Your iPad as a second screen: finally productive working from home
Laptop too small. Extra monitor too expensive. And that iPad? It's just sitting there. We all know it: working from home with a single screen feels like cooking in a postage-stamp kitchen. You're constantly scrolling between windows, constantly losing track of things, and that productivity everyone's talking about? Hard to find.
But here's the thing: that iPad you mainly use for Netflix can transform your workspace in two minutes. No cables needed, no expensive monitor , just your existing tablet. The crazy thing is, almost no one knows this, even though Apple has had this feature built in for years. In fact, with the right accessories , you'll soon be more productive than your colleagues with two fixed screens. And no, you don't have to be a tech wizard. Even your grandma can set this up between her AirPods sessions.
Useful links
- View refurbished iPads for use as a second screen
- Discover compatible MacBooks for Sidecar
- Fully refurbished range
Why your iPad is perfect as an extra monitor
That tablet, which is mostly used for entertainment, turns out to be a surprisingly effective work companion. The screen is sharp, the colors are accurate, and the size is ideal for specific tasks. Plus, you already have the device at home, so no additional investment is required.
The beauty of it is that Apple hasn't hidden this functionality. With Sidecar, you can work with two screens in seconds. No hassle with cables, drivers, or complicated settings. Your Mac automatically recognizes your tablet, and you can drag windows back and forth as if you've always done it.
Sidecar: Apple's built-in solution
For recent Apple devices, Sidecar is the obvious choice. This feature works wirelessly or with a cable and instantly transforms your tablet into a fully functional second display. The special feature: touch functionality is retained, so you can operate apps directly with your fingers.
Check compatibility
Not every device supports Sidecar. Your Mac must be from 2016 or later (MacBook Pro), 2018 or later for MacBook Air, or 2019 for Mac mini and iMac. For tablets, you need at least an iPad from 2016 with iPadOS 13 or later.
Activate Sidecar in three steps
- Make sure both devices are signed in to the same Apple ID
- Click on the Control Panel icon in your Mac menu bar
- Select 'Display' and choose your iPad from the list
Your Mac desktop immediately appears on the tablet screen. You can choose between mirroring or extending the screen. Extending the screen is usually more convenient for productivity: you then have two truly separate workspaces.
Alternatives for older devices
Do you own older models? No problem. Several apps offer similar functionality. Duet Display and Luna Display are popular options that even work on Windows computers. These apps typically cost between €10 and €30, but that's still cheaper than a new monitor.
Duet Display: The Veteran
This app has been around for years and works reliably. You install the software on both devices, connect them with a cable, and you're done. The advantage: it works with almost all iPad models and Windows as well. The disadvantage: you pay a monthly subscription for a wireless connection.
Luna Display: premium quality
Luna offers the best image quality and the lowest latency. You purchase a small hardware dongle that plugs into your computer. It's more expensive to purchase, but it offers no subscription fees and excellent performance.
Practical work scenarios
A second screen increases your productivity, especially for specific tasks. Programmers put code on the main screen and documentation on the tablet. Graphic designers use the extra display for tool palettes. Students read articles on the iPad while writing on their laptops.
This setup is ideal for video calls. You can share your main screen while taking notes on your tablet. Or you can move the video call to the second screen so you can continue working undisturbed on your primary display.
Ergonomics and layout
Place your tablet at eye level with a good stand. This prevents neck strain during prolonged use. Many people place their iPad to the left or right of their laptop, but above the main screen also works well for reference material.
Apple Pencil integration
With an Apple Pencil, your setup becomes even more versatile. Draw directly in Mac apps, sign documents, or make quick sketches. In apps like Photoshop or Illustrator, you work with the precision of a graphics tablet, but on a screen where you draw directly.
This combination is especially valuable for creatives. Photographers retouch photos with pens, architects sketch designs, and teachers annotate presentations during online classes.
Battery life and performance
A frequently asked question: doesn't this drain the battery? When connected wirelessly, Sidecar does indeed use extra power, but less than you might think. A modern iPad lasts about 4-5 hours as a second screen. With a wired connection, your tablet even charges while in use.
Performance remains stable, even with heavy use. Apple has optimized the technology to minimize lag. Playing videos, scrolling through documents—everything feels fluid.
Refurbished iPads: a smart choice for a second screen
You don't need the latest model for this application. A refurbished iPad from 2018 or 2019 works perfectly as an additional monitor. These models support Sidecar, have good screens, and cost a fraction of the price of a new one.
When purchasing a tablet, pay particular attention to screen size and resolution. An iPad Air or Pro 10.9 inches or larger offers ample workspace. The standard 10.2-inch iPad also works, but feels a bit cramped during intensive use.
Tips for optimal use
Turn off True Tone on your iPad when doing color-critical work. This feature adjusts colors based on ambient light, useful for reading but not for design work.
Use the sidebar in Sidecar for quick access to frequently used functions. Here you'll find buttons for Command, Shift, and other keys you might otherwise miss on a touchscreen.
Experiment with the screen layout. Sometimes portrait mode works better than landscape, especially for reading long documents or programming code.
Conclusion
Using your iPad as a second screen isn't a temporary solution, but a fully-fledged working method. Whether you choose Sidecar or a third-party app, the productivity gains are immediately noticeable. With a refurbished model, costs remain limited and you work sustainably. You already have everything you need, so why wait any longer to upgrade your workspace?
Conclusion: make your iPad useful
That iPad that's mostly gathering dust now turns out to be a valuable addition to your workspace. With Sidecar or an alternative app, you can work with two screens in minutes, without the hassle of cables or complicated settings. A refurbished iPad is more than sufficient for this – you really don't need the latest model.
You'll notice the difference in productivity immediately: a clearer overview, less clicking between windows , and finally the peace and quiet you need to concentrate. Give it a try; the feature is already there.
