6 Creative Ways to Utilize Your Android as a Second Monitor for Your Computer

Are you looking to enhance your productivity by adding a second monitor to your computer setup? Before you rush to purchase a dedicated monitor, consider using your Android tablet as a second monitor. With the right apps, you can transform your Android device into a versatile and efficient extension of your computer screen. In this article, we will explore six top picks for second monitor apps for Android and guide you on how to set them up.

Android as a Second Monitor

Android smartphones and tablets offer remarkable versatility when it comes to features. Not only can you mirror your Android screen to another Android device, but you can also extend your display to a computer. To achieve this, you need to install a second monitor app on your Android device and the corresponding client app on your computer. Once installed, you can connect your Android to your computer using either a USB cable or a Wi-Fi connection when both devices are on the same network.

1. Spacedesk

Spacedesk is a popular choice for using your Android device as a second monitor for a Windows PC. It offers multiple connection options, including USB, Wi-Fi, and LAN. The app provides a decent resolution and supports touch interactions. To get started, you need to install the necessary drivers on your Windows PC. The app will detect and display all PCs on the same server with the drivers installed. Simply tap to connect and launch the app on your Android device. Spacedesk works wirelessly, but there may be a noticeable amount of lag. However, you can switch to a hotspot or use a USB connection for a smoother experience.

Supported Medium: LAN, Wi-Fi, USB
Download Spacedesk (free)

2. Splashtop Wired XDisplay

Splashtop Wired XDisplay requires a USB connection between your Android device and your computer. This app offers better resolution and frame rate compared to wireless options like Spacedesk. It supports Full HD resolution (1080p) at 60 frames per second. Splashtop Wired XDisplay is compatible with both Mac and PC, making it a versatile choice. It utilizes USB over Wi-Fi for a responsive and real-time experience without any lag. This app also includes a battery-saver mode that adjusts the frame rate and resolution to optimize processing.

Supported Medium: USB
Download Splashtop Wired XDisplay (Free)

3. Google Remote Desktop

Google Remote Desktop allows you to control your PC from your Android device. It is easy to use and set up, requiring only a working Gmail account. With this app, you can run commands on your PC remotely. However, Google Remote Desktop does not support using your phone as an extended display. Its main strength lies in its ability to control your PC from a distance.

Supported Medium: Internet
Download Google Remote Desktop (free)

4. iDisplay

iDisplay is a cross-platform display mirroring app that initially started with macOS and iOS. It now offers apps for Windows and Android as well. This app supports 60 fps and provides multi-touch capabilities on the device being used. While iDisplay offers USB support for macOS and Windows, it currently does not support USB for Android. However, it does support Wi-Fi connections and offers multi-touch functionality.

Supported Medium: LAN, Wi-Fi, USB (except Android)
Download iDisplay ($18)

5. Air Display

Air Display 2 is designed for Mac users and serves as a secondary screen for MacBooks. It supports mirroring the screen to up to four secondary devices and offers full HD display support. Air Display provides a responsive experience with its dynamic compression algorithm. It even supports retina displays and includes Air Stylus, allowing you to draw directly on the secondary device. It is important to note that Air Display is not compatible with Windows or mobile devices as secondary screens for Mac.

Supported Medium: Wi-Fi
Download Air Display ($19.99)

6. Samsung Galaxy Tab's Native Feature

Some Samsung Galaxy tablets come with a built-in second monitor feature. By pressing Ctrl+K and ensuring both your Windows PC and Samsung Galaxy tablet are connected to the same Wi-Fi network, you can activate the second monitor functionality. However, this feature may not be available on all Samsung Galaxy tablets.

Using your Android device as a second monitor can significantly enhance your productivity. While using a phone may not provide enough screen estate, a tablet can serve as the ideal secondary display. Choose the app that best suits your needs and enjoy the benefits of an extended screen for your computer.