[7 Apps] How to Use A Tablet as A Second Screen

Can I use my tablet as a second monitor?

While multitasking is increasingly becoming the key to efficiency, utilizing a tablet as a second screen has become increasingly popular among professionals, students, and enthusiasts alike. Whether you're working on a project, gaming, or simply looking to extend your display real estate, leveraging your tablet alongside your primary device can significantly enhance your workflow.

Thankfully, leveraging third-party tools enables you to employ your Android tablet as a secondary monitor for your computer. One significant advantage of this approach is the absence of the need to invest in external cables or costly equipment. Seamlessly, you can utilize a tablet as a secondary monitor through the utilization of the following applications.

How to use a tablet as a second screen [7 apps recommended]

Explore the following selection of seven applications to discover how to use a tablet as a second screen.

App 1. AnyViewer

When it comes to using a tablet as a second screen, AnyViewer emerges as one of the top choices for seamless connectivity and enhanced productivity.AnyViewer is the easy remote desktop access software for screen mirroring. It simplifies the process of connecting your tablet to your computer and mirroring computer screen to Android, whether you're using it on the same Wi-Fi network or remotely accessing your device from anywhere in the world. The intuitive setup wizard guides you through the connection process, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

In addition to screen mirroring, AnyViewer offers a range of advanced features that enhance productivity and collaboration. You can remotely control your computer from your tablet, access files, and run apps, making it a comprehensive solution for remote work and collaboration.

How to use a tablet as a second screen with AnyViewer:

Step 1. Download and install AnyViewer on your PC and sign up.

Step 2. Install AnyViewer on your Android tablet and log in.

Step 3. Choose your PC on the tablet and tap the One-click control.

Step 4. Your PC screen is now mirrored on your tablet - it's your second screen!

Note: If you plan to log in to multiple devices using the same account, it's recommended to upgrade your AnyViewer account to either the Professional or Enterprise Edition. This upgrade will provide you with additional privileges and benefits.

App 2. AirDroid Cast

AirDroid Cast is another dependable app for screen mirroring, boasting user-friendly functionality and effectiveness. This tool facilitates the seamless duplication of your PC screen onto an Android tablet. AirDroid Cast's cross-platform compatibility simplifies screen mirroring, enhancing collaboration through features like remote control capabilities.

Currently, AirDroid Cast adequately fulfills screen mirroring needs, enabling users to mirror their Windows or Mac computer screens to an Android tablet. However, forthcoming updates will introduce the much-anticipated screen extension feature to AirDroid Cast.

How to mirror PC to your tablet with AirDroid Cast:

Step 1. Download and install the AirDroid Cast app on both your sending and receiving devices.

Step 2. Launch the AirDroid Cast software on your casting computer and choose "Cast To."

Step 3. Enter the provided code on the AirDroid Cast app on your Android tablet, or scan the QR code.

Step 4. Grant the necessary permissions and commence screen mirroring from your computer to your Android tablet.

App 3. Duet Display

Duet Display gained widespread acclaim as an iOS application enabling users to mirror their Mac's display onto their iPhones and iPads. Now, Duet Display extends its functionality to Android smartphones and tablets, offering similar features.

It's important to note that Duet Display operates on a subscription model, priced at $29.99 per year. Once subscribed, users can wirelessly connect their Android devices, including tablets, to Windows computers and utilize the tablet as a wireless monitor.

However, when connecting an Android tablet to a macOS device, a USB cable is required. Additionally, Duet Display does not support touchscreen functionality for the extended display. Nonetheless, users can employ the tablet as a touchpad to control their primary monitor.

How to use an Android tablet as a second monitor via Duet Display:

Step 1. Get the Duet Display app on both your Android tablet and PC.

Step 2. Launch the applications on both devices.

Step 3. If you're using the app for the first time, create a Duet Display account. After creating the account, sign in with it on both devices.

Step 4. Click "Connect Devices" on your PC from the left menu bar, then follow the on-screen instructions to locate your Android tablet and establish the connection.

App 4. Splashtop Wired XDisplay

As implied by its name, Splashtop Wired XDisplay enables you to utilize your Android tablet as a secondary monitor via a wired connection, necessitating a USB cable.

One notable advantage of utilizing a tool such as Splashtop Wired XDisplay is the potential for enhanced resolution and frame rate. Consequently, users can experience a full HD screen display with Splashtop Wired XDisplay, despite its lack of support for wireless connectivity. This app is available for free.

How to extend a PC's screen to an Android tablet via Splashtop Wired XDisplay:

Step 1. Get Splashtop Wired XDisplay on your Android tablet and Windows PC.

Step 2. Please connect your tablet to your PC using a USB cable.

Step 3. Open the app on both devices and choose the option "Extend desktop to this display."

Step 4. On your Android tablet, select the "Connect" option to establish the connection between your PC and the tablet.

Step 5. Your PC screen will now be extended to the tablet, allowing you to use your Android tablet as a second monitor.

App 5. Spacedesk

Spacedesk is a reliable software solution that transforms your Android tablet into a secondary monitor for your Windows PC. Offering various connectivity options including USB, Wi-Fi, and LAN, it ensures versatile usage. Furthermore, Spacedesk delivers satisfactory screen quality when used as a second monitor, complemented by intuitive touch support.

While Spacedesk is available for free, its setup process can be challenging. The complexity of the setup remains a significant drawback, preventing it from emerging as the preferred solution for utilizing tablets as secondary monitors.

How to use Spacedesk to extend a PC's screen to an Android tablet:

Step 1. Please download the Spacedesk drivers for your PC and install the Spacedesk app on your Android tablet from the Play Store.

Step 2. Ensure both your PC and Android Tablet are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

Step 3. On your PC, access the Spacedesk icon and open "Server Properties."

Step 4. Navigate to the "Network" tab and take note of the IP addresses listed under the Server IPv4 Address.

Step 5. Open the Spacedesk app on your Android tablet and tap the "Connect" button.

Step 6. Enter the previously noted IP address and select "Connect."

Step 7. Your PC's screen will now extend to your Android tablet. Adjust the screen resolution and orientation according to your preferences.

App 6. iDisplay

iDisplay is a robust display mirroring application initially tailored for iOS and macOS users. However, it has expanded its availability to include Windows and Android users. This app facilitates the utilization of your Android tablet as a secondary monitor, offering smooth performance at 60 frames per second and incorporating multi-touch functionality once the screen is extended.

An unexpected aspect of iDisplay is its transition from a paid model, costing $18, to now being offered free of charge. It enables users to transform their Android tablets into second monitors through both wired and wireless connections, although USB support is currently unavailable for Android devices.

How to use an Android tablet as second monitor via iDisplay:

Step 1. Download and install the iDisplay apps on your Android tablet and desktop.

Step 2. Ensure both your PC and Android tablet are connected to the same network.

Step 3. Launch the apps on both devices.

Step 4. On your PC, click the "Connect" button within the iDisplay software.

Step 5. On your Android tablet, select the "Extend Desktop" option in the iDisplay app.

Step 6. Adjust the display resolution and orientation using the iDisplay desktop software, and your Android tablet is now ready for use as a second monitor.

App 7. Second Screen

Samsung users are in luck, as Samsung is one of the most renowned brands globally, with a vast user base utilizing Samsung tablets. To cater to its users, Samsung offers a built-in feature known as "Second Screen," facilitating the use of Samsung tablets as secondary monitors.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 and S8 devices running One UI 3.1 and later versions are equipped with the built-in Second Screen feature. Additionally, PCs with Wireless Displays and running on Windows 10 can leverage the Second Screen feature to enable the utilization of a Samsung tablet as a second monitor.

How to use my Samsung tablet as a second screen via Second Screen:

Step 1. Access the Quick Settings on your Samsung Tablet.

Step 2. Select the Second Screen icon and choose your preferred connection mode.

Step 3. Now, on your Windows computer, press the Win + K buttons to access the Connect options.

Step 4. From the list of available devices, select your tablet's name.

Step 5. Once you grant the necessary permissions, your computer's screen will begin displaying on your tablet's screen using the Second Screen feature.

The bottom line

In today's fast-paced world, multitasking has become essential for productivity. Utilizing a tablet as a second monitor has emerged as a popular strategy among professionals, students, and enthusiasts alike. Through the recommendations provided in this guide, users can explore a variety of applications tailored to facilitate this endeavor.

This post has introduced how to use a tablet as a second monitor. From AnyViewer's seamless connectivity to iDisplay's robust performance, each app offers unique features to enhance workflow efficiency. Whether you're extending your display for work or leisure, these tools empower users to unlock the full potential of their devices, transforming tablets into valuable secondary monitors.