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How to Use an iPad as a Second Monitor with Mac Sidecar

Follow these steps in order to use an iPad as a second monitor with Sidecar.

  1. Check Sidecar's requirements

    Your Mac and iPad must be signed into the same Apple ID, with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Handoff turned on for both. For wireless use, keep the two devices within about 10 meters (30 feet) of each other.

  2. Open System Settings > Displays

    On your Mac, go to the Apple menu > System Settings, then click Displays in the sidebar.

  3. Select your iPad from the device list to connect

    Click your iPad in the device list shown at the top of the Displays screen -- Sidecar connects and your screen space extends.

  4. Choose Extend or Mirror

    Choose Extend to use the iPad as a separate second screen, or Mirror to duplicate your Mac's screen exactly on the iPad.

  5. Arrange the displays

    In the Arrangement view of Display settings, drag the iPad's screen to the left, right, above, or below your Mac's screen to match your physical setup.

  6. Connect with a cable if you're worried about battery

    Sidecar also works wirelessly, but for long sessions, connecting the iPad to the Mac with a USB cable extends the display while charging it at the same time.

Extra screen space without buying another monitor

Instead of purchasing a separate monitor, putting an iPad you already own to work as your Mac's second screen gives you noticeably more workspace. It's especially handy for keeping reference material open or parking a messaging window off to the side.

Works well alongside other Apple device features

Since Sidecar already relies on being signed into the same Apple ID across devices, it's a good moment to also look into other cross-device Apple features, like automatically connecting to a phone's personal hotspot, to get more out of using multiple Apple devices together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an older iPad model with Sidecar?

Sidecar only supports Macs and iPads from a certain generation onward. If your iPad is too old, it may not even show up in the Displays device list.

Can I use an Apple Pencil on the Mac screen through Sidecar?

Yes -- when connected via Sidecar, you can use an Apple Pencil on the iPad's screen to control some Mac apps as if writing or drawing directly, which is handy for illustration work or handwritten notes on a document.