How to transfer information from a computer to a TV via Wi-Fi: all the methods in 2026

Wirelessly transmitting data from a computer to a TV has become a standard task for most users. In 2026, at least five stable technologies are available that allow you to stream videos, photos, or even your entire desktop wirelessly. But which method should you choose? It all depends on your hardware, operating system, and goals: whether you need screen mirroring, video streaming, or simply viewing media files.

In this article we will look at all current wireless transmission methods — from built-in Windows and macOS features to specialized applications for gamers and owners Smart TVYou will learn how to set up Miracast, DLNA, Steam Link and other protocols, as well as what Every method has hidden limitations (for example, signal lag when gaming or loss of quality when broadcasting 4K).

Important: If your TV was released before 2018, some features may be missing. In this case, we will provide alternative solutions using external devices such as Google Chromecast or Amazon Fire TV Stick.

1. Miracast: Screen mirroring without lag

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 a built-in module. Wi-Fi DirectThe main advantage is minimal latency (from 30 ms), which is critical for games or presentations.

To activate Miracast on Windows 10/11:

1. Click Win + K (or open Settings → System → Display → Connect to a wireless display).
2. From the list of available devices, select your TV (for example, Samsung QLED 2023 or LG OLED C2).
3. Confirm the connection on both devices.

Miracast is not supported natively on macOS, but you can use an alternative - AirPlay (more on that below). For Linux, you'll need to install the package wfd and configure it manually through the terminal.

⚠️ Attention: Some TVs (especially budget models) Xiaomi or TCL) may limit Miracast resolution to 1080p even with support 4K via HDMI. Check your model's specifications on the manufacturer's website.

• ✅ Supported on Windows, Android, and some Smart TVs
• ✅ Low latency (ideal for gaming and video)
• ❌ Doesn't work on macOS without additional software
• ❌ May reduce image quality when the signal is weak

Your TV supports Wi-Fi Direct|Your PC/laptop has a Wi-Fi adapter that supports Miracast (check in Device Manager)|Both devices are connected to the same network (or are within Wi-Fi Direct range)|Screen Mirroring is enabled on your TV-->

2. DLNA: Transfer media files without screen mirroring

If you don't need to duplicate your entire desktop, but only want to view movies, photos or music, DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) is the optimal solution. This protocol allows you to stream files from your computer to your TV over a local network without overloading your processor.

To set up DLNA on Windows:

1. Open Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center → Advanced Sharing Settings.
2. Turn on Network discovery And File and Printer Sharing.
3. Install a media server (for example, the built-in one) Windows Media Player or Plex).
4. On your TV, open the app Media player (or SmartShare on LG, AllShare on Samsung) and select your PC from the list of sources.

On macOS, the role of the DLNA server is performed by iTunes (for music) or Plex (for video). Suitable for Linux. MiniDLNA or Rygel.

⚠️ Attention: DLNA does not support DRM-protected content (such as movies from Netflix or Disney+). To watch them on TV, use the official Smart TV apps or HDMI cable.

3. AirPlay: The Best Choice for Apple Owners

If you have MacBook, iMac or iPhone, and the TV supports AirPlay 2 (For example, Samsung QLED 2020+, LG OLED 2019+ or any Apple TV), this method will be the most convenient. AirPlay allows you to broadcast your screen, audio, or individual media files with minimal setup.

Instructions for macOS:

1. Make sure your Mac and TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
2. Click on the icon Screen control in the menu bar (or System Settings → Displays).
3. Select your TV from the list AirPlay Display.
4. To broadcast audio only, use the audio control panel.

On Windows, AirPlay is not supported by default, but can be installed 5KPlayer or ApowerMirror to emulate the feature. Streaming quality will be lower than on macOS, and latency can reach 300 ms.

• ✅ Perfect integration with the Apple ecosystem
• ✅ 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos support
• ❌ Requires a compatible TV or Apple TV
• ❌ Works with limitations on Windows

How to reduce AirPlay latency?

Use a router with support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and connect your TV via Ethernet cable (if possible). Also, open Settings → Display → AirPlay on Mac and select the mode Fast connection (Sacrifice Quality for Speed).

4. Steam Link: Stream PC games to your TV

For gamers who want to play on the big screen without buying a console, Steam Link — the best solution. This technology from Valve Allows you to stream games from your computer to your TV with minimal latency (from 10 ms under ideal conditions). The main requirement: a powerful PC (from NVIDIA GTX 1060 or AMD RX 580) and a stable network 5 GHz.

How to set up Steam Link:

1. Install Steam on PC and Steam Link on TV (available in Google Play for Android TV or as a separate application on Samsung/LG).
2. Connect a gamepad (for example, Xbox Controller or DualSense) to the TV via Bluetooth.
3. Launch Big Picture Mode in Steam on PC and select Stream → your TV.
4. Adjust the bitrate in Settings → Remote Play → Advanced (recommended) 20–50 Mbps for 1080p@60fps).

For maximum performance:

• Use a wired connection from your PC to the router (Ethernet).
• Turn on Hardware encoding in Steam settings (required NVIDIA NVENC or AMD AMF).
• Close background applications that consume internet (for example, torrents).

⚠️ AttentionWhen streaming games over Wi-Fi, image artifacts may occur if other devices are active on the network (for example, downloading files on a laptop). For competitive shooters (CS2, Valorant), a latency of no more than 30 ms is recommended—check it in the Steam Link menu (Settings → Statistics).

5. Google Cast (Chromecast) and Android TV alternatives

If your TV is running on Android TV (or connected via Google Chromecast, NVIDIA Shield), you can use the protocol Google CastIt allows you to broadcast individual browser tabs, YouTube videos, or your smartphone screen.

To broadcast your screen from your PC:

1. Install the extension Google Cast for Chrome or browser Microsoft Edge (built-in Cast support).
2. Open the desired tab (for example, a movie on Kinopoisk or a presentation in Google Slides).
3. Click the Cast icon in the browser bar and select your TV.

To cast your entire Windows screen:

1. Download Chrome Remote Desktop or ApowerMirror.
2. Connect to your TV via IP address (specified in Android TV settings).
3. Select mode Mirroring and adjust the resolution.

• ✅ Works on any Android TV or Chromecast
• ✅ Supports browser tab streaming
• ❌ Delay up to 1-2 seconds (not suitable for gaming)
• ❌ Quality depends on your internet speed

How to stream Netflix using Chromecast?

The official Netflix app blocks Cast streaming due to DRM. Use the built-in Netflix app on your TV or connect your PC via HDMI.

6. Problems and solutions: why data transfer doesn't work

Even with proper setup, errors can still occur. Here are the most common issues and how to fix them:

If none of the methods work, check:

• 🔄 Update your TV firmware (in the menu Settings → Support → Software Update).
• 📶 Restart your router and change the Wi-Fi channel (for example, from 6 to 11 in the 2.4 GHz band).
• 🔌 Connect your TV to your router with an Ethernet cable (if possible).
• 🛠️ Update your Wi-Fi adapter drivers on your PC (via device Manager).

⚠️ AttentionOn TVs Samsung Devices manufactured in 2016–2018 may not support Miracast due to hardware limitations. In this case, use Samsung Smart View (PC application) or Chromecast.

7. Alternative devices: when built-in functions are not enough

If your TV does not support modern protocols (for example, it was released before 2015), you can use external devices:

• 📺 Google Chromecast 4K — supports Google Cast, Miracast, and DLNA. Price: ~3,500 ₽.
• 🎮 NVIDIA Shield TV Pro — the best choice for gamers (Steam Link, 4K@120Hz). Price: ~15,000 ₽.
• 🍎 Apple TV 4K — ideal for the Apple ecosystem (AirPlay, 4K HDR). Price: ~12,000 ₽.
• 🖥️ Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K — a budget option with Miracast and DLNA support. Price: ~2,500 ₽.

When choosing a device, pay attention to:

• Maximum resolution (Full HD or 4K).
• Support Wi-Fi 5/6 (for stable broadcasting).
• Availability of an Ethernet port (for connecting to a router via cable).

For owners Sony Bravia or Philips Android TV External devices may not be needed - these TVs usually support all modern protocols out of the box.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about streaming data to your TV

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

Yes, if both devices support Wi-Fi Direct (used in Miracast). For example, a laptop with Windows 11 and a TV Samsung QLED 2022 can connect directly without a router. However, for DLNA, AirPlay, or Steam Link, a router is required.

Why does the picture lag when broadcasting via Miracast?

The reasons may be different:

• Weak Wi-Fi signal (switch to a different band) 5 GHz).
• Low PC performance (Miracast requires real-time video encoding).
• TV limitations (some models reduce resolution to 720p).

Solution: Try reducing the screen resolution on your PC to 1920×1080 or use an HDMI cable.

How to stream audio from a PC to a TV separately from video?

Use:

• AirPlay (for macOS/iOS) - Select the TV as the audio device in the Sound settings.
• DLNA - some media servers (for example, Plex) allow you to stream audio only.
• Bluetooth - if the TV supports it A2DP (For example, LG CX or newer).

What is the latency when streaming via Steam Link?

Under ideal conditions (PC via Ethernet, TV via 5 GHz Wi-Fi) the latency is 10–30 msIf you use Wi-Fi on both devices, it can increase to 50–100 msFor comparison:

• Miracast: 30–100 ms.
• AirPlay: 100–300 ms.
• Chromecast: 500–2000 ms.

Is it possible to screencast from Linux to TV?

Yes, but some additional configuration will be required:

• For Miracast: install the package wfd and use gnome-network-displays.
• For DLNA: set up MiniDLNA or Rygel.
• For Steam Link: install Steam and turn it on Remote Play.

On some distributions (for example, Ubuntu 22.04+) Miracast works out of the box via Settings → Displays → Screen Mirroring.