# Set up your app launcher for an external monitor

Configure the opening screen, grid readability and layout rules separately when moving a MacBook between a desk and its built-in display.

By [Rudra Satani](https://cubbypad.com/about/), maker of CubbyPad · 26 October 2026

## Choose where the grid appears

Start in Settings › Opening › Display. Pointer-based opening follows the screen you are using with the mouse; Main follows macOS’s main display; a named monitor expresses a fixed preference. Test the choice with the pointer on another screen so you know which behavior you selected.

## Check readability at desk distance

A large monitor often sits farther away than a laptop display. Compare label size and the number of grid columns at that distance rather than judging a screenshot close up. More available pixels do not necessarily mean a denser page is easier to use.

Open a folder too. A nearly empty first page is a poor test of how a crowded working arrangement feels.

## Add a monitor rule only if it helps

A connected-display rule can select a Work layout when docking reliably marks work. It does not itself choose the window’s screen. Set the opening preference and the arrangement rule as two deliberate decisions rather than expecting one toggle to perform both.

## Test leaving the desk

1. Disconnect the monitor and check the fallback screen.

1. Open an app you normally use on the laptop.

1. Inspect the active layout after the display rule ends.

1. Keep a keyboard entrance available away from the mouse and monitor.

Published by CubbyPad’s maker. See [about CubbyPad](https://cubbypad.com/about/) for the author and product details. For corrections, [get in touch](https://cubbypad.com/contact/).

## Put it into practice.

[Guide

### Choose how to open the app grid

Set up the keyboard shortcut, F4, a three-finger pinch, a hot corner, or the Dock and menu bar icons.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/opening/)[Guide

### Set up layouts, Focus and iCloud sync

Keep separate app arrangements, pair them with a Focus, and share them through your own iCloud Drive.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/layouts/)[Guide

### Change the look of CubbyPad

Start with a preset, choose a background, and adjust icon size, spacing, labels, icon packs and the way the grid opens.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/customize/)

## More on layouts and workflows.

[### Keep custom app names clear across two Macs

Use recognizable launcher names and optional iCloud layout sync while keeping app installations and version differences separate.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/custom-app-names-across-two-macs/)[### Build a useful app folder for development work

Group the editor, terminal, browser and supporting tools you already use, while keeping project files and automated workflows outside the launcher arrangement.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/app-folders-for-mac-developers/)[### Organize design tools by the work you do

Separate making, reviewing and occasional asset utilities in your launcher instead of putting every creative application in one crowded folder.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/app-folders-for-mac-designers/)

## Make room for your apps.

Every feature. One-time purchase. Made for macOS 26.

[Find your plan](https://cubbypad.com/pricing/)

Source: https://cubbypad.com/blog/app-launcher-setup-external-display/