How to Use Your iPad as a Remote Control for Mac [3 Ways]

What is the app that controls Macbook from iPad?

Have you ever had the question in your mind: How can I remotely control my Mac from my iPad? Maybe you're working on the go and need to access important files, or perhaps you want to manage your MacBook while lounging comfortably on the couch. Whatever the reason, the good news is: that there are apps designed specifically to control your MacBook from your iPad.

In this article, we'll explore the best apps available for remote access between your MacBook and iPad, so you can seamlessly use iPad as remote control for Mac, run apps, view documents, share your Mac screen with your iPad, or troubleshoot without being tethered to your laptop.

Why would you need to control a Mac from an iPad?

Before diving into the apps that make this possible, let's take a quick look at why controlling a MacBook from your iPad could be useful:

• Convenience: If you're traveling or away from your desk, using your iPad as a remote control allows you to access everything on your MacBook, from documents to media.
• Multitasking: You can be working on your MacBook while checking emails or taking notes on your iPad, making it a powerful multitasking tool.
• Efficiency: Managing tasks or fixing issues remotely through your iPad can save time, especially when you're out and about.

Now, let's explore the apps that will enable this kind of setup!

How to use iPad as remote control for Mac [3 apps]

Here are the top three remote control apps that let you control your MacBook using your iPad, ranked based on performance, ease of use, and security features.

App 1. AnyViewer

AnyViewer remote desktop software is an excellent choice for accessing an iMac remotely from an iPad. It offers robust security with end-to-end ECC-256 encryption to safeguard your remote sessions. The app also uses a unique protocol that ensures high-speed connections, with ultra-low latency of just 10ms.

For optimal control, AnyViewer lets users customize the image quality, offering HD, Smooth, Ultra HD, and custom settings. Additionally, you can adjust the frame rate between 30 fps and 60 fps, depending on your preferences during the remote session.

To enhance the viewing and control experience, AnyViewer provides a control mode feature. You can switch between touch mode and pointer mode as needed, and fine-tune the cursor size and sensitivity using an adjustable slider.

A step-by-step guide to use iPad as remote control for Mac via AnyViewer:

Step 1. Download and install AnyViewer on your Mac. Once installed, open the app and click on "Log in," then select "Sign up" to create an account.

Step 2. Next, download the AnyViewer app from the iOS App Store on your iPad. After installation, log in using the same account you used on your Mac.

Step 3. You're all set! To remotely access your Mac from your iPad, open the AnyViewer app, select your Mac from the list, and tap "One-click control" to begin the session.

Bonus tip: How AnyViewer overcomes common issues while controlling Mac from iPad remotely

AnyViewer is designed to tackle the common challenges of remotely controlling a Mac from an iPad, ensuring a seamless and reliable experience. For optimal performance, it is advised to upgrade to a Professional or Enterprise plan.

• Connectivity stability: A common issue with remote access, especially on mobile networks, is an unstable connection. AnyViewer optimizes data transmission, providing a stable and strong connection even on lower bandwidths, ensuring uninterrupted access to your Mac.
• Input responsiveness: Lag can be a productivity killer, particularly for tasks that require precision, such as graphic design or coding. AnyViewer reduces latency, delivering near-instantaneous input responses, allowing smooth control of your Mac from your iPad without delays.
• Display and resolution compatibility: Display issues can occur when adjusting from a large Mac screen to the iPad's smaller display. AnyViewer automatically adjusts the resolution and scaling to fit your iPad screen perfectly, offering a clear, smooth visual experience without manual tweaks.
• Security concerns: When accessing your Mac remotely, security is a top priority. AnyViewer ensures all sessions are encrypted with 256-bit ECC end-to-end encryption, and supports two-factor authentication, keeping your remote sessions secure and your data safe.
• User experience: Navigating a desktop interface on a small iPad screen can be tricky. AnyViewer improves the user experience with intuitive touch controls, including pinch-to-zoom and on-screen keyboards, making it easy to manage your Mac from your iPad without losing functionality or convenience.

By addressing these key issues, AnyViewer offers a dependable and secure solution for remotely controlling your Mac from your iPad, ensuring efficient work from anywhere. It is worth mentioning that you can also control Mac from Android devices using AnyViewer.

App 2. Switch Control

Switch Control is a built-in feature available on all Apple devices that lets you control other Apple devices connected to the same Wi-Fi network and Apple ID. It allows you to control your MacBook from an iPad, making it a great tool for users who need remote access with an accessibility focus.

Ensure that both your MacBook and iPad are connected to the same Wi-Fi network, then follow the steps below:

Step 1. Go to System Preferences> Accessibility on your MacBook. In the left-hand panel, select Switch Control under the "Motor" section. Enable Switch Control by checking the box.

Step 2. On your iPad, navigate to Settings > Accessibility. Scroll down and select Switch Control. Turn on Switch Control.

Step 3. On your iPad, under Switch Control in the Settings app, tap on Devices. Select your MacBook from the list of available devices. Once connected, you can control your MacBook using the iPad.

Step 4. On the iPad, you'll now have the ability to control the MacBook. This includes navigating the cursor, clicking, typing, and using all standard MacBook functions. You can switch between different control methods depending on your needs.

App 3. Chrome Remote Desktop

Google Chrome provides remote desktop software with strong security features, allowing secure access from an iPad to a Mac. This tool allows you to connect to Windows or macOS devices from any device, providing a customizable work environment.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to access your Mac's screen from an iPad using this software:

Step 1. Open Google Chrome on your Mac, or download it from the Mac App Store. Go to https://remotedesktop.google.com/access and log in.

Step 2. Click the download button under "Set up remote access."

Step 3. In the Chrome Web Store, click "Add to Chrome" and then "Add extension."

Step 4. Go back to the Chrome Remote Desktop page and click "Accept & Install."

Step 5. Open the file "Chrome Remote Desktop Host.pkg" and follow the prompts to install.

Step 6. Name your computer and set a 6-digit PIN.

Step 7. On your iPad, install and open the Chrome Remote Desktop app. Log in with the same Google account. Tap your Mac to connect.

Step 8. Enter your PIN and tap the arrow.

Step 9. If asked, click "OK" to allow network connection.

Step 10. You're now connected and can control your Mac from your iPad.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using an iPad as a remote control for your Mac offers unmatched convenience and flexibility. Whether you're on the go, working from a distance, or prefer controlling your Mac comfortably, apps like AnyViewer, Switch Control, and Chrome Remote Desktop make it possible.

Among these, AnyViewer stands out with its robust security, high-speed performance, and customizable settings, providing the best solution for remote control. With these tools, turning your iPad into a powerful remote control for your Mac is easier than ever, enhancing productivity wherever you are.