To stream from laptop to TV wireless, you can use built-in technologies like Miracast or streaming devices like Chromecast, depending on your laptop and TV. The right method for you depends on whether you have a Windows laptop, a MacBook, or a Chromebook, and what your TV supports.
How to stream from laptop to TV wireless with Chromecast
Chromecast works from the Chrome browser on a computer. To cast your laptop screen to a TV using Chromecast, follow these steps:
- Ensure your Chromecast device is properly set up and connected to your TV via its HDMI port.
- Make sure your laptop and Chromecast are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open Google Chrome on your laptop.
- Click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner of the browser window and select "Cast" from the drop-down menu.
- Select your Chromecast from the list of available devices.
- Choose whether to cast your entire desktop or a specific browser tab, then click "Share" to start streaming.
If no device appears, update Chrome and disconnect any VPN or proxy connections. The computer and streaming device must be on the same Wi-Fi network. To stop casting, open the Cast control in Chrome and select "Stop casting." Chromecast with Google TV (HD) and Chromecast with Google TV (4K) work with any TV that has an HDMI connection. Chromecast casting from a Chromecast-enabled app: open the app, tap the Cast button, and tap the device you want to cast to.
How to use miracast for wireless screen mirroring
Miracast allows you to mirror your Windows laptop screen to a Miracast-enabled TV or adapter without needing a Wi-Fi network. To connect:
- On your Windows laptop, go to the display settings by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting "Display settings" or navigating through system settings.
- Look for the "Connect to a wireless display" or "Project" option and click it to initiate the connection.
- Your laptop will scan for available Miracast-enabled devices. Select your TV from the list.
- Once connected, your laptop screen will be mirrored on your TV.
Some TVs may ask for a PIN or an "Allow" prompt on the TV to complete the connection. On Samsung TVs, screen mirroring settings are found under Settings > Connection > Screen Mirroring. Miracast requires a stable connection and may experience some latency. Samsung Smart View works on Galaxy phones and tablets running Android 4.3 or above with Miracast-capable devices. On Samsung phones/tablets, open Quick Settings panel by swiping down with two fingers, swipe to Smart View, then tap TV from Available devices.
How to stream from a MacBook to TV with AirPlay
AirPlay screen mirroring lets you stream from a MacBook to an Apple TV or AirPlay-compatible smart TV. Both devices must be on the same Wi-Fi network. To start:
- Ensure your MacBook and the TV or Apple TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open Control Center on your MacBook.
- Click "Screen Mirroring" and select your TV or Apple TV from the list.
- Enter the passcode if one appears on the TV.
AirPlay 2 on Samsung TVs requires macOS 10.14.5 or later, and the TV and Apple device must be on the same Wi-Fi network. For Samsung TVs, AirPlay settings are found under Menu > Settings > All Settings > Connection > Apple AirPlay Settings. AirPlay mirroring on iPhone/iPad: swipe down from upper-right corner on iPhone X or later or iPad with iPadOS 13 or later, tap Screen Mirroring, choose TV or Mac. AirPlay 2 on Samsung TVs requires iOS 12.3 or later for iPhone/iPad users. To stop AirPlay mirroring on iPhone/iPad: open Control Center, tap Screen Mirroring, then tap Stop Mirroring.
Troubleshooting wireless laptop to TV connections
If your devices are not found during setup, start by checking that both the laptop and TV are on the same Wi-Fi network. For Chromecast, update Chrome and disconnect any VPN or proxy connections. For Miracast, restart both the laptop and TV, and check that the TV's screen mirroring setting is enabled. Some TVs may require you to accept a PIN or "Allow" prompt on the TV screen to complete the connection. If using AirPlay, verify that your MacBook meets the minimum software version and that the TV supports AirPlay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stream from my laptop to my TV wirelessly without a smart TV?
Yes, you can use a streaming device like Chromecast, which plugs into the HDMI port of any TV, or a wireless HDMI transmitter and receiver kit to add wireless capability to a non-smart TV.
Do I need a Wi-Fi network to use Miracast?
No, Miracast creates a direct wireless connection between your laptop and TV, so it does not require a Wi-Fi network. However, both devices must support Miracast technology.
Can I stream from a Windows laptop to a TV using AirPlay?
AirPlay is built into Apple devices, not Windows laptops. Windows users should use Chromecast or Miracast instead for wireless screen mirroring.
What is the difference between casting and screen mirroring?
Casting sends a specific video or tab from your laptop to the TV, allowing you to use your laptop for other tasks. Screen mirroring duplicates your entire laptop display on the TV, showing everything you do.
Can I use Chromecast to mirror my entire laptop screen?
Yes, when casting from Chrome, you can choose to cast your entire desktop rather than just a single browser tab, which mirrors everything on your laptop screen.
For the wider topic, see casting your phone to a TV.
