The Ultimate Guide: How to Turn Off Surface Pro Screen When Docked and Boost Your Productivity!

Whether you’re using your Surface Pro as a desktop replacement or simply want to conserve battery life, knowing how to turn off the screen when docked is a valuable skill. This guide will walk you through various methods, addressing common scenarios and helping you achieve a seamless transition between your Surface Pro and external monitor.

Understanding the Challenges

Turning off your Surface Pro screen when docked can seem like a simple task, but it often presents unique challenges:

• Automatic Display Switching: Your Surface Pro might automatically switch to the external monitor, leaving the built-in screen active.
• Power Management Settings: Default power settings might not be optimized for docking scenarios.
• Software Conflicts: Certain applications or drivers could interfere with the expected behavior.

Method 1: The Power Button Approach

The most straightforward method involves using the physical power button on your Surface Pro. This approach is effective when you’re ready to completely shut down the device.
1. Press and hold the power button: Locate the power button on the top edge of your Surface Pro and press and hold it down.
2. Select “Shut down”: A menu will appear on the screen. Choose the “Shut down” option.
3. Wait for the device to power off: The Surface Pro will begin shutting down, and the screen will turn off.
Note: This method will completely turn off your Surface Pro, including any applications that were running.

Method 2: Leveraging the Windows Settings

Windows provides built-in settings that allow you to control how your Surface Pro interacts with external displays. Here’s how to utilize these settings:
1. Open Settings: Click the Start button and select “Settings.”
2. Navigate to System: In the Settings window, choose “System.”
3. Select Display: Click on “Display” from the left-hand menu.
4. Adjust Multiple Displays Settings: Under the “Multiple displays” section, choose the option that suits your needs:

• Duplicate: This option mirrors the content of your Surface Pro screen onto the external monitor.
• Extend: This option extends your desktop across both screens, allowing you to work on different tasks simultaneously.
• Show only on 1: This option displays your desktop solely on the external monitor, effectively turning off the Surface Pro screen.

5. Select the desired option: Choose the “Show only on 1” option to turn off your Surface Pro screen when docked.

Method 3: Exploring the Docking Station’s Capabilities

Some docking stations come equipped with their own display controls, offering an additional layer of customization.
1. Check your docking station: Consult the user manual or manufacturer’s website for your specific docking station.
2. Look for display settings: Many docking stations have buttons or software that allow you to choose which display to use.
3. Configure the settings: Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to configure your docking station‘s display settings.

Method 4: Utilizing Third-Party Software

If you find the built-in options insufficient, there are third-party software solutions available that provide more advanced display control.
1. Research software options: Popular options include DisplayFusion, UltraMon, and MultiMonitor Tool.
2. Download and install the software: Follow the instructions provided by the software developer.
3. Configure the settings: Use the software’s interface to define how your Surface Pro screen should behave when docked.

Method 5: Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you’re still encountering problems turning off your Surface Pro screen when docked, consider these troubleshooting steps:

• Update your drivers: Ensure that your Surface Pro and docking station drivers are up to date.
• Check your power settings: Verify that your power settings are configured to turn off the display after a certain period of inactivity.
• Disable unnecessary applications: Close or disable applications that might be interfering with display settings.
• Restart your Surface Pro: A simple restart can often resolve unexpected behavior.

Wrapping Up: Moving Beyond the Screen

Turning off your Surface Pro screen when docked is not just about saving battery; it’s about creating a more efficient and ergonomic workflow. By mastering these methods, you can seamlessly transition between your Surface Pro and external monitor, maximizing productivity and minimizing distractions.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: Can I turn off the Surface Pro screen while using a USB-C hub instead of a docking station?
A: Yes, you can use the same methods described above, even when using a USB-C hub. The key is to configure the display settings within Windows or through the hub’s software, if available.
Q: Will turning off the Surface Pro screen affect my audio output?
A: No, turning off the Surface Pro screen will not affect audio output. Audio will continue to play through your external speakers or headphones connected to the docking station or USB-C hub.
Q: What happens to my Surface Pro‘s touch screen when the screen is turned off?
A: The touch screen will also be disabled when the screen is turned off. You’ll need to turn the screen back on to use the touch screen again.
Q: Is it possible to turn off the Surface Pro screen while using a projector?
A: Yes, the same methods apply when using a projector. You can configure the display settings within Windows or through the projector’s control panel to project the image only onto the projector screen.
Q: My Surface Pro screen still turns on when I dock it, even after trying all the methods. What should I do?
A: If you’ve tried all the methods and are still facing issues, it’s possible that there’s a conflict with a specific application or driver. Try temporarily disabling applications that might be interfering with display settings. If the problem persists, contact Microsoft support for further assistance.