For a compatible Mac, use Apple’s built-in Sidecar to extend or mirror your desktop on an iPad. Windows PCs need a third-party app such as Splashtop Wired XDisplay, Duet Display, or Luna Display; check each product’s current requirements before installing or buying hardware.
Choose the right method
| Option | Works with | Connection and requirements | What to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sidecar | Eligible Mac and iPad | Wi-Fi or USB; built into supported Apple operating systems | Extends or mirrors the Mac desktop. No separate display hardware is listed as a requirement by Apple. |
| Splashtop Wired XDisplay | Mac or Windows computer and iPad, subject to vendor requirements | Vendor lists macOS 10.13.6 and below or Windows 7+ for computers, and iOS 7.0+ for iPads | Vendor offers computer downloads and an iPad app. Check current app and OS compatibility. |
| Duet Display | Mac or Windows computer and iPad, subject to vendor requirements | Duet lists Windows 10 or later and macOS 12.3 or later; an older Mac download is listed for macOS 10.9–12.2 | Its site describes extending a Mac or PC display to iPad. The cited page does not establish comparative latency or pricing. |
| Luna Display | Windows or Mac computer and iPad, subject to vendor requirements | App Store listing describes Wi-Fi on the same network or USB; lists Windows 10 64-bit Build 1809 or later, macOS 10.13 or later, and iOS 12.1 or later | Requires Luna hardware, which is available for purchase. Recheck hardware and software compatibility before buying. |
Requirements in the table are vendor-published compatibility statements, not independent tests. The cited pages do not establish a universal best option or a controlled performance ranking. Compare your devices’ eligibility, wired versus wireless connection, any required hardware, and the interactions you need. Current comparative app and hardware prices are not established here.
Use Sidecar with a Mac
Check Mac and iPad compatibility
Apple’s Support page, dated September 17, 2026, lists macOS Catalina 10.15 or later and these Mac models: MacBook Air introduced in 2018 or later; iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2015); and all other Mac models introduced in 2016 or later. It lists iPadOS 13 or later and these iPads: all iPad Pro models, iPad (6th generation) or later, iPad mini (5th generation) or later, and iPad Air (3rd generation) or later. Check the model and OS on both devices against Apple’s Sidecar requirements.
Connect the devices
Sign in to the same Apple Account on both devices and enable two-factor authentication. For wireless Sidecar, keep them within 10 metres (30 feet), turn on Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Handoff, and make sure neither device is sharing its internet connection. If you connect by USB, connect the iPad and approve the prompt to trust the Mac. Apple recommends a direct connection with the iPad’s USB charging cable to keep it charged during Sidecar; choose a cable that matches the ports on your particular iPad and Mac.
#1 Best Overall
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Extend or mirror the Mac desktop
- To extend the desktop, use the window’s full-screen control and select the option to move the window to iPad, or drag the window to the iPad.
- To mirror the Mac display, choose the iPad from Screen Mirroring in Control Centre or the menu bar.
- To adjust display settings, open System Settings > Displays on macOS Ventura 13 or later. On macOS Monterey 12, use System Preferences > Displays > Display Settings. On earlier macOS releases, open System Preferences > Sidecar.
Use a keyboard, pointer, or Apple Pencil
Sidecar shows the Mac desktop on the iPad; it is not the same as controlling two separate devices with one pointer. Apple documents keyboard input from a keyboard connected to the Mac or iPad, mouse or trackpad use, and Apple Pencil for pointing and drawing, as well as a sidebar with common Mac controls. Apple’s current page says expanded touch interaction begins with iPadOS 27 and macOS 27; earlier versions have a more limited gesture set. Do not assume every Sidecar setup supports general touchscreen control. Apple’s guidance for pointing and clicking is: “To point, click, or select with a mouse or trackpad, use the mouse or trackpad connected to your Mac.” See Apple’s Sidecar instructions.
Use an iPad with Windows
Sidecar is a Mac feature, so a Windows PC needs third-party software. The vendors below publish different OS and device requirements; verify current compatibility and the app’s setup steps on the vendor page or app listing before proceeding.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Splashtop Wired XDisplay
Splashtop Wired XDisplay describes using an iPad or other mobile device as an extra monitor, and lists downloads for Windows and Mac plus an iPad app. Its page lists Windows 7+ or macOS 10.13.6 and below for computers, and iOS 7.0+ for iPads. Because these are vendor-stated requirements and may change, confirm that the current computer software and iPad app support your devices before setup.
Duet Display
Duet Display describes extending a Mac or PC display to iPad. Its site lists Duet for Windows 10 or later and macOS 12.3 or later, with an older Mac download for macOS 10.9–12.2. The cited page does not provide enough information to compare current latency or pricing with the alternatives.
Rank #3
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
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Luna Display
The Luna Display App Store listing describes Wi-Fi connections on the same network and USB as an option. It lists Windows 10 64-bit Build 1809 or later, macOS 10.13 or later, and iOS 12.1 or later for iPad. Luna also says its hardware is available for purchase, so check the current hardware and software requirements before buying.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Troubleshoot connection problems
Sidecar does not appear
- Confirm that the exact Mac and iPad models and operating-system versions meet Apple’s compatibility list.
- Check that both devices use the same Apple Account and that two-factor authentication is enabled.
- For wireless use, check proximity, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Handoff, and turn off internet sharing on both devices.
- For USB, confirm the iPad is connected and has trusted the Mac when prompted.
- Install current macOS and iPadOS updates if the connection still fails; Apple recommends keeping both systems current.
Wireless display performance is poor
Apple notes that wireless interference can affect Sidecar. Try a USB connection instead; a direct USB connection can also keep the iPad charged during use.
Rank #4
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
You want to use separate apps on each device
If you want the Mac and iPad to keep showing their own apps while sharing a keyboard and pointer, use Universal Control rather than Sidecar. Apple’s Sidecar guidance distinguishes Universal Control from using the iPad as the Mac’s second display.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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