An increasing number of Mac users are discovering the iPad as the ultimate accessory to elevate their productivity. In this article, I will share my personal experience of using the iPad as an external monitor with my Mac and shed light on the compelling reasons why it’s a worthwhile endeavor.
The Advantages of Utilizing the iPad as an External Monitor
The seamless integration between the iPad and Mac offers a unique and compelling experience when employing the iPad as an external monitor. It represents an excellent means to naturally expand your digital workspace, all within the cohesive Apple ecosystem. The real magic lies in the effortless transition of windows and applications between these devices, delivering an exceptional user experience.
Picture the scenario where you can carry your iPad wherever you go and effortlessly transform it into an extension of your Mac. Whether it’s for presenting reports during meetings, studying at a library, or enjoying a productive afternoon at a café, employing the iPad as an external monitor broadens your possibilities and enhances productivity across various settings.
If your primary usage will be within the confines of your home, you can set up the iPad as an external monitor using a magnetic stand, for instance. This configuration on your desktop streamlines multitasking, especially when dealing with multiple open windows during your work sessions.
Universal Control: The Wonders of the Apple Ecosystem
The linchpin to this seamless experience across both devices is the Universal Control feature. Universal Control empowers you with intuitive and effortless control over your iPad and Mac. It seamlessly synchronizes tasks and ensures a hassle-free experience, making the iPad an ideal extension for your Mac.
My Personal Journey with the iPad Air 5 and MacBook Pro
I have personally been employing my iPad Air 5 as an external monitor with my trusty MacBook Pro for an extended period. My experience with this setup has been nothing short of excellent. What’s more, my iPad Air 5 is equipped with the formidable M1 chip, delivering remarkable power for an iPad. At times, it even outperforms my 2019 MacBook Pro with an Intel processor. This level of performance enables me to smoothly edit videos with Final Cut Pro on my iPad.
In conclusion, the iPad as an external monitor isn’t merely a practical choice; it’s a productivity-enhancing tool. If you haven’t explored this yet, leveraging the iPad as an external monitor through the Universal Control function is an indispensable approach, particularly for users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem. Furthermore, all iPad models offer exceptional screen quality, with recent models like the iPad Air and iPad Pro taking it up a notch. The only potential drawback may arise if you opt for an iPad Mini as your external monitor due to its smaller screen size, but even then, some users find it to be a satisfactory user experience.