How to Use an iPad as a Second Display

What you need to get started

Using an iPad as a second display is a built-in feature of iPadOS and macOS called Sidecar. It requires a Mac and an iPad that support the feature, both signed into the same Apple ID. You also need to enable Handoff and have Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and the devices close together for a wireless connection.

If you are not sure whether your devices qualify, check the compatibility information on Apple's support pages. The setup is straightforward: once the prerequisites are met, Sidecar appears in the Display settings on your Mac, and you can select your iPad from the menu.

For a wired connection, use a USB-C cable that supports data and power. This provides a more stable connection and keeps your iPad charged during extended sessions, which is especially useful for demanding tasks like photo editing or coding.

• A compatible Mac and iPad
• Both devices signed into the same Apple ID
• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled for wireless use
• A USB-C cable for a wired connection

Wired vs. wireless: which should you choose?

Sidecar works wirelessly over Wi-Fi, but a wired connection offers two key benefits: lower latency and continuous charging. When you plug your iPad into your Mac with a USB-C cable, the data link is more reliable, and the power delivery keeps the battery topped up as you work. This is particularly important if you plan to use the iPad as a second display for hours.

USB Power Delivery, as defined by the USB Implementers Forum, allows a single cable to carry both data and power. The USB-C standard supports this, so a wired Sidecar connection can draw power from your Mac while also transmitting display signals. That means you do not have to worry about your iPad running out of battery in the middle of a work session.

Wireless is more convenient for short sessions or when you are moving around, but it may introduce slight input lag and relies on both devices staying within Wi-Fi range. If you need precise cursor control or are working with graphics, a wired connection is the safer choice.

Setting up Sidecar on your iPad

To start using Sidecar, make sure your Mac and iPad are both signed into the same Apple ID with two-factor authentication enabled. On your Mac, click the Control Center icon in the menu bar, then click the Screen Mirroring icon and select your iPad from the list. Your iPad will automatically switch to a second display mode.

You can also control Sidecar from the Sidecar menu in System Settings. Once connected, you can drag windows between your Mac and iPad, use the iPad as a drawing tablet with Apple Pencil, and even use Sidecar to extend your desktop across both screens.

If the wired connection is preferred, simply plug your iPad into your Mac with a USB-C cable. The Mac should detect the iPad automatically. A wired connection also lets you use the iPad as a second display while simultaneously charging it, which is ideal for long productivity sessions.

Choosing the right iPad for second display use

While any compatible iPad works with Sidecar, the model you choose affects the experience. A larger screen gives you more room for palettes, timelines, or code editors. Ipads with higher resolution and better color accuracy are also better for design work, as they show more detail and true colors.

For a dedicated second display, consider an iPad with a 12-inch or larger display. These models provide ample space for side-by-side windows and are more comfortable for long periods of use. If portability matters more, an 11-inch model is lighter and easier to carry, but you will have less screen real estate.

Look for tablets with a high-resolution display, good brightness, and support for the Apple Pencil if you plan to use it for annotations or drawing. Our best Apple tablets guide covers the current lineup, and the large screen tablets page highlights models that excel as second displays.

Practical tips for using Sidecar

When you use Sidecar, you can set the iPad to mirror your Mac or extend it as a separate display. Extending is the default and most useful for multitasking. You can also enable the Sidebar and Touch Bar on the iPad, giving you quick access to controls for the app you are using.

If you are a developer, a second display is invaluable for keeping documentation open alongside your editor. For writers, it can hold reference materials or a research window while you type. For designers, the iPad becomes a natural canvas for the Apple Pencil, turning it into a high-end drawing tablet.

To get the most out of the setup, pair a keyboard with your iPad for quick text entry, and consider using a tablet with a keyboard if you plan to use this configuration frequently. Also, explore tablet multitasking to understand how iPadOS can complement your desktop workflow.

Troubleshooting common Sidecar issues

If Sidecar does not connect, first ensure that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network and have Bluetooth enabled. Restart both devices, then try again. For a wired connection, check that the USB-C cable supports data and not just charging, as some cables are power-only.

If the connection drops or is laggy, move closer to your Wi-Fi router or switch to a wired connection. Also, close any apps that might be using a lot of bandwidth, such as video streaming or large downloads. On the Mac, check that the display settings are correct and that the iPad is not already connected to another Mac.

For more advanced issues, ensure that your devices have the latest operating system updates installed. If problems persist, consult Apple's official support resources. Often, toggling Sidecar off and on in the Mac's display settings can resolve temporary glitches.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Does Sidecar work wirelessly or only with a cable?

Sidecar works both wirelessly over Wi-Fi and with a wired USB-C connection. Wireless is more convenient but may have higher latency, while wired provides a stable connection and charges your iPad.

Can I use any iPad as a second display?

No, only iPads that support Sidecar and are compatible with your Mac can be used. You need a relatively recent iPad model and a Mac that meets Apple's feature requirements. Check Apple's compatibility list for details.

Will using Sidecar drain my iPad battery quickly?

Wireless use will consume battery, but a wired connection with USB Power Delivery can keep the iPad charged. For long sessions, a wired connection is recommended to avoid battery drain.

Can I use an Android tablet as a second display for a Mac?

Android tablets do not support Sidecar, but they can be used with third-party apps that emulate a second display over Wi-Fi or USB. However, the integration is not as seamless as Sidecar, and there may be limitations. For a native experience, an iPad is the preferred choice.

What is the advantage of using Sidecar over a dedicated portable monitor?

Sidecar turns your iPad into a touchscreen display that supports the Apple Pencil, which is ideal for drawing, annotating, and navigating with gestures. It also uses existing hardware, so you do not need to carry an extra monitor.