Is it possible to use the MacBook with its lid closed? Yes, that is very much a possibility, and it’s thanks to the clamshell mode. It will make it easier to work on your stuff with an external display if you want. And yes, it does make sense to use it at times, especially if you have use cases for this type of stuff. Here’s what you need to take into account.
What is clamshell mode?
The clamshell mode is designed to allow users to access an eternal monitor without having to rely on the MacBook monitor. It can be a good use case when your display is not working. You use an external monitor, and you will be good to go. That being said, it’s a great way to enhance ergonomics, and you can also use an external keyboard or mouse if you desire. It just makes the user experience better, which is exactly what a lot of users are looking for.
What do you need to use your MacBook in clamshell mode?
Simply put, accessing the clamshell mode MacBook experience is not that difficult. You will need an AC adapter to power your MacBook, and also an external mouse and keyboard. A supported monitor is necessary. And an HDMI/VGA to USB C adapter is going to come in handy, if such a connection is necessary.
How can you use clamshell mode on a Mac?
- First, what you want to do is to plug in the external monitor and the MacBook into the power outlet.
- Then you connect your external monitor to your MacBook. Use the appropriate connector/cable.
- Now, turn on the external monitor.
- Open the MacBook, and then go to the Apple Menu, System Settings, Displays.
- In there, you want to make sure that the external monitor is set up as the monitor you want to use. Then, you can easily adjust the color and brightness settings to the features that you want.
- Ideally, you want to use Bluetooth to connect the keyboard and mouse. Plus, if you are using any external speakers, you can go ahead and connect them as well. It’s a nifty tool to use, and it will help make the process much easier to manage.
At this point, you also want to update the power settings. Go to the Battery Options and there you want to turn on the option to prevent automatic sleeping on power adapter when the display is turned off.
You can also enter clamshell mode from sleep. To do that, you just press a key on the external keyboard or click the mouse and then it will all be ok. It’s actually a very good idea because it saves time, and it will give you the option to enter clamshell mode even if your MacBook is in sleep mode.
How do you exit the clamshell mode?
If you want to return to regular operation, all you have to do is to open the lid of your MacBook. It’s also a good idea to disconnect the peripherals if you don’t need to use them anymore. All you have to do is to return to the System Settings and choose the ones that you prefer. Or you can keep using them if you want and they are more comfortable to work with.
Another thing that you can do is to ensure that your Mac is running efficiently. In this case, it does make sense to use a Mac cleanup tool. Such a tool will help remove unnecessary files from your device, and it will make the process much easier to manage. It can take a little bit of a trial and error, but once it’s done correctly, it will ensure that everything is working as you want.
Tips to make the most out of clamshell mode
- Make sure that your MacBook is plugged in while in use, and manage your battery health effectively via battery settings.
- If you disconnect the MacBook from power, then you will be exiting clamshell mode automatically.
- If you just watch a movie for example, you don’t have to connect any extra accessories. Just make sure that you are using the right tools, depending on the work that you want to do.
- The MacBook should be in a well-ventilated area. Using a cooling pad is a great idea.
Closing thoughts
It’s always a very good idea to take your time and use the clamshell mode on your MacBook effectively. It will take a little while to use this properly, and the best part is that it can be adapted to your requirements. The truth is that using the clamshell mode can be great, but it also has its downsides, since you must prepare it adequately. But if it’s all done correctly, you can rest assured that it will deliver the results and outcome you expect!
