Turn spare devices into extra screens with Spacedesk
Spacedesk is a utility that lets a Windows computer serve as the source for additional displays on your network. Instead of buying extra monitors, you can use tablets, phones, or other computers to extend or mirror your desktop, creating a larger, more flexible workspace.
Compatibility and requirements
- Primarily designed to run on modern Windows systems (Windows 10 and Windows 11).
- Client apps are available for common mobile and tablet platforms, allowing those devices to act as secondary screens.
- All participating devices must be connected to the same local network (Wi‑Fi or wired LAN) for the connection to work reliably.
- No specialized display hardware is needed—just the devices you already own and a working network.
How the system works
Spacedesk installs a small server application on the Windows PC that has the physical display outputs. Other devices on the same network run a viewer app that connects to that server and becomes an additional monitor. Once connected, you can choose to extend the desktop, duplicate it, or position the virtual displays to suit your workflow. Display parameters like resolution and orientation can be adjusted through the app’s settings to match each device.
Key benefits
- Free to download and use, lowering the barrier to multi-monitor setups.
- Eliminates the need for extra monitor hardware by using existing phones or tablets.
- Supports multitasking by spreading applications across multiple screens.
- Offers simple setup and on-the-fly configuration for display layout and quality.
Quick start guide
- Install the Spacedesk server on the Windows machine you want to use as the main PC.
- Put your secondary device (tablet, phone, or another computer) on the same network and open the Spacedesk viewer app.
- Select the host PC in the viewer app to connect; the remote device will register as an extra display.
- Tweak resolution, scaling, and arrangement from the server or client app until the desktop behaves the way you want.
Practical tips and considerations
- For the smoothest experience, use a stable Wi‑Fi connection or a wired LAN; high-latency networks can cause lag.
- Battery-powered devices used as displays will consume more power—keep a charger handy for longer sessions.
- Test different resolutions and quality settings if performance is sluggish; lowering image quality can improve responsiveness.
- Because it relies on the network, this approach is ideal for flexible home or office setups rather than high-frame-rate gaming or professional color-critical work.
Licensing and cost
Spacedesk is available under a free license for personal use, making it an accessible option for anyone who wants to expand their desktop without additional hardware expenses.
Technical
- Windows
- Free