Do you have an iPad and a Mac? Then you can use your iPad as a second screen for your Mac with Sidecar. This handy Apple feature turns your iPad into a wireless or wired extra display, complete with Apple Pencil support. In this article we explain how to set up Sidecar and get the most out of it.

What is Sidecar?

Sidecar is a built-in feature of macOS and iPadOS that lets you use your iPad as a second display for your Mac. You can extend your Mac desktop to your iPad, or mirror your Mac screen on your iPad. The feature works both wirelessly and with a USB cable.

A big advantage of Sidecar is its integration with Apple Pencil. You can draw, sketch and take notes in Mac applications with your Apple Pencil while your iPad acts as a screen. This makes Sidecar ideal for creative professionals.

Requirements for Sidecar

To use Sidecar, your devices need to meet certain requirements. You need a compatible Mac with macOS Catalina or later. Supported Mac models include MacBook Pro and MacBook Air from 2016, iMac from 2017 and Mac mini from 2018.

On the iPad side, you need an iPad with Apple Pencil support and iPadOS 13 or later. This includes all iPad Pro models, iPad Air third generation and later, iPad sixth generation and later, and iPad mini fifth generation and later.

Both devices must be signed in with the same Apple ID, and two-factor authentication must be turned on. For wireless use, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Handoff must be turned on on both devices.

Starting Sidecar

Method 1: Via Control Center

The quickest way to start Sidecar is via Control Center on your Mac. Click the Control Center icon in the menu bar. Click Screen Mirroring and select your iPad from the list. Your iPad now becomes a second screen for your Mac.

Method 2: Via System Preferences

Go to System Preferences on your Mac and click Displays. Click the Add Display button and select your iPad from the list. Here you can also choose whether you want to extend or mirror.

Method 3: Via AirPlay

Click the AirPlay icon in your Mac's menu bar. If you don't see this icon, go to System Preferences, Displays and check the option to show mirroring options in the menu bar. Select your iPad from the list.

Configuring Sidecar

Extend vs. mirror

By default, Sidecar extends your desktop to the iPad, which gives you more workspace. You can drag windows to your iPad by moving them to the edge of your Mac screen. If you prefer both screens to show the same thing, you can choose mirroring in the display settings.

Adjusting the position

In System Preferences under Displays, you can adjust the position of your iPad screen relative to your Mac screen. Drag the iPad screen to the side you want, for example to the left of, right of, above or below your Mac screen.

By default, Sidecar shows a sidebar at the edge of your iPad screen with frequently used keys such as Command, Option and Shift. A virtual Touch Bar is shown as well. You can turn these elements off in the Sidecar settings if you don't need them.

Using Apple Pencil with Sidecar

One of Sidecar's most powerful features is its support for Apple Pencil. You can use the Apple Pencil to draw in apps such as Photoshop, Illustrator and Procreate. The Pencil also works for navigation and as a mouse replacement.

Double-tapping the Apple Pencil (if your Pencil model supports it) also works in Sidecar mode, for example to switch between tools in drawing apps.

Sidecar wireless vs. wired

Sidecar works both wirelessly and with a USB cable. Wireless is the most convenient because you don't need any cables. The devices do need to be within 10 meters of each other, and you need a stable Wi-Fi connection.

A wired connection via a USB-C or Lightning cable offers the most stable experience with minimal lag. This is especially important for detailed drawing work with Apple Pencil. As a bonus, your iPad also charges while you use Sidecar over a cable.

Tips for the best experience

Use a stand

Place your iPad in a stand or case that can stand upright for comfortable use as a second screen. A good viewing angle prevents neck pain during long sessions.

Block notifications

Turn on Do Not Disturb on your iPad while using Sidecar. Notifications can distract you and interrupt your workflow when your iPad is acting as a screen.

Specific apps on the iPad

Move apps you need to use regularly to your iPad screen. Think of your email client, music player or communication apps, while your main work stays on the Mac screen.

Troubleshooting

If Sidecar doesn't work, check whether both devices meet all the requirements. Make sure they are signed in with the same Apple ID and that two-factor authentication is on. Restart both devices if connection problems persist.

If there is lag in wireless mode, try a wired connection or sit closer to your Wi-Fi router. Check that no other devices are using a lot of bandwidth on your network.

Conclusion

Sidecar is a fantastic feature that turns your iPad into a versatile second screen for your Mac. Whether you need extra workspace, want to draw with Apple Pencil in Mac apps or simply want to work more flexibly, Sidecar makes it possible. With the steps in this article, you can get started with this powerful Apple feature right away.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use any iPad for Sidecar?

No, you need an iPad that supports Apple Pencil and runs iPadOS 13 or later. This includes iPad Pro, iPad Air 3 and later, iPad 6 and later, and iPad mini 5 and later.

Does Sidecar work without Wi-Fi?

Yes, you can use Sidecar with a USB cable without Wi-Fi. This even gives you a more stable connection with less lag, and it charges your iPad at the same time.

Can I still use apps on my iPad during Sidecar?

No, while you use Sidecar, your iPad acts entirely as a screen for your Mac. You can't use iPad apps at the same time. End Sidecar to use your iPad normally again.

Is there any lag when using Sidecar?

With wireless use there may be minimal lag, especially during detailed drawing work. Use a USB cable for the lowest lag, which matters especially when using Apple Pencil.

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