While the higher-end MacBooks with M1/M2/M3 Pro and Max chips support multiple external displays, the majority of Apple’s lower-end range of MacBooks that use a standard M1, M2 or M3 processor cannot natively connect more than one external monitor. This is a massive limitation compared to the previous Intel-based generation of Mac laptops that could run two displays when connected to a USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 docking station or hub.
Apple’s latest M3 MacBook Air models do now support two external monitors (if the MacBook has its lid closed), but not the older M3 MacBook Pro, even though it boasts an HDMI port unlike the Air models. The solutions below, however, allow for more than two external displays.
There have also been reports that the M3 MacBook Air with lid closed suffers significant performance decline due to heat build up, so following our advice below still has relevance even for M3 MacBook Air users who want to hook up to multiple displays and keep their Mac purring at full speed.
Read more at Macworld.com