iMac as external display for a Windows Laptop

[Painter2002]

Hello All,

Is it possible to use an iMac as a display with a Windows laptop?

I am debating about possibly purchasing a 27" retina iMac (used most likely), and am wondering if it is possible to use it as an external display for my MacBook Pro as well as a Windows (Lenovo Thinkpad) laptop. This would be replacing my 2 27" 1080 Samsung displays if I were to do this.

I know that there are the LG 4k displays, but if I am spending upwards of $700 for a 27 monitor I figure I might as well buy an iMac that can be used as a display, and (occasionally) use it as a desktop.

 

[sebulban]

Sorry but not possible

 

[mj_]

Look at that, a fellow Austinite

It was possible with older iMacs but at one point Apple decided that it was too user-friendly and should be discouraged. Apple giveth and Apple taketh away.

Either way, do you really think it's smart to spend $1,500 instead of $700 for a display just for the off-chance of using it as desktop computer occasionally? Plus, you can get the LG 27UD88 for less than $500 brand-new. I own the predecessor, the LG 27UD68 that still lacks USB-C, and it's an excellent display.

 

[Painter2002]

Look at that, a fellow Austinite

It was possible with older iMacs but at one point Apple decided that it was too user-friendly and should be discouraged. Apple giveth and Apple taketh away.

Either way, do you really think it's smart to spend $1,500 instead of $700 for a display just for the off-chance of using it as desktop computer occasionally? Plus, you can get the LG 27UD88 for less than $500 brand-new. I own the predecessor, the LG 27UD68 that still lacks USB-C, and it's an excellent display.

Well hello there neighbor!

I had a gut feeling it wouldn't work, but I figured it was with an ask.

You make a good point in regards to the price. I was looking at a few used iMacs that were going for less than a $1,000, but I suppose it would make more sense to just buy a new monitor, which would technically mean less chance of something break in the long run.

I will have to check out the LG model you suggested above. I have been a little underwhelmed by the 2 1080 Samsung monitors I have now (had them for 3 years), and one monitor is starting to develop pink off-tones so it is getting close to needing replacement. Thanks for the suggestion!