Turn an Old iPad into a Free Second Monitor for Your Computer
Have you upgraded to a new tablet and left an old iPad gathering dust in a drawer? Even an older model with little resale value can be put to excellent use as a second monitor for your computer. Having that extra screen — to reference documents while you write, or multitask during video calls — can dramatically improve your productivity when working from home.
For Mac Users: Apple's Built-in Sidecar is the Best Option
If you're on a Mac and your iPad runs iPadOS 13 or later, Apple's built-in Sidecar feature is the easiest and highest-quality option available.
How to set it up:Sign in to both your Mac and iPad with the same Apple ID and make sure Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are on. Then open System Settings on your Mac, go to Displays, click the Add button, and select your iPad. That's it — your iPad becomes a high-quality second monitor with virtually no lag. Works wirelessly or over a cable.
For Windows Users or Older iPads That Don't Support Sidecar
If you're using a Windows PC, or an older iPad that doesn't support Sidecar (iOS 12 or earlier), you'll need a third-party app. Here are the best free options.
- Spacedesk
- One of the most popular free options for Windows. Install a server driver on your PC and the Spacedesk app on your iPad, and as long as both are on the same Wi-Fi network, your iPad becomes a wireless monitor. No registration, completely free, and feature-rich — though you may notice some lag or compression artifacts depending on your Wi-Fi quality. More than adequate for viewing documents or keeping a chat app visible.
- Yam Display Free
- A Mac-only app that connects over USB. It works even with older Mac and iPad combinations that don't support Sidecar. The free version may have per-session time limits, but it's known for being fast and responsive with minimal lag.
Paid Apps Are Worth Considering Too
If you try a free app and find yourself wanting sharper output, lower latency, or smooth video, paid solutions like Duet Display or Luna Display are well worth the investment. They use wired connections and proprietary compression to deliver an experience that rivals buying a dedicated portable monitor.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Battery drain:Keeping the screen on and streaming data constantly drains the battery fast. For long sessions, plug the iPad into your computer via a cable to keep it charged.
- Get a stand:A stable tablet stand is essential for positioning the iPad comfortably beside your main screen. An inexpensive one from a dollar store works perfectly fine.
Even an old device can have a productive second life with a little creativity. Dig out that iPad from the back of the drawer and build yourself a more comfortable workspace.
Best Free Apps for Using Your iPad as a Second Monitor
For Windows and iPad, spacedesk is the top pick: connect both to the same Wi-Fi and you get a wireless second monitor for free, with no registration needed. If you notice lag, try lowering the resolution or frame rate in the settings.
Getting the Most Out of Your iPad Second Monitor
Even one extra screen makes a huge difference to how efficiently you work. Try these layouts and use cases:
- Always-visible reference documents:Keep your spec sheets, PDFs, or reference websites on the iPad while you write or code on the main screen — no more alt-tabbing, no interruptions to your flow.
- A dedicated screen for communication tools:Park Slack, Teams, or your email client on the iPad so important messages are always in view, while keeping your main screen entirely free for actual work.
- Vertical orientation for comfortable reading:Turn the iPad portrait-side up and you can see much more of a long webpage, PDF, or block of source code at once — fewer scrolls, less fatigue.
Note: Using an old iPad as a second monitor for extended periods can cause the battery to heat up. Turning the brightness down slightly and ensuring good airflow around the device will help extend its lifespan.