Use side-by-side windows—often called split screen or Split View—when you want two apps visible in a simple layout. Choose Stage Manager when you need overlapping, resizable windows, groups of apps for different tasks, or work across a supported external display. On current iPad software, you may also see the name Windowed Apps; the available controls depend on your iPadOS version and model.
What’s the difference between Stage Manager and split screen?
Side-by-side windows put two apps next to each other, with a divider you can drag to change how much space each app gets. It’s a focused arrangement for reading, comparing information, or copying between apps.
Stage Manager brings the active apps to the foreground and shows other open apps as recent apps along the left. You can resize and move windows, let them overlap, and group windows around a particular task. Apple’s current guides also describe a broader Windowed Apps mode for working with multiple windows; it is not simply another name for Stage Manager.
“Split screen” remains a familiar way to describe two apps side by side, but Apple’s labels and controls have changed across iPadOS releases. In iPadOS 26, Apple describes opening two windows side by side and resizing them with the divider rather than presenting the older label as the only current control.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Compatibility】For iPad (A16) 11th generation 11-inch 2025 (Model: A3354/A3355/A3356), For iPad 10th generation 10.9-inch 2022 (Model: A2696/A2757/A2777). Not for any other models. Please check the model number No. "AXXXX" the bottom of the back of your tablet to confirm correct size before purchasing
- 【Quick Navigation Trackpad】Harvopu for iPad keyboard (A16) 11th/ 10th generation built-in high sensitive trackpad, allows you enjoy the convenience of performing multi-finger gesture control (like tap, swipe, scroll and switch apps), which level up your productivity when browse the web, edit documents and more
- 【Magnetically Detachable Keyboard】For (A16) 11th/ 10th gen keyboard is magnetic and it can be strongly attached to the case or detach completely. When you do not need the keyboard can be stored away, easy to carry it on the go. It is easy, fast and stable to connect via BT, reconnect immediately turning it on
- 【Illuminated Typing】Harvopu (A16) 11th/ 10th case with keyboard with a full row of the laptop-like iPadOS shortcuts is customized for your tablet, and allow you easily switch between adjusble 7 RGB pure backlit with 3 levels adjustable brightness, engaging yourself in a free and relaxed typing experience in any dim condition
- 【Multiple Viewing Angle】There are 3 anti-slip grooves design inisde of the case provides the perfect stand angle, so you can change where the tablet is on the case and adjust the screen angle this way for drawing or writing on, do more computerig, suitable for home, office or school use
Which mode suits your workflow?
| Your task | Better fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Keep two apps visible while reading, comparing, or copying | Side-by-side windows | A straightforward two-app layout with an adjustable divider. |
| Arrange several windows, including overlapping ones | Stage Manager | You can move and resize windows and bring different apps forward. |
| Keep different work contexts, such as separate projects | Stage Manager | Group windows for a task and switch between groups. |
| Move app windows between the iPad and an external display | Stage Manager, if your exact iPad model supports it | External-display support has a narrower model list than general Stage Manager support. |
Neither mode is a universal upgrade over the other. Pick the arrangement that makes the current task easier to see and switch between; Apple’s documentation does not establish that one is faster or more productive.
How to set up side-by-side windows
- Open the first app.
- Drag a second app to the left or right edge of the screen to place it beside the first. The exact interaction can vary by iPadOS release.
- Drag the divider between the windows to adjust their relative sizes.
Apple’s iPadOS 26 guide describes the side-by-side window flow and divider controls in Multitask on iPad with iPadOS 26.
Rank #2
- For iPad 10th Generation Case with Keyboard 10.9 Inch: This keyboard case compatible with iPad A16 11th Generation 11-inch 2025(Model: A3354, A3355, A3356), compatible with iPad 10th Generation 10.9 inch 2022(Model: A2696, A2757, A2777, A3162). Not compatible with any other models. Please check the model number starting with "A" on the back of your tablet before purchasing
- Rechargeable and Long Battery Life: Our for iPad case with keyboard built-in 420mAh large capacity battery, more energy saving and lower consumption, ensure you can use at least 230 hours. It can be fully charged in 2 hours with Type-C charging cable, don't need to replace battery
- Magnetically Detachable Keyboard: This for iPad 10.9 case with keyboard is magnetic so it can be easily repositioned or removed from the case. Equipped with useful shortcut keys and compatible with IOS, Windows, and Android systems, provide you with ultimate convenience
- Multiple Viewing Angles: This for 10th gen iPad case with keyboard has 3 grooves to adjust the viewing angle as you like, make your tablet stand steadily. Turn your tablet into a laptop in one second, perfect for studying, working, writing, painting, reading or watching videos
- Adjustable 7 Colors Backlit Keyboard: This for iPad keyboard case is designed with laser-etched backlit keys that allow 7 vibrant colors to shine in the dark, illuminated typing is more fun and easy. You can choose your favorite color, bringing you different visual enjoyment. Ergonomic and mechanical scissor keys with rebound feature to reduce noise, enjoy comfortable typing even long hours
How to turn on Stage Manager or Windowed Apps
- Open Settings → Multitasking & Gestures.
- Select Stage Manager or Windowed Apps, depending on which mode you want and which options your iPadOS version offers.
- You can also switch modes from Control Center on supported software.
In Stage Manager, use the recent-apps list or Dock to bring another app or group forward. To build a task-specific group, move windows together; Apple also documents moving windows between the active workspace and the recent-apps list. See Apple’s guide to organizing windows with Stage Manager.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Check compatibility before relying on a feature
Compatibility is feature-specific: an iPad may support a multitasking mode without supporting Stage Manager on an external display. Apple’s support pages list iPad (8th generation and later), iPad Air (3rd generation and later), iPad mini (5th generation and later), and specified iPad Pro and newer models for Stage Manager or Windowed Apps, but the exact lists differ by feature. Apple’s external-display list is narrower; examples include iPad Air (5th generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (3rd generation and later), and iPad Pro 12.9-inch (5th generation and later), as well as specified M2/M3 Air and M4 Pro models.
Rank #3
- WHY MAGIC KEYBOARD FOR IPAD — The incredibly thin and portable Magic Keyboard features a glass trackpad with haptic feedback, a great typing experience with a function row, USB-C pass-through charging, front and back protection, and magnetic attachability. No pairing or charging required.
- COMPATIBILITY — Magic Keyboard works with iPad Pro 13-inch (M4 and M5).
- DESIGNED FOR COMFORT — Magic Keyboard features a two-cantilever hinge design for smooth, adjustable viewing angles. Backlit keys with a scissor mechanism and a 10-key function row give you more versatility than ever. The built-in glass trackpad features haptic feedback and support for Multi-Touch gestures using the cursor.
- PROTECTIVE KEYBOARD AND CASE — Folds to provide front and back protection wherever you go and features a USB-C connector for pass-through charging. Available in black or white.
- Accessories are sold separately and subject to availability. Compatibility varies by generation.
Check the current model list for the feature you intend to use before planning an external-display setup. Apple’s Stage Manager support page lists compatible iPads and external-display models; its Windowed Apps support page lists supported models for that mode. Apple also explains moving an app to an external display. The Stage Manager support page is dated September 23, 2025, so consult the live page for the current list.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Compatibility: Designed for iPad A16 11-inch 2025 models A3354, A3355, A3356 and iPad 10th Generation 10.9-inch 2022 models A2696, A2757, A2777. Please check the model number on the back of your iPad before purchase
- Trackpad Productivity: Use the multi-touch trackpad to navigate, edit documents, browse the web, manage schoolwork, and build presentations with familiar gesture controls
- 360° Rotating Hinge: The patented 360° hinge supports 7 use modes for typing notes, watching videos, joining video calls, reading, presenting, or using your iPad in tablet mode
- Backlit Keyboard: Type comfortably day or night with laptop-style keys, a full row of iPadOS shortcut keys, and adjustable 11-color RGB backlighting for low-light use
- Protection, Battery & Support: A thin hard-shell case protects all sides of your iPad and includes auto sleep/wake, Apple Pencil holder, USB-C rechargeable battery, and 12-month Typecase support
Rank #4
- Compatibility: iPad (10th gen & A16). Models: A2696, A2757, A2777, A3162, A3354, A3355, A3356
- Precision Trackpad: Edit documents, navigate apps and build presentations with unparalleled precision using a familiar multi-gesture keyboard trackpad
- Type Comfortably and Accurately: Well-spaced backlit keyboard with full row of iPadOS shortcut keys includes new Screenshot and Dictation keys to help you optimize productivity
- No Charging: You'll never need batteries - your smart keyboard pairs and powers on using the Smart Connector; power is sourced directly from your iPad so you never have to charge
- Four Modes: Get more done no matter where you are with four distinct use modes including Type, Read, Sketch, and View
Where to find Apple’s current instructions
- Work with multiple windows at the same time on iPad covers window behavior and multitasking settings.
- Multitask on iPad with iPadOS 26 explains current side-by-side window controls.
- Organize windows with Stage Manager on iPad covers groups and switching.
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