How to Connect Your Phone to a Monitor via Wi-Fi: A Complete Guide with Technology Comparisons

Wirelessly streaming your smartphone's screen to a monitor or TV via Wi-Fi has become a standard feature of modern devices. However, not all users know that this doesn't require a Smart TV—a regular monitor with an HDMI port and a small adapter is sufficient. In this article, we'll explore all the current connection methods, from built-in technologies. Miracast And AirPlay to universal applications like ApowerMirror.

The main advantage of a Wi-Fi connection over a cable is the lack of wires and the ability to move freely around the room without losing connection. However, there are also some pitfalls: image delay (latency), resolution limitations, and the need for compatible equipment. We tested all methods on devices. Samsung Galaxy S23, iPhone 15 and monitors ASUS ProArt with adapters Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter — the results are summarized in the comparative table below.

1. Built-in technologies: Miracast vs. AirPlay vs. Google Cast

Smartphone and operating system manufacturers offer their own wireless streaming solutions. The choice depends on your device ecosystem:

• 📱 Miracast — a universal standard for Android And Windows, works without the Internet (point-to-point). Supported by most monitors with HDMI via adapters of the type ScreenBeam or Netgear Push2TV.
• 🍎 AirPlay — exclusive to devices Apple (iPhone/iPad → monitor with Apple TV 4K or adapter Belkin). Requires a shared Wi-Fi network.
• 📺 Google Cast — technology for broadcasting to devices with Chromecast (built-in or external). Works with Android And iOS, but with limitations for iPhone (only individual apps).

Key difference: Miracast mirrors the entire screen with minimal latency (perfect for gaming), while AirPlay/Google Cast are optimized for media streaming and may cut out audio or video under heavy loads..

⚠️ Attention: On Android 13+ And iOS 17+ Some Miracast/AirPlay features may require additional permissions in your privacy settings. For example, on an iPhone, you need to enable Local area network for the application that requests the broadcast.

2. Connecting via Miracast: Step-by-step instructions

Miracast is the most universal way to Android-devices. It doesn't require a connection to a router: the phone and adapter create a direct Wi-Fi connection (peer-to-peer). Here's how it works:

1. Connect Miracast adapter (For example, Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter) to the port HDMI monitor and supply power through USB (use monitor port or 5V/1A charger).
2. Open it on your phone Settings → Connections → Screencasting (on Samsung) or Settings → Display → Wireless Display (on Xiaomi/Google Pixel).
3. From the list of available devices, select the name of your adapter (for example, WDA-1234).
4. Confirm the connection on the monitor screen (you may be asked to enter a PIN code).

If the adapter is not displayed:

• 🔄 Restart the adapter (disconnect/connect the power).
• 📶 Make sure Wi-Fi is turned on on your phone (not necessarily a network connection).
• 🔧 Update the adapter firmware using the manufacturer's official software.

The adapter is connected to HDMI and USB power|

Wi-Fi on the phone is turned on (Search for devices mode)|

The monitor has been switched to the correct HDMI input|

The power saving mode is disabled on the phone-->

⚠️ Note: On some monitors (eg. Dell UltraSharp) When connecting via Miracast, there may be no sound. Solution: Use a separate Aux cable from the adapter to the speakers or set up audio output through Bluetooth.

3. AirPlay for iPhone: How to Stream to a Monitor Without an Apple TV

To the owners iPhone the easiest to use AirPlay, but for this you need either Apple TV, or an adapter that supports this technology (for example, Belkin ScreenCast or Roku Streaming Stick+). The alternative is a software solution for Windows PC, connected to the monitor:

Method 1: Through Apple TV (optimal for 4K HDR):

1. Connect Apple TV 4K to the monitor via HDMI and select the appropriate signal source.
2. On iPhone, swipe down to open Control center → click Screen mirroring.
3. Choose yours Apple TV from the list. For protection, enable AirPlay password in Apple TV settings.

Method 2: Through Windows PC (if the monitor is connected to the computer):

• 🖥️ Install the program on your PC 5KPlayer or ApowerMirror (free versions with limitations).
• 📱 On iPhone in Control Center → Screen Mirroring Select your PC name.
• 🔒 Allow the connection in the pop-up window on your computer.

Why can't AirPlay find my device?

Make sure your iPhone and receiver (Apple TV/adapter) are connected to the same Wi-Fi network (5 GHz is preferred). Disable the VPN on your phone—it may be blocking local discovery. Restart your router if the devices don't see each other after three attempts. Check your Apple TV settings. Settings → AirPlay & HomeKit → Allow access: Everyone

The advantage of AirPlay is support 4K@60Hz and minimal delay (up to 10 ms), which is critical for watching videos or presentations. However, it's not the best choice for gaming due to possible artifacts during fast frame rates.

4. Google Cast and Chromecast: streaming from Android/iOS

Google Cast (through Chromecast) is the most affordable solution for broadcasting media content, but with limitations: iOS Screen mirroring only works in certain apps (eg. YouTube, Netflix). For full screen duplication on Android you will need:

Instructions for Android:

1. Connect Chromecast to the monitor and configure it through the application Google Home (select your Wi-Fi network).
2. In your phone settings, open Connected Devices → Broadcast.
3. Choose yours Chromecast and confirm the duplication.

For iPhone:

• 🎬 In supported apps (e.g. YouTube) click the icon Cast (📡) and select Chromecast.
• 🚫 Full screen mirroring is only possible through third-party applications such as Replica (paid).

5. Third-party applications: ApowerMirror, TeamViewer and alternatives

If built-in technologies aren't suitable (for example, you have an older monitor without adapters), you can use universal apps. They work similarly to remote access, but with real-time screen sharing. The best options are:

• 🖥️ ApowerMirror — a cross-platform solution (Android/iOS → Windows/macOS → monitor). The free version is limited in resolution. 720p.
• 🔄 TeamViewer QuickSupport — allows you to not only broadcast your screen but also control your phone from your PC. Suitable for technical support.
• 🎮 Steam Link — optimized for gamers (gamepad support, low latency). Requires a PC with Steam.

Instructions for ApowerMirror:

1. Install the application on your phone and PC (from the official website) apowersoft.com).
2. Connect your PC to the monitor and run it ApowerMirror on the computer.
3. On your phone, in the app, select Connect to PC and scan the QR code from your PC screen.
4. Allow screen sharing in the pop-up window on your phone.

⚠️ Please note: When using third-party apps, screen data is transmitted through the developer's servers. For sensitive information (banking apps, passwords), use VPN or turn off the broadcast after the session ends.

6. Troubleshooting: delays, connection breaks, no sound

Even with proper setup, technical difficulties can arise. Here are some common issues and their solutions:

If the image is choppy or slow:

• 📶 Check your Wi-Fi speed: for 1080p@60Hz at least is required 25 Mbps stable speed.
• 🔌 Connect the adapter to the monitor via USB 3.0 for additional power (some models lose connection when there is not enough power).
• 🔄 Restart your router and adapter—sometimes resetting the DHCP cache helps.

How to check the actual Wi-Fi speed between devices?

Use the app WiFi Analyzer (Android) or Network Analyzer (iOS) to measure the speed between the phone and the adapter. If the speed is lower 15 Mbps, the broadcast will be unstable. Alternatively, connect the phone and adapter to the same network via Wi-Fi Direct (if supported).

7. Alternative methods: without Wi-Fi and adapters

If a Wi-Fi connection is not possible (for example, there is no router or adapter), consider these options:

• 🔌 USB-C/HDMI adapter - Direct connection of the phone to the monitor via cable. Supported Samsung DeX (desktop mode) and iPhone With Lightning Digital AV Adapter.
• 📶 Bluetooth + apps - some programs (for example, Second Screen) allow you to broadcast your screen via Bluetooth, but with a significant delay.
• 🖥️ DLNA/UPnP — for viewing media files (photos, videos) without screen mirroring. Works through apps. BubbleUPnP (Android) or Infuse (iOS).

The advantage of a wired connection is zero latency and maximum quality (up to 4K@60Hz). For example, Samsung DeX transforms your phone into a full desktop with mouse and keyboard support. For iPhone similar functionality Lightning Digital AV Adapter, but only for image output (without desktop mode).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about connecting your phone to a monitor

Is it possible to connect a phone to a monitor without an adapter?

Yes, if the monitor supports it Wi-Fi Direct or has a built-in Chromecast/AirPlayFor example, some models LG UltraFine And Samsung Smart Monitor can connect directly to the phone. You can also use USB-C/HDMI adapter for wired connection.

Why is there no sound when connecting via Miracast?

This is a typical problem with adapters without a separate audio output. Solutions:

• Connect external speakers to the monitor via Aux or HDMI ARC.
• Use Bluetooth speaker, connected to the phone.
• Update the adapter firmware - some models (eg. ScreenBeam Mini 2) this is corrected in new versions of the software.

How to reduce latency when streaming games?

For games, a delay of less than this is critical 30 ms. Try:

• Use Miracast instead of Google Cast/AirPlay.
• Connect your phone and adapter to the router via Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax).
• In the adapter settings, select the mode Game (if any).
• Close background apps on your phone (especially instant messengers and streaming services).

For competitive games (eg. PUBG Mobile) it is better to use USB-C/HDMI adapter.

Is it possible to mirror your iPhone screen to a monitor without Apple TV?

Yes, but with restrictions:

• Through Windows PC with the program 5KPlayer or ApowerMirror (requires a public Wi-Fi network).
• Through Roku Streaming Stick+ or Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K (support AirPlay).
• Through USB-C/HDMI adapter (image output only, no control).

Full screen mirroring on Android monitors It is impossible to live without Apple TV.

What resolution does Miracast support on Android?

The maximum resolution depends on the adapter and phone:

• Budget adapters (up to 2000₽): 1080p@30Hz.
• Middle segment (2000-5000₽): 4K@30Hz (For example, Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter).
• Premium adapters (from 6000₽): 4K@60Hz (For example, ScreenBeam 1100).

On Samsung Galaxy S22+ and newer Miracast supports HDR10, but only with chip adapters Realtek RTL8822CS.