How to Connect Xbox to Laptop with HDMI? Why Arzopa Portable Monitors Are the Best Alternative

Searching for how to use a laptop as a monitor for Xbox with HDMI? You're not alone. Many Xbox gamers in small spaces or on the go wonder: can I connect my Xbox to my laptop screen using an HDMI cable? While it seems straightforward, there's a common misconception behind this idea.

Why You Can't Use a Laptop as an HDMI Monitor for Xbox？

When you plug an HDMI cable from your Xbox into your laptop, nothing happens. That’s because: Most laptop HDMI ports are output-only, not input.

In simple terms, your laptop can send video out to a monitor or TV - but it can’t receive video in from your Xbox. Unless your laptop specifically supports HDMI-in (very rare), you won't be able to use your laptop as an Xbox monitor this way.

How to Connect Xbox to a Laptop with HDMI Step-by-Step? (If Your Laptop Has HDMI Input)

You'll need a laptop with an HDMI input port. Most modern laptops come equipped with this port but double-check to be sure.

1. Turn off the Xbox console: Before connecting, make sure your Xbox is turned off. This helps avoid connection issues.
2. Plug the HDMI cable into the Xbox: Insert one end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI Out port on the back of your Xbox. Make sure it is connected firmly.
3. Get your laptop ready: Place your laptop near the Xbox. Find the HDMI input port on your laptop. If it doesn't have one, use a suitable HDMI adapter.
4. Connect the HDMI cable to your laptop: Insert the other end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI input port (or adapter) on your laptop. Make sure it is secure.
5. Change the laptop display settings: Your laptop may automatically detect the Xbox signal. If it doesn't, switch the input manually:
   For Windows: Press Win + P, then choose “Second screen only” or “Extend.”
   For Mac: Go to System Preferences > Displays and select the input source.
6. Connect the Xbox controller: connect a controller to play. You can do this in two ways:
   USB: Plug the controller into the laptop with a USB cable.
   Bluetooth: Put the controller in pairing mode. Then, connect it through your laptop’s Bluetooth settings.
7. Adjust Xbox display settings: You may need to change the display resolution to match your laptop screen:
   Press the Xbox button on the controller.
   Go to Profile & System > Settings > General > TV & Display Options.
   Choose the best resolution and refresh rate for your screen.

How to Connect Xbox to a Laptop Screen？(Alternative Way)

Method 1: Use the Xbox App with Remote Play

This is the most convenient way to play Xbox games on your laptop wirelessly — especially for Xbox Series X/S remote play or Xbox One streaming to PC.

Steps to Use the Xbox App with Remote Play

1. Make sure your Xbox and laptop are on the same Wi-Fi network

2. On Xbox: Go to Settings > Devices & Connections > Remote Features，Enable "Remote features"

3. Download and open the Xbox app on your Windows laptop

4. Sign in with your Xbox account and select “Remote play”

Benefits of Using the Xbox App with Remote Play

• No cables or extra hardware

• Works anywhere with stable internet

• Great for casual gaming and multitasking

Method 2: Use an HDMI Capture Card

Want to connect your Xbox to a laptop using HDMI? You can, with a capture card. This method is common for streamers or content creators who want to display Xbox gameplay on a laptop.

Preparations for Using Laptop as a Monitor for Xbox

• Xbox console (Xbox Series X/S or Xbox One)

• HDMI capture card (Elgato HD60 S, AVerMedia, etc.)

• USB cable

• Streaming software (like OBS Studio)

How to set it up:

1. Plug your Xbox HDMI cable into the input port of the capture card

2. Connect the capture card to your laptop via USB

3. Open OBS or another compatible app — Xbox screen will appear

Note: There’s some input lag, so this is not ideal for competitive gaming.

The Best Way: Connect Xbox to Arzopa Portable Monitor

Rather than trying workarounds, the easiest and most lag-free solution is to connect your Xbox directly to a portable monitor with HDMI input — like those from Arzopa.

Why Arzopa is the Best Way?

Arzopa portable monitors are designed for plug-and-play HDMI gaming. They're lightweight, ultra-slim, and compatible with:

• Xbox Series X/S

• PS5 / PS4

• Nintendo Switch

• Steam Deck

• Laptops & mobile devices

No software, no delays — just pure gaming.

When Should You Use a Portable Monitor for Xbox?

• Traveling: Game on the go with your Xbox and a lightweight Arzopa screen

• Dorm Room: No desk space for a big monitor? This is your solution

• Streaming: Dual-screen setup made easy with Arzopa + capture card

• Temporary Gaming Setup: Need to game outside the living room? Just plug and play

Top models of Portable Monitor for Xbox gaming

How to use Arzopa with Xbox?

Many Arzopa monitors support both power and display through a single USB-C cable, minimizing cable clutter.

1. Connect Xbox to the monitor via HDMI cable

2. Power the monitor via USB-C or outlet

3. Turn on the console — done

Conclusion

Most laptops don’t support HDMI input, so using them as a monitor for Xbox isn’t feasible. While the Xbox App or capture card are useful alternatives, the best solution for low latency and high-quality gameplay is to connect your Xbox directly to an Arzopa portable monitor.

Affordable, portable, and game-ready — it’s time to level up your Xbox experience.

FAQs

Can I connect my Xbox Series X to my laptop using HDMI?

Short answer: Not directly.

Most laptops only have HDMI output ports, meaning they can send a video signal to another display (like a monitor or TV) but cannot receive an HDMI signal from an Xbox or any other console. Unless your laptop has HDMI input (which is rare), this method won’t work.

What’s the best way to play Xbox on a laptop screen?

There are two main ways:

• Use the Xbox App with Remote Play (wireless, convenient for casual use)

• Use a capture card (HDMI-based, better for recording/streaming)

But the most seamless and low-lag option is to skip the laptop entirely and use a portable monitor for Xbox like those from Arzopa.

Can I use a portable monitor as an Xbox screen?

Absolutely. Arzopa portable monitors are plug-and-play compatible with Xbox Series X, Series S, and Xbox One via HDMI. Just connect your console with an HDMI cable and you’re good to go — no lag, no complicated setup.

How do I connect PS5 to my laptop screen using HDMI?

Unfortunately, just like with Xbox, most laptops don’t support HDMI input. Therefore, you can’t connect a PS5 to a laptop screen directly with HDMI. But here are your alternatives:

Option 1: Use PS Remote Play App

• Works wirelessly

• Requires stable internet

• Compatible with Windows and macOS

Option 2: Use a Capture Card (HDMI to USB)

• PS5 → HDMI cable → capture card → USB to laptop

• View gameplay via OBS or similar software

Option 3: Use an Arzopa Portable Monitor

• PS5 → HDMI → Arzopa display

• Instant setup, no latency