Two monitors are better than one(opens in new tab)a Mac running macOS Catalina or later can turn on an iPad.(opens in new tab) Use Sidecar to convert to a second display. This allows your computer to communicate with your tablet and extend the same desktop environment.
However, this feature has limitations(opens in new tab) This is unfortunate if you have an older device or Windows PC. Thankfully, there are some third-party apps that can help fill the void for all devices that can’t run Sidecar.
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Ideal option: macOS Sidecar
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Sidecar is a great option for turning your iPad into a second display. So if you have a Mac and iPad from the last 5-6 years, give it a try.(opens in new tab) This method first. (If your device is older, skip to the next section.)
To connect your iPad as a display, connect your iPad to your Mac via USB or secure Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Handoff.(opens in new tab) It’s turned on to do it wirelessly. Also, you must be logged into the same Apple ID on both devices.
Click the AirPlay button in your Mac’s menu bar and select your iPad from the list. The icon changes and clicking the menu again reveals some options. You can extend or mirror your Mac display, show or hide the sidebar and touch bar that appear on your iPad, or detach your tablet.
If you want to switch between wired and wireless connection, you have to disconnect and reconnect using the AirPlay menu. According to Apple, as long as your iPad is within 10 meters (30 feet) of your Mac, it works wirelessly and you can even use your Apple Pencil.(opens in new tab) Sign documents and draw in supported apps.
Inexpensive cross-platform option: Splashtop Wired XDisplay
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If your Mac or iPad isn’t supported by Sidecar, or for Windows and Android users, Splashtop wired XDisplay (opens in new tab)is a third-party app that allows you to use your tablet as a second monitor. It only works when connected via USB, not the smoothest option I’ve used, but it doesn’t work properly for that much money.
Splashtop Wired XDisplay has two components: a desktop agent that runs in the background on your PC or Mac, and an app for iPadOS.(opens in new tab) or android (opens in new tab)Runs on tablets. (The iPad app appears to be free, the Android app is $7, but there is a free trial.(opens in new tab) Works for 10 minutes at a time. )
Install the desktop and mobile apps on the devices you use together. With the desktop app running, connect your tablet to your computer with a USB cable and launch the XDisplay app on your tablet. A connection to your computer is established and a blank desktop appears on your tablet.
Rearrange your monitors from your computer’s display settings, drag windows onto your tablet, or use it as a second monitor for productivity.I would recommend having a stand to hold something like this up(opens in new tab) Great if you’re using your tablet with a laptop, but a more adjustable stand(opens in new tab) Perfect for desktop use.
Splashtop Wired XDisplay works well, at least in my experience with iPads and Windows PCs. It has significant latency and I had issues with it getting stuck in mirror mode on one of my computers, but for the free price it’s worth a try. (The $7 Android app has mixed reviews. If you’re willing to pay, I think it’s worth spending a little more and using the paid recommendation below, Duet Display.)
A better, more expensive alternative: Duet Display
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If you want the smoothest experience possible, Duet Display(opens in new tab) is the best app I’ve tested for turning your iPad into a second monitor. Similar to Splashtop, there is an app for tablets that connects to a companion app on your computer. You can try the service for free for 10 minutes at a time, but to use it longer (or use additional features like wireless connectivity), you’ll need to subscribe to a tiered pricing plan (opens in new window open).(opens in new tab).
Sign up for an account, then install the desktop and tablet apps. Run desktop apps in the background on your PC. Connect your tablet via USB and launch the Duet Display mobile app. If you purchase the $24.99 annual Duet Air plan, be sure to sign in and connect your device wirelessly. Next, you’ll need to enable screen sharing in your Duet settings. Select and connect to your computer in the Air tab of the app.
Credit: PCMag
Finally, click the Duet display icon on your PC to access a few other settings, such as the frame rate and resolution your tablet uses. For me, the default settings worked fine, but if it’s a little slow on your old laptop, lowering the resolution, frame rate, or power usage from this window may help.
The Duet Display may be more expensive than its competitors, but in my experience it was the smoothest experience ever. If you use your iPad as a second monitor on a regular basis, it’s worth the price.
This article originally appeared on PCMag.com.(opens in new tab), Mashable’s sibling site. PCMag.com(opens in new tab) A technology authority, providing lab-based independent reviews of the latest products and services.
