Modern multimedia content demands large screens and high-quality sound, but storing all your movies and TV shows on your TV's hard drive isn't always convenient. It's much more efficient to use a powerful computer as a media server or gaming station, displaying content on a large screen without unnecessary cables. A wireless connection eliminates the need to run long HDMI cables across the room and allows you to control your content from the comfort of your couch.
There are several main technologies for this task, each with its own features and use cases. The choice of a specific method depends on your PC's operating system, TV model, and your goals—whether it's viewing photos, playing games, or working with documents. In this article, we'll take a detailed look at all the current methods for synchronizing devices.
Before you begin setting up, make sure both devices - your computer and TV - are connected to the same local network. fundamental condition, which, if ignored, prevents devices from discovering each other. If your router supports dual-band mode (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), it's recommended to use the 5 GHz frequency to transmit heavy video content without latency.
Miracast and Projection in Windows
The most universal method for Windows 10 and 11 users is to use the built-in Miracast technology. It allows you to stream your screen image in real time, creating a direct Wi-Fi Direct connection between devices. You don't need a router to transmit data if your TV supports this feature, as the signal goes directly from the PC adapter to the TV's Wi-Fi module.
To get started, use your TV remote control to locate the Input or Source button and select Screen Share, Miracast, or Screen Cast. On some models, Samsung It's called Smart View, and in LG — Screen Share. After activating the mode on the TV, press the key combination on the computer Win + K.
The system will begin searching for available wireless displays. When your TV's name appears in the list, click it. A connection permission prompt may appear on the TV screen; confirm with the remote. After this, the image from your PC monitor will be fully copied to the big screen.
- 🖥️ Duplicate mode: The TV displays the same thing as the computer monitor.
- 📐 Extension mode: The TV becomes a second monitor, allowing you to drag program windows there.
- 📺 Second screen only: The PC monitor goes dark and the image remains only on the TV.
Keep in mind that transmission quality depends on the power of your Wi-Fi adapter. If you notice audio and video out of sync or image stuttering, try moving your computer closer to the router or switching to a clearer Wi-Fi channel. Miracast technology is especially good for sharing presentations or browsing the web, but it can introduce a slight input lag for fast-paced games.
☑️ Checking Miracast Readiness
Using DLNA to play media files
If your goal is not to duplicate your desktop, but to view photos, videos or listen to music stored on your hard drive, then the technology DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) is ideal. It allows the TV to view folders containing content on the computer as external media resources. Unlike Miracast, the load is placed on the TV's processor, which decodes the video stream.
In Windows, this feature is implemented through "Media Streaming Settings." Open "Control Panel," go to "Network and Internet," and select "Media Streaming Settings." Click "Turn on media streaming" and select your TV from the list of available devices. The system will automatically open the default libraries: "Videos," "Music," and "Pictures."
⚠️ Attention: DLNA isn't designed for transmitting system audio or desktop images. You'll only be able to play files that your TV can natively play.
For more flexible management of your file library, it is recommended to install a third-party media server, for example, DLNA Server or use the built-in capabilities of media players like VLC or KodiThese programs allow you to add files from any folder to the playlist, not just system ones.
| Parameter | Miracast | DLNA |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission type | Screencasting | File transfer |
| CPU load | PC (stream encoding) | TV (decoding) |
| Interactivity | Full (can work on a PC) | Limited (TV player menu) |
| Quality | Depends on Wi-Fi signal | Original uncompressed |
Using DLNA saves computer resources, as you can even turn off your PC monitor after starting playback. However, switching between tracks or movies requires using the TV interface, which isn't always convenient if the remote has complex navigation.
Broadcasting via Google Chrome browser
Owners of TVs with support Google Cast (Chromecast built-in) or a connected Chromecast set-top box can use the Google Chrome browser on your computer as a powerful streaming tool. This method is convenient because it doesn't require complex network setup and works on virtually any operating system running Chrome.
Open your computer's browser and click the three dots in the upper-right corner of the menu. Select "Save and Share" (or simply "Cast" in older versions). Available devices will appear in the list that opens. Before starting the cast, click the "Sources" button to select what you want to show: a browser tab, the entire screen, or a specific file.
Why might the device search not work?
If your computer and TV are on different subnets (for example, one of the networks is a guest network), they may not be able to see each other. Blocking may also occur due to Windows Firewall settings that prevent incoming connections for the Chrome app.
To stream video files that don't open in your browser, you can drag and drop the file directly into a Chrome window or use the "Cast to Chromecast" extension. This allows you to play local video formats that your Smart TV may not natively support, as the encoding is handled by your computer's powerful processor.
The advantage of this method is its high compatibility and simplicity. However, if you're streaming a browser tab, the system load increases, as the browser must render the page and simultaneously encode the video stream for the network. For watching YouTube or surfing the web, this is an excellent, no-fuss option.
Connecting macOS and Apple TV (AirPlay 2)
Users of the Apple ecosystem have their own native protocol called AirPlayMany modern televisions from manufacturers Samsung, LG, Sony And Vizio already have built-in AirPlay 2 support, eliminating the need to purchase a separate Apple TV box.
To connect your Mac to your TV, make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. In the Mac's Control Panel (or the AirPlay menu in the menu bar), select your TV. If the TV requires a verification code, it will appear on the screen and need to be entered on your computer. Once connected, your Mac's screen will be mirrored on the TV.
- 🍏 Duplication: An exact copy of your Mac screen on your TV.
- 🖥️ Extended Desktop: using TV as a second monitor.
- 🎬 Video only: When you play a video in Safari or iTunes, it will automatically open on your TV, freeing up your laptop screen.
For Windows owners who want to use AirPlay, there are emulators such as LonelyScreen or AirServer, which are installed on a PC. They make the computer visible to Apple devices, allowing you to stream images from an iPhone or iPad to a computer monitor, which in turn can be connected to a TV.
Third-party applications and media servers
When built-in tools aren't enough, specialized programs come to the rescue. One of the most popular solutions is a combination Plex or JellyfinThese applications transform your computer into a fully-fledged media center with a beautiful interface, movie posters, and descriptions.
Install the server portion of the program (Plex Media Server) on your computer and specify the folders where your movies and TV shows are stored. The program will automatically scan the files, download cover art, and metadata. On your TV, simply install the Plex client app from the Smart TV app store and log in to your account.
Another popular option is to use the SMB (Network Share) protocol. You can share a folder on your computer, making it accessible over the network. On your TV, you can use a built-in media player (for example, VLC for Android TV or Nova Video Player) Select "LAN" or "Network" source, find your computer and play the file directly.
⚠️ Attention: When using SMB, make sure that "Network discovery" is enabled in Windows settings and "Password-protected sharing" is disabled (if you are on a trusted home network), otherwise the TV will not be able to log in.
Using specialized servers like Plex offers a transcoding advantage. If your TV can't read a certain audio or video format, the server on your PC will transcode the stream on the fly into a compatible format, ensuring seamless playback.
Network troubleshooting and optimization
Even with proper setup, problems can still arise, including signal interruptions, low resolution, or no sound. This is often due to Wi-Fi congestion. If your router operates in the 2.4 GHz band, it can be affected by microwaves, Bluetooth headphones, and neighbors' networks.
For stable transmission of 4K content, it is recommended to use the standard Wi-Fi 5 (ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (ax) in the 5 GHz band. Also, check if your router has speed limits (QoS) for specific devices. Sometimes, assigning static IP addresses to your TV and computer in the router settings can help.
If the sound is coming from your computer and not your TV, check your Windows audio settings. Click the speaker icon in the system tray, select the output device, and find your TV in the list (often identified by the TV model or technology name, such as NVIDIA High Definition Audio).
In some cases, your PC's Wi-Fi adapter drivers may not work correctly with broadcast protocols. Try updating your network card drivers from the manufacturer's official website, rather than through Windows Device Manager. You should also check your Wi-Fi adapter's power-saving settings to prevent the system from turning it off to save power.
Why doesn't the TV see the computer in the list of devices?
Most often, the problem is that the devices are on different networks (for example, one is connected to a guest Wi-Fi network and the other to the main network). Antivirus software or a firewall may also be blocking detection. Try temporarily disabling protection or adding the streaming app to the exceptions list.
Can you play games on TV via Wi-Fi?
Yes, but for a comfortable gaming experience, you need perfect 5 GHz or Wi-Fi 6 coverage. Built-in Windows features (Projection) can introduce lag. For gaming, it's better to stream via Steam Link or GeForce Now, which are better optimized for transmitting game video streams.
How to improve the image quality if it is blurry?
Make sure your PC's resolution is set to the native resolution of your TV (usually 1920x1080 or 3840x2160). In Windows projection settings, select "Second screen only" to prevent the system from attempting to scale the image to the monitor's resolution, which can reduce clarity.