How to Mirror Your Computer's Screen to a TV via Wi-Fi: A Complete Guide

Wirelessly transmitting images from a computer to a TV is a challenge faced by both gamers and office workers. In 2026, several technologies are available for this purpose, from built-in Windows features to specialized apps. The main advantage of a wireless connection is the elimination of tangled cables and the ability to place the PC anywhere convenient.

However, not all methods are equally effective. Data transfer speed, signal delay (lag), and audio support depend on the chosen protocol. In this article, we'll discuss 5 proven methods We'll explore screen sharing, its pros and cons, and also provide recommendations on setting up your router for stable operation. We'll pay special attention to solutions for Smart TV different brands - from Samsung to Xiaomi.

If you have previously tried to connect and encountered problems (for example, the TV does not find the computer or the image is slow), there is a section at the end of the article with diagnostics of typical errorsWe've also prepared a comparison table of methods so you can choose the best option for your needs.

1. Miracast: Built-in technology for Windows and Android TV

Miracast — is a wireless screen sharing standard supported by most modern devices. It works point-to-point (without a router), but requires both the computer and TV to have the appropriate adapters. The technology is built into Windows 10/11 and many Smart TV on Android TV (For example, Sony Bravia or Philips).

To start broadcasting:

• 🖥️ On your computer: click Win + K, select your TV from the list (if it is not there, check your network settings).
• 📺 On the TV: activate the mode Screen Mirroring (in the "Network" or "Connections" menu).
• 🔄 Confirm pairing on both devices.

Miracast transmits both video and audio, but The maximum resolution is limited to 1080p at 30 Hz — 4K will require alternative methods. Latency of up to 100 ms is also possible, which is critical for fast-paced games. For stable operation, both devices must be within a 5-7 meter radius without any physical obstacles.

⚠️ Warning: On TVs Samsung Miracast may not work from 2018 to 2022 due to its proprietary protocol. Smart ViewIn this case, use the proprietary software. Samsung DeX.

2. AirPlay: A Solution for the Apple Ecosystem

If you have MacBook or iMac, and the TV supports AirPlay (For example, LG OLED With webOS 5.0+ or Apple TV 4K), this method will be the simplest. Technology from Apple provides minimal delays (up to 30 ms) and supports 4K HDR with a good Wi-Fi signal.

Instructions for macOS:

1. Make sure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network (5 GHz recommended).
2. On Mac open Control Center → Screen Sharing.
3. Select your TV from the list. When connecting for the first time, you may be asked to enter a code from the TV screen.

For Windows third-party software will be required, for example 5KPlayer or ApowerMirror, but the transmission quality will be worse than from native devices. AirPlay also allows you to stream sound only (useful for connecting to an audio system).

3. Steam Link: For gamers and powerful PCs

If your goal is to play on the big screen, Steam Link (from Valve) will be the best choice. The app is optimized for streaming games with minimal lag (up to 10 ms in ideal conditions) and supports resolutions up to 4K@60fpsThe main requirement is a powerful PC with a graphics card. NVIDIA (series GTX 10xx and above) or AMD (series RX 5xx+).

How to set up:

• 🎮 Install Steam on PC and app Steam Link on TV (available in Google Play For Android TV or App Store For Apple TV).
• 🔧 In the settings Steam activate Settings → Enable Streaming.
• 🖱️ Connect a gamepad (for example, Xbox Controller or DualSense) to the TV via Bluetooth.

To reduce lag, use a wired connection from your PC to your router (even if your TV is connected via Wi-Fi). In the menu Steam Link You can manually adjust the bitrate (recommended) 20–30 Mbps for 1080p).

⚠️ Caution: When using Steam Link on TVs Samsung Tizen There may be no sound. The solution is to connect an external sound system via HDMI ARC.

PC connected to router via cable|TV on same Wi-Fi network (5 GHz)|Downloads/torrents disabled on PC|Gamepad charged and paired with TV|"Big Picture" mode enabled in Steam settings-->

4. Mirror apps: a universal solution

If the built-in technologies are not suitable (for example, you have an old TV without Smart TV), third-party software will help. Popular options:

• 🌍 ApowerMirror - supports 4K, but requires a subscription to remove watermarks.
• 🖥️ TeamViewer — allows you to control your PC from your TV, but with a noticeable lag.
• 🎮 Moonlight - analogue Steam Link for games (works with video cards) NVIDIA through GameStream).

General setup algorithm:

1. Install the server part on the PC and the client on the TV (via Google Play or APK).
2. Connect both devices to the same network (preferably 5 GHz).
3. On your TV, enter your PC's IP address or scan the QR code.

The main drawback of such apps is their dependence on internet speed. For full functionality, you'll need a router that supports it. Wi-Fi 6 (standard 802.11ax) and a channel of at least the width 80 MHz.

5. DLNA: stream media files (not screen!)

It is important to understand that DLNA It doesn't transmit the computer screen, but only allows you to play media files (video, photos, music) from your PC on your TV. This protocol is supported by almost all Smart TV and media players (for example, Xiaomi Mi Box).

How to set up:

• 📂 On PC, turn on Media sharing (Control Panel → Network and Internet → Media Streaming).
• 📺 Open the app on your TV Media server or DLNA (called differently by different manufacturers).
• 🔍 Select your PC from the list of devices and choose the file to play.

DLNA is convenient for watching movies or listening to music, but it is not suitable for games or using applications. Also, some formats (for example, .mkv With DTS-sound) may not be played - in this case transcoding will help Plex or Kodi.

Why is DLNA not suitable for gaming?

DLNA only transmits finished media files, not streaming video from the screen. Gaming requires real-time streaming with minimal latency, which DLNA cannot provide. Furthermore, the protocol does not support the transmission of control signals (keystrokes, mouse movements).

Setting up a router for stable streaming

Even the most advanced screen sharing method will slow down if your Wi-Fi network isn't optimized. Here are the key router parameters to consider:

• 📶 5 GHz band: required for 4K streaming. In the router settings (192.168.1.1) select this range and set the channel width 80 MHz.
• 🔒 Wi-Fi 6 standard: if the router supports 802.11ax, activate it to reduce delays.
• 🎯 QoS (Quality of Service): Prioritize traffic for devices participating in the broadcast (find the section QoS or Device priority).
• 🔄 Turn off energy saving: in the PC Wi-Fi adapter settings (Device Manager → Network Adapters) disable the option Allow power off to save power.

If your TV and computer are in different rooms, consider using Mesh systems (For example, TP-Link Deco or Google Nest Wi-Fi) to enhance the signal. An alternative is Powerline adapters (Internet transmission via electrical wiring), which provide stability close to that of cable.

⚠️ Attention: On routers with firmware from the provider (for example, Rostelecom or Beeline) QoS settings may be limited. In this case, please contact support to switch the device to "bridged mode" (Bridge).

Diagnosing problems and solving them

If the screen is not broadcast or the image is lagging, check the following:

If the problem persists, try alternative method from this article. For example, if it doesn't work Miracast, go to Steam Link or ApowerMirror.

To diagnose the network, use the commands in Command line:

ping 192.168.1.1 -t # Checking the stability of the connection to the router
netsh wlan show interfaces # View current Wi-Fi settings

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to stream a PC screen to a TV without a router?

Yes, if both devices support Wi-Fi Direct or MiracastIn this case, they create a direct access point. However, the connection speed will be lower than through a router, and the range is limited to 3-5 meters.

Why is there no sound when streaming via Miracast?

This is a typical problem when using Bluetooth- headphones on your PC. Disconnect them and make sure that the output is selected in the Windows sound settings. Miracast device. Also update your audio card drivers (especially if you have Realtek).

What kind of router do I need to stream 4K over Wi-Fi?

Minimum requirements: support Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) with dual-band (2.4 + 5 GHz) and speeds up to 867 Mbps at 5 GHz. For ideal quality, choose models with Wi-Fi 6 (For example, ASUS RT-AX88U or TP-Link Archer AX6000).

Is it possible to control a computer from a TV?

Yes, but not all methods support this. For full control, use TeamViewer, Chrome Remote Desktop or Parsec (optimized for games). In the case of Steam Link Control is only possible via a connected gamepad.

Why is the image lagging even though the internet is fast?

The problem may be in local network, not internet speed. Check:

• Wi-Fi channel is busy (use the app Wi-Fi Analyzer to select a free channel).
• Load on the PC processor (in Task Manager check CPU/GPU load).
• Power saving settings (disable the "Balanced" mode in the Windows power plan).