Multiple Displays setup can enhance productivity. You don’t need to buy another monitor, since you can use a tablet or iPad as a secondary display for Windows and Mac. This solution is cost-effective and portable, providing a flexible way to boost productivity on the go.
With this guide, you can use any device including iPad, Android Tablet, and Chromebook to extend your display in Windows and Mac. What’s better is that you don’t need to pay a dime for software in this regard.
Using Apple’s Sidecar (Mac & iPad)
If you have a Mac and an iPad, Apple’s built-in Sidecar feature allows you to use your iPad as a second monitor seamlessly. Here’s how:
1. Requirements:
- A Mac running macOS Catalina or later.
- An iPad running iPadOS 13 or later.
2. How to Enable:
- Make sure both devices are signed in to the same Apple ID.
- On your Mac, go to the Control Center and click on the Display option.
- Select your iPad from the list of available devices.
- Your iPad will now act as a second screen, and you can move windows to and from it just like a regular monitor.
Spacedesk – Tablet or iPad as the Secondary Display for Windows
Spacedesk is a standout option for Windows users. It’s a free and highly rated app that allows you to extend or duplicate your PC screen onto your iOS or Android device wirelessly. Spacedesk works seamlessly with a wide range of devices and offers a smooth connection experience. Spacedesk client app is available in Windows, iOS, Android, and HTML Web viewer, which means you can use any device with a web browser.
You can follow the steps below to set it up.
Step 1. Install the Spacedesk driver on your Windows PC. Within the Spacedesk Driver Console, toggle it on.
Step 2. Download the Spacedesk app on your iPad or Android tablet.
Step 3. When you launch the app, it will start discovery by default. You can also click the “+” icon to enter the Windows PC ip address to connect.
Step 4. Once connected, your tablet will now act as a second monitor for your Windows machine. On your tablet or iPad, you can tap the menu icon to take over the audio and open a virtual keyboard.
I have installed Spacedesk client both on iPad and my Samsung Tab S9 FE+. Either works fine. I can even connect both devices as 2 extended displays.
While using it wirelessly, i can feel a little latency. It is fine for work and watching videos. If you want to play games, Spacedesk also offers USB connection for better performance.
Deskreen: Any Devices as a Second Screen
The Deskreen is an open source app that offers a simple solution of turning your smart devices into a second monitor. This handy tool can be used with a variety of devices, including tablets, smartphones, other laptops, and even smart TVs.
What’s more, it’s compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. You can refer to the steps below to set up a smart devices as a second monitor.
Step 1. Install Deskreen on your host computer, Windows, macOS, or Linux. If you use Chromebook, you can download the Linux version. Ensure your laptop and tablet are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Step 2. Create a Virtual display. You can insert a dummy plug into an empty HDMI slot on your laptop or use a open-source program like ParsecVDisplay to create a virtual screen for Windows.
Step 3. Use your tablet to open the URL displayed on the Deskreen app or scan the QR Code. Open the Screen app on your tablet and scan the QR code displayed on your host computer.
Step 4. Confirm Connection: Allow the connection on your laptop when prompted.
Sharing Your Screen
Step 5. Select a Screen: Choose the virtual screen that you created from the available options. If you don’t create a virtual screen, you can choose to display an app window or mirror the entire screen on your tablet.
Step 6. Confirm Sharing: Confirm the screen-sharing session to start using your tablet as a second monitor.
You don’t need to install Deskreen client app on your tablet, because Deskreen works with smart devices with a browser. However, Deskreen needs you to create a virtual display to extend your display with a tablet.
Other Apps (Windows & Mac)
If you’re not using a Mac or prefer more flexibility, there are several third-party apps available for both Windows and macOS that allow you to turn your tablet or iPad into a secondary monitor.
1. Duet Display (iOS, Android, Windows, macOS)
Duet Display is one of the most popular apps for this purpose. It works via both wired and wireless connections and supports high-resolution displays.
How to Use:
1. Install the Duet Display app on your iPad or tablet.
2. Download the companion app on your Windows or macOS computer.
3. Connect your devices using a USB cable or Wi-Fi.
4. Your iPad or tablet will instantly be recognized as a second screen.
2. Splashtop Wired XDisplay (iOS, Windows)
Another reliable option, Splashtop Wired XDisplay allows you to use your iPad as a second screen for Windows PCs.
How to Use:
1. Install the Splashtop Wired XDisplay app on your iPad.
2. Download and install the desktop agent on your PC.
3. Connect your iPad via USB, and the app will automatically configure your second monitor.
3. iDisplay (iOS, Android, Windows, macOS)
iDisplay supports both iOS and Android devices, making it a great choice for cross-platform users. It allows for touch input, turning your tablet into a touchscreen monitor.
How to Use:
1. Download the iDisplay app on your tablet.
2. Install the desktop companion app on your computer.
3. Use either a wired or wireless connection to pair your devices.
Tips for Optimizing the Experience
1. Adjust Display Settings: Once your tablet or iPad is set up as a second monitor, go into your computer’s display settings to adjust the resolution, orientation, and position of your screens to match your workflow.
2. Use a Stand: Invest in a tablet stand to position your device at eye level, which can reduce neck strain and make it easier to view both screens at once.
3. Optimize Battery Life: Running a tablet as a second monitor can drain its battery quickly, especially over a wireless connection. Keep your device plugged in to avoid interruptions.
4. Leverage Touch Input: If you’re using an iPad or Android tablet, many apps allow for touch input, letting you interact directly with your applications. This can be especially useful for drawing, annotating, or navigating quickly.
Best Use Cases
Creative Professionals: Designers and illustrators can use their iPad as a canvas or secondary monitor for reference images while using design software on their main screen.
Students and Writers: A second monitor makes note-taking and research easier. You can keep notes open on one screen while working on assignments or research papers on the other.
Developers: Programmers often need to reference code, documentation, and development environments simultaneously, making a dual-screen setup highly effective.
Why Use a Tablet or iPad as a Secondary Monitor?
1. Increased Productivity
With a secondary monitor, you can easily manage multiple tasks at once. You can have one screen dedicated to research or communication, while the other is used for writing, designing, or coding. This setup reduces the need to constantly switch between windows and applications, making multitasking smoother.
2. Portability
Unlike traditional monitors, tablets are compact and easy to transport. Whether you’re working from a coffee shop or traveling, turning your iPad or tablet into an additional screen allows you to carry an extended workspace without lugging around bulky equipment.
3. Cost-Effective
For those who already own an iPad or tablet, using it as a second screen can be an affordable alternative to buying a separate monitor. Even if you don’t own one, many affordable tablet options are available, making this solution more budget-friendly than high-end monitors.
Conclusion
Using a tablet or iPad as a secondary monitor is a convenient and efficient way to extend your workspace without the need for expensive hardware. Whether you’re working from home, in an office, or on the move, this setup enhances productivity and makes multitasking more manageable.
With tools like Sidecar, Spacedesk, Deskreen, and other third-party apps, turning your tablet into a second screen is easier than ever. By leveraging this tech-savvy solution, you can take your workflow to the next level and enjoy the benefits of a dual-monitor setup, all from the convenience of your tablet or iPad.