Clamshell Mode: How to Use Your MacBook Pro as a Desktop

Published: 10 March 2023

Last Updated: 16 June 2023

In recent years, Apple's MacBook Pro has become a popular choice for professionals and creatives who need a powerful and reliable laptop to work on-the-go. However, when it comes to extended work sessions, using the MacBook Pro's small built-in screen and keyboard can become uncomfortable and impractical. This is where Clamshell Mode comes in. In this article, we will explain what Clamshell Mode is and how to use it to turn your MacBook Pro into a powerful desktop workstation. We will also provide tips on how to optimize your setup for maximum productivity and comfort.

How to Enable Clamshell Mode

To enable Clamshell Mode on your MacBook Pro, you will need to follow these steps:

Connect your MacBook Pro to an external monitor and keyboard.
Connect your MacBook Pro to a power source.
Close the lid of your MacBook Pro to put it to sleep.
Connect a mouse or trackpad to your MacBook Pro.
Press any key on your external keyboard or click your mouse to wake your MacBook Pro up.
Your MacBook Pro should automatically detect the external monitor and keyboard, and switch to Clamshell Mode.

If your MacBook Pro doesn't automatically switch to Clamshell Mode, you can try the following troubleshooting tips:

Make sure that your MacBook Pro is running on AC power, not battery power.
Make sure that your external monitor and keyboard are properly connected to your MacBook Pro.
Try waking your MacBook Pro up using the power button on the external keyboard.
Use a high-speed USB-C cable with Power Delivery to ensure your monitor is detected by your MacBook Pro

Once Clamshell Mode is enabled, you can use your external monitor as your primary display, and your MacBook Pro's built-in screen will be turned off. You can also use the keyboard and mouse connected to your MacBook Pro to control your computer.

Setting up your Workspace

To make the most out of Clamshell Mode and turn your MacBook Pro into a desktop workstation, you will need to set up your workspace properly. Here are some tips on how to do that:

Choose the right external monitor: The external monitor you choose should have a resolution and size that meets your needs. Consider the types of tasks you will be performing and how much screen real estate you need. A larger monitor can provide more space for multitasking, but it can also be more expensive and take up more desk space. Check our guide on how to expand your MacBook Pro's screen real estate on this blog article.
Choose a high-speed USB-C cable: USB-C cables support power delivery. This allows for less clutter in your workspace by reducing the amount of cables providing a much cleaner desktop. With a high-speed USB-C cable, you only need one cable to power your MacBook Pro as well as to transmit video signals to your external monitor. It is important to choose the right cable as the low quality ones do not allow your MacBook Pro to wake from sleep when in clamshell mode. This requires you to constantly open up your computer to wake it then return it to clamshell mode. For our personal setup, we use Cable Matters 40Gbps USB 4 cable with 8k video and 240w charging.
Select a comfortable desk and chair: When working at a desk for extended periods, it's important to choose a comfortable chair and desk. Look for a chair that supports good posture and a desk that is at the right height for your needs. We curated the top ergonomic chairs for home office in this blog post.
Ergonomic considerations: When setting up your workspace, make sure that your monitor is at the right height and distance to reduce eye and neck strain. Your monitor should be at eye level, and about an arm's length away from you. Also, make sure that your keyboard and mouse are positioned in a way that feels comfortable and natural to you.
Recommended accessories: There are a few accessories that can make using Clamshell Mode more comfortable and convenient. A laptop stand can raise your MacBook Pro to a more comfortable viewing angle, and an external webcam can improve your video call quality. A docking station can also make it easier to connect and disconnect peripherals.

By setting up your workspace properly, you can make using Clamshell Mode more comfortable and efficient. Consider investing in quality accessories that will help you create a productive and ergonomic workstation.

Customizing Your Desktop

Customizing your desktop is an important part of making the most out of Clamshell Mode. Here are some tips on how to customize your desktop for optimal productivity:

Configure display settings: Once you have connected your external monitor, you can configure display settings to customize how your screen looks. You can adjust the resolution, scaling options, and refresh rate to make sure that the display is clear and easy to read.
Choose the right resolution and scaling options: Choosing the right resolution and scaling options will depend on the size and resolution of your external monitor. You can experiment with different settings to find the right balance between screen real estate and readability.
Choose the right wallpaper and screensaver: Choosing a wallpaper and screensaver that you enjoy can help improve your mood and make your workspace more enjoyable. Consider using a calming nature scene or a simple pattern that won't distract you from your work.
Recommended apps for productivity and multitasking: There are many apps available that can help you be more productive and efficient while using Clamshell Mode. Some popular options include:

Magnet: A window manager that allows you to easily snap windows to the edges of your screen.
Alfred: A productivity app that allows you to quickly launch applications and search your files.
Fantastical: A calendar app that allows you to easily schedule and manage appointments.

By customizing your desktop and using productivity apps, you can make using Clamshell Mode more efficient and enjoyable. Experiment with different settings and apps to find the setup that works best for you.

Tips for Optimal Performance

To ensure optimal performance while using Clamshell Mode, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Close unnecessary apps: Closing unnecessary apps can free up system resources and improve your MacBook Pro's performance. Make sure to only keep open the apps you need for your current task.
Keep your MacBook Pro cool: Clamshell Mode can cause your MacBook Pro to generate more heat than usual. Make sure to keep your MacBook Pro cool by using a laptop cooling pad or elevating it on a stand to improve airflow.
Use a power adapter: Clamshell Mode requires a significant amount of power, so it's important to use a power adapter that provides enough power to your MacBook Pro. Using a power adapter with a lower wattage can cause your MacBook Pro to slow down or not charge properly.
Keep your MacBook Pro updated: Keeping your MacBook Pro updated with the latest software updates and security patches can improve performance and prevent bugs and security vulnerabilities.
Manage your files and storage: Clamshell Mode can make it easier to multitask and work on multiple projects at once, but it can also lead to cluttered files and storage. Make sure to regularly manage your files and storage to prevent your MacBook Pro from slowing down.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your MacBook Pro is running at optimal performance while using Clamshell Mode. Regular maintenance and file management can also help prolong the lifespan of your MacBook Pro.

Conclusion

Clamshell Mode is a powerful feature that allows you to transform your MacBook Pro into a desktop workstation. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can enable Clamshell Mode, set up your workspace, customize your desktop, and optimize performance for maximum productivity.

Remember to choose the right external monitor, desk, and chair for optimal ergonomics, and experiment with different settings and apps to find the setup that works best for you. Also, be sure to keep your MacBook Pro cool, use a power adapter with enough wattage, and regularly manage your files and storage to ensure optimal performance.

With these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of Clamshell Mode and take your productivity to the next level.

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