How to Use an Android Tablet as a Second Monitor

Install Spacedesk on your computer and your tablet to extend your Windows desktop to your Android device

By
Matthew S. Smith
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Matthew S. Smith
Writer
  • Beloit College
Matthew S. Smith has been writing about consumer tech since 2007. Formerly the Lead Editor at Digital Trends, he's also written for PC Mag, TechHive, and others.
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Updated on March 27, 2024
Reviewed by
Jon Fisher
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Reviewed by Jon Fisher
  • Wichita Technical Institute

Jonathan Fisher is a CompTIA-certified technologist with more than 10 years of experience writing for publications like TechNorms and Help Desk Geek.

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What to Know

  • Install the Spacedesk app on your tablet and your Windows computer.
  • Open the Android app and select your computer from the list.
  • Both devices must be on the same local network.

This article will teach you how to use an Android tablet as a second monitor. This works on Windows 11, Windows 10, and Windows 8.1.

How to Use Your Tablet as an Additional Monitor

Below are directions for using the free app Spacedesk to extend your computer screen onto your tablet. After installing the app on both devices, turning your tablet into a monitor is as easy as selecting your computer from the list.

This tutorial uses a third-party tool. While reputable, it's worth remembering that any third-party application that can share a screen could snoop on what's displayed. We don't recommend using a third-party screen-sharing app for tasks that require strict security.

  1. Download Spacedesk on your computer. You'll see that there are several download buttons; pick the one that corresponds to your version of Windows (e.g., Windows 11 64-bit or Windows 8.1 32-bit).

    If you aren't sure which to choose, here's how to find out if you have 64-bit or 32-bit Windows.

    The Spacedesk website with Windows installers highlighted.

  2. Open the Spacedesk installer once the download has finished, and follow the on-screen instructions to finish the installation.

    The Spacedesk Windows installer with the Next button highlighted which steps you through the installation process.

    During setup, you're asked if you want to add a firewall exception for this program. Unless you know how to use the Windows firewall, we recommend ticking the box so that this is done for you.

  3. Open Spacedesk in the Google Play Store on your tablet and tap Install. It'll take a minute or two to download and install.

    The Spacedesk page with the Install button highlighted in the Google Play store.

    This app also works on iPad and iPhone.

  4. Connect your Android device to Wi-Fi if it isn't already. It needs to be the same network that your computer is using.

  5. Open Spacedesk on your tablet and on your computer.

  6. On your tablet, tap your Windows computer from the list.

    The Spacedesk Viewer application with a list of WIndows machines available. The one we're going to connect to is highlighted.

  7. A few moments later, your Windows desktop will appear on your Android tablet.

    You can use it just as you would a second or third monitor. Screendesk supports touch input on the Android tablet, as well. You can further customize the experience in Windows' Display Settings.

    The Spacedesk app used to show a second display on an Android tablet.
FAQ
  • Can a tablet be used as a monitor?

    Yes. While Windows handles this through screen-sharing and Apple has a feature for macOS and iPadOS called Sidecar, Android doesn't offer a similar official feature. When it comes to Android, third-party apps like Screendesk are the only option.

  • How do I connect an Android tablet to a monitor?

    With some cables and adapters, you can connect an Android tablet to a monitor and mirror its screen there. The ones you need will depend on the connections available on both devices, but it's easiest if the monitor has an HDMI port to handle both picture and sound. USB-C-to-HDMI adapters are available at most electronics retailers.

  • What other apps can I use for using an Android tablet as a monitor?

    Screendesk is not the only app to support using an Android tablet as a monitor. Possible alternatives include Twomon, Splashtop, SecondScreen, and SuperDisplay. These are worth a try if Screendesk doesn't work on your computer.

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