Can you get back to us, when that happen omg blow my mind dude

[@T2MARA]

How did it go?

[@SaritaSalvaje]

@@LamarMKhow do you get it running on the iMac with the mini without a display ?

[@nasihatofficial]

Can I use an iMac 2019 as an external display for an iMac 2020? or the opposite?

[@LamarMK]

Yes, on the Luna Display it’s called Mac to Mac mode.

[@LamarMK]

Please Subscribe and help me reach 1 Million Subscribers on KZbin. The ultimate goal for this channel is to create a large community where we all can talk and learn from each other. Let's make this channel the friendliest community on KZbin. If you share the same passion, please give this video a big Thumbs up and Subscribe. What you'll find here is complete Honesty! 👍💪

[@poorfesor]

For the non pro pick up a 43 inch 4k TV for a couple hundred and avoid all the hookup problems. If you need more monitor a 75 inch 4k TV can be had for $500.00 to $700.00

[@mmenigma8211]

How cool. Will this same setup work with Macbook Air M1 and a Late 2012 iMac 27?

[@LamarMK]

Yes, it will. The iMac must be running macOS 10.11 (El Capitan) or later. 👍💪

[@granta76]

hello there, so how that is work?

[@take-5-films]

What are the workarounds if you also need Ethernet for internet access? I don't want to use WiFi. Would I need to use an Ethernet-to-USB or Ethernet-to-Thunderbolt adapter on the Mac Mini (or an Ethernet dock with multiple ports) to add a secondary Ethernet port for internet access while using Luna Display over the primary Ethernet connection?

[@LamarMK]

@@take-5-films A regular USB-C to Ethernet adapter is good. Linked one in the pinned comment.

[@JamBeatt]

Thanks Lamar - great video!. Just one question: is there a way to set up Luna Display without needing a second monitor - just the old iMac? I've just bought a Mac Mini M2, and I can't get it to work with a couple of older monitors (Dell and Acer) that don't have HDMI ports. I've tried using a VGA to HDMI adapter, but nothing happens. Do I have to obtain a second monitor just to set up the iMac as my only display, and then I can use the iMac as my only monitor? Or would I be better off getting a different adapter to connect the Acer or Dell, and forget about the iMac? The older monitors seem to have DisplayPort ports - maybe a DisplayPort to HDMI or Thunderbolt adapter would work? Many thanks for any advice!

[@jenimv43]

I have the same question. I'm thinking of buying a mac mini M2 and want to use my late 2014 imac a the main (only) display. I could borrow another monitor if necessary to set up but then want to use the imac on its own.

[@kmf9921]

Questions, questions, questions. First, thanks Lamar for giving me hope that my late 2012 iMac 27" isn't useless. So here goes. I watched the video and noticed you turned the firewall and encryption off on when connecting the mac-mini to the iMac. Did you turn them back on at some point and I missed it, or how are you protecting the computer when those setting are turned off? Sadly, my iMac is getting slower and slower and I'd like to upgrade to the new mac-mini M4, but use my existing iMac 27" display. I hope it can work otherwise what a waste of a great display monitor. Many thanks in advance.

[@amharr1923]

Hi Lamar! Could you please make a tutorial video how to setup your old iMac with the external SSD? I have my 2013 iMac and thinking to upgrade to SSD..appreciate if you could do so. Thanks!

[@airship9637]

Found this > kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZeop2eDj9-Kgq8

[@JTB--]

Great video! So I have a 2021 M1 iMac and was wondering if it's possible to connect this new M4 Mac Mini to it? Kind of like having 2 computers in One. I'm trying to see what all my options are. Thanks!!

[@davemarriott9332]

Great video man! I'm working on having my DAW on a new M2 Mini so this was extremely helpful thank you!!

[@LamarMK]

Thanks! You're welcome, glad you appreciate it. 👍💪💯

[@greeng3ski]

To go headless (older iMac as only monitor for the new Mac mini) do you need to buy a separate mouse for setting up the Luna Display? I only have the original Apple mouse and keyboard that came with my old iMac. I have not purchased the Mac mini yet.

[@LamarMK]

You can probably try to unpair them from each other if you only have the one mouse and keyboard.

[@brucekennedy5274]

Thanks for an excellent in-depth video. My question is - How’s the lag? I’m considering using my 2015 iMac as a display for an M1 Mac mini (while I wait for the M1x machines to finally arrive). I’m mostly thinking of Final cut use. Do you think it’s a viable option?

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome, glad you appreciate it. I’ve never used it for video editing, just more of a second display. Occasionally there’s some lag, I wouldn’t recommend it for long term video editing use. Then again my iMac is 2013 so it might even perform better on your 2015 iMac. 👍💪

[@brucekennedy5274]

@@LamarMK thanks Lamar. I think you’re right. Still worth a look as a second monitor solution tho. Thanks

[@LamarMK]

@@brucekennedy5274 You’re welcome! Stay tuned for more. 👍💪

[@pirii88]

@@brucekennedy5274 I've the same question. Do you used it in the meanwhile for video editing?

[@brucekennedy5274]

@@pirii88 Still using my 2015 5k 27 iMac for now. I feel like I waited too long and missed the M1 party, so hanging on for a few more moths (hopefully) for a big old upgrade - either an M1Pro mac mini, or a fancy new M1Pro iMac (if it's not ridiculously expensive). If I get mini, I expect I'll shell out for a decent 4k monitor tbh.

[@ReneArreolaArt]

Great video, thank you. I have ordered the Mac Mini M2 Pro, do you know if I can use this set up to use my iMac Late 2015 as a monitor running Monterey OS?

[@LamarMK]

Thank you! Yes, you should be able to.

[@sknemani]

Been a year since this video. I am curious has anybody used this for an year! How is the reliability of Luna display after such long term use. I am considering buying a Mac Studio to pair with iMac using Luna display now, but am sure concerned about how reliable this approach is and would like to hear people talk of their experience.

[@hugonot2008]

Did you try? It works? tried to download Luna software for Mac and it is corrputed (both primary and secondary) - instalation impossible.

[@sknemani]

@@hugonot2008 I never got it. My plans to upgrade are on hold. Let me know how it goes for you and if you were able to figure out a solution.

[@willienewkum]

Lamar, Have u had any lag issues using the setup as a primary display? Got into an argument at the Apple store w/ a sales guy about it. Kinda think he wants to sell me a $$$monitor along w/M2 Pro. I'd rather repurpose my old Retina 5K, 27-inch, 2017 and use the savings to get upgrades.Thanks, UR one of the few really showing an accurate demo!

[@LamarMK]

Hey Willie, are you connecting over WiFi? If you’re noticing a lot of lag, you can reduce it by using a a high rated Ethernet cable, maybe a Cat 7. You can also connect it using a Thunderbolt cable.

[@willienewkum]

@@LamarMK THX! Actually I'm just about to order it all and wanted your ideas on that. The cat 7 cable seems the best way. When I get it all set. I'll give U a shout.

[@rnerissa3843]

Such a great way to “re-purpose” the iMac in case ppl don’t have the means to upgrade to the new M1x models!

[@LamarMK]

Yup! A lot of people want to use their iMac as a monitor for their M1 Mac Mini so they don’t have to buy a new monitor. 👍💪

[@Maximara]

@@LamarMK It would have been nicer if Apple had kept the old Target Display feature so we didn't have to go through these hoops.

[@LamarMK]

@@Maximara Even then you’d only be able to use it as a second display and not the main display like with the Luna Display.

[@Maximara]

@@LamarMK Uh that is not how Target Display worked as demonstrated by this video where two different iMacs are used as the *only* monitors for a Mac Pro kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHK6lqiNpd2JZs0 Livewire went further claiming "Your iMac should automatically recognize the presence of a digital video signal at the Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt port and enter Target Display Mode" www.lifewire.com/use-imac-as-monitor-with-target-display-mode-2260906

[@LamarMK]

@@Maximara Thanks for sharing the info, I’ll have to look further into this and see if there’s a way to make it work again. 👍💪

[@kentek3141]

I have Luna Display working...sorta. How did you set up the mouse and/or which mouse type supported? And, have you set up so everything starts up automagically with out using 2 keyboards etc?

[@LamarMK]

If you found value in this video, give it a Thumbs up and let's get it to 1 Million Views! 🥳

[@alanabley525]

Thanks for this. Can you have the iMac as main display and your LG monitor as secondary?

[@levonsarkissians]

Thanks for the video. I hope you have a solution for the following issue I am facing: I have an iMac 5K 27” late 2014 model and want to use it as a second display connecting it to my M1Pro MacBook. According to my research only up to mid 2014 iMac models have this connectivity possibilities and on the later versions will seemingly not work. I don’t want to give up on my iMac as it is working properly and love the display. Your help would be highly appreciated.

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome. You can use the Luna display and follow the instructions in this video to accomplish that. 👍💪

[@drummertsprow]

Did this work on your iMac 5K 27?

[@bobh2185]

note that the MAC ONLY Luna is avail from seller for 59 + 9 + tax = about 72$ in my case so that is a possibility.

[@sherwingt]

If the M1 is connected to the iMac via ethernet as a main display, how will I get an internet connection (LAN) if I don't want the wifi connection?

[@LamarMK]

Hmmm, interesting. I haven’t tried any accessories with that yet to test since I mainly use my M1 Mac Mini on WiFi.

[@sherwingt]

Yeah, coz I prefer ethernet on my desktop setup rather than wifi. Do you think thunderbolt cable will work?

[@LamarMK]

@@sherwingt You can always use an Ethernet adapter to connect your internet to.

[@sherwintogonon5309]

@@LamarMK Oh yeah, I see I will try thanks.

[@LamarMK]

@@sherwintogonon5309 You’re welcome. Stay tuned for more. 👍💪

[@1lifelive570]

Hello, so if you are using your ethernet port on your Mac Mini to connect to the ethernet port on the iMac for Luna, does that mean the only way they connect to the internet is with WIFI? Is there a way to still have both computers connected to the internet through the faster option of ethernet cables? Are you using a USB C to Ethernet adapter to connect the Mac Mini with an Ethernet cable? Any option for the older iMac or just keep in on WIFI? Thanks in Advance!

[@LamarMK]

Hi! You can use a USB-C to Ethernet adapter like the one linked in the pinned comment and description for your internet connection. You’re welcome.

[@Zelig2Cents]

First of all, real great pacing! I like how you shot everything, you're speaking style, how efficiently you communicated the info, everything. Really great job! I have a need quite similar to this and I hope I can do it and that you can help me! I'm waiting for my new 14" MacBook Pro to arrive and I already have a 2010 21" iMac. Since the MacBook Pro does not have a legitimate Ethernet port (although I DID buy the Thunderbolt 3 to Ethernet adaptor) can I do the same thing or does this only work with the Mac Mini? My iMac has a mini display port on it, but the graphics card in the iMac only allows that to be used to feed a signal OUT to another display. It cannot be used as in input. My ideal goal would be to have the displays both on my 14" MacBook and my 21" iMac working as a multi-display solution. Would help my work flow IMMENSELY! Ultimately, I'll get multiple "legitimate" displays to serve this purpose, but cash-wise I pretty much spent all that is practical on my MacBook and would love to avoid more expenses for awhile!

[@LamarMK]

Thank you for sharing your honest feedback, I really appreciate it. 💯 Yes, it works with MacBooks as well. If your iMac has macOS 10.11 or later you should be just fine connecting it to your MacBook using the Ethernet Adapter. 👍💪

[@Zelig2Cents]

@@LamarMK Thank you Lamar! I'm looking forward to putting this solution to work! Actually, I think it also makes sense to get one more functionality out of it and use it to make my iPad a secondary display when I'm not at my desk. Hey, I notice you said it's $79, but on their web site it says it's $129. Did they raise the price THAT much? Or did they redesign it and that's why the price is higher? Any clue on that?

[@domymontalto]

Would this work with a MacBook Pro M2 Pro and an iMac 2019 5K?

[@LamarMK]

Yes, it should work the same. 👍

[@user-wy4yd5hi4v]

Hi, i am exactly on the same boat. Did it work? Thanks in advance;)

[@corinnetitcomb7167]

Just what I've been looking for! I'm looking to run a Mac Mini off my iMac as it has the M1 chip. Your video was very concise and easy to follow.

[@LamarMK]

Happy to help. Glad you appreciate the video. 👍💪

[@lesliehowells]

I'm so grateful for these wonderful instructions: thank you! I've got everything set up, but have one issue. I do not want the dock on the secondary monitor (the iMac). I want the LG monitor to be primary. Any way around this? I don't believe I did anything to choose the iMac as primary, but for some reason, that's where my dock now is. Are you able to easily explain this?

[@LamarMK]

Hey, Leslie! How you been? If you drag the mouse to the bottom of the either screen, the dock will show up. You can also go to settings and under displays you can select the display you want as the primary.

[@lesliehowells]

@@LamarMK Thank you, Thank you, Sir! SO quick with a response: you continue to be my hero! I think the issue is that I have the dock on the left-hand side of my screen, and the secondary monitor is also on the left, and there's no workaround for a side dock if it's between the two monitors. I do have my LG as the primary, and my iMac as secondary (my iMac screen is ageing out and getting dim, so i prefer it to be secondary.) My LG is the primary in System Settings. I've never had two screens before! This is amazing!

[@LamarMK]

@@lesliehowells You’re welcome, always happy to help. On the primary mac you can also open the Luna display settings and choose left or right placements for the screens. 👍💪

[@mixmeup2121]

Hi Lamar, thank you for this video. I purchased the Luna Display because of this video. I find the refresh rate is not very good and I'm experiencing lagging even tho I am using the ethernet cable. It is a useful tool, but overall, frustrating to see that it is not a clean refresh rate and display has a lot of smog.

[@LamarMK]

Hey there, you’re welcome. Which iMac are you using? Are you experiencing terrible lag in a certain app? Does it perform the same over WiFi?

[@mixmeup2121]

@@LamarMK It is a 2014 running Vesion 10.15.7

[@airship9637]

At 2:04 -- How did you do that -- making the external drive run the iMac -- boot-up and data files? Looks like a solution I can use. Thanks!

[@LamarMK]

I just installed macOS on the external drive and set it as the main boot drive for the iMac. You can find some tutorials on how to do it, in the future I might make a video on it. 👍💪

[@ciaet3rnity]

Thanks for the video Lamar. Really helps with my current dilemma. Just got a couple of questions that I wish you could please let me know the answers to. Just wondering if the Mac Mini is still able to browse internet after the Ethernet cable been connected to the iMac for display purposes? Furthermore, if the setup is as is per your video, does the iMac need to be connected to the internet at all?

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome Charles, glad you appreciate the video. Stay tuned for more. Yes, you can still browse the internet on the Mac Mini with a WiFi connection or you can get a USB Ethernet Adapter to have another Ethernet port for the internet. No, the iMac does not need to be connected to the internet. 👍💪

[@davinphelps1863]

In addition to a Mac Mini and an iMac you also need an additional monitor to do this correct? I only have an iMac and a Mac Mini, I do not have a 2nd monitor, so I would not be able to setup my iMac as the main monitor without another monitor to initially set it up, correct? Thanks

[@LamarMK]

If you don’t have a second monitor, you can connect the Mac Mini to a TV using a HDMI cable and set it up that way. 👍💪

[@davinphelps1863]

@@LamarMK You are the best! Thank you!

[@LamarMK]

@@davinphelps1863 Thank you 😁! You’re welcome, stay tuned for more. 👍💪

[@dalroth10]

Great video, clearly explained and very useful. I have a question. Did you transfer all your data from the iMac to the Mac Mini before you set things up using Luna? I have a 2014 iMac which is nearing the end of its' useful life and am wondering what best to do. I could keep it and get a Mac Mini and Luna, or get a new iMac and dispose of the old iMac. Getting rid of the old iMac when it's working just fine seems a real waste though.

[@LamarMK]

Glad you appreciate it. You can transfer all your files from the iMac to your Mac Mini. The iMac’s sole purpose in this demonstration is to be used as a monitor and nothing else.

[@du-tz3wd]

Thank you for the video! i purchased it and love it so far. Just one question, is there a way you can use both imac and mac mini back and forth. Once esc out of the 2nd display(mac mini), how do you go back again to mini display from the imac display?

[@LamarMK]

You're welcome, glad you love it. In order to get back in, just open the Luna Display apps on both. 👍💪

[@JTechWP]

Great video, thanks, gonna pair a 2017 iMac with a Mac Studio. Really easy guide to follow and great tutorial :)

[@LamarMK]

That’s amazing! Thanks, glad you appreciate it.

[@ClubSleep]

This is my plan as well!

[@AsenPetrov]

J Tech WP, Is it working?

[@LamarMK]

@@ClubSleep 💪💪💪

[@rakeshgopidi4066]

@ Lamar MK - Tech Videos and More - During a connectivity test noticed that if we are using VPN on M1 and trying to connect to imac 2013 no matter which os you it will not allow to connect using LUNA DISPLAY USB-C

[@LamarMK]

Hmmm, Thanks for reporting. Try to reach out to their support and see if they can offer any help.

[@macdistributors]

Hello, Great video... and how about the iMac resolution when you used as a primary display ? I have a 5K iMac late 2015 and the resolution is soooo bad ...(1080p) when I use Luna Display, that is normal ?

[@LamarMK]

The Luna Display doesn’t have support for Retina Display, so that might be why you’re limited to 1080p.

[@tlcesq]

What a great instructional video! Worked well with an M1 and a 2011-27" monitor. Is there any way to utilize a second 2011-27" monitor with this setup?

[@LamarMK]

Thank you, glad you appreciate it. That would require some more experimenting. Stay tuned for more. 👍💪

[@arroyocatpumacita2458]

Excellent walkthrough. Clear and concise.

[@LamarMK]

Thanks, I’m glad you appreciate it. I try my best to keep things simple and easy to understand. 👍💪

[@tlcesq]

Thanks for the instructions. Was able to connect my mini1 to a 2011 monitor. Is it possible to connect a second 2011 monitor to the current work station? Would I do 2011-to-2011 via thunderbolt between the two monitors, or the non-secondary monitor directly with the mini?

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome. This is gonna require a bit of experimenting since the M1 Mac Mini has external display limits.

[@JosephAbarado]

Thanks Lemar! I was initially contemplating on buying a new 4k monitor as a secondary monitor. After watching your video, I totally changed my mind and saved at least $500! Thank you!

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome, Joseph. Glad I was able to help save you some money. 💯👍💪

[@yblanco]

Thanks for this Lamar. This video is amazing! I'm looking forward to purchase a M2 Mini and use it with my 27" iMac as primary screen. I have one question: when using the iMac as main screen for the Mini can I also use the iMac keyboard with the Mac mini just like you showed when using the iMac as second display?

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome, Yon. Haven’t tested that. 👍💪

[@migo6019]

I have IMac late 2013 which I want to use as a main monitor for new MacBook pro M1 13”. Would it work?

[@LamarMK]

Yes, my iMac is the late 2013 as well. 👍💪

[@RobertHagelberg]

Does the Ethernet cable need to be a crossover cable? I’m unable to connect via Ethernet using a regular cable. Also, trying to use the iMac as the main display is not smooth over wiFi despite having a strong connection. Had high hopes for Luna Display but I’m going to have to return it as there is too much latency and stability issues.

[@LamarMK]

No, you don't need a crossover cable. I just used a regular ethernet cable. Have you tried another Ethernet cable? I wouldn't recommend it for use over WiFi. Luna Display now supports Thunderbolt connection, so that's another option. 👍💪

[@seattlebeard]

Thank you for making such a helpful, well edited, easy to understand tutorial. I had to subscribe, because I want to see your other videos. :o)

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome! Thanks for the support, I try my best to keep things simple and easy to understand. 💯👍💪

[@paulinoo2]

Super video ! Does it work with Mac Studio ?

[@LamarMK]

Thanks! Yes, it should. 👍💪

[@lesliehowells]

Thank you SO much for this, and for crafting such an organized, concise, instructional, video! (FYI: the price on the Luna has LEAPED 50%: from the $80 you paid to $120 currently. Ouch!)

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome, thank you very much. I try my best with my videos, glad you appreciate it. Yup! I have another viral video on it as well, demand sky rocketed and so did the price. Stay tuned for more cool stuff. 👍💪

[@lesliehowells]

@@LamarMK I was fortunate, and impressed, that they offer an educational discount (poor Art Teacher, here!). FYI: your link for the Thunderbolt 3 Cable on Amazon takes one to the enclosure, not the cable (though I'm half Luddite, so I may be misunderstanding). To clarify: if you are only using an old iMac as a secondary monitor to a Mac Mini, you need only purchase the LunaDisplay module, and an ethernet cable, correct?

[@LamarMK]

@@lesliehowells Oh wow! I didn't know they offered that discount, that's awesome. Ahh, you're right seems like I copied and pasted the same link for the enclosure and Thunderbolt 3 cable. I just checked my Amazon order page for that thunderbolt cable and it seems it’s no longer for sale. Yes, as a secondary monitor only the Luna Display and Ethernet cable are needed.

[@lesliehowells]

@@LamarMK And now, I've confused myself, because the 2020 M1 Mac mini apparently doesn't even have USB-C ports, only Thunderbolt USB-4 ports. Whaaat? Is this why the Thunderbolt 3 Dock is needed?

[@lesliehowells]

(Also... how ON TOP OF IT ALL are YOU?! Bravo! I've had co-workers, heck: partners, less responsive! You are my hero!!!)

[@mariopalumbo9898]

Does this works for the Mac mini M2? Thanks for the very detailed video

[@LamarMK]

You're welcome. Yes, it should work. 👍💪

[@N-trepid1]

This is golden! Very well laid out instruction set. Thanks for putting this together!

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome, glad you appreciate it. 👍💪

[@75harg]

Hi!! Thanks for the help,, if i might ask,, i would need the Imac as primary display, is still necessary the red connection plug?? Thanks

[@LamarMK]

Hi, you’re welcome. Yes, you need the Luna Display.

[@WilfClegg]

Great video, thanks! I scrolled through the comments, to see if the Luna Display dongle is needed, when I connect the Mac Mini to the iMac, using the ethernet cable. Is the Luna Display dongle needed regardless of the configuration? Thanks again for the video!

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome, glad you appreciate the video. Yes, the Luna Display is needed regardless of the connection type you go with. Thanks, stay tuned for more. 👍💪

[@WilfClegg]

@@LamarMK ok, thanks…I’ll order one!👍

[@LamarMK]

@@WilfClegg You’re welcome, happy to help. 👍💪

[@irelana2650]

How does video editing work when you use the imac as main monitor ? Also can you switch between the imac and mac mini when using imac as headless display.?

[@LamarMK]

I haven’t tried it with video editing. Yes, you can switch between the Mac Mini and iMac. Just hold down the escape key on the iMac to go back to the regular iMac. 👍💪

[@jrwebb542]

I want to use my late 2015 iMac as my only monitor on my m1 mac mini, with the Luna Display. I have a couple of questions. 1. Do I setup it up initially as a secondary monitor with the Luna Display software or simply install the primary Luna Display software? 2. If so, do I then change the fire vault and other settings on the mac mini? 3. After installing as a primary do I turn the iMac on prior to turning on the mac mini? Any help before I try to get it going would be great. Well, I got it working as my main monitor but there is a noticeable amount of mouse and screen lag. I am connected via network cable, not wifi. Is that normal.Other wise it works fine.

[@LamarMK]

Glad you got it working. You can try a higher rated Ethernet cable. Cat 7, Cat 8 Etc.

[@gw9460]

May I ask what old iMac model do you have? I have a late 2013 Catalina, 10.15.7 version. It said this version does not have the target display function.

[@LamarMK]

I have the late 2013 iMac. You don’t need target display for this to work. 👍💪

[@MishaG9]

Can you do a video on how to connect ONE iMac screen to the mac mini? Thanks in advance! I don't have a second monitor. Is it possible?

[@LamarMK]

@@MishaG9 Connect it to your HDMI tv to set it up.

[@MishaG9]

@@LamarMK Thank you LAMAR, I'll give it a try.

[@filiphrkel]

when you connect imac with mini is it possible to do another screen connected to imac then ? or need to be connected to mini? thanks

[@LamarMK]

Only 1 connection to the iMac. With the new M2 Mini you might be able to connect additional monitors since they support more external displays.

[@ccy0246]

Lovely video!. I'm trying to find if late iMac 2012 can be used as external monitor for my macBook Air 2017 Big Sur. Could you let me know if it's possible at all ?

[@LamarMK]

Thanks, glad you like it. Yes, it will work with 2011 or later Macs running macOS 10.11 or later. 👍💪

[@ccy0246]

@@LamarMK hmm ok.. but what cables do I need ?? as it's MacBook Air and not Mac mini 🙁 meaning there's no ethernet port on my MacBook air. Apple website says you need thunderbolt but only for OS Catalina or before. Also, is Luna display absolutely needed for this to work ? 🙏🏻 Thanks!

[@yogawithandy]

Hands down the best video on this topic. I have a late 2015 iMac (4K monitor which is great) but until the Luna Display there was no (practical) way to connect to say the Mac Mini M1. I basically can't sell the iMac so instead of paying $400 on a new monitor I can keep using the 2015 iMac as the primary screen. Thank you and ✊. As a side note, do you know if it is possible to connect a Mac Mini M1 to a 2015 iMac as well as an iPad as a secondary monitor using the Luna?

[@LamarMK]

You're welcome, glad you appreciate the video. Try to connect the iPad to the Mac Mini with Sidecar and see if it works when everything is connected. 👍

[@BTNFILM]

I have 2011 imac and I am not able to upgrade anymore. So I was thinking to buy mac mini to connect with my imac. Do you think I can use FCPX to edit my videos? I won't be using secondary display. I would like to know if this is going to work. Thanks

[@LamarMK]

I haven’t used it for video editing. You can try to set it up with a high rated Ethernet cable or Thunderbolt Cable and see how it performs for you with video editing.

[@tlcesq]

Using this setup, can you still utilize the camera/microphone from the 27" iMac monitor?

[@LamarMK]

Not at the moment. The iMac is just a monitor.

[@vitusyu9583]

Thanks for your sharing, this solution is brilliant! However, one question is, if I need to keep using the Ethernet port on my iMac for Internet access, can I still use the Ethernet cable option for this Luna display function?

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome, glad you appreciate it. You can use a USB Ethernet adapter for internet, and use the main Ethernet port for the Luna Display. 👍💪

[@richardrem]

Hello Lamar, thank's for this tutorial. I have seen somewhere it is only working on some older Macs or from a centain year. Will this work on my iMac LATE 2015 and my nes M2 Mac mini thank's Richard

[@LamarMK]

Hey Richard! Yes, it works on Macs 2011 and newer. So it should work for you. 👍💪

[@armaniusmaximus]

Do I need to have a second display to initially setup the iMac to function as the Mini's main (and only) display? I only have an iMac and was thinking about getting a Mini, because my iMac is running slow.

[@LamarMK]

If you don’t have a second display, you can connect the Mac Mini to a TV via HDMI and set it up first. 👍

[@armaniusmaximus]

@@LamarMK Thank you! When using the iMac as a display, is there a way to access the iMac's internal drive from the Mini?

[@ericlmercer]

Q1: Can you connect an old iMac to a current m1 MacBook Pro (using an Ethernet dongle on the MacBook), pairing the two together with an Ethernet cable and get similar low-latency results you just showed? Q2: Luna prices seem to have gone from $79 to $129… Can we still get them at $79 somehow)? Thx for the great pacing & pro demo me friend.

[@LamarMK]

Yes, you should be able to connect it by Ethernet through the dongle. Yeah, the video went viral and the prices went up, I don’t think there’s any way to get it for $79 again. 👍💪

[@constantinranis]

To use the imac as main monitor on which computer you change the settings? The macmini or the imac ?

[@Maximara]

How would this work if all you had was the old iMac and the M1 MacMini? Also are drives connected to the iMac accessible to the M1 or do they have to be through the M1?

[@LamarMK]

For the initial setup you need to connect the M1 Mac Mini to a monitor or TV and install the app and enable the settings. Drives need to be connected to the M1 Mac Mini. 👍💪

[@Maximara]

@@LamarMK Bummer about not being able to access the drives of the iMac - it could have then doubled as a drive hub.

[@LamarMK]

@@Maximara Yeah. You can always quit the app on the iMac then Airdrop your files to the M1 Mac Mini and then reopen the App on the iMac.

[@mr_reborn]

I guess this would work with the 2017 imac too, then, right?

[@LamarMK]

Yes, 2011 and newer. 👍💪

[@genem6380]

Where do you go to security and privacy to set it up as primary display, on Mac mini or iMac? I am trying to set up my Mac mini to work on my iMac 27 inches without any other display. Thanks

[@LamarMK]

On both. Follow the part in the video where I get to that exact section and it should guide you through. 👍💪

[@genem6380]

@@LamarMK So, on my Imac I should have Luna display app or Luna secondary? Thanks

[@LamarMK]

@@genem6380 Luna Secondary. You’re welcome.

[@genem6380]

@@LamarMK Was able to connect it, but it is too laggy even with ethernet cable, mouse response is slow and when trying to watch KZbin video, it looks fuzzy. When stop motion or scrolling internet page, all looks clear. I am going to return it and possibly buy monitor.

[@DONCODONCO]

Nice it’s work. Could you explain what is the sequence of power on when imac is main display for Mac mini.

[@LamarMK]

Glad it works. You can power the Mac Mini on first and then the iMac. 👍💪

[@Pinky121971]

This is great Lamar, I want to use this set up using my old IMAC 2013, as display monitor for a new mac mini? However not sure if I can migrate my old files from the Mac mini if it has 512 GB, My old iMac internal storage has 1TB in it.?

[@LamarMK]

Glad you appreciate the video. For this setup you’re not migrating any of your files, you’re just simply using your iMac as a monitor for your Mac Mini, and all files are still stored on the Mac Mini. 👍💪

[@_marcosvaldes_]

SOLID GOLD INFORMATION!!!!!

[@LamarMK]

Thanks! Glad you appreciate it!!! 💯👍💪

[@markgagliardi1774]

Hi Lamar, does this setup offer any advantages over the usb-c to mini display adapter you highlighted in another video (my iMac is 2010). Do you gain any webcam functionality of the iMac with this setup? Do you have a video on how you setup your iMac to run off the ssd drive? I would like to see that as well. Thanks, really enjoy your channel. Cheers

[@LamarMK]

Hi Mark, can you share the video you're talking about? No webcam with this setup, it only acts as a display. I don't have a video on that SSD process as yet. I'm glad you enjoy my content, thanks for the support. 👍💪

[@markgagliardi1774]

@@LamarMK Hi Lamar, actually the video about using a usb-c to minidisplay port to use the 2010 iMac as a monitor was not yours, sorry! However, it does work great and I'm able to use my MacBook with the iMac when I need a larger screen. Thinking about buying a mac mini with this setup as my home desktop. Again, I enjoy your content, clear and concise, easy to follow along.

[@spookyaction4461]

I wonder it this will work if the ethernet cable is plugged into a dongle that is plugged into the macmini? ie the new imac ethernet port is on the powebrick into the fllor and it would be better to plug the ethernet cable into a usbc to ethernet dongle.

[@LamarMK]

It should still work the same. 👍💪

[@BBalasa]

Regarding the ethernet cable connection , are you using the crossover or straight one??

[@LamarMK]

Just a regular straight-through ethernet cable. 👍💪

[@anamargaridatavares5837]

Hi Lamar! Question - will this work to use a Mid 2011 iMac 21” (High Sierra) as display for new MacBook M1 Pro?

[@LamarMK]

Hi Ana! Yes, it will work. The Mac has to be 2011 on El Capitan 10.11 or later. 👍💪

[@kennethabarnhart]

I am thinking of using my 2013 iMac as the display for a new mini Mac. I have a question. I upgraded to a 2-tb solid state drive on the iMac when my drive was dying. Can I use this drive to store stuff when the Mac mini is the operating system? Can I maybe connect to the IMac drive like it as an external?

[@LamarMK]

You can’t use the iMac’s storage on the Mac Mini. The iMac is only acting as a monitor. 👍

[@carmenlopez702]

Great video. Do you turn the firewall up again after setting the iMac as a primary display?

[@carmenlopez702]

Ah, Firevault! Never mind.

[@rjmidd2650]

I also have the iMac 2013 all in one monitor. Looking to upgrade with the Mac mini. Will I still be able to use the iMac storage with the mini or only the monitor? Very good video by the way.

[@sajidrahman7065]

Awesome! thanks a lot for sharing it. Quick question: in order to make the secondary display (iMac) as the primary display, do I need to make changes to the iMac?

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome. Nothing major, I showed exactly what you need to change to set it up as the primary display in the video. 👍💪

[@alinemati3775]

Does it make imac faster or it's the same performance ?

[@LamarMK]

Doesn’t improve performance. It just acts as a monitor.

[@brianm850]

This was a great step by step thank you... really helped me. Wonder if I can throw a tech question at you. I'm set up thanks to your intructions, with a new M2 Mac Mini driving an iMac (2015) as the main monitor. It works great. However, I just noticed now that, when the Mac mini goes to sleep, the iMac monitor stays on the black "waiting to become a display" screen and I have no way of waking the Mini. From the black screen all I can do is hold the esc key to quit Luma display and start over. Is there a way around this?

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome, glad you appreciate it. Try to configure them to sleep at the same time without inactivity. For example you could set the Mac Mini to 15mins and 15mins on the iMAC.

[@jefrilay]

what imac model you are using on this video? do you think it will work on my imac late 2015 which unsupporting imac as secondary display using thunderbolt cable? I do hope you can answer this, it will be very helpful to me. And by the way, since I am using M1 macbook air, will usb c to ethernet cable adapter will not be a problem if connected to the imac ethernet port using ethernet cable? (because on mac mini you can use ethernet cable only, without any usb c to ethernet adapter. Thanks a lot, very useful video, I am subscribing now

[@LamarMK]

2013 iMac. Yes, it will work with your 2015 iMac. Luna Display now supports Thunderbolt connection so you can try that. Also, an Ethernet adapter should work. Thanks for the support. 👍💪

[@jefrilay]

@@LamarMK bro, i want to know 1 more thing, u r using m1 macmini right, if i use my 5k retina disply imac, how many yhe maximum resolution will be using luna display? So the source is m1 mac mini and the target display is 5k retina display. Hope u can answer this one too. Thanks a lot

[@glenboettcher5054]

I have two I-mac 21.5 2013. Can I use them to link together for display for a new Mac mini M1?

[@LamarMK]

Not with 2. Only 1.

[@chudopalov1977]

thank you for your video! is there any issues in 5K mode with 5k iMac?

[@LamarMK]

You're welcome. I'm not sure if they optimized it yet for 5k support, it might just work in 1080p. They are always making changes, so you can view their product page for updates.

[@ftmtrading2966]

Thanks for this video. I'll need to reference it when I get a new mac mini. Xcode and the app store have made my 2013 iMac obsolete. I am not quite clear, however, if it is possible to set up Luna Display with just the mac mini and the iMac. Do i have to set the iMac up as a secondary display first before making it the primary?

[@LamarMK]

You’re welcome! Initially it will be setup as a second display until you change it to being the main display as I show in the video.

[@stevio7777]

thanks! What if I want to use the ethernet port to connect to the router as well? thanks!

[@LamarMK]

You're welcome! You can use a USB-C to Ethernet adapter and connect from your router to that one. 👍💪

[@miaalikaki]

Hello! I suppose this could also work for the MAC Studio correct?

[@LamarMK]

Hello! Yes, it should work with the Mac Studio as well. 👍💪