What is Spantop?

Spantop is a lightweight macOS application that turns any spare Mac into a high-performance secondary display for your primary machine. Unlike traditional screen-sharing software, it is optimized for speed and fidelity, offering a near-zero latency experience.

Why Founders Need It

For founders constantly on the move, screen real estate is the biggest constraint to productivity. Carrying portable physical monitors is cumbersome and prone to damage. Spantop allows you to utilize hardware you already own, effectively turning a secondary laptop or older machine into a high-definition extended workspace.

How to Use It

  • Install Spantop on both your primary and secondary Mac.
  • Ensure both devices are on the same local network or connected via Thunderbolt for maximum throughput.
  • Configure your display settings in macOS to treat the second Mac as an extended monitor.

Pricing

Currently available as a free tool, though the developer has indicated that premium features may be introduced in future updates.

Alternatives

  • Duet Display: Better for users needing to turn iPads into monitors.
  • Portable Hardware Monitors: Essential if you do not have a secondary laptop to spare.