Single Display vs Dual Display Setup: What Works Best?

Single Display vs Dual Display Setup: What Works Best for Your Corporate AV Systems?

Single display vs dual display this seemingly simple choice can significantly impact how your teams collaborate, communicate and make decisions in today’s hybrid, fast-paced work environments. Meeting rooms are no longer just spaces to gather; they have become critical hubs where business decisions are made, innovation thrives and teamwork happens in real time. Yet, many organizations overlook a vital factor that drives these outcomes: the display setup.

Choosing between a single display setup and a dual display setup goes far beyond a simple technical choice it directly impacts meeting effectiveness, employee engagement, and even your company’s bottom line. The right AV solution can be the difference between seamless collaboration and constant interruptions. That’s why selecting the best display setup for video conferencing isn’t just a technical decision; it’s a strategic investment in your business’s productivity and communication

What Are Single and Dual Display Setups?

Single Display Setup

A single display setup uses one main screen, typically a large-format display or projector, that serves as the focal point for all video conferencing, presentations and content sharing.

Ideal for small to medium-sized meeting rooms and huddle spaces

Simpler, more cost-effective

Easy to operate with minimal technical training

Dual Display Setup

A dual display setup features two screens side-by-side or positioned strategically within the meeting space.

One screen usually displays the video conference feed or remote participants

The second screen shows presentations, collaboration apps, or other content

Perfect for larger rooms or teams needing to view multiple content sources simultaneously

Technical Insights: Designing the Perfect Display Setup for Your Meeting Rooms

When deciding between single and dual display setups, the decision shouldn’t be based on screen count alone. These technical factors can dramatically impact performance:

1. Display Size & Resolution – Choosing the correct size ensures everyone has a clear view, even in larger rooms. High-resolution displays (4K or higher) prevent pixelation, especially for detailed content.
2. Viewing Angles – Poor angles can make it hard for participants to see the display and may lead to disengagement. Dual displays often require wider seating arrangements to maintain visibility.
3. Camera Positioning – Poor placement can distort eye contact in video calls. Dual displays may require dual-camera setups or intelligent framing systems.
4. Lighting Conditions – Glare or uneven lighting affects content clarity. Displays should be positioned to minimize reflection and be bright enough to counter ambient light.
5. Integration with UC Platforms – Microsoft Teams Rooms, Zoom Rooms and similar platforms handle content differently in single vs dual display mode AV system design must account for this.
6. Control System Simplicity – No matter the setup, the user interface should allow easy switching between content and video modes without technical delays.

Best Practices for Choosing the Right Setup

• Analyze Meeting Patterns – Understand how often your teams share multiple content streams versus delivering straightforward presentations.
• Assess Room Dimensions – Match display size and placement to seating layouts for optimal visibility.
• Plan for Scalability – Use mounting systems and cabling infrastructure that allow easy upgrades from single to dual displays.
• Prioritize User Adoption – Provide intuitive controls and basic training to ensure quick adoption.
• Consider Lifecycle Costs – Factor in maintenance, power consumption, and future upgrade possibilities.

Why Expert AV Integration Makes All the Difference

• Needs-Based Design – We study your room dynamics, meeting culture, and platform requirements before recommending solutions.
• Certified Equipment Selection – From Microsoft-certified displays to precision-mounted PTZ cameras, every component is chosen for reliability and performance.
• Seamless Installation – Our teams ensure proper calibration, cabling, and integration with your existing AV and IT infrastructure.
• Ongoing Support – We provide proactive maintenance and system monitoring to maximize uptime.

Conclusion

Single display setups offer simplicity and cost savings, ideal for smaller rooms and basic meetings. Dual display setups allow better interaction and more effective collaboration, especially in large rooms, multipurpose spaces, and hybrid environments. The right choice depends on your meeting types, room layout, technical needs, and future plans.

Want the best setup for your meeting rooms? Allwave AV Systems designs and installs AV solutions that fit your business needs. Contact us today for a quote.