Why a second screen increases your productivity
We all know it. Those long days at the office. Endlessly switching between windows. Alt-tab, alt-tab, alt-tab. Your productivity plummets, your concentration shatters. Putting in more hours isn't the solution. But what if the problem isn't your work ethic, but simply your work setup?
Most people think a second screen is primarily useful for programmers or designers. Yet, research shows that any knowledge worker can become up to 42% more productive with a refurbished iMac or iPad as an additional screen . The secret isn't working harder, but organizing your digital workspace more intelligently.
No more fiddling with tiny windows. No wasted time searching. Simply everything visible at a glance. It can be that simple to get out the door sooner.
Useful links
- Discover refurbished iPads for a second screen
- View refurbished MacBooks for optimal collaboration
- Compare all refurbished iMac models
The impact of a second screen on your workday
The difference between a single monitor and a multi-monitor setup is bigger than you think. Research by Jon Peddie Research shows that knowledge workers with two monitors are 42% more productive on average. This percentage translates directly into time savings: about an hour and a half per workday. For those who regularly work with spreadsheets, documents, and web applications, this device represents a fundamental improvement in their work experience.
A second display eliminates the constant switching between windows. Where you used to have to constantly switch between your email, calendar, and work documents, you now have everything in view simultaneously. This seemingly small change has a major impact on your concentration and workflow.
Various options for a second screen
iPad as an extension of your Mac
The iPad works perfectly as an additional display via Sidecar. This feature works wirelessly with all iPads running iPadOS 13 or later and Macs running macOS Catalina or later. The advantage: you don't need cables and the connection is stable up to about 10 meters away.
In practice, it works like this: you open System Preferences on your Mac, select "Displays," and choose your iPad from the list. Within seconds, you'll have extra screen real estate. The resolution adjusts automatically, and you can even use the Apple Pencil for precision work.
iMac as main display
A refurbished iMac offers more screen real estate than an iPad. The 24-inch or 27-inch display allows you to display multiple windows side by side without text becoming unreadable. This model also functions as a standalone computer, offering additional capabilities for demanding tasks.
Target display mode allows you to use your iMac purely as a monitor for your MacBook. This feature works with iMac models from 2009 to 2014 and some later versions. Connect both devices with a Thunderbolt cable and press Command + F2 to switch.
Practical applications in various work situations
For administrative work
For administrative tasks like invoice processing or data entry, place your main application on the primary screen and reference materials on the secondary display. An Excel file on your MacBook screen and the source data on your iPad means no more scrolling. You can copy figures directly without minimizing windows.
For creative work
Designers and video editors benefit enormously from the extra pixels. Photoshop palettes move to the second screen, maximizing the canvas size. In Final Cut Pro, you view the timeline on one display and the preview on the other. This setup significantly accelerates the creative process.
For online meetings
During video meetings, you use one screen for the meeting itself and the other for notes or presentations. You share a dedicated screen without participants seeing your other applications. This prevents unprofessional situations and keeps you organized.
The technical side: how to set it up
Connection options
For a wired connection, you have several options depending on your devices:
- USB-C to USB-C for newer models
- Thunderbolt 3 for maximum speed
- HDMI via adapter for older iMacs
- DisplayPort for specific monitors
Wireless connections work via:
- AirPlay for Apple TV or compatible smart TVs
- Sidecar specifically for iPad-Mac combinations
- Third-party apps like Duet Display for extra functionality
Optimal settings
You can adjust the screen layout in System Preferences. Arrange the displays in the correct order by dragging them in the control panel. Set the resolution to "Standard for display" for the best balance between sharpness and readability.
Synchronize color profiles for consistent display. This is especially important for graphics work. Use the built-in calibration program or invest in a hardware calibrator for professional results.
Ergonomics and health
A second screen requires adjustments to your workspace. Position both displays at eye level, with the top of the screen roughly at eye level. The ideal viewing distance is between 50 and 70 centimeters. With two screens side by side, turn your chair instead of just your neck to maintain a natural posture.
Lighting also plays a role. Avoid reflections by placing screens perpendicular to windows. Use bias lighting (soft backlighting) to reduce eye strain during long workdays.
Return on investment
Buying a second display quickly pays for itself. With a 30% productivity gain and an average hourly rate of €35, you'll recoup the investment within two months. A refurbished iPad or iMac makes this investment even more attractive, with prices up to 40% lower than new.
Moreover, Apple products retain their value relatively well. After two years of intensive use, you can often sell the device for 50-60% of the purchase price. This makes the actual cost per year of use very reasonable.
Tips for maximum returns
- Use Mission Control to create virtual desktops per project
- Set keyboard shortcuts for moving windows between screens
- Activate hot corners for quick access to important functions
- Use split view to display two apps side by side on one display
- Install window management software like Rectangle for precision layout
This approach transforms your workday from hectic window management to streamlined productivity. The result: more done in less time, and you'll get home sooner.
The practical benefits of a second screen
A second screen isn't a luxury, but a practical investment in your workday. Whether you choose a refurbished iPad with Sidecar or a full-fledged iMac as an additional display, the time savings are immediately noticeable.
Finishing an hour and a half earlier a day means an extra 7.5 hours a week for what really matters. The calculation is simple: with a productivity gain of 30 to 40 percent, you'll recoup the investment within two months. Not by working harder, but by cleverly organizing your digital workspace.