I've been using my laptop with two external monitors for about two years now, always duplicating the laptop screen on the first external monitor while expanding the second screen. Recently, I ran into a problem where I can't duplicate the laptop screen anymore; it only allows me to extend it. When I try to duplicate it through Windows settings, the screens briefly duplicate for 1 or 2 seconds, but then it reverts back to extended mode, even after I select to keep the changes. The resolution on both screens is the same, and I haven't made any changes. All three screens are detected correctly and in order. Interestingly, I can duplicate the two external monitors without any issues. I've heard that using NVIDIA software might help, but it only shows the external monitors. I'm really in need of suggestions to fix this issue.
2 Answers
One thing to consider is testing each monitor individually. Try disconnecting the second external monitor and see if the laptop screen can duplicate with just one monitor connected. If it works, then reconnect the second one and adjust the settings to duplicate while both are plugged in. Sometimes, the order of display can affect how settings apply.
It sounds like a tough situation! Have you tried checking your display settings in Windows again? Sometimes resetting them back to default and then trying to set it to duplicate again can help. Also, make sure your graphics drivers are up to date; that's often a hidden culprit in these cases! Double-check your connections too and ensure everything is securely plugged in.
That's a solid point! Updating drivers can fix a lot of weird display issues. I've had similar problems before, and updating my graphics drivers completely solved it.
I did that too, but it still only duplicates for a moment. It's really strange how it just stopped working out of the blue.