How to connect a TCL TV to a computer via Wi-Fi: 4 working methods + troubleshooting

Wireless TV connection TCL Connecting to a computer via Wi-Fi opens up a ton of possibilities: from streaming high-definition movies to playing games on a big screen without the hassle of wires. However, many users encounter issues, from no display to constant connection drops. In this article, we'll look into all current connection methods (including hidden functions TCL), we'll explain why the sound might not work and provide a checklist for troubleshooting.

It is important to understand that the connection method depends on the model of your TV and the operating system of your PC. For example, older TCL series L (before 2019) may not be supported Miracast, but they work great through DLNAAnd here are the new models on Google TV or Roku TV offer advanced options, including integration with Steam LinkWe'll look at universal solutions and highlight nuances for specific product lines.

If you previously tried to connect and received an error like "Device not supported" or "No screens available" Don't rush to blame the technology. In 80% of cases, the problem lies in the router settings or protocol conflicts. Read on to learn how to avoid this.

1. Preparation: What to check before connecting

Before you begin setup, make sure your network meets the minimum requirements. For a stable wireless connection between your PC and TV, TCL necessary:

• 📶 Wi-Fi speed not less than 50 Mbps (for Full HD) or 100 Mbps (for 4K). Use the range 5 GHz to minimize delays.
• 🔄 A router that supports the 802.11ac standard (or newer). Outdated models on 802.11n may cause lags.
• 🖥️ PC graphics card with Miracast support (for screen duplication). You can check this in Device Manager (section "Video adapters").
• 🔌 Same Wi-Fi network For TV and computer. Connecting through different networks (for example, guest and main) will block data transfer.

Pay special attention Wi-Fi channelIf your router is set to automatic channel selection, force a static channel in the range 36-48 (for 5 GHz) - this will reduce the likelihood of interference from neighboring networks. In the settings TCL turn off power saving mode (Settings → System → Power Saving), as it may drop the connection when idle.

⚠️ Attention: If you are using a VPN on your PC, please disable it before connecting. Some protocols (e.g. DLNA) are blocked when a VPN connection is active.

For models TCL With Android TV or Google TV Please also check your firmware version. Outdated versions (below) Android 9) may not support Wi-Fi DirectUpdate the software via Settings → About TV → System Update.

2. Method 1: Screen mirroring via Miracast (for Windows 10/11)

Miracast — is a wireless image transfer standard built into modern versions of Windows. It allows you to fully mirror your PC screen to your TV. TCL without any additional programs. However, there are some nuances:

• ✅ Works on most TCL With Android TV (series C, P, QLED after 2020).
• ❌ Not supported on models with Roku TV (use Screen Mirroring via the app Roku).
• ⚡ Requires Wi-Fi Direct on the TV and a compatible video card on the PC.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. On TV TCL open Settings → Connections → Screen Mirroring (or Wi-Fi Direct).
2. On PC, click Win + K (or open Settings → System → Project to this PC).
3. Select your TV from the list of available devices. If it's not there, update your graphics card drivers.
4. Confirm the connection on your TV (you may be asked to enter a PIN).

If the image is lagging, reduce the projection resolution in Windows settings (Settings → System → Display → Resolution). The best option for most people TCL — 1920×1080 at frequency 60 Hz.

⚠️ Attention: Miracast may not work on laptops with hybrid graphics (Intel + NVIDIA/AMD). In this case, force-enable the discrete graphics card in the Graphics Control Panel.

PC and TV on the same Wi-Fi network

Wi-Fi Direct is enabled on the TV.

Video card drivers have been updated

VPN and firewall are disabled-->

3. Method 2: Streaming media via DLNA (for movies and music)

If you don't need to duplicate your screen, but just stream movies, photos or music from your PC to TCL, use the protocol DLNAIt works on all TV models (including older series) L And S) and does not require special equipment.

How to set up DLNA on a PC:

1. Install a media server (for example, Plex, Kodi or built-in Windows Media Player).
2. In the server settings, specify folders with media files (movies, music, photos).
3. On TV TCL open the application Media player (or LocalCast For Android TV).
4. Select your PC from the list of DLNA devices.

To troubleshoot playback issues:

• 🎬 Convert files to supported formats: MP4 (H.264), MKV (H.265), MP3.
• 🔌 Reconnect your TV to your router (DLNA sometimes "forgets" devices after sleep).
• 📡 Reduce the video bitrate (if your router is weak) through the media server settings.

A critical detail: TCL TVs with firmware versions earlier than Android 8.0 do not support DLNA for files with a resolution higher than 1080p. Check the specifications for your model.

4. Method 3: Games and applications via Steam Link (for gamers)

If you want to play on the big screen without wires, Steam Link — the optimal solution. This method works on TCL With Android TV (series C6, P7, QLED) and requires:

• 🎮 Installed Steam on PC and applications Steam Link on TV.
• 🕹️ Gamepad (or keyboard + mouse with Bluetooth adapter).
• 📶 5 GHz Wi-Fi with speeds of 100 Mbps (for 1080p/60fps gaming).

Setup instructions:

1. Run on PC Steam and turn it on Settings → Remote Play → Enable Remote Play.
2. On TV TCL install Steam Link from Google Play (For Android TV) or App Store (For Roku TV).
3. Connect the gamepad to your TV via Bluetooth.
4. Launch Steam Link on TV and select your PC from the list.

To reduce latency in games:

• 🔧 In the settings Steam Link select Performance Priority.
• 📡 Connect your PC to the router via cable (if possible), and leave the TV on Wi-Fi.
• 🖥️ Close background programs on your PC that consume network bandwidth (torrents, updates).

⚠️ Attention: On TVs TCL With Roku TV application Steam Link may not support audio via HDMI. In this case, use external speakers connected to the TV.

Why is Steam Link slow?

The main reasons for lags:

1. Wi-Fi channel overload (especially in apartment buildings). Solution: Change the channel to 5 GHz in your router settings.

2. Weak PC processorSteam Link encodes video in real time—Full HD requires at least a 4-core CPU.

3. Background Windows updatesDisable them while playing via Windows Update.

5. Method 4: Alternative applications (ApowerMirror, TeamViewer)

If standard methods don't work, try third-party programs. They are suitable for all models. TCL, including legacy ones, but may charge for advanced features.

How to connect via ApowerMirror:

1. Download ApowerMirror on PC and TV (from Google Play or APK For Roku TV).
2. Launch the program on both devices and select Wi-Fi connection.
3. Enter the PIN code displayed on the TV screen.
4. Adjust the resolution in the application menu (optimally: 1920×1080).

For models TCL With Roku TV installation may be required ApowerMirror through Developer ModeInstructions for activating developer mode are available in the official documentation. Roku.

6. Solving common problems

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

• 🔴 "No devices available" in Miracast:
  • Check if your video card supports Miracast (a list of compatible devices is available on the Microsoft website).
  • Update drivers via GeForce Experience (for NVIDIA) or Adrenalin (for AMD).
  • Turn it off Windows Defender Firewall temporarily.
• 🔊 "No sound" when connecting:
  • On your PC, open Control Panel → Sound and set the TV as the default playback device.
  • For Steam Link select Transmit audio over the network in the application settings.
  • If you use HDMI-ARC, disable it in the TV settings (Sound → HDMI ARC → Off).
• 📶 "Constant connection breaks":
  • Switch the router to a channel 5 GHz with width 40 MHz.
  • Disable power saving for your PC's Wi-Fi adapter (Device Manager → Network Adapters → Properties → Power Management).
  • Reduce the distance between the router and the TV (or use a Wi-Fi repeater).

If the TV TCL After connecting, it shows a black screen, but there is sound:

1. Click on PC Win + P and select Second screen only.
2. Update your PC's screen resolution to one supported by your TV (e.g. 4K on 1080p).
3. Restart both devices.

7. Optimize Wi-Fi for a stable connection

Wireless connection quality directly impacts ping and image clarity. The following router settings will help minimize lag:

• 📡 Qos (Quality of Service): Prioritize traffic for your TV and PC in your router settings. Enter their MAC addresses in the [Unclear] section. Qos → Rules.
• 🔄 Band Steering: Disable this feature if your TV does not support automatic switching between 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
• 🛡️ Encryption: Use WPA2-AES (Not TKIP), since the latter slows down the connection.
• 📊 Bandwidth: For 5 GHz, set the channel width 80 MHz (if your devices support it).

To check the current connection speed between your PC and TV, use the utility iPerf3:

iperf3 -s

Run this command on your PC, and on your TV (if you have access to it) ADB or Termux) execute:

iperf3 -c [PC_IP_address] -t 20

If the speed is lower 30 Mbps, optimize your network or use a cable connection.

⚠️ Attention: Router settings may vary depending on the manufacturer (TP-Link, Asus, Keenetic). Please refer to your model's documentation for the exact paths to these settings.

8. Comparison of methods: which one to choose?

The connection method you choose depends on your needs and TV model. Below is a comparison table with recommendations:

Recommendations for selection:

• 🎮 For games: Steam Link (if the TV is on Android TV) or Moonlight (for NVIDIA GPU).
• 🎬 For movies: DLNA (simple) or Plex (advanced features).
• 🖥️ For work: Miracast (if supported) or TeamViewer (for remote access).
• 📱 For old TVs: ApowerMirror or LetsView.

If you're not sure which method is right for you, start with DLNA - it works on all models TCL and doesn't require complex settings. To test your network speed, use Wi-Fi Analyzer (Android app) to ensure there is no interference.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

My TCL TV can't find my PC via Miracast. What should I do?

The problem may be with your graphics card drivers or router settings. First, update your drivers via GeForce Experience (NVIDIA) or Adrenalin (AMD). If that doesn't help:

1. Check if it is enabled Wi-Fi Direct on TV (Settings → Network → Wi-Fi Direct).
2. Disable the function on your router AP Isolation (it blocks interaction between devices on the network).
3. Try connecting via ApowerMirror - it often works where Miracast fails.

Miracast may not work on laptops with hybrid graphics (Intel + NVIDIA/AMD). In this case, force-enable the discrete graphics card in the Graphics Control Panel.

How do I connect my TCL TV to my PC if I have a Roku TV?

Televisions TCL on the platform Roku TV do not support Miracast, but there are workarounds:

• Screen Mirroring via App Roku:
  1. Install the official app Roku on PC (Windows 10/11 only).
  2. Connect your PC and TV to the same Wi-Fi network.
  3. In the application, select Screen Mirroring and follow the instructions.
• Third party applications: Use ApowerMirror or LetsView. Activation may be required to install them. Developer Mode on Roku TV.
• DLNA: Any DLNA server (for example, Plex).

Please note: Roku TV does not support screen mirroring in higher resolutions 1080p.

Why does video lag when connected via Wi-Fi?

Delays (lags) in video broadcasting occur due to:

1. Slow Wi-Fi speed: Check your speed through Speedtest on TV and PC. For Full HD you need at least 50 Mbps, for 4K - 100 Mbps.
2. Congested channel: Use a Wi-Fi analyzer (eg. Wi-Fi Analyzer) to find a free channel on 5 GHz.
3. Weak PC processor: When mirroring your screen via Miracast or Steam Link, video is encoded in real time. 1080p/60fps requires at least a quad-core CPU.
4. Suboptimal router settings: Turn it off Band Steering and set a fixed channel 5 GHz with width 80 MHz.

If the problem persists, try:

• Reduce broadcast resolution to 1280×720.
• Connect your PC to the router via cable, and leave the TV on Wi-Fi.
• Use hardware accelerated applications (eg. Moonlight for NVIDIA GPU).

Can I connect a TCL TV to a MacBook?

Yes, but with some caveats. MacBooks don't support it. Miracast, so use alternative methods:

• AirPlay:
  1. Make sure the TV TCL supports Apple AirPlay (available on models with Android TV 9.0+).
  2. On your MacBook, open Control Center → Screen Mirroring and select TV.

Third-party applications:

• ApowerMirror or LetsView (work via Wi-Fi).
• JustStream (for streaming media files via DLNA).

Steam Link: If you have installed Steam on MacBook, you can use Steam Link on TV for streaming games.

For models TCL Without AirPlay support, the only reliable way is third-party apps or a physical connection via USB-C → HDMI adapter.

Do I need to update my TV firmware before connecting?

A firmware update is recommended if:

• Your TV TCL released before 2019 (older versions often lack support for modern protocols).
• You see errors like "Incompatible device" or "No supported formats".
• You are using Android TV versions below 9.0 (the update will add support Google Cast And AirPlay).

How to update firmware:

1. Go to Settings → About TV → System Update.
2. If the update is not found automatically, download the latest version from the official website. TCL and install it via USB.

For models with Roku TV The update occurs automatically. A forced check can be run in Settings → System → Software Update.

⚠️ Attention: Do not interrupt the update process or turn off the TV, as this may cause the system to crash. If you experience problems after the update, perform a factory reset (Settings → System → Reset).