Complete guide to using the iPad as a secondary display in Windows

Nowadays, many people are looking for smart ways to take advantage of the devices they already have at home, and one of the Tricks most requested is that of Use iPad as a secondary display on a Windows PCThis feature is especially useful for those who work remotely, study, or simply want more space to organize their apps, documents, or daily tasks on their computer. Additionally, those who stream live, edit videos, work in graphic design, or need to manage many windows at once will find this a real lifesaver with their Apple tablet.

The good news is that You don't need to spend money on a new monitor, you can repurpose your iPad to multiply your productivity or entertainment with little effort. Of course, there are different options depending on whether you use Mac or Windows, and in this article we are going to explain to you all valid alternatives and steps for each case, with practical details and recommendations based on all the most highly ranked and up-to-date sources. Let's get down to business so you can get the most out of your equipment!

Why use the iPad as a second monitor?

Using the iPad as a secondary display for a Windows PC or laptop has become increasingly popular. There are several reasons:

• Maximize productivityHaving a second monitor allows you to work with more than one program, document, or browser at the same time, making it easier to perform tasks such as comparing data, editing images, managing windows, or monitoring chats and social networks.
• Savings and mobilityIt's the perfect option if you want to save money and space on your desk by avoiding buying another physical display. Plus, the iPad is lightweight and portable, so you can take your "extra monitor" anywhere.
• Touch interactionUnlike traditional monitors, the iPad allows you to interact with touch or the Apple Pencil. This is very useful for presentations, editing, annotating, or controlling software more quickly.
• Compatibility and ease of useThere are free and paid apps that make the process easier, and most even work on older iPads or PCs.

General requirements for connecting iPad as a second monitor

Before embarking on this adventure, it's important to understand what you need to use your iPad as a secondary display alongside your computer. The basic requirements are:

• A PC with Windows 10 or higher (or Windows 7 in particular cases)
• An updated iPad, ideally with iOS 13 or later
• A shared Wi-Fi network (if you're connecting wirelessly) or USB cable (Lightning or USB-C) for direct connection
• Install the chosen application on both your PC and iPad

Important tip: In most cases, it is recommended to have installed iTunes on PC so that Windows correctly recognizes your iPad when you connect it via cable. You can download this program for free from the Apple website or the Microsoft Store.

Available alternatives: which app should you choose?

There are several options, both free and paid, to achieve this functionality. The main tools recommended by the top-ranked websites are:

• Splashtop Wired X Display (free, requires USB cable)
• spacedesk (free, works via Wi-Fi and also allows USB cable)
• duet display (paid, offers better quality and stability, with touch support, compatible with cable and Wi-Fi)
• Air-Display (paid, allows cable and Wi-Fi, more recommended for Windows or mobile devices) Android (for current Macs)
• iDisplay (paid, the most expensive and least recommended in terms of quality-price)

The most popular and easy to use are Splashtop Wired X Display y spacedesk, plus they're free and offer good results for most users. Below, we explain step-by-step how to install and configure each one.

Setup and configuration with Splashtop Wired XDisplay

Splashtop Wired X Display It is the most direct solution if you want to use the iPad as a secondary screen with cable connectionIt supports older models, installation is simple, and while the visual quality is somewhat lower than paid applications, it perfectly expands your PC's desktop. Here are the detailed steps:

1. Install iTunes on your PC (if you don't have one). This way, the computer will correctly detect the iPad when you plug it in via USB.
2. Download the «Splashtop Wired XDisplay» software for Windows from the official Splashtop website, never from the Microsoft Store.
3. Run and install the .exe file on your computer. Follow the instructions and open the application.
4. Go to the iPad App Store and download “Splashtop Wired XDisplay HD”. Install and get the app ready to use.
5. Connect your iPad to your PC using the corresponding cable (USB-C or Lightning).
6. If necessary, grant permission for the PC to access files on the iPad. A prompt will usually appear to "trust the device."
7. Open Splashtop Wired XDisplay on your PC and configure the frame rate (fps) and image quality. from the settings tab. Here you can select "High" in both fields to ensure the best experience.
8. Launch the "Splashtop Wired XDisplay" app on your iPad and wait a few seconds. It will automatically recognize your PC and begin displaying the Windows screen on your iPad, usually as an extension of your desktop.

You can move windows, applications, and use the mouse and keyboard on the second screen without any additional configuration. If the desktop doesn't extend automatically, in Windows you just have to go to Settings > System > Display and choose “Extend these displays.”

Set up iPad as a wireless display with Spacedesk

Spacedesk is the most complete free alternative if you prefer to use the iPad as a secondary display over Wi-Fi, although it also allows the use of a USB cable if you need it. The advantage is that you can keep your desk free of cables and the connection is usually stable if you have a good router and both devices are on the same network. The recommended steps are:

1. From the PC, go to spacedesk.net and download the latest version of Spacedesk Driver for Windows (Do not use the Microsoft Store app, as it may have more errors.)
2. Install the driver on your PC and reboot if necessary.
3. On the iPad, search for and install the app Spacedesk Viewer on the App Store.
4. Make sure both your PC and iPad are connected to the same Wi-Fi network (This is essential for the devices to see each other.)
5. Open the “spacedesk DRIVER Console” program on your PC and check that it is ON.
6. Open the SpaceDesk app on your iPad. It should automatically detect your computer and display it by name or local IP address.
7. Tap on the option that appears on the iPad, accept the local network access permission, and The iPad will immediately display your PC screen..

Do you want to extend your desktop instead of duplicating it? By default, SpaceDesk mirrors your screen, but if you want to extend your workspace:

• press Windows + P on the PC and choose extend.
• Sign in Settings > System > Display, identify the screens and drag them until they match your physical position.

Useful tip: You can adjust the screen resolution, scale, and orientation from Windows settings to adapt the iPad to your needs.

Payment options: Duet Display, Air Display and other apps

If you're looking for the highest image quality, lowest latency, or advanced touch support, there's premium apps that may interest you:

• Duet Display: Probably the most popular among professionals. It allows for wired or Wi-Fi connectivity, has very high stability, and excellent image quality, although it costs around €10. Highly recommended if you're looking for a solution for everyday work without interruptions. It's also compatible with Macs and offers full touch support.
• Air Display: Paid alternative ($4,99 or $9,99). It works well on Windows and has both wired and Wi-Fi modes, although it can cause issues with modern Mac models. It's worth considering if you also want compatibility with Android.
• iDisplay: Another option, but it is the most expensive ($15-20) and generally less recommended unless you have very specific needs.

Tip: If you have any doubts, start by trying the free options, as they often cover all your daily needs, and only upgrade to a paid app if you need even more quality or specific features.

Advanced settings: duplicate, extend and mirror mode

Most apps You can choose between extending your screen (giving you more workspace) or mirroring it (mirroring your main screen on both devices). Here's how to choose these modes:

• In Windows, tap Windows + P and select between “Duplicate” or “Extend”.
• From Settings > System > Display You can manage your screens, check which one is the primary one, and arrange their position by dragging the screen blocks to reflect your layout on the table. This way, mouse movement will be natural.
• Some apps allow you to activate "mirroring" mode from their own advanced menus, which is useful for presentations or sharing your exact screen.

Remember that with apps like spacedesk you can take advantage of the full touch support on the iPad, even using Apple Pencil to interact or take notes directly on what you're viewing.

Troubleshooting common problems and helpful tips

Although the process is usually very simple, sometimes minor inconveniences may arise, especially related to network permissions, drivers or firewall interference:

• Is the app not detecting your PC? Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network and that you've granted access to the app on your iPad.
• Is the "Extend" option not appearing? Make sure Windows recognizes your iPad as a display and check the Display settings.
• Restart your router, PC, and iPad if the connection is experiencing intermittent errors.
• If you use cable, make sure that iTunes is up to date and running.
• Check that there are no firewall or antivirus blocks that prevent communication between devices.
• If all else fails, uninstall and reinstall the apps on both computers.

It's important to note that most apps are compatible with recent iPad models running iOS 13 or later, although performance may vary on older models. It's recommended to try several options if you're looking for maximum fluidity.

What can I do with an iPad as a second screen?

Once you have everything up and running, the possibilities of the iPad as a secondary display are practically endless:

• Use it as an exclusive monitor for messaging apps (WhatsApp, Slack, Telegram, Discord…)
• Organize your editing windows, music controls, or productivity tools off the main screen
• Monitor live streams, chats, or system data If you are a streamer or work with data analysis
• View documents, PDF or presentations while working on another project on the main screen
• Take advantage of touch support to draw, annotate, or manipulate interfaces with direct interaction impossible on classic monitors

The potential of this configuration allows you to adapt the iPad to different tasks, improving efficiency and compatibility in your work or study environment.

Quick comparison of iPad apps as a second screen

Application	Price	Connection type	Compatibility	Highlights
Splashtop Wired X Display	Free	USB Cable	Windows, iOS	Easy to use, no delay, support for older models
spacedesk	Free	Wi-Fi or USB	Windows, iOS, Android	Versatile, good quality, extension and mirror mode
duet display	Payment	Cable and Wi-Fi	Windows, Mac, iOS	High quality, advanced touch support, very stable
Air-Display	Payment	Cable and Wi-Fi	Windows, Mac, iOS, Android	Works on older, multi-device systems
iDisplay	Payment	Cable and Wi-Fi	Windows, Mac, iOS, Android	Basic options, less recommended

In the end, Turning your iPad into an auxiliary monitor for your PC is an efficient, economical, and simple strategy to improve your work environment.Whether you choose free solutions like Spacedesk or Splashtop, or prefer paid apps like Duet Display, the process is accessible to most. Whether you're looking to increase your productivity or streamline your daily tasks, you'll benefit from a more comfortable and functional environment, as well as the ability to interact directly with your apps thanks to the iPad's touch support.