OneDrive File Issues

How to Access Surface Pro OneDrive Files on an iPad

Maira Mehtab Sep 27, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to open and edit Microsoft Word and Excel documents originally stored on a Surface Pro using an iPad.

How to Access OneDrive Files from a Surface Pro on an iPad

Product: OneDrive and Microsoft 365
Device & OS: iPadOS / Windows
Scenario: Accessing and editing synchronized cloud files across different devices.
Observed behavior: Files saved locally or to OneDrive on the Surface Pro must be seamlessly accessible on the iPad for viewing and editing.

Before you start

Ensure your Surface Pro is connected to the internet and that the files you want to access have completely synced to your OneDrive account.

Solution 1Recommended

Install OneDrive and Microsoft 365 Apps on iPad

Use the official Microsoft applications on your iPad to access and edit your synced files from your Surface Pro.

To view and edit your documents seamlessly across platforms, you will need to utilize Microsoft's cloud storage service. Since iPads use iPadOS, you cannot transfer files via standard Windows networking easily, making OneDrive the most efficient bridge between your Surface Pro and your iPad.

Download the required apps

Open the App Store on your iPad. Search for and install the 'OneDrive', 'Microsoft Word', and 'Microsoft Excel' apps.

Sign in to your account

Launch the OneDrive app on your iPad. Sign in using the exact same Microsoft account or work account that is linked to your Surface Pro.

Access your files

Navigate through your OneDrive folders within the app. Tap on any Word or Excel file; it will automatically open in its respective Microsoft 365 app for viewing or editing.

Install OneDrive and Microsoft 365 Apps on iPad

Synchronization Complete: As long as the account has the required permissions and the Surface Pro has finished uploading, your files will appear instantly in the iPad's OneDrive directory.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Access and Edit Cloud Files Easily with WPS Office

If you are looking for a highly compatible and lightweight application to handle your documents, WPS Office is an excellent free alternative to Microsoft 365. It natively supports third-party cloud storage, allowing you to easily edit files synced from your Surface Pro directly on your iPad without an expensive subscription.

1. Install WPS Office: Download WPS Office for free from the Apple App Store on your iPad.
2. Link your Cloud Storage: Open WPS Office, navigate to the 'Cloud' or 'Open' tab, select 'Add Cloud Storage', and log into your OneDrive account.
3. Edit and Save: Tap your documents to open them. Any edits you make in WPS Office can be saved directly back to OneDrive, instantly updating the file on your Surface Pro.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint file formats.Built-in support for linking OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox for seamless file access.Lightweight, all-in-one app design saves valuable storage space on your iPad.Free to use with a familiar, easy-to-navigate user interface.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why aren't the files from my Surface Pro showing up in the iPad OneDrive app?

This usually happens if the files have not finished syncing from the Surface Pro to the cloud. Check your Surface Pro's internet connection and verify that the OneDrive cloud icon in the Windows taskbar shows 'Up to date'. Also, ensure you are logged into the exact same Microsoft account on both devices.

Do I need a Microsoft 365 subscription to edit files on my iPad?

If your iPad has a screen size larger than 10.1 inches (which includes most modern iPads and iPad Pros), Microsoft requires a paid Microsoft 365 subscription to create and edit files in their official apps. If you only need to view them, it is free. Alternatively, you can use third-party apps like WPS Office to edit them for free.

Can I edit my OneDrive files on my iPad without an internet connection?

Yes, but you must prepare them first. While connected to the internet, open the OneDrive app on your iPad, tap the three dots next to the file or folder you need, and select 'Make available offline'. You can then edit them without Wi-Fi, and the changes will sync back to your Surface Pro once you reconnect.

Document & File Issues