Modern technologies allow you to transform your living room into a fully-fledged work or entertainment center without the need for unnecessary cables. Using a TV LG Using a wireless connection as an external display for a laptop or desktop PC is a space-saving solution that adds mobility to your workspace. Wireless video transmission technology has become so stable that it completely replaces traditional video streaming in many scenarios. HDMI-cable.
To implement this idea, you won't need complex adapters or specialized equipment if both devices support wireless communication standards. The basis for interaction here is the protocol Miracast or proprietary technology LG Screen Share, built into the operating system WebOSThis allows you to broadcast images with a resolution of up to 4K and a soundtrack with virtually no delays, which is critical for comfortable viewing of movies or presentations.
However, before you begin setting up, you need to ensure that your network equipment is ready to handle large data volumes. Connection stability directly depends on signal quality. Wi-Fi router and the distance between the receiver and transmitter. In this article, we'll cover all available connection methods in detail, eliminate potential interference, and configure the system for maximum performance.
Technical requirements and equipment preparation
The first step to a successful connection is to check the compatibility of your equipment. TVs LG, released after 2018, as a rule, already have built-in support for the standard Wi-Fi Direct and the Miracast protocol. If you have an older model, you may need to use an external adapter, but in most cases, the built-in module is sufficient.
The computer or laptop must also have the appropriate specifications for the operating system. Windows 10/11 The presence of a built-in Wi-Fi module is a mandatory requirement for the "Projection" function to work. In the case of macOS technology support will be required AirPlay 2, which has been built into LG TVs since 2019.
⚠️ Important: Make sure your computer's wireless adapter drivers are updated to the latest version. Outdated network card software often causes connection drops or display detection issues.
An important aspect is the frequency of your wireless network. For high-quality video streaming, it is highly recommended to use the frequency 5 GHzIt provides higher throughput compared to the range 2.4 GHz, which reduces the likelihood of artifacts appearing on the screen.
Setting up an LG TV to receive a signal
Before searching for devices from your computer, you need to prepare the TV itself. In the menu WebOS This feature may have different names depending on the firmware version, but it's usually hidden in the connections section. You need to enable external signal standby mode.
Go to the main menu and select the application Screen Share or Connecting to a mobile deviceIn some models, it is enough to simply go to the signal source selection menu (Input) and select the item Mobile Devices or Wireless DisplayAfter this, a message will appear on the screen indicating that the connection is ready, and possibly the device name will be visible in the list of available networks.
If you plan to use your TV as a permanent second monitor, it's a good idea to disable power-saving modes that can dim the screen when the remote isn't in use. This will prevent unexpected session interruptions while you're working.
☑️ Preparing the TV
Pay attention to your TV's software version. Manufacturers regularly release updates that improve wireless connection stability and add support for new codecs. Checking for updates takes a couple of minutes but can save you from many problems in the future.
How to check webOS version?
Go to Settings (gear icon) → All settings → Advanced (three dots) → About TV. The software version and model number will be displayed there. If a new version is available, the system will prompt you to install it.
Connecting a Windows computer via Miracast
operating system Windows It has built-in Miracast support, making the connection process extremely simple and requiring no third-party software. This method is the most universal for PCs and laptops running Windows 10 or Windows 11.
To start the connection, press the key combination Win + K on the keyboard. The "Connect" panel will open on the right, where the system will begin searching for available wireless displays. Your TV should appear in the list. LGSelect it, and a connection confirmation prompt may appear on the TV screen, which you'll need to accept using the remote.
Once paired successfully, the desktop image will appear on the large screen. You can control the operating mode via the menu. Projection, called by the same key combination or through Settings → System → DisplayThe following modes are available: "Duplicate", "Extend" or "Second screen only".
| Opening hours | Description | What is it suitable for? |
|---|---|---|
| Duplicate | Same image on both screens | Presentations, photo viewing |
| Expand | TV becomes an extension of the desktop | Multitasking, video editing |
| Second screen only | The laptop screen goes blank, only the TV works. | Watching movies, playing games |
It's worth noting that when you expand your desktop, the mouse cursor will move seamlessly between screens. You can drag program windows onto the TV, freeing up the main laptop space for other tasks. This is especially convenient for traders or programmers who need plenty of space for code or charts.
Using AirPlay 2 for macOS users
Computer owners MacBook And iMac will appreciate the support of technology AirPlay 2 on LG TVs. This integration allows for low-latency image and sound streaming using the Apple ecosystem. No additional apps are required; all features are built into the system.
To start streaming, make sure your Mac and TV are on the same Wi-Fi network. Click the "Control Center" icon in the menu bar or select the monitor icon in the status bar. Select your device from the list of available devices. LG TVIf this is your first time, a four-digit code will appear on your TV screen, which you will need to enter on your computer.
Once connected, you can use the TV as your primary display or as an extended display. In macOS Displays settings (System Preferences → Displays) You can adjust the screens' relative positions to ensure logical and convenient cursor movement. A mirroring option is also available.
⚠️ Important: When using AirPlay 2, make sure your TV isn't running any heavy apps that could overload the webOS processor. This could cause the video stream to stutter.
The advantage of AirPlay is the ability to stream video from applications such as Safari or VLC, directly to the TV, bypassing the desktop. In this case, the computer acts only as a remote control, and the TV itself handles video decoding, saving battery life on the laptop.
Third-party remote access and streaming software
If the built-in system tools are unstable or advanced features are required, third-party solutions come to the rescue. Programs like Spacedesk, Deskreen or Twomon allow you to use your TV as a monitor via a local network with more flexible compression and quality settings.
The principle of their operation is to install the server part on the computer and the client application (or use a browser) on the TV. For example, Deskreen allows you to open a link in the TV browser WebOS and broadcast the entire screen or a specific app window there. This bypasses the limitations of the Miracast protocol.
This method often results in lower latency and a clearer image, as the software can better adapt to network conditions. However, it requires initial setup and possibly purchasing a license to remove watermarks or limit the runtime in free versions.
Another option is to use the function DLNA for streaming media files. While this doesn't turn your TV into a full-fledged real-time monitor, it's a great way to display photos or videos from your computer on a larger screen without the buffering delays typical of desktop streaming.
Why try Deskreen?
This app works through any browser on a Smart TV, without requiring the installation of heavy applications on the TV itself, which maintains its speed.
Troubleshooting and quality optimization
Wireless video transmission is sensitive to interference. If you notice audio and video out of sync, blocky images, or intermittent connection drops, first check your Wi-Fi channel usage. Neighboring routers operating on the same frequency can generate a lot of noise.
Try rebooting your router and TV. Temporary cache files in your TV's Wi-Fi module often become full, slowing down the incoming data stream. It's also a good idea to move the router away from microwave ovens and Bluetooth devices that operate at 2.4 GHz.
If the image quality remains low, try lowering the output resolution in the Windows or macOS display settings. Transferring the image to 1920×1080 requires less than 3840×2160, which can significantly improve the smoothness of the picture with a weak signal.
⚠️ Note: Menu interfaces and function names may vary depending on the TV's year of manufacture and webOS firmware version. If you don't find the option described, please refer to the official documentation for your model on the manufacturer's website.
In conclusion, using an LG TV as a monitor via Wi-Fi is a modern and convenient solution. With the right network setup, it provides an experience similar to a wired connection, eliminating unnecessary cables and allowing you to enjoy content on the big screen from anywhere in the room.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to play fast-paced games via Wi-Fi on a TV?
Technically, this is possible, but not recommended for shooters or racing games due to input lag. A wireless connection always adds a few milliseconds of latency, which can critically impact gameplay. For gaming, it's better to use an HDMI cable.
Why doesn't the TV see the computer even though Wi-Fi is on?
Make sure both devices are connected to the same network (same SSID). Routers often create two networks (2.4 and 5 GHz) with different names. Also, check if Windows Firewall is blocking device discovery on the public network.
Is the sound transmitted wirelessly?
Yes, Miracast and AirPlay 2 transmit video and audio. Audio will play through your TV speakers. If there's no sound, check your system's playback device settings and make sure your TV is selected as the default device.
Does using a TV as a monitor affect its lifespan?
Displaying a static image (such as the taskbar or a document) for extended periods of time can cause pixel burn-in on OLED displays. Use screensavers or hide the taskbar if you leave your computer on for long periods of time.