The display is the same. The path is different.
Slate creates one 1080p, 60fps virtual monitor in Windows and sends its H.264 stream to the iPad. Changing from Wi-Fi to USB-C changes how that stream travels, not how Windows arranges or extends the display.
| Consideration | Wi-Fi | USB-C |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | A cable-free desk and quick reconnection | Crowded, restricted, or unavailable Wi-Fi |
| What you need | Both devices on the same local network | A USB-C iPad and a USB-C data cable |
| PC connection | Ethernet or Wi-Fi | Apple Devices or iTunes on Windows |
| First connection | Compare and approve a six-digit code | Unlock iPad and approve the device trust prompt |
| Internet required | No, not for screen streaming | No, not for screen streaming |
| Slate behaviour | Used when no cable path is active | Automatically takes priority when connected |
Choose Wi-Fi for a cable-free workspace.
Wi-Fi is useful at a home or office desk where the local network is stable. Open Slate on both devices and reconnect without laying a display cable across the workspace. A desktop PC connected to the router by Ethernet works too, so it does not need a Wi-Fi adapter.
Wi-Fi works well when:
- the iPad and PC use the same trusted router;
- you want to pick up or reposition the iPad without disconnecting a cable;
- the network is not saturated by large downloads or many competing devices; and
- the router allows local devices to communicate.
Read the wireless connection guide for pairing, Ethernet, privacy, and discovery details.
Choose USB-C when the network is unreliable.
A direct cable avoids router discovery and local-network congestion. It is a practical option in hotels, cafés, managed offices, trade-show venues, or offline situations where you cannot control the network.
USB-C works well when:
- guest Wi-Fi or device isolation prevents local discovery;
- a VPN or corporate firewall blocks local traffic;
- the shared network is busy or inconsistent;
- no router is available; or
- you prefer a direct connection for a long session.
Use a data-capable cable. A cable that only charges the iPad cannot carry Slate’s USB connection.
Slate prioritises USB-C automatically.
You do not need separate display profiles for each connection. If Slate is available over the local network and you plug in a working USB data cable, the wired path takes priority. Disconnect the cable to return to the wireless path when both devices remain on the same local network.
The first-time trust step differs: Wi-Fi uses a matching six-digit code and mutual approval, while USB uses the iPad’s device-trust flow. After that, both paths deliver the same Windows extended display and single-touch click input.
Choose for the environment, not a slogan.
At a known desk, start with Wi-Fi for convenience. On unfamiliar or managed networks, pack a USB-C cable. Slate supports both so the iPad can remain useful as a second monitor when the network conditions change.
To set up the complete display flow, continue with How to Use an iPad as a Second Monitor for Windows. If a connection is not working, use Slate Support for network, cable, driver, and display troubleshooting.