How to Set Up a Dual Monitor Home Office on a Budget

Simon Wilson
Jul 12
4 min read

Updated: Jul 23

In recent years, working from home has shifted from being a luxury to a necessity for many. Whether you're working remotely full time, freelancing, or simply need a productive space for side projects, a well organised home office can make a world of difference. One of the best upgrades you can make? A dual monitor setup.

But let’s be honest not everyone wants (or can afford) to splash out on top tier gear. The good news is, it’s entirely possible to set up a functional and efficient dual monitor workspace without spending a fortune. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to do just that with plenty of budget friendly tips and practical advice.

Why Use Dual Monitors?

Before we dive into the how to, let’s quickly cover the “why”. A dual monitor setup can significantly boost your productivity and comfort:

Multitasking becomes easier think emails on one screen, spreadsheets on the other.
Less window switching reduces cognitive load and saves time.
Video calls and notes can happen side by side, making meetings smoother.
Creative work (e.g. photo editing, coding, or design) gets more breathing room.

For most people, once you go dual, it’s hard to go back.

Step 1: Check What You Already Have

Before reaching for your wallet, take stock of what’s already in your home:

Do you have an old monitor or TV? Many older models still work perfectly well as second screens.
Does your laptop support external displays? Most modern laptops can connect to at least one external monitor.
Got cables or adapters lying around? Reusing existing gear can cut your costs dramatically.

If you’ve already got one monitor and a laptop, you might not need to buy anything at all.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Budget Monitor

If you do need to buy a monitor, you don’t need to go high end. Here’s what to look for in a budget friendly option:

What to consider:

Size: A 21” to 24” screen is more than enough for everyday tasks.
Resolution: Full HD (1920x1080) is standard and clear enough for most needs.
Ports: Make sure the monitor has the right ports HDMI, VGA, or DisplayPort to match your device.
Adjustable stand (optional): If not, you can always raise the screen with a stack of books or a cheap stand.

Best budget monitor brands to consider:

AOC
ASUS
HP
Dell (especially refurbished models)
BenQ

Prices in the UK for a decent new monitor typically start around £70 to £100. Refurbished or second hand monitors can often be found for even less on websites like eBay, Amazon Warehouse, or CEX.

Step 3: Connecting Your Monitors

Laptop + Monitor Setup

Most laptops have at least one video output usually HDMI or USB C. If your monitor matches that port, great. If not, you may need a cheap adapter (often under £10).

Common combinations:

HDMI to HDMI
USB C to HDMI (with an adapter)
DisplayPort to HDMI

Once connected, go to your Display Settings on Windows or macOS to extend the screen rather than duplicate it.

Desktop PC + Dual Monitors

If your desktop has two video outputs (e.g. HDMI + VGA or HDMI + DisplayPort), you’re in luck. Just plug both monitors in and configure your display settings.

If your PC only has one port, a USB to HDMI adapter or a cheap graphics card upgrade might be your solution both are relatively affordable.

Step 4: Ergonomics on a Budget

A good setup isn’t just about screens it’s also about how you use them. Bad posture can lead to neck strain and fatigue. Here's how to optimise without overspending:

Use monitor risers or a stack of books or boxes to raise screens to eye level.
Keyboard and mouse placement should allow your elbows to stay close to your sides and bent at 90 degrees.
Chair posture matters: If you can’t afford an ergonomic chair, invest in a lumbar support cushion (or even a rolled towel behind your back).
Consider lighting: Natural light is great, but avoid glare. A basic desk lamp with warm lighting helps during evening hours.

Step 5: Organising Cables and Desk Space

Dual monitors can quickly mean cable chaos.

To keep things tidy and professional looking:

Use cable clips or Velcro straps cheap and widely available online.
Hide cables behind the desk using adhesive mounts or tape.
Power strips with USB ports can help reduce the number of plugs.

If your desk is too small, a basic second hand table or a repurposed shelf can expand your workspace affordably.

Optional Extras (That Won’t Break the Bank)

If you’ve got a few extra pounds in the budget, consider these small upgrades that add big value:

Laptop stand (£10 to £20): Raises your laptop screen to a more ergonomic height.
Wireless keyboard and mouse combo (£15 to £30): Makes your setup neater and more comfortable.
Headset with mic (£20+): Ideal for Zoom or Teams calls if you’re in a shared space.
Monitor arm (£20 to £40): Great for freeing up desk space and adjusting screen height easily.

Free and Low Cost Software for Productivity

A solid dual monitor setup deserves good software.

Thankfully, there’s no need to splash out here are a few free (or very cheap) tools to boost your workflow:

PowerToys (Windows): Offers FancyZones, a brilliant tool for snapping windows into custom layouts.
DisplayFusion (Free version): Adds advanced dual monitor management features.
f.lux or Windows Night Light: Reduces eye strain in the evenings by adjusting screen warmth.
Notion, Trello or Microsoft To Do: Great free tools for staying organised.

Final Thoughts: Work Smart, Not Expensive

Setting up a dual monitor home office doesn’t need to cost the earth. With a bit of planning, a few smart purchases, and possibly some kit you already have lying around, you can build a workspace that makes you more productive, more comfortable, and ready for whatever the day throws at you.

Whether you’re doing Zoom calls, editing documents, coding, or creating content having two screens gives you that extra edge without spending hundreds.

And remember, it’s not about having the fanciest gear it’s about creating a space that works for you.

— Simon Wilson, Tech Tips & How-To Guides | The Tech Advisor