How to stream a movie from your computer to your TV via Wi-Fi: all the working methods

Watching movies on a big-screen TV is always more convenient than on a computer monitor. But not everyone wants to run cables or buy additional devices. Fortunately, modern technology allows Stream video from your PC to your TV via Wi-Fi Without unnecessary wires. In this article, we'll cover all the current methods: from built-in Windows functions to specialized apps.

The main advantage of wireless transmission is the freedom to position your devices. You don't need to lug your laptop to the TV or buy a 5-meter HDMI cable. However, each method has its own nuances: some require support for specific standards (Miracast, DLNA), and somewhere - additional equipment like Google ChromecastWe'll help you choose the best option depending on your equipment.

Important: The speed and stability of the streaming directly depend on the quality of the Wi-Fi network. If the router is in another room or uses an outdated standard 802.11n, video delays and freezing are possible. For Full HD content, a minimum of 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) or newer.

1. Built-in Windows function: Miracast (Wireless Display)

Miracast — is a wireless image transmission standard supported by most modern TVs and Windows (starting with version 8.1). It allows mirror your computer screen to TV No additional software required. The main advantage is minimal latency, which is important for gaming and fast-paced video.

To check if your PC supports Miracast, click Win + R, enter dxdiag, go to the tab Save all information and find the line Miracast: AvailableIf it says "Not supported," your Wi-Fi adapter or drivers are out of date. Look for the function on your TV Screen Mirroring or Wi-Fi Direct in the network settings.

• 🖥️ On PC: Start → Settings → System → Display → Connect to a wireless display
• 📺 On TV: turn it on Screen Mirroring (in the Network or Connections menu)
• 🔄 Select the name of your TV from the list of available devices
• ⚙️ If necessary, confirm the connection with a PIN code (displayed on the TV screen)

If Miracast is not working, update your Wi-Fi adapter drivers via device Manager or the manufacturer's website (Intel, Qualcomm, Broadcom). On some laptops, the function may be blocked by the manufacturer - for example, on older models HP or Dell.

Miracast support on PC (dxdiag)|5 GHz Wi-Fi adapter|TV with Screen Mirroring function|Updated graphics card drivers-->

⚠️ Note: When connecting via Miracast, PC audio is automatically routed to the TV. If you need to keep the audio on your computer (for example, for streaming with a microphone), use alternative methods such as DLNA.

2. DLNA technology: streaming without screen mirroring

DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) is a protocol for exchanging multimedia between devices on a local network. Unlike Miracast, it the entire screen is not duplicated, and only the selected file (movie, music, photo) is transferred. This reduces network load and eliminates delays.

To use DLNA, your computer must have DLNA enabled. DLNA server, and the TV must support the function Media Player or AllShare (at Samsung). In Windows, the built-in server is launched via Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center → Change advanced sharing settings, where you need to turn on Media streaming.

• 📂 Place the movie in the folder Video, Images or Music (they are shared by default)
• 🔍 Open the app on your TV Media Player (or similar)
• 🌐 Select your computer from the list of DLNA devices
• ▶️ Find the file you want and start playing

If the built-in server is not enough, install third-party programs like Serviio or PlexThey support more formats and allow you to transcode videos on the fly (for example, convertir MKV V MP4 for TV compatibility).

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3. Google Chromecast: A universal solution for any TV

If your TV does not support Miracast or DLNA, Google Chromecast will be a great solution. This compact device connects to the HDMI port of the TV and allows stream content from your PC via a browser or special applicationsThe main advantage is its cross-platform nature: it works with Windows, macOS, and even Linux.

First, make sure your Chromecast and computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Then, install the extension. Google Cast for browser Chrome or use the built-in "Send" function in YouTube, Netflix and other services. To stream a local file:

1. Open Chrome and go to the page with the video (or download the file in a new tab).
2. Click the Cast icon (next to the address bar) and select your Chromecast.
3. Select mode: Broadcast tab (full screen) or Stream file (video only).

For local files it is more convenient to use the program VLC with the Chromecast plugin. In the menu Playback → Playback Device Select your Chromecast. Please note: when casting a browser tab, there may be a delay of up to 1-2 seconds—this is normal.

4. AirPlay for Apple owners

If you have MacBook or iMac, and the TV supports AirPlay 2 (for example, models LG OLED 2019 and newer, Samsung QLED 2020+), then streaming video is incredibly simple. Just click the AirPlay icon in the macOS control panel and select your TV. AirPlay also works on Windows, but requires installation. iTunes or third-party utilities like 5KPlayer.

To stream from Windows via AirPlay:

1. Install iTunes (even if you don't use it).
2. Enable the service Bonjour V Windows Services (find through services.msc).
3. Use the program 5KPlayer or AirParrot to transfer the screen.

On your TV, first activate AirPlay in the network settings. Samsung this can be called Apple AirPlay Settings, at LG — Screen Share (AirPlay)Please note: Some models require connection confirmation on the TV screen upon first use.

⚠️ Warning: When streaming via AirPlay on Windows, you may experience sound issues (such as no sound). In this case, check your audio device settings in Control Panel → Sound and select AirPlay receiver as the default device.

5. Third-party programs: VLC, Plex, and Kodi

If built-in tools aren't enough, universal media players can help. They support almost all video formats and often have built-in streaming features. Let's look at three of the most popular options:

• 🎬 VLC Media Player: can stream video to Chromecast, DLNA devices and even according to protocol RTP. In the menu Playback → Playback Device Select the target device.
• 📚 Plex: Creates a full-fledged media server with transcoding. Suitable for large movie collections. Requires installation of the server component on a PC and a client on a TV (app). Plex from the store LG Content Store, Samsung Apps etc.).
• 🖥️ Kodi: supports plugins for broadcasting to DLNA And UPnP-devices. Setup is more complex, but the flexibility is greater—you can even set up remote control from a phone.

For VLC There is a trick: if the TV does not support the video format (for example, MKV with AC3), enable transcoding in the streaming settings. To do this, check the box when selecting your device. Transcode video and specify the profile MP4 (H.264 + AAC).

How to speed up streaming via VLC?

In VLC settings (Tools → Settings → Show All → Stream Output) increase the value Network cache up to 3000 ms. Also disable Sound synchronization, if delays are observed.

6. Alternative Methods: Steam Link and Parsec for Gamers

If you not only watch movies but also play games on your PC, pay attention to Steam Link And ParsecThese programs are primarily designed for game streaming, but they also handle video very well. Their key advantage is minimal delays (up to 10 ms), which is critical for dynamic content.

Steam Link It works even without Steam games: just add any executable file (for example, a media player) to your Steam library as a "non-game shortcut." Then:

1. Install the application Steam Link on TV (available for Samsung Tizen, Android TV, LG webOS).
2. Connect to your PC via local network.
3. Launch the desired movie through the added shortcut.

Parsec It's even more versatile—it streams your entire desktop with sound. This is convenient if you want to not only watch videos but also control your computer from the couch. The downside is that it requires a powerful PC (from Intel Core i5 or Ryzen 5) and good Wi-Fi (preferably 5 GHz or Wi-Fi 6).

⚠️ Caution: When using Parsec or Steam Link For video, we recommend disabling vertical synchronization (VSync) in the graphics settings. This will reduce lag, but may cause screen tearing—test the setting beforehand.

Comparison of methods: which one to choose?

The choice of streaming method depends on your equipment, quality requirements, and willingness to purchase additional devices. Here are some quick recommendations:

• 🔄 Miracast: The best choice for screen mirroring on modern TVs and PCs. Minimal latency, but requires support on both devices.
• 📶 DLNA: Optimal for watching movies without screen mirroring. Works on most TVs, but may lag with heavy formats.
• 📱 Chromecast: A universal solution for any TV. Requires a separate device purchase, but provides maximum compatibility.
• 🍎 AirPlay: Ideal for the Apple ecosystem. Works with limitations on Windows.
• 🎮 Steam Link/Parsec: for gamers or those who need to control a PC from a TV.

If your TV was released before 2018, it likely doesn't support Miracast or AirPlay. In this case, the only reliable options are Chromecast or a DLNA server on your PC.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions and Problems

Why does the video slow down or choppy?

The reasons may be different:

• Weak Wi-Fi signal - check the signal level on your PC and TV (should be at least 70%).
• Congested network - turn off other devices downloading files.
• Incompatible video format - please transcode the file to MP4 (H.264) through HandBrake.
• Outdated Wi-Fi drivers - update them via device Manager.

If the problem persists, try reducing the video resolution to 1080p or use an Ethernet cable to your PC.

Is it possible to stream video from a PC to a TV without a router?

Yes, if your TV supports it. Wi-Fi DirectIn this case:

1. Turn on TV Wi-Fi Direct (in network settings).
2. On your PC, connect to the network that the TV will create (the name will be something like DIRECT-xx-TVNAME).
3. Use Miracast or DLNA for broadcast.

Limitation: the connection speed will be lower than through a router, so Full HD may slow down.

How to stream audio separately from video?

If you want the video to go to your TV and the audio to stay on your PC (for example, for a stream with a microphone), use:

• DLNA — the sound will remain on the PC unless you choose to transfer it.
• OBS Studio + Virtual Audio Cable — for advanced users.
• A separate audio player for PC with sound output to headphones.

Why doesn't the TV see the computer in the list of devices?

Check the following:

• Both devices are connected to one Wi-Fi network (not to different 2.4/5 GHz ranges!).
• Enabled on PC Network discovery (Control Panel → Network → Change advanced sharing settings).
• Firewall or antivirus software does not block ports. 1900/TCP, 554/TCP (for DLNA) or 7236/TCP (for Miracast).
• The TV is in the mode Screen Mirroring or Media Player.

If used Chromecast, reboot it (pull it out of HDMI for 10 seconds).

Is it possible to stream video from a PC to a TV via the Internet (not a local network)?

Technically yes, but with some caveats:

• Through Plex or Emby with remote access setup (requires port forwarding on the router).
• Through Parsec or Steam Link - but there will be big delays.
• Via cloud services (upload video to Google Drive and open it on TV via browser).

Full HD content requires an internet speed of at least 20 Mbps in both directions. In practice, using a local network is more convenient.