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How to Use iPad as Second Screen

Whether you want to get your tasks done faster or want to stream your games while multitasking, getting a dual display is a good idea. In this article, we have discussed 3 ways how to use iPad as second screen to maximize your efficiency.

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Joy Taylor | Last Updated: Nov. 07, 2023
1509 words|5minute

How to Use iPad as Second Screen

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Ever felt like you could use an extra screen while working on your computer? Well, that’s where the iPad comes in handy as a second screen! It’s a game-changer for boosting productivity and multitasking. You can spread out your workspace, run more apps, and keep important references right in front of you, all at the same time.

Want to know how to set it up? No worries! This article’s got you covered. We’ll dive into various solutions on how to use iPad as second screen, whether you prefer a wired or wireless setup.

Say hello to increased efficiency and a seamless digital experience like never before!

How to Use iPad as Second Monitor with Sidecar

If you want to get more done in less time. We recommend using Sidecar to use iPad as second monitor.

Sidecar is a feature introduced by Apple that allows you to use your iPad as a second display for your Mac computer. It essentially extends your Mac’s desktop to the iPad screen, providing an additional workspace and enhancing productivity.

With Sidecar, you can interact with macOS applications directly on your iPad, move windows between the two screens, and even use the Apple Pencil on supported iPad models for drawing and annotating.

Check Hardware Compatibility

However, before diving into using Sidecar, it’s essential to check its compatibility. This feature is exclusively available for iPad and Mac users. Therefore, here’s a list of macOS and iPad models that support Sidecar.

macOS Compatibility

iPad Compatibility

With that sorted, let’s go through the steps of using Sidecar to use iPad as second monitor.

How to Set Up Sidecar to Use iPad as a Second Display

Follow these steps to use iPad as second monitor using Sidecar:

Step 1. Connect your iPad and Mac to the same Wi-Fi network, and ensure you are logged in with the same Apple ID on both devices.

Step 2. On your Mac, open “System Preferences > Sidecar.” It will open an options window, where you can click on the “Connect to” drop-down menu and select your iPad from the list.

Select Device to Use iPad as Second Monitor

Select Device to Use iPad as Second Monitor

Step 3. Open the menu option on the Sidecar interface on your Mac, and select “Use as Separate Display.”

Select Use as Separate Display to Use iPad as Second Monitor

Select Use as Separate Display to Use iPad as Second Monitor

However, as this method only works for Mac, we have another software specifically for Windows users to turn your iPad into a dual display for your PC.

How to Use iPad as Second Screen with Web Application

Do you want to boost your productivity with a dual display setup but are tired of the limitations? Say hello to Deskreen, the game-changer you’ve been waiting for!

Unlike Sidecar, which is exclusive to Macs and iPads, Deskreen works across various platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. It’s an excellent option for users who want to extend their desktop space using their iPad as a dual display, regardless of their operating system.

Before we get to the steps of how to use iPad as second screen using Deskreen, let’s look at some of its key features.

Following are some of the standout features of Deskreen:

How to Use iPad as Second Screen with Deskreen

Connect your iPad and PC to the same Wi-Fi network, and follow these easy steps to use your iPad as second monitor with Deskreen:

Step 1. Download Deskreen on your PC. The main interface of the app will display a QR Code.

Step 2. Launch Deskreen to see a QR Code displayed on the main interface. Scan it with your iPad.

Scan QR Code to Use iPad as Second Monitor

Scan QR Code to Use iPad as Second Monitor

Step 3. Once you scan the QR Code, you will receive a notification on your PC. Click “Allow” to enable connectivity between your iPad and PC.

Click Allow to Use iPad as Second Monitor

Click Allow to Use iPad as Second Monitor

Step 4. Now that both devices are connected, you can select whether to cast the entire screen or just an app window.

Make Your Selection to Use iPad as Second Monitor

Make Your Selection to Use iPad as Second Monitor

And that’s how you use iPad as second screen for your computer in 4 simple steps.

While Sidecar and Deskreen are amazing apps to help use your iPad as a dual display for your PC, if you’re looking for an app that’s better, more reliable, and offers seamless connectivity between devices, we recommend trying a screen mirroring tool.

Bonus Tip: Check iPad Screen on PC with AnyMiro

AnyMiro is the jack of all trades when it comes to screen mirroring. With a 10-hour uninterrupted screen-sharing session, 4k resolution, color accuracy, and audio syncing, it is hands-down one of the best apps for screen mirroring.

Moreover, it is compatible with both Windows and Mac and enables you to use your iPad to its full potential by turning it into a powerful second display.

So, whether you’re a designer, gamer, presenter, or multitasker, AnyMiro lets you seamlessly mirror your iPad screen right on your computer! Here’s a step-by-step tutorial to help you use your iPad as a dual display:

Step 1. Download and launch AnyMiro on your PC, and select “iOS/iPadOS” from the interface.

Free Download for all windows & 100% safe Free Download for all mac & 100% safe

Free Download100% Clean & Safe

Mirror iPhone to Computer

Mirror iPad to Computer

Step 2. Connect your iPad to your PC using a lightning cable and select “USB” from the options on the left.

Mirror iOS Device to Computer via USB

Mirror iOS Device to Computer via USB

Step 3. Once your PC recognizes your iPad, you will receive a pop-up on your iPad. Select “Trust” to continue.

Trust Your Computer on iPhone

Trust Your Computer on iPhone

Your iPad’s screen will be visible on your PC, and you can check messages, make presentations, or stream your games online easily and conveniently.

FAQs

1. Can I use my iPad as a second monitor for Zoom?

Yes, you can use iPad as a second monitor for Zoom. Simply connect it to your PC using any of the apps discussed above, and you are good to go.

2. How do I set up my Sidecar for the first time?

Setting up Sidecar for the first time is a straightforward process. You just need to launch it from the System Preferences on your Mac and select your iPad from the list of available devices. Next, you need to enable screen mirroring on your iPad to use it as a dual display.

3. Do all iPads work with Sidecar?

Sidecar is not compatible will some of the older iPad models. However, if you have iPad Pro (all models), iPad (6th generation), iPad mini (5th generation), or iPad Air (3rd generation) and later, you can easily use it with Sidecar.

4. What is the alternative for Sidecar?

Many screen-mirroring apps online claim to be alternatives to Sidecar; however, if you ask us, we recommend AnyMiro as a safe, reliable, and high-quality option.

Conclusion

To enhance your productivity and use your iPad to its full potential, we suggest using it as a dual display for your computer. And to save you from the hassle of falling for fishy apps, we have compiled a list of 3 handy apps to use on your iPad as a second monitor.

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Joy Taylor

Senior writer of the iMobie team as well as an Apple fan, love to help more users solve various types of iOS & Android-related issues.

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