If you are like us, you probably like attaching a second display to your existing computer to boost your productivity. But before you hit the buy button on Amazon, ask yourself: do you need a dedicated monitor all the time? If your answer is ‘sometimes’, then I have the perfect solution for you.

Today, we’ll show you two different apps that let connect your Android to your computer, using a USB cable or Wi-Fi. And the best part is both apps are free with little-to-no limitations. But we’ll also talk about the paid ones and when to use them in the end.

Let's go.

Splashtop XDisplay

The first app we have for you is called Splashtop XDisplay.

This app allows you to connect your phone only via USB.  Now, if you are looking for a wireless solution, then skip ahead to the second app. However, the reason we mention this app first is because, since you are connected by a wired medium, you get better resolution and frame rate. It supports Full HD resolution at 60 frames per second.

To get started, install the app on your computer, it’s available on both Mac and PC. Mobile apps are available for both Android and iOS. For this instance, I’ll take Windows and Android, because if you have a Mac and iPhone you are mostly going to use Duet display or something.

Once you install the app on your Windows, install the Android app as well, and then turn on your phone’s dev mode and enable USB debugging. Now go back to the app and connect your Windows to your Android using a type c cable that you use for charging. Moving forward, you can select the resolution and quality. You can also use it to mirror your display or as a second monitor. As you can see, the latency is minimal and the resolution is quite good.

Spacedesk

Next up we have is Spacedesk. It is a popular choice that lets you connect your PC and Android via USB, as well as Wi-Fi or LAN. The resolution is decent and you get touch support.

To get started, you need to install the Spacedesk app on your PC and your phone. Keep in mind that if you want to use the Wi-Fi feature, your phone and your PC should be on the same Wi-Fi network.

Opening the app will automatically detect and display all PCs on the same server that has the drivers installed. Simply tap to connect. Launch the app on your Android and connect to your PC. The app should detect the IP address and the name of your system.

If you are experiencing errors, go to the Windows app and check for errors in Incompatible Software.

To use your tablet or Android as an extended display, you just have to configure secondary display options in Windows. To do that, go to the Control Panel and then Display settings. Select Extend these Displays and click OK. You should now be able to use your Android as an extended display.

Spacedesk works well if you don’t want your phone to be bounded by a USB. But that’s the only complaint I have. Since it works wirelessly, there is a noticeable amount of lag. It’s good that you can switch to a hotspot and USB.

There you have it. These were some of the most efficient ways to create an extended display from your Android smartphones and tablets. Let us know how’s your experience with these apps.

If you looking for more robust solution, then you can also consider buying Duet display app which cost another $10. It offers better range, more device support, intuitive gestures, etc.

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See you in the next one!