Top iDisplay Alternatives: Extend Your Screen with Ease
iDisplay has long been a popular choice for users looking to turn their iPad, iPhone, or Android device into a convenient side monitor for their Windows or Mac desktop. Its ability to create an extra screen without needing a physical monitor is incredibly useful for boosting productivity and managing multiple applications. However, like any software, iDisplay might not be the perfect fit for everyone due to various reasons, including cost, specific features, or platform compatibility. This article explores the best iDisplay alternative options available, helping you find the perfect solution for your second screen needs.
Best iDisplay Alternatives
Whether you're looking for a free solution, cross-platform compatibility, or specific features like touch pressure sensitivity, there's an iDisplay alternative out there for you. Dive into our curated list to discover the best tools that can transform your mobile device into a powerful extension of your desktop.
Chrome Remote Desktop
Chrome Remote Desktop is a free, cross-platform solution available for Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and iPhone. While primarily designed for remote access, it can effectively serve as an iDisplay alternative by allowing you to view and interact with your desktop on your mobile device. Its features include Google Chrome Extensions, built-in terminal, and integrated file sharing, making it a versatile option for various remote tasks.
spacedesk
spacedesk is a free iDisplay alternative that allows you to use other computers and devices on your local network as an extension or mirrored display for your Windows desktop. It supports Windows Mobile, Android, iPhone, and Android Tablet, offering features like Screen Mirroring, Video Wall, and Desktop Sharing, making it an excellent choice for a dedicated second screen experience.
Duet Display
Duet Display is a commercial iDisplay alternative that excels at turning your iOS or Android device into a second screen for your PC or Mac. It boasts features like support for multiple monitors, screen mirroring, and tablet pressure sensitivity, making it ideal for creative professionals who need precise input on their extended display.
AirParrot
AirParrot is a commercial software that allows you to AirPlay mirror your Mac or PC's screen to your Apple TV wirelessly, offering 1080p mirroring. While its primary focus is on Apple TV, its screen mirroring capabilities make it a viable iDisplay alternative for users within the Apple ecosystem who want to extend their display to a larger screen wirelessly.
Air Display
Air Display is a commercial iDisplay alternative that allows you to use your iPad as a wireless display to extend your Mac desktop. It supports Windows, Android, and iPhone, and offers features like Screen Extension, Desktop Sharing, and Screen Mirroring, making it a comprehensive choice for users looking for a versatile wireless display solution.
Splashtop Wired XDisplay
Splashtop Wired XDisplay is a commercial iDisplay alternative that turns your iPad, Android tablet, Kindle, or smartphone into a high-performance extra monitor for your computer. It supports Mac, Windows, Android, and iPhone, and features Screen Extension, Support for Multiple Monitors, and Screen Mirroring, offering a reliable wired solution for a lag-free experience.
ZoneScreen
ZoneScreen is a free personal iDisplay alternative for Windows and Windows Mobile that can mirror or extend your local desktop to another computer on the network. Its primary distinction is its ability to extend the desktop, not just mirror it, making it a valuable option for users needing more screen real estate on a secondary Windows device.
TwomonUSB
TwomonUSB is a commercial iDisplay alternative that allows smart devices to become monitors by connecting them to a PC via USB. This simple and convenient connection makes it easy to use your Android or iOS tablet and computer as a dual monitor, offering Screen Extension for Mac and Windows users.
Yam Display
Yam Display is a commercial iDisplay alternative specifically designed for Mac users, turning your iPad or iPhone into an external display via USB. Its focus on a wired connection ensures minimal latency, making it a smooth option for extending your Mac desktop.
Displaypad
Displaypad is a commercial iDisplay alternative that allows you to use your iPhone as a second wireless display for your Mac. It extends your desktop wirelessly, offering convenience and features like support for multiple monitors, making it a great choice for Mac users on the go.
With a variety of iDisplay alternative options available, from free open-source solutions to commercial applications with advanced features, you're sure to find a tool that fits your specific needs. Consider your operating system, desired connection type (wired or wireless), and essential features like screen mirroring or extension to choose the best fit for your productivity setup.