iPad Extended Monitor: Using It as a Second Display

Turning a spare iPad into a second monitor is a genuinely useful way to get more screen space without buying another display, and there are a few different approaches depending on whether you want it wired or wireless, and whether you’re on a Mac or PC.

Mac: Sidecar (Built-In, Free)

If you’re on a reasonably recent Mac and iPad, macOS’s built-in Sidecar feature does this natively with no extra software — enable it from the Displays section of System Settings, or from the AirPlay/Screen Mirroring menu bar icon, and choose your iPad. It works wirelessly or over USB-C for a lower-latency, charging connection.

Windows: Third-Party Apps

Windows has no built-in equivalent, so you’ll need an app on both the PC and the iPad. Popular options include:

• Duet Display — works over USB or Wi-Fi, paid app with a free trial.
• Spacedesk — free, Wi-Fi only, driver-based extended display.
• Luna Display — requires a small hardware dongle, works with both Mac and PC hosts.

For the smoothest experience with the least lag, a wired USB connection is generally preferable to Wi-Fi, especially if you’ll be using it for anything involving video or fast-moving content.

Still Accurate in 2026

Sidecar remains current and Mac-only — Apple hasn’t added any native Windows-side equivalent, so Windows users still need one of the third-party apps below. All three listed options remain actively maintained as of 2026: Duet Display, Spacedesk, and Luna Display are all still available and updated, so the original guidance here holds up without changes.

Resources

• Apple
• Duet Display
• iOS Apple Store App
• Mac Software Download
• Windows PC Software Download