Using 5K iMac as MBP Display

[jmoore5196]

I realize my options are limited due to my hardware choices, but I have a question:

I have a 2014 5K iMac, and a new 15" tbMBP. I'd like to explore the option of using the MBP as my desktop machine with a 5K monitor. Rather than go out and buy one, at least, for a trial period, I'd like to use my existing 5K iMac for this purpose.

Does anyone know of a way to 'plug and play' my MBP on the iMac display? I bought a Thunderbolt cable and tried to make a Thunderbolt Bridge work, but success eluded me.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

 

[mlemonds]

I think you are looking for target display mode

For some reason I cant copy and paste on my phone... but google target display mode and see if that helps

 

[MacDevil7334]

I may be mistaken but I don't think any of the retina iMacs support target display mode. I'm not sure what you are trying to do is possible on the 5K iMac.

 

[jmoore5196]

Unfortunately, Target Disk Mode isn't supported by 5K iMacs ... that's what I meant about 'hardware choices.' I was hoping someone had another idea, but there probably isn't any way. I just hate that I have to go out and buy a monitor to determine whether I can work with my MBP as a desktop, while my 5K iMac sits idle.

I have a Thunderbolt Display that I can use, but the lack of resolution really bothers me ... and my aging eyes!

Thanks!

 

[Chancha]

Some newer external capture cards like the Elgato HD60S have a feature that gives you instant viewing of the input video feed, but it is limited to 1080p60 over HDMI. I believe this is the only tangible way to get your MBP's hardware video output lag-free into an iMac. There is currently no way at all to feed full 5K 60fps into the 5K screen except via the iMac (macOS) itself, which is in theory doable through some form of VNC / streaming but it is of course less than ideal.

Even if you go the 5K external monitor route, you may also have to re-consider stepping down to 4K, as the only realisitc option for tbMBP is the LG Ultrafine 5K which has been poorly received, and then the Dell and HP both requires dual DisplayPort which is really troublesome for a machine with only TB3 ports. There are much more options with 4K at various price point and feature sets, including USB-C native with hub function / charging.

 

[jmoore5196]

If someone handed me the LG 5K, I'd happily try it. Since that isn't likely, I imagine I'll have to wait until Apple releases the new display they promised us after they'd promised us they'd exited the display business.