How to turn your tablet into a monitor and get the most out of it

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If you work with a laptop or mini PC, you've probably wished you had a few extra centimeters of screen space more than once . Constantly switching between tabs, windows, and applications is a real drag and makes you lose time and concentration. Buying an external monitor is the classic solution, but it's not always the most convenient or cheapest, especially if you move around a lot or have limited space.

The good news is that you probably already have something at home that can act as a monitor: your tablet . With today's apps and features, it's possible to turn an Android tablet, an iPad, a Samsung Galaxy Tab, or even a graphics tablet into a very decent second screen, either wired or wirelessly, without breaking the bank. In this article, you'll see all the options, their advantages, their drawbacks, and when it's best to use each method.

Why it's worth using a tablet as a second monitor

The first reason to use a tablet as a monitor is obvious: you gain workspace without having to buy another dedicated device. For office tasks, browsing, video calls, or even light photo and video editing, a second screen allows you to have more things visible at once without constantly maximizing and minimizing windows.

Furthermore, being a lightweight and compact device, you can take it everywhere . If you work remotely, frequently change offices, or travel with a laptop, a tablet as a second monitor is much more convenient to carry than a traditional monitor with its stand and cables.

Another key feature is the touchscreen . Unlike a conventional monitor, many tablets allow you to touch, drag, zoom, and even write with a digital stylus. This is very useful for taking quick notes, creating diagrams, signing documents, controlling toolbars, or managing windows more intuitively.

There's also the issue of budget. Often, a tablet (even a basic one) can be cheaper than a monitor of similar quality, while also offering extra features like watching multimedia content, reading, playing games, or using messaging apps independently of a PC.

Finally, repurposing an old tablet you have at home is a great way to give the device a second life . Its hardware might no longer be cutting-edge for demanding apps, but as a secondary screen for basic tasks, it's usually more than adequate.

Android tablets as monitors: options, requirements and best uses

If you have a reasonably modern Android tablet, you're in luck, because it's one of the most flexible and affordable options for setting up a second screen at home . Several apps allow you to extend or duplicate your PC's desktop, or even that of another Android device, onto your tablet, either via Wi-Fi or cable.

An Android tablet is especially appealing when you're looking for something affordable, portable , and compatible with Windows PCs, Macs, or other mobile phones/tablets. Even on a budget (starting around €50 for entry-level models), you can achieve a perfectly usable experience as a secondary monitor.

However, for a smooth experience, the tablet should have a relatively recent version of Android, a screen with good resolution, and, if you're going to use a wireless connection, a stable and fast Wi-Fi network at home or in the office . It's also important that the PC or device you connect it to is compatible with the apps you want to use.

In practice, the flow is usually always similar: you install one app on the computer (client or server) and another on the tablet; both devices must be connected to the same WiFi or joined by a USB/USB-C cable, and from there the tablet acts as an extended or duplicate monitor , depending on what you choose in the display settings of Windows or the system you use.

Apps to turn a tablet into a PC monitor

There are quite a few apps that let you use your tablet as an extra monitor. Some are free with certain limitations, others are paid, and not all offer the same level of image quality, latency, or touch functionality. Below is a detailed overview of the most popular and reliable apps for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

Chrome Remote Desktop: Remote access is more than just an extended monitor

Google Chrome Remote Desktop isn't exactly designed to use your tablet as a screen extension, but rather to control another computer remotely . Even so, if you have an Android tablet (or even a mobile phone), you can view and manage your PC's desktop from anywhere.

It works using a browser extension and a web service: you configure remote access in your computer's Chrome browser, linking it to your Google account, and then, from the Android app, you choose which computer you want to connect to. This allows you to mirror what's happening on your PC on your tablet, but not extend it like an additional monitor.

To use it safely, it's advisable to follow a series of best practices: activate two-step verification on your Google account when possible, use trusted WiFi networks (avoiding unencrypted public networks), choose strong passwords, keep your operating system and browser up to date, and carefully review the permissions you grant.

If you encounter any problems connecting, check that the PC is turned on and has an internet connection, that your network is not blocking the service, that your antivirus or firewall is not blocking traffic, and that, if it is a corporate or educational computer, there are no restrictions from the organization itself that prevent the use of Chrome Remote Desktop.

Spacedesk: one of the most complete and free solutions

Spacedesk has become one of the top apps for those looking to use their tablet as an extended Windows monitor . It works with Windows 8.1 and later, and is compatible with Android tablets (version 4.1 and later) and iPads (iOS 9.3 or later). It can even be used from a modern web browser without installing the app on the client device.

The process is simple: you install the server software on your Windows PC and the Spacedesk app on your tablet. It's crucial that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network , as communication takes place over the local network. Once the tablet detects the PC, you connect, and Windows recognizes it as an additional monitor.

Next, in Windows display settings, you can choose whether to duplicate, extend, or use only the secondary screen . In extend mode, you'll have a panoramic desktop where you can drag windows to the tablet; in duplicate mode, you'll see exactly the same thing as on the main monitor.

Spacedesk stands out for being free in its basic version and for offering very decent performance over Wi-Fi, provided the router and signal strength are adequate. It's ideal for those who want an affordable and flexible solution without getting bogged down in too many technical details.

Splashtop and Splashtop Wired XDisplay: wireless and via USB

Splashtop is a veteran and very powerful remote access and extended display platform that offers broad compatibility with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS . It has various products and plans, some free and some paid, and not all extended display features are available at no cost.

To use Splashtop as a second wireless monitor, install the program on your PC and the corresponding app on your tablet or iPad, create an account, and ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. From the security section of the desktop software, you can set a password or PIN to secure the connection between your computer and tablet.

A very interesting alternative is Splashtop Wired XDisplay, designed for those who prefer to connect their tablet via USB cable instead of Wi-Fi . This app offers free sessions of about 10 minutes, sufficient for occasional use, and a fairly affordable paid version for continuous use.

With Wired XDisplay, you need to install the client on your PC (Windows 7 or later, macOS 10.9 or later) and the app on your Android tablet or iPad (iOS 7.0 or later, or Android 4.0 or later). Then you connect both with a suitable USB/USB-C cable, and the tablet becomes a secondary monitor with very low latency.

It's a good choice if you want good performance and stability without depending on WiFi quality, for example to read documents vertically, have additional views of applications, or use the tablet as a control panel while working on the main screen.

Duet Display: great quality, but only available for a fee

Duet Display is another very popular app for using an iPad or Android tablet as a second screen for a PC or Mac. Its strength lies in its very low latency and good image quality , maximizing wired connections and, in more recent versions, wireless connections as well.

Duet Display's philosophy is plug and play: you install the software on your computer, the app on your tablet or iPhone, connect via cable (Lightning or USB-C), and instantly you have an extended or duplicated desktop with minimal setup. It retains the device's touch functionality, allowing you to use gestures and taps directly on the second screen.

However, there are a few caveats: the app is paid (around €15-16 depending on offers and platform) and, on some older Windows configurations or with outdated drivers, the system may detect the tablet as a generic monitor and limit the resolution to 1024x768. This can be resolved by keeping the video drivers and the desktop app up to date.

If you accept the cost and don't mind using a cable, Duet Display is usually one of the best performers in terms of fluidity and sharpness, especially for tasks where a small delay would be annoying: light editing, intensive office work, or prolonged use as a main secondary screen.

SuperDisplay: Turn your tablet into a monitor and graphics tablet

SuperDisplay is a solution designed primarily for Windows 10 users who want to turn their Android tablet not only into an additional high refresh rate monitor , but also into a kind of pressure-sensitive graphics tablet.

The paid app (with a 3-day free trial and a price around €8-9) offers up to 60 fps refresh rate, providing a very smooth experience when drawing or moving windows. It also supports pressure-sensitive styluses like the Samsung S Pen, turning the tablet into a highly capable digital canvas for programs like Photoshop and similar software.

The typical procedure involves installing SuperDisplay on the tablet from the Play Store, downloading and installing the desktop component on the PC, and then connecting via USB cable or Wi-Fi, depending on your preference. First, open the app on the tablet and then on the computer, following the steps to pair both devices.

Although officially designed for Windows 10, many users report that it also works well on Windows 11. If you do creative work, illustration, retouching, or want a hybrid device that functions as a second monitor and pressure-sensitive drawing tool , SuperDisplay is one of the most powerful options.

Deskreen: second screen via browser

Deskreen is an interesting cross-platform tool because it allows you to use virtually any device with a modern browser (tablet, laptop, mobile phone) as a secondary display for Windows, macOS, and Linux . It does this by creating a kind of "virtual display adapter" on the PC and sharing video over the local network.

You install Deskreen on your computer, run it, and connect your tablet via a link or QR code using just your browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.). You can share the entire screen or just a specific application, and it supports multiple clients connected simultaneously, which is useful for presentations or demonstrations.

It features video quality control options, Wi-Fi compatibility, and connection encryption. It's a very attractive alternative when you want to avoid installing apps on your tablet (due to company restrictions, for example) and you have the freedom to do so on your main computer.

Pitikapp: resource monitor and auxiliary panel

Pitikapp takes a slightly different approach: it's designed to turn your tablet into an information panel or resource monitor while you use your PC for gaming, work, or streaming. It's not so much a classic desktop extension as a way to display system statistics, game data, custom controls, or specific dashboards.

The key is to install Pitikapp on both your Windows computer and your tablet (Android or iOS), making sure they're both on the same Wi-Fi network. Once connected, you can configure what you want to see on the secondary screen: computer performance, game settings, media controls, and more.

For many users who stream or want to monitor temperatures, CPU usage, or FPS while gaming, it's a very practical solution to have everything in view without filling the main screen with overlays.

Miracast and other wireless technologies

In addition to dedicated apps, you can also rely on wireless streaming technologies like Miracast to send your PC's image to another compatible display , such as a tablet, mobile phone, or TV. In some cases, you'll need an adapter or an app to act as a receiver.

On Windows computers, if the system supports Miracast, you'll see the option to project wirelessly. To check this, you can use the DxDiag tool and save the information to a text file, which will show the computer's Miracast capabilities and limitations.

In combination with devices like Chromecast or specific Android apps, Miracast can be used to mirror the screen or use the tablet as a wireless monitor , although not always with the same quality or latency as dedicated solutions.

Samsung Galaxy Tab tablets: second screen without installing apps

If you have a recent Samsung Galaxy Tab, specifically from the Galaxy Tab S7 or S8 series with One UI 3.1 or higher, you have a very interesting feature: a second screen integrated into the system itself . This allows you to use the tablet as a monitor for a Windows PC without needing to install third-party applications.

The process is simple: connect your PC and tablet to the same network, open the quick settings panel on the Samsung tablet, and tap the "Second screen" option ( Windows tablet mode offers a similar experience in terms of integration). Then, choose the usage mode (optimized for drawing/gaming, with lower latency, or for video), depending on your needs.

On your Windows computer, press the Windows key + K to open the wireless devices panel and select your Galaxy Tab from the list. From there, you can choose to mirror your PC screen or extend your desktop to use two monitors.

This native integration is especially useful for users who travel a lot with a compatible laptop, as it turns the Samsung tablet into a ready-to-use second screen in seconds , without extra complications or strange configurations.

Using an iPad as a monitor: Sidecar and other alternatives

The iPad is another perfect candidate to function as an additional monitor, especially if you're part of the Apple ecosystem. With the Sidecar feature, recent Macs can use an iPad as a secondary display, wired or wirelessly , taking advantage of the integration between macOS and iPadOS.

To use Sidecar, your Mac and iPad need to be compatible and connected to the same network or via Ethernet cable. In macOS, go to System Settings, then Displays, click the "+" icon, and select your iPad as an additional display. From then on, you can easily extend or mirror your desktop.

Sidecar takes advantage of the Apple Pencil and the iPad's touch capabilities, so you can use it as a drawing tablet, take handwritten notes, or navigate complex interfaces using the pencil. For those who work in design, illustration, or editing, it's a very powerful tool.

If you can't use Sidecar (due to compatibility issues or because you're using Windows), you can always use third-party apps like Duet Display, Splashtop, Spacedesk (for iPad), Air Display, or iDisplay, which connect your iPad to your Mac or PC via USB or Wi-Fi. Many of these are paid apps, but they offer polished performance and advanced features.

Drawing tablets as monitors: an ideal option for creatives

Drawing tablets with screens (like the XPPen, Wacom, Huion, and similar models) are designed to function as interactive monitors connected to a PC or Mac. This means that, in addition to drawing with a pressure-sensitive stylus, you can use their screen as a second (or even primary) display for any task.

These devices typically connect via HDMI/DisplayPort and USB, or with a single USB-C cable on newer models. Once the official drivers are installed, the system recognizes them as an additional monitor, and you can choose in the settings whether to duplicate or extend your desktop. It's also helpful to know how to clean the screen without damaging it to maintain good visibility and pen responsiveness.

The big advantage is that they usually offer generous screen sizes (from about 11 to 24 inches or more), panels with good color reproduction, and, of course, full integration with the stylus: pressure, tilt, customizable buttons, etc. You can draw, write, navigate, and control the computer with great precision.

For example, models like the Artist 24 Pro feature a 23,8-inch screen with 2K QHD resolution and configurable hotkeys that speed up workflow. Others, like the Artist 22 Plus, offer a 21,5-inch screen and very high pressure sensitivity levels (16 levels), designed to get the most out of artistic work.

If you spend many hours creating illustrations, editing photos or videos, or taking online courses where you need to take handwritten notes, a drawing tablet can serve as both a second screen and a creative tool . The cost is higher than that of many consumer tablets, but in return you get a professional-grade tool.

Connections: WiFi, USB and HDMI, which option is best?

The way you connect your tablet to your computer greatly influences the experience. Broadly speaking, you can choose between a wireless connection (WiFi/Bluetooth) or a wired connection (USB, USB-C, HDMI with adapters) , and each method has its pros and cons.

Wireless connection (WiFi): This is the most convenient in terms of mobility because it eliminates the need to carry cables and allows you to place the tablet anywhere within network range. It works very well with apps like Spacedesk, Deskreen, or Splashtop, provided the router is decent and there isn't much congestion. The downside is that some lag and artifacts may appear if the signal isn't stable.

Wired connection (USB/USB-C): This usually offers the lowest latency and best stability . Applications like Duet Display, Splashtop Wired XDisplay, and SuperDisplay take advantage of the USB connection to send video with very little delay and in high resolution. However, this will always depend on having the correct cable and ensuring that the tablet supports it.

HDMI connection: Generally, consumer tablets don't accept HDMI input signals, only output (when they have one). To use a regular tablet as a monitor via HDMI, you would need specific adapters that convert the video signal to something the tablet can interpret, which is usually neither practical nor cheap . In contrast, drawing tablets are designed to receive HDMI directly.

In any case, if you decide to use a cable, it's important to invest in good quality cables and avoid problems with USB-C hubs , because a faulty cable can cause disconnections, low resolution, or charging problems with the tablet while using it as a monitor.

In any case, if you decide to use a cable, it's important to invest in good quality cables , because a faulty cable can cause disconnections, low resolution, or charging problems with the tablet while using it as a monitor.

Windows settings: duplicate, extend, or just second screen

Once the system recognizes the tablet as a monitor, in Windows you can choose how you want to use it from the display settings. Basically, you have three modes: mirror, extend, and second screen only , each designed for different situations.

If you choose to duplicate, you'll see exactly the same thing on the main monitor and the tablet. This is useful for presentations or training sessions: you work on your computer while others see the same thing on the second screen, which can be closer to them or integrated into another space.

In Extend mode, Windows extends your desktop onto your tablet, as if you had a larger table. You can move windows between screens, drag editing tools, place reference documents on the tablet, and leave the main screen clear for your primary content . It's the most practical mode for productivity.

The "Second screen only" option turns off the laptop's monitor and displays the image only on the external screen. This makes sense when you connect your computer to a larger screen (TV, large-format monitor) to view content, play games, or watch movies without having two screens on at the same time.

Even though you're using a tablet, these modes work the same as with any monitor. The only difference is that in some cases you can use touch and a stylus to interact with what's on the extended screen.

When is it really worth using a tablet as a monitor?

The most common use of a tablet as a monitor is to improve multitasking productivity . If you work with spreadsheets, reports, web browsing, email, and messaging simultaneously, a second screen allows you to keep everything more organized: documents on one side, tools or references on the other.

For those who edit photos or videos, a tablet can be used to display toolbars, timelines, or previews , leaving the main monitor for the full-resolution image. Many programmers also use a separate screen for documentation, logs, or previewing their development work.

In the educational and teleworking fields, a tablet as a monitor is a godsend for video calls: you can leave the meeting or chat on the tablet, and use the main screen to take notes, consult documents or browse without it being visible in the video conference that you are switching windows every two seconds.

It can also be useful for studying: one screen for the slides or the virtual campus, and the other for a word processor, a note-taking app, or a handwritten note-taking app. Many students appreciate having that little extra space to better organize materials, notes, and exercises.

It even makes sense for leisure: if you stream video games, for example, you can play on the main screen and use the tablet to monitor the chat, control the streaming software, or check statistics, without cluttering your monitor with constant overlays.

Advantages and disadvantages compared to a traditional monitor

Like any technological workaround, using a tablet as a monitor has its pros and cons. Among the clearest advantages is portability : it's much more convenient to put a tablet in your backpack than a monitor, and you can use it for many other things besides a second screen.

Another advantage is its flexibility . You can decide when to use it as a monitor and when to use it as a standalone device for reading, watching videos, or using social media. Furthermore, with a wide range of available apps, you can customize its operation to suit your needs (wired, Wi-Fi, remote access, drawing, etc.).

There's also a clear economic and resource-saving component: instead of buying a new monitor, you can repurpose a forgotten tablet and get more use out of it. In mobile environments or for users on a tight budget, this solution can make all the difference.

Ergonomics and eye health are another sensitive issue: tablets aren't designed to be fixed to a desk like a monitor, so if you don't use a proper stand, you could end up with bad neck and back posture . It's also easy to get distracted if you leave notifications or entertainment apps running on the second screen while you work.

In terms of performance, many full-screen apps limit the resolution or refresh rate to reduce resource consumption, and there may always be some lag, especially over Wi-Fi. And don't forget that, if it's not plugged in, the tablet drains the battery quite quickly when used as a monitor.

Although a dedicated monitor remains the most solid option for intensive use, a tablet as a second screen offers a very interesting balance between convenience, cost and versatility, especially for mobile work, study and mixed uses.

Ultimately, turning a tablet into a monitor is a rather ingenious way to extend the life of your device without major investments: with the right apps, a good network or a decent cable, and some skill with screen configuration, you can transform a device you may not have used much into a perfect ally for working, studying, or creating with more space and comfort wherever you go.