How to Use an iPad as a Second Monitor for Windows/Mac

Category: Mirror Tips

March 29, 2023 5 mins read

The demand for multitasking and seamless work experiences has increased significantly over the years. With the advent of technology, people are seeking more convenient ways to work across different devices. One way to achieve this is by using an iPad or iPhone as a second monitor for your computer.

Using an iPad or iPhone as a second screen offers numerous benefits, such as extending your desktop, providing more screen real estate, and increasing your productivity. This article will guide you through the steps to use an iPad as a second screen for your Windows or Mac computer, as well as using an iPhone as a computer display. Read on to learn more.

Try It Free Buy Now

1 iMyFone MirrorTo

If you are a Windows user, you can use your iPad as a second monitor with the help of various software. One such software is iMyFone MirrorTo, a powerful and easy-to-use tool that allows you to effortlessly screen-share most iOS and Android devices to your PC. With this app, you can also freely control your iPhone from your PC with a large screen using the features of mouse control and keyboard mapping.

Key Features of MirrorTo

• Allow you fluently play mobile games, such as playing Car Parking Multiplayer on PC.
• Allow you to manage social apps like WhatsApp on your PC so that you can chat with your friends conveniently.
• Support transfer files between Windows PC & Android.
• Offer a high-quality mirroring screen and recording videos with 1080p and 2K resolution.

Try It Free Buy Now

Steps to make iPad as a second screen for your PC:

Step 1. Download & install iMyFone MirrorTo from its official website.

Step 2. Connect your iPad & Windows PC with a USB cable. Launch the app on your PC and choose "iOS" and then "USB".

Step 3. On your iPad, click "Trust" when "Trust this computer" pops up.

Step 4. After a second, your iPad will be screen mirrored onto your computer. Then you can use your iPad as a second display for your Windows.

Try It Free Buy Now

2 Duet Display

Another tool you can use to connect your iPad as a second monitor is Duet Display. This software enables you to turn your iPad into a high-performance, touch-sensitive second display.

Steps to use it:

Step 1. You need to download and install the Duet Display app on your iPad and the Duet Display client on your Windows computer.

Step 2. Once installed, connect your iPad to your computer via a Lightning or USB-C cable, and you're good to go.

3 Splashtop Wired XDisplay

Another great option is the Splashtop Wired XDisplay app. This software allows you to use your iPad as a second display.

Steps to use it:

Step 1. Connect it to your computer with a Lightning or 30-pin cable.

Step 2. Once connected, you can easily drag and drop windows and applications between your iPad and your computer's screen.

In summary, using an iPad as a second monitor for your Windows computer is a convenient way to extend your desktop and increase your productivity. You can use iMyFone MirrorTo, Duet Display, or Splashtop Wired XDisplay to achieve this goal.

Mac users can also take advantage of using their iPad as a second screen with the help of various software. One such software is iMyFone MirrorTo and Duet Display, the same 2 apps we mentioned earlier for Windows users. Besides, there are other options you can explore as well.

1 Sidecar

The first alternative is using the built-in feature of macOS called Sidecar. Sidecar enables you to extend your Mac display to your iPad wirelessly.

Steps to use it:

Step 1. You need to make sure both your Mac and iPad are running on macOS Catalina or later.

Step 2. Make your Mac & iPad connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

Step 3. Then open the AirPlay menu on your Mac, select your iPad, and choose "Use as Separate Display".

Step 4. Your iPad will now be connected as a second display for your Mac.

2 Air Display

Another popular tool for Mac users is the Air Display software. Air Display allows you to use your iPad as a second monitor for your Mac by using Wi-Fi or a USB cable.

Steps to use it:

Step 1. Download and install the Air Display app on your iPad and the Air Display server on your Mac.

Step 2. Connect your iPad to your Mac via Wi-Fi or a USB cable, and then select the Air Display app on your iPad.

Step 3. ThenyYour iPad will now be connected as a second display for your Mac.

In summary, Mac users can use iMyFone MirrorTo, Sidecar, Duet Display, or Air Display to make their iPad a second screen. Choose the software that best suits your needs to enjoy a seamless second screen experience.

1 Can I use any iPad as a second monitor?

While most modern iPads can be used as a second monitor, not all models are compatible. Generally, iPads that run on iOS 12.4 or later support the Sidecar feature, while other third-party software may have different requirements. It's important to check the software's system requirements before.

2 Can I use my iPad as a second monitor wirelessly?

Yes, some software allows you to make your iPad a second screen wirelessly, such as Sidecar or Air Display. However, using a wired connection like a USB-C or Lightning cable may offer a more stable and faster connection.

3 How can I improve the performance of my iPad as a second monitor?

To improve the performance of your iPad, make sure your iPad and computer are connected to a strong and stable Wi-Fi network or use a wired connection. Additionally, close any unnecessary apps on your iPad and computer to free up resources and ensure smooth performance.

4 Can I use my iPhone as a second display for my computer?

Yes, you can make your iPhone a second monitor for your computer using the same software options as for the iPad, such as iMyFone MirrorTo or Duet Display. However, keep in mind that the smaller screen size of the iPhone may not be ideal cause its small screen.

Making an iPad a second display for your Windows or Mac computer is a great way to increase productivity and extend your desktop. With the help of various software above you can easily connect your iPad as a second monitor and enjoy a seamless second screen experience.

Among these options, iMyFone MirrorTo stands out with its easy-to-use interface and convenient features, such as effortlessly screen-sharing most iOS and Android devices to your PC, fluently playing mobile games, and conveniently streaming in-app displays and audio to conferencing software. We highly recommend trying it.

Try It Free Buy Now

Spencer Hill

(Click to rate this post)

Generally rated 4 (256 participated)

Rated successfully!

You have already rated this article, please do not repeat scoring!