How to Use an iMac as a Monitor? Compatibility Guide for macOS Users

In many Dubai offices, iMacs sit unused after upgrades. They’re clean, they still turn on, and they take up space. Meanwhile, employees share screens during meetings or events. So, when those iMacs are right there, why should businesses invest in extra monitors?

The idea to turn the iMac into a second display sounds simple, but is it really that easy? Not always. That’s why IT teams, event planners, and business owners are looking for easy solutions and better options.

In this blog, we’ll explain when and how you can use an iMac as a monitor. We will also discuss which models are compatible, and what to do if yours isn’t. We’ll also share a solution that can allow many UAE companies to rent Mac Pro and save money and time.

First Step: Check if Your iMac Can Be Used as a Monitor

You might have seen online tips that say, “Just press Command + F2.” That worked, but only for some iMac models – built before 2015. It was called Target Display Mode.

Apple removed that feature years ago. If you have a newer iMac (M1, M2, or Retina 5K), that shortcut won’t work anymore. You may need AirPlay, Luna Display, or an alternative method to use an iMac as a monitor. So, here’s the key rule:

If your iMac has a USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 port, it cannot be used as a wired external monitor. Before wasting money on cables or adapters, it’s best to check your model and macOS version.

Checking Your iMac Model: Which Models Can Be Used as Monitors?

Here’s a quick guide to check if you can use an iMac as a monitor through its model and eligibility:

You cannot use an iMac as a monitor with cables if it was manufactured between 2009 and 2014. Don’t waste time testing adapters that won’t work.

Step-by-Step: How to Activate Target Display Mode (If Your iMac Supports It)

Older iMacs can be easily turned into monitors. Here’s how to do it:

1. Check your macOS versions. The iMac monitor must run macOS High Sierra or an earlier version.
2. Get the right cable. Use a Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt 2 cable (not HDMI).
3. Connect both Macs.
4. Turn on the iMac and log in.
5. Press Command + F2 on the iMac keyboard.

The iMac screen should switch instantly. You can adjust brightness and volume from the source Mac.

Note: This method is not compatible with newer iMacs or macOS versions, such as Ventura or Monterey.

How to Use Newer iMacs as Monitors: Smart Alternatives

If your iMac is a newer model, such as the Retina 5K, M1, or M2 version, it does not support Target Display Mode. However, you can still use it as a secondary screen with a few modern solutions. Here’s how each one works and what to expect:

1. Use AirPlay to Mirror or Extend Your Display (macOS Monterey or Later)

AirPlay to Mac allows you to wirelessly mirror or extend your screen to another Mac, including your iMac if both are running macOS Monterey or newer.

How to set it up:

1. Ensure both Macs are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
2. On your primary Mac, click the Control Center in the top menu bar.
3. Select Screen Mirroring and choose your iMac from the list.
4. Your iMac will now show the mirrored or extended display.

Best for: Quick presentations, viewing dashboards, or sharing visuals wirelessly.

Limitations: It relies on Wi-Fi, so it may lag for high-performance or color-accurate tasks.

2. Use Luna Display to Convert Your iMac Into a Second Screen

Luna Display is a small USB-C or HDMI dongle that allows you to turn an iMac (or even a Windows device) into a full-second monitor with near-zero lag.

How to set it up:

1. Purchase a Luna Display dongle.
2. Plug the dongle into your main computer (Mac or PC).
3. Install the Luna apps on both the main device and the iMac.
4. Open the apps and pair the devices — your iMac becomes a second screen.

Best for: Designers, video editors, or multitaskers who need a smooth, responsive second display.

Limitations: It’s a paid solution and requires installation, but it’s the most professional option available for newer iMacs. Many iMac Pro rental kits can be supported with rental accessories that allow you to convert the iMacs into second screens.

3. Use Sidecar to Extend Your Mac Display to an iPad

If you don’t have a second iMac, you can still extend your screen using an iPad and Sidecar — Apple’s built-in screen extension tool.

How to set it up:

1. Make sure your Mac and iPad are both using the same Apple ID.
2. Connect them via USB or Wi-Fi.
3. On your Mac, go to System Settings > Displays and click “Add Display.”
4. Choose your iPad. It will act as a second screen.

Best for: Designers who want to sketch or annotate with Apple Pencil during meetings or content reviews.

Limitations: You’ll need a compatible iPad (iPad Pro, iPad Air 3rd gen or newer), and it’s best for portable setups, not full monitor replacement.

How UAE Businesses Avoid Compatibility Issues When They Rent Mac Pro Kits

In fast-moving workspaces or large events, you don’t always have time to test old tech. That’s why many UAE teams now rent Mac Pro bundles. At Hire Tablets UAE, you can rent Mac Pro kits from a wide-ranging collection of Apple products.

Here’s how it helps:

• No setup stress. The rental team pre-checks everything.
• The kit includes the right cables, dongles, and accessories.
• You get a high-res second screen only for the days you need it.
• Once your event or project ends, it’s picked up—no storage needed.

Popular choices include:

• Mac Pro with Luna Display + iMac
• Mac mini with external iMac monitor
• iMac 24″ with Sidecar + iPad for sketching

Everything is ready to use. No firmware updates, no missing ports, no cable hunting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent an Apple iMac and pay monthly?

No. Most rental providers in the UAE, including Hire Tablets AE, provide bulk rentals. You can surely pay monthly for rented iMacs, but only when you rent Mac Pro kits.

How do iMac rentals work?

Our iMac rentals in the UAE are hassle-free and flexible. You choose your required specs and rental duration, and we deliver fully configured devices to your location. Setup, support, and teardown are included. It’s ideal for events, training, or temporary office use; no long-term commitment is needed.

Do rental iMacs support Target Display Mode out of the box?

Only if you specifically request older iMac models (2009–2014). We also allow businesses to rent newer iMacs, which don’t support Target Display Mode but can be paired with Luna Display or AirPlay setups for better flexibility and wireless operation.

Is it cheaper to rent iMacs and displays for temporary needs?

Yes. It is typically more cost-effective to rent Mac Pro kits for short-term use. You avoid upfront hardware costs, software licensing, and long-term storage.