How to Use Your Tablet as a Second Monitor for Your Computer

You can use a tablet as a monitor by connecting it to your computer through software, a USB cable, or your wireless network

A tablet can display what your computer shows, turning it into a second screen for email, reference material, or video calls. The connection method depends on your tablet and computer type — Windows machines work with different apps than Macs, and some methods require a cable while others use only WiFi. Most setups take under five minutes once you have the right software installed.

The tablet sits beside or behind your main monitor and mirrors your desktop or extends it to show different content on each screen. This is useful if you want to keep a spreadsheet visible on the tablet while working on documents on your main screen, or to move video calls to a second display during work.

Key Takeaways

Windows tablets and computers can connect through apps like Spacedesk or Microsoft's native Remote Desktop, while Mac users typically use Luna Display or Sidecar if they have compatible devices.
USB cable connections are faster and more stable than WiFi but require the tablet to stay physically tethered to your computer.
Wireless connections over your home network are slower but let you place the tablet anywhere in the room without a cable.
Your tablet's performance will slow slightly when acting as a monitor, especially if you are also running other apps on it.

Spacedesk for Windows computers and Android tablets

Spacedesk is free software that turns Android tablets and iPads into wireless monitors for Windows PCs. Install the server software on your Windows computer, then install the Spacedesk app on your tablet from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Both devices need to be on the same WiFi network. Open the app on your tablet, and it will show your computer's display within seconds.

Spacedesk works over WiFi only — there is no cable option. The connection is stable enough for everyday work like email and web browsing, but you may notice slight lag if you are scrolling quickly or playing video. The free version has no limits on screen resolution or connection time. Spacedesk also works with Windows tablets, making it one of the most flexible options across device types.

Luna Display for Mac and iPad

Luna Display is a small hardware adapter that plugs into your Mac's USB-C or Thunderbolt port and connects wirelessly to an iPad. You buy the adapter once (around $50) and install the Luna Display app on your iPad. The adapter handles the connection, so setup is straightforward: plug it in, open the app on your iPad, and the display appears.

Luna Display is faster than WiFi-only solutions because the adapter manages the connection directly. It works with recent MacBook Pro and MacBook Air models, and with iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad mini. If your Mac or iPad is older, Luna Display may not be compatible — check the device list on the Luna Display website before buying.

Sidecar for Mac and iPad (built-in option)

If you own a recent Mac and iPad, Sidecar is built into macOS and iPadOS at no extra cost. Sidecar lets your iPad mirror your Mac's display or extend it to show different content. Open System Preferences on your Mac, go to Sidecar, and select your iPad from the list. The connection happens over WiFi or USB cable.

Sidecar requires a Mac running macOS 13.1 or later and an iPad running iPadOS 13 or later. Both devices must use the same Apple ID and be on the same network. Sidecar is slower than Luna Display but costs nothing and requires no extra hardware. It is the simplest choice if you already own compatible devices.

Microsoft Remote Desktop for Windows and tablets

Microsoft Remote Desktop is built into Windows and available free on Android and iPad. It lets you view and control your Windows computer from your tablet over your home network or the internet. Install the app on your tablet, enter your computer's name or IP address, and connect.

Remote Desktop is designed for controlling your computer from a distance rather than extending your display, so it works differently than Spacedesk — you see your full desktop on the tablet but cannot use both screens at the same time. It is useful if you want to move away from your desk and keep working, but not if you want a second monitor beside your main one. The connection is find and works over the internet, not just your local WiFi.

USB cable connections for faster, more stable links

Most tablet-to-monitor apps support USB cable connections in addition to WiFi. Plug a USB cable from your tablet into your computer, and the software will detect it automatically. USB connections are faster and more stable than WiFi because the cable carries the signal directly without interference from other devices on your network.

The downside is that your tablet must stay within cable length of your computer — usually 6 to 10 feet depending on the cable. USB connections also drain your tablet's battery faster because the display is working harder. If you plan to use the tablet as a monitor for more than an hour or two, plug it into power while it is connected.

What to expect from tablet monitor performance

A tablet used as a monitor will be noticeably slower than your main display. Scrolling, dragging windows, and typing may feel slightly delayed, especially over WiFi. This lag is usually not a problem for static content like spreadsheets or email, but it becomes obvious if you are watching video or playing games on the tablet screen.

Your tablet's battery will drain faster when it is acting as a monitor, even if it is plugged in, because the display is working continuously. Older tablets or those with smaller processors will show more lag than newer, faster models. If you plan to use a tablet as a monitor regularly, choose one with a recent processor and at least 4 GB of RAM.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my tablet as a monitor without WiFi?

Yes, if you connect with a USB cable. Most apps that work over WiFi also support USB connections, which are faster and do not require a network. Check the app's documentation to see if USB is an option for your device combination.

Will using my tablet as a monitor drain the battery quickly?

Yes, the display uses significant power. Plug your tablet into a charger while it is acting as a monitor, or expect the battery to drop 10 to 20 percent per hour depending on the tablet model and connection type. USB connections drain faster than WiFi.

Can I use my tablet as a monitor and still use apps on it at the same time?

No. While your tablet is displaying your computer's screen, you cannot run other apps on it. Some apps let you switch between monitor mode and normal use, but you cannot do both at once. If you need to use your tablet for other tasks, disconnect it from the monitor software first.

What if my tablet and computer are different brands?

Spacedesk works across Windows, Mac, Android, and iPad, so it is the most flexible choice for mixed-brand setups. Luna Display and Sidecar only work with Apple devices. Microsoft Remote Desktop works with Windows computers and Android or iPad tablets.

Is there a delay when I type or move the mouse on the tablet monitor?

Yes, there is usually a small delay, especially over WiFi. USB connections are faster. The delay is typically under half a second and is not noticeable for most work, but it becomes obvious if you are doing precise tasks like photo editing or playing games.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.