IMac – Will the 2018 Mac mini be able to use the 2011 iMac in Target Display Mode

imacmac-minithunderbolt

I'm currently using a 2015 MacBook Pro and using a Thunderbolt cable to my 2010 27 inch iMac as the screen in Target Display Mode. I want to upgrade the MacBook Pro to a Mac mini, which has Thunderbolt 3, not Thunderbolt 2.

Will the Mac mini do that, and will I need an adaptor or something?

Best Answer

I think I found the answer, buried deep in Apples support doc for the Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adaptor.

This adapter is not compatible with displays that use DisplayPort or Mini DisplayPort, such as the Apple LED Cinema Display. Thunderbolt and Thunderbolt 2 are not the same as Mini DisplayPort , though the ports have the same shape.

Apparently Thunderbolt 3 does not pass mini display port signals, so target display mode will not work if you have an older iMac or monitor that uses mini display port.

This makes a big difference to me, as I will have to buy a new monitor if I go ahead with a mac mini. At least thats what it looks like from the doc. I'd welcome anyone who has actually done this.

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