Modern technologies Smart TV They allow you to create complex multimedia systems that go far beyond simply watching TV channels. There is often a need to set up a video wall, broadcast images from one screen to another, or simultaneously display images in different rooms. Connecting two TVs via a wireless network WiFi - This is the most elegant solution that does not require running long HDMI cables throughout the house.
The implementation of such a scheme depends on many factors: the operating system of the TV, the presence of built-in modules Miracast or DLNA, as well as the bandwidth of your router. A direct TV-to-TV connection without an intermediate router or external transmitter is not always possible and depends on the specific implementation of the Wi-Fi Direct protocol in your devices. In most cases, you will need a stable local network where both devices are on the same subnet.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at various image synchronization methods, examining both software and hardware approaches. You'll learn how to set up screen mirroring, which apps are best for streaming, and what limitations you might encounter when using different brands.
Technical requirements and equipment compatibility
Before you begin setting up, you need to ensure that your hardware is physically capable of supporting the desired use case. Wireless video transmission High-definition TVs (Full HD or 4K) require not only a WiFi module but also support for specific encoding and data transmission standards. If one of the TVs is an older model without Smart TV support, software-based solutions won't work—an external media converter will be required.
The key factor is the WiFi standard version. For smooth video streaming without lag or compression artifacts, it's advisable for both TVs to support the standard. 802.11ac (WiFi 5) or newer. Using the 2.4 GHz band often results in poor picture quality and audio desynchronization, especially if there are many neighboring networks in the air.
⚠️ Attention: The DLNA protocol, often used for media file transfer, is not designed for real-time screen mirroring. It only allows you to stream files from one device's memory to another device's screen, but it doesn't display the desktop or application interface.
It is also important to consider the operating system. TVs based on Android TV, WebOS (LG), Tizen (Samsung) or VIDAA (Hisense) use different ecosystems. Cross-platform connectivity often requires third-party software or universal standards such as Chromecast built-in or AirPlay 2.
Using built-in Smart TV features for mirroring
Many manufacturers integrate native features for connecting devices into a single network. This is the easiest way, requiring no additional software, if your TVs are the same brand or support common standards. For example, Miracast (or Screen Mirroring) allows you to transmit images via WiFi Direct.
To set up such a connection, you need to activate the receiving or transmitting mode on the first TV (source). This is usually done through the menu. Settings → Connection → Screen MirroringOn the second TV (receiver), you need to launch the appropriate application or select the signal source Screen ShareDevices should discover each other automatically if they are on the same network.
- 📺 Samsung: Use the function Smart View or Tap View to instantly connect to other Samsung devices on the network.
- 📺 LG: Application TV Plus or a built-in function Screen Share Based on Miracast, it allows you to easily mirror content.
- 📺 Sony/Philips: Often use built-in Chromecast, which allows you to "cast" an image from one Android TV to another.
However, if you're trying to connect TVs from different brands, codec issues may arise. In this case, the system may prompt you to install a software update. Don't ignore these prompts, as new patches often contain fixes for communication protocols.
☑️ Check before connection
Configuration via third-party applications and protocols
When built-in tools fail or more flexible configuration is required, third-party apps come to the rescue. They allow you to bypass manufacturer restrictions and stream video between virtually any network-enabled device. One of the most popular solutions is using repeater apps or DLNA servers with rendering capabilities.
To implement the "TV to TV" scheme, an intermediate link in the form of a smartphone or tablet is often used, but there are also solutions that work directly between TVs. AirScreen or AirPin, installed on Android TV, can emulate an AirPlay or Miracast receiver, allowing another TV (if it can send a signal) to stream content to it.
Another option is to use a protocol RTSP (Real-Time Streaming Protocol). This is a more professional approach that allows for a video stream with minimal latency. To do this, server software is installed on one TV (or a set-top box connected to it), and a client player capable of accessing network streams by IP address is launched on the second.
⚠️ Attention: When using free streaming apps, you may encounter session time limits or ad banners overlaying the video. For a permanent video wall, it's best to consider paid versions or specialized software.
Cloud services are also worth mentioning. Some ecosystems, such as Yandex with its stations or Apple HomeKit, allow device grouping. While this is most often used for multi-room audio, video functionality is also evolving, allowing for synchronized playback of content from online cinemas on multiple screens simultaneously.
Why are there delays in broadcasting?
Lag occurs due to the time required to encode the video stream on the transmitting device, package it into packets, transmit it over WiFi, and receive, buffer, and decode it on the receiving TV. On wireless networks, this process takes between 0.5 and 3 seconds, which is normal for watching movies, but critical for gaming.
Hardware Solutions: HDMI Transmitters and Set-Top Boxes
If software methods produce inconsistent results, consider hardware solutions. They ensure maximum reliability and image quality, as they use dedicated data channels or optimized wireless protocols that are independent of the main Wi-Fi network load.
The most common option is to use HDMI transmitters (Wireless HDMI Extenders). This device consists of two units: a transmitter (TX) connects to the HDMI output of the first TV (or signal source), and a receiver (RX) connects to the input of the second TV. Communication between them can be via a dedicated radio channel (often 5 GHz) or via an existing WiFi network if the model supports IP broadcasting.
Another effective method is to use Android set-top boxes. You can connect a cheap Android set-top box to a second TV and use it as a standalone receiver. By installing the same remote desktop app (for example, TeamViewer, AnyDesk or specialized software for digital signage), you will receive a full duplication of the image.
| Connection method | Latency | Picture quality | Difficulty of setup |
|---|---|---|---|
| Built-in Miracast/DLNA | Average (0.5-2 sec) | High (depending on signal) | Low |
| Applications (AirScreen, etc.) | High (1-3 sec) | Medium/High | Average |
| Wireless HDMI (5 GHz) | Minimum (<0.1 sec) | Ideal (no compression) | Low |
| Android set-top boxes + software | Depends on the software | Good | High |
Choosing a hardware solution makes sense if you need to broadcast images for commercial purposes, video surveillance, or creating video walls in bars and stores. In such situations, stability is more important than equipment cost.
Organizing a video wall and multi-room system
Connecting one TV to another is often the first step to creating a full-fledged multi-room systemsIn this scenario, it's important not only to transmit the image but also to synchronize the sound and ensure convenient control. Modern smart home systems allow you to group devices together.
If you use the ecosystem Apple HomeKit or Google Home, you can create scenes that simultaneously launch content on multiple screens. For example, the "Start Night" command might turn on the lights, close the curtains, and play a movie on all TVs in the house. However, to transmit a video stream from one specific screen to another within such a system, the AirPlay 2 protocol, which supports multicast, is more commonly used.
For commercial video walls, where the image from one large plasma screen is divided between several smaller TVs (e.g., 2x2 or 3x3), specialized video wall controllers are used. These can be software-based (installed on a powerful PC that distributes the stream over the network) or hardware-based. With a WiFi connection, each TV receives its own portion of the image or a full copy of the image via the local network.
⚠️ Attention: When setting up a video wall using regular household TVs via WiFi, calibration is critical. Different models (and even different units of the same model) may have different color rendering and brightness. You'll need to manually adjust the image settings on each screen to ensure smooth, uneven viewing.
A typical home router may not be able to handle 4K streams, so it's recommended to dedicate dedicated network equipment to such projects.
Solving connection and signal quality issues
Even with proper setup, users may encounter issues: the image flickers, the sound disappears, or the devices don't recognize each other. Most often, the cause lies in the router settings. Make sure the "Unattended" feature is disabled on your router. AP Isolation (Access Point Isolation). When enabled, devices connected to the WiFi network cannot communicate with each other and see only the internet connection.
Problems may also be related to firewall or antivirus settings if a PC is involved. In the network settings on TVs, the network profile must be set to "Home" or "Private," but not "Public," to allow device discovery.
- 🔄 Reboot: A simple but effective method: Restart your router and both TVs to refresh the IP addresses and flush the DNS cache.
- 📡 Signal frequency: Try switching one of your TVs to the 5GHz band if both support it to avoid interference from neighboring 2.4GHz networks.
- 🔌 Nutrition: An unstable power supply to the TV's WiFi module (rare, but it does happen) can cause connection interruptions. Check to see if the device is overheating.
If you use third-party apps, check their permissions. The app must have access to the local network, microphone (for voice search, if needed), and storage. In modern versions of Android TV (10 and above), you'll need to confirm permission to search for devices on the local network when you first launch the app.
What to do if TVs of different brands cannot see each other?
If native protocols don't work, try installing a universal server app (such as VLC or Plex) on the source device (if it's an Android TV or a connected set-top box), and use the built-in player on the receiving device to search for DLNA servers. This often bypasses brand restrictions.
Is it possible to connect an old TV without Smart TV to a new one via WiFi?
Directly – no. An old TV can't receive the digital stream. You'll need an external Android set-top box, an Apple TV, or even a laptop connected to the old TV's HDMI input, which will act as a WiFi signal receiver.
Does internet speed affect image transfer between TVs?
No, if the streaming is over a local area network (LAN). Your ISP's speed isn't important. Only the speed of your internal WiFi network and the power of your router are important. However, for streaming online content (YouTube, Netflix) to both TVs simultaneously, the internet speed must be sufficient (at least 20-30 Mbps for two HD streams).