Sidecar not working? Try this instead.

If your iPad doesn't appear in Sidecar, the option is greyed out, or you don't have a supported iPad, you can still get a second screen. SpareScreen works with any device that has a web browser.

Common reasons Sidecar won't work

• The iPad model isn't supported. Sidecar needs an iPad Pro, iPad (6th generation) or later, iPad mini (5th generation) or later, or iPad Air (3rd generation) or later.
• Different Apple IDs. Both devices must use the same Apple ID with two-factor authentication.
• Too far apart, or Bluetooth/Handoff off. Wireless Sidecar needs Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Handoff on, within about 10 metres.
• The Mac is too old for Sidecar.

SpareScreen avoids all of this. It doesn't use Sidecar, Apple ID, Bluetooth or Handoff: the other device just opens a link on the same Wi-Fi.

How to set it up

1. Install SpareScreen on your Mac with the line above. It opens in the menu bar.
2. Allow Screen Recording when macOS asks. That lets SpareScreen show the extra screen on your iPad or tablet.
3. Open the link in its browser. Click SpareScreen in the menu bar to see the link and its QR code, then open it on the iPad or tablet. Both need to be on the same Wi-Fi.
4. Click Allow on the Mac. An extra screen appears, shaped exactly like your iPad or tablet. Drag windows onto it like any monitor.

Good to know

• Nothing to switch on: SpareScreen doesn't need Bluetooth, Handoff or the same Apple ID, which is where Sidecar usually fails.
• Touch control is optional. Turn it on in the SpareScreen menu (it asks for Accessibility permission) to tap, drag, right-click and scroll on the device. Typing still happens on the Mac.
• Everyday work feels instant. Video and fast scrolling are heavier and can stutter on slow Wi-Fi; 5 GHz Wi-Fi helps.
• Streaming services stay black. Netflix, Prime Video and Disney+ block screen capture in every app like this.
• Use Wi-Fi you trust. The picture travels over your local network, never through the internet.

Questions

Why is my iPad not showing up in Sidecar?

Usually the iPad model isn't supported, it's on a different Apple ID, or Bluetooth and Handoff are off. SpareScreen works without any of those.

Can I get a second screen without Sidecar?

Yes. SpareScreen turns any iPad, Android tablet, phone or laptop with a browser into a second screen for your Mac.

What does SpareScreen cost?

It's free for 7 days, then $7.99 once. It's a one-time purchase with no subscription, and one key works on up to 3 Macs.

Which Macs does it work on?

Any Mac running macOS 13 Ventura or later, with Apple Silicon or Intel.

More guides

• Use your iPad as a second monitor for Mac
• Use an Android tablet as a second monitor for your Mac (wireless
• Use an old laptop or Chromebook as a second monitor for your Mac
• Use your phone as a second screen for your Mac
• Sidecar alternative for iPads Sidecar doesn't support
• Duet Display alternative with no subscription
• Luna Display alternative
• spacedesk for Mac? Here's what works on macOS instead
• Wireless second monitor for your MacBook
• Use a Chromebook as a second monitor for your Mac (wireless
• Use an Amazon Fire tablet as a second monitor for your Mac
• Use a Samsung Galaxy Tab as a second monitor for your Mac
• Use a Windows laptop as a second monitor for your Mac
• Add a second monitor to your Mac mini using a tablet or laptop you own
• Use an old iPad as a second monitor for your Mac (iPad Air 2
• Best ways to add a second screen to your Mac

Last updated October 2026.