iPad What iPad fits well for universal control with Macbook Pro 16''?

[adromedo]

I will buy an iPad tomorrow to use it with universal control along my Macbook, but I know nothing about iPads so I wanted to get some advice here to avoid buying the wrong one.

I am a Macbook Pro 16'' user and I would like to use the iPad as a second monitor via universal control where I can have my browser open while I work on other apps on my Macs. So, I hope to be more productive with the setup.

So, what iPad model do I need to buy so I can use the universal control along my Macbook Pro 16''?

 

[ericwn]

I believe any current iPad will serve you well. Focus on the screen size that you want that device to have.

 

[Drecca]

I‘ve been using sidecar from the new 16” MBP too. Both with a 2021 11“ iPad, and the Mini 6. Both work well, no lag. Image is fine and crisp on both.

The only thing is you do need to have the mini closer to you to be able to see what’s on the screen, while the 11” can be closer to your laptop monitor. For my uses, I’m able to see what I need to. I usually use sidecar when I’m in meetings, and taking notes on the ipad screen.

 

[BigBlur]

The feature you’re referring to is called Sidecar. Universal Control is something completely different. For what you’re wanting to do, you don’t need an iPad. A regular desktop monitor will work; or if you’re wanting something portable, there are portable monitors. They are bigger (13”-17”), thin like a tablet, USB powered, and cheaper.

If you indeed want an iPad to do this, it really depends on what size you want the second screen to be. Any new iPad you can buy today supports Sidecar, even the cheap base model.

See this page for more details.

Use an iPad as a second display for a Mac - Apple Support

With Sidecar, you can use your iPad as a second display for your Mac.

support.apple.com

 

[Sheepish-Lord]

I think we can all agree that no matter what happens, Apple will find a way to royally screw up universal control. It's not in any beta version of MacOS so far and Apple "promised" it would be out this fall which is coming to an end fast. Based on Apple's track record with UI and OS issues I seen nothing good coming from this.

I wouldn't buy an iPad based on universal control honestly.