How To Stream Crunchyroll From A Phone To TV

To stream Crunchyroll from a phone to TV, you can use the native Crunchyroll smart TV app, cast with Chromecast, cast with AirPlay, or connect with an HDMI cable. The most direct option is installing the Crunchyroll app directly on your smart TV or streaming device, as it provides the best performance without relying on your phone as an intermediary.

Use the native Crunchyroll smart TV app

Crunchyroll offers native applications on many smart TVs and streaming devices, including Samsung Tizen 3+, LG webOS 4+, Android TV 5.1+, Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV, PlayStation, and Xbox. This method provides the most direct viewing experience because the TV handles streaming independently.

1. On your smart TV or streaming device, open the app store (for example, Samsung Smart Hub, LG Content Store, or the Roku Channel Store).
2. Search for "Crunchyroll" and select the official app.
3. Install the app, then open it and sign in with your Crunchyroll account.
4. Browse the library and start playing any anime directly on your TV.

Cast with Chromecast

Chromecast lets you control playback from your phone while the Chromecast device streams content directly from the internet, which saves your phone's battery. Your phone (Android or iPhone) and the Chromecast device must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network, and they should be on the same Wi-Fi band (either 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz). For Chromecast, you may need a compatible streaming device, such as a Chromecast dongle, to establish the connection.

1. Open the Crunchyroll app on your Android or iPhone.
2. Begin playing your desired content.
3. Tap the Cast icon, typically found in the top right corner of the video player.
4. Select your Chromecast device from the list that appears.
5. Your phone now functions as a remote control while the video plays on your TV.

Cast with AirPlay

AirPlay is available for iPhone, iPad, or Mac users with an AirPlay 2-compatible smart TV (most Samsung, LG, and Sony models from 2019 onwards) or an Apple TV. Ensure your Apple device and the TV or Apple TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

From the Crunchyroll app

1. Open the Crunchyroll app on your iPhone or iPad and start playing content.
2. Tap the AirPlay icon within the video player.
3. Choose your TV or Apple TV from the list.

Using screen mirroring

1. Open Control Center on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Tap the Screen Mirroring button.
3. Select your TV from the list.
4. Open the Crunchyroll app and play your content.

Connect with an HDMI cable

Connecting via an HDMI cable is generally more stable than wireless casting because it does not rely on a Wi-Fi network. This is ideal for areas with weak Wi-Fi or for uninterrupted viewing. Some phones may require you to enable HDMI or MHL output in the settings menu.

1. Plug an HDMI cable into your TV.
2. Connect the appropriate adapter to your phone: Android phones require a USB-C to HDMI adapter or cable, and iPhones require a Lightning Digital AV Adapter.
3. Connect the other end of the HDMI cable to the adapter on your phone.
4. On your television, select the corresponding HDMI input.
5. Your phone's screen will appear on the TV. Open the Crunchyroll app and play your anime.

Troubleshooting common casting problems

If you experience issues while casting apps to a TV, start by ensuring the Crunchyroll app, the Google Home app (for Chromecast), and your TV or casting device's firmware are all up to date. Restart the Crunchyroll app, your phone, and the casting device by unplugging it for 30 seconds, which can resolve many common streaming problems. Avoid using special characters or emojis in the names of your Chromecast devices, as they can interfere with device discovery. Guest Wi-Fi networks typically block direct device-to-device communication, which can prevent successful casting, so always use your main home network.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stream Crunchyroll from my phone to a TV without Wi-Fi?

Yes, you can use an HDMI cable with the correct adapter for your phone (USB-C to HDMI for Android, Lightning Digital AV Adapter for iPhone). This wired connection does not require a Wi-Fi network and provides a stable stream.

Do I need a Crunchyroll subscription to cast to my TV?

Yes, you need an active Crunchyroll subscription to access the full library of anime. Some content may be available for free with ads, but casting works the same way regardless of your subscription tier.

Why won't my Chromecast find my phone?

Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network and on the same Wi-Fi band (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz). Also, avoid using special characters in your Chromecast device name and make sure you are not connected to a guest Wi-Fi network.

Can I use AirPlay from an Android phone?

No, AirPlay is only available on Apple devices such as iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Android users should use Chromecast or an HDMI cable to stream Crunchyroll to a TV.

Does screen mirroring drain my phone's battery faster?

Yes, screen mirroring (such as AirPlay screen mirroring or using an HDMI cable) keeps your phone's screen on and actively processing video, which uses more battery. Chromecast casting is more efficient because your phone acts as a remote control while the Chromecast device streams directly from the internet.

Related reading: How To Stream Hulu From Phone To TV and How To Play Disney Plus From A Phone On TV.