Tablets provide a generous display size that makes media consumption far better than a small smartphone screen. However, once you upgrade to a faster model, that older budget tablet usually sits inside a drawer collecting dust.
Instead of letting working hardware go to waste, you can deploy a few specialized applications to transform a cheap Android tablet into a high-utility desktop tool. From adding a secondary wireless monitor to building a custom macro deck, these four free apps will save you from buying expensive extra gadgets.
1. Spacedesk: Turn Your Tablet Into a Secondary PC Screen
If your tablet has a 10-inch or larger screen, Spacedesk turns it into an extended secondary display for your Windows PC over Wi-Fi or USB. It gives you extra screen real estate without requiring a bulky portable monitor.
In practice, the tablet functions as an active Windows display where touch inputs let you tap buttons, scroll documents, or manage chat windows like Slack while keeping your primary monitor open for work.
- Download and install the official Spacedesk driver on your Windows machine.
- Install the free Spacedesk Viewer app on your Android tablet from the Play Store.
- Connect both devices to the same Wi-Fi network (or link via USB for lower latency).
- Open Windows Display Settings, select Extend these displays, and arrange the tablet position.
2. Touch Portal: A Software Stream Deck Alternative
Hardware macro controllers like the Elgato Stream Deck are fantastic for productivity, but they can easily cost over $140. Touch Portal gives you the exact same macro capabilities for free using your tablet's touch surface.
Touch Portal connects to a desktop companion app on your PC. You can program customizable button grids to launch specific programs, toggle audio settings, execute multi-step keyboard shortcuts, or trigger complex workflows.
- Free version includes a 4x2 button grid across two pages.
- Supports custom icon packs for a clean, professional desk layout.
- Perfect for launching daily desktop shortcuts or controlling media.
If you enjoy building desktop workflow shortcuts with Touch Portal, you can link those touch triggers directly into your local setup when you self-host n8n on Windows 11 for free automation.
3. Fotoo: Convert Your Device Into an Ambient Digital Photo Frame
Dedicated 10-inch digital photo frames usually cost between $60 and $80, yet they often feature low-resolution displays and clunky controls. Old tablets typically have sharper screens, responsive touch displays, and significantly better storage specs.
Fotoo is an app designed to stream customizable photo slideshows directly on your desk or shelf. It can pull images stored directly on the device or sync automatically with cloud providers like Google Photos, Dropbox, and Microsoft OneDrive.
Free vs. Premium:
The free tier supports loop slideshows with a pan-and-zoom transition effect. Upgrading unlocks advanced transitions, date/time/weather overlays, and custom auto-start schedules to preserve battery life.
4. Libby: A Dedicated, Full-Color E-Reader & Magazine Hub
While standard smartphones are uncomfortable for long reading sessions, an Android tablet provides a wider display that renders text cleanly without constant zooming or side-scrolling. Furthermore, unlike standard E-Ink devices, a tablet displays full-color pages—making it far superior for magazines, graphic novels, and manga.
Libby (by OverDrive) connects directly to your local public library using your library card. It provides completely free access to thousands of e-books, audiobooks, and magazines with zero subscription fees, no ads, and automatic returns when lending windows expire.
Eye Strain Consideration:
Unlike non-backlit E-Ink displays, traditional tablet LCD screens can cause eye fatigue during multi-hour reading sessions. Adjust your tablet's color temperature to a warmer hue or turn on dark mode in Libby's reading settings to minimize strain.
Maximizing Your Tablet's Second Life
Repurposing an old tablet using these four apps keeps functional electronics out of landfills while upgrading your desk workspace for free.
