Creating a multimedia system with multiple screens is no longer the preserve of professional installers and has become accessible to ordinary users. Synchronizing two TVs Allows you to broadcast a single image over a large area or display different content on separate displays, making it ideal for advertising spaces, bars, or home theaters. Modern wireless technologies Wi-Fi make this process less dependent on cables, although they require careful setup.
The main difficulty lies not in the function's availability, but in choosing the right signal transmission method, as there is no universal "Sync" button in the menu of consumer models. You will need to use additional devices or software solutions to ensure stable video streaming without lag. In this article, we will examine all the current methods, from using HDMI splitters with Wi-Fi transmitters to setting up software repeaters based on Raspberry Pi.
Before starting work, make sure that both TVs are connected to the same local network with sufficient bandwidth. To transmit a high-definition (4K) video stream without compression, a stable channel with a speed of at least 50 Mbps per device is required. If your home network is overloaded with other gadgets, synchronization may be accompanied by audio desynchronization or image artifacts.
Hardware solutions based on HDMI splitters
The most reliable way to achieve perfect synchronization without software delays is to use specialized HDMI splitters that support wireless transmission. These devices split the input signal into two independent streams and send them to receivers connected to TVs. Unlike software-based methods, latency minimal and practically invisible to the eye.
To implement this setup, you'll need an HDMI splitter with Wi-Fi support or a transmitter and two receivers. The signal is sent from the source (PC, media player, satellite receiver) to the transmitter, which then retransmits it over the air. It's important that the receivers are connected to the HDMI inputs of both TVs, and that the TVs themselves are set to external source mode.
- 📡 Set of 1 transmitter and 2 receivers: ensures signal transmission over a distance of up to 30 meters without loss of quality.
- 🔌 HDMI splitter 1x2 with Wi-Fi module: Requires connection to a power outlet and setting up a transmission channel to avoid interference.
- 🎮 Low Latency Gaming Adapters: Special models for consoles that minimize input lag during synchronization.
⚠️ Attention: When using wireless HDMI kits, it's critical to place the transmitter within line of sight of the receivers. Concrete walls or metal structures can completely block the 5 GHz signal, resulting in a lost connection.
The cost of such solutions varies depending on the supported resolution and video compression standard. More expensive models use technology WHDI or proprietary protocols that are less susceptible to interference from neighboring routers. Cheaper alternatives may perform poorly in apartment buildings with congested airwaves.
Why do wireless HDMI kits get hot?
Wireless HDMI transmitters operate at high signal strength and actively compress the video stream in real time. This results in significant heat generation, so devices are often equipped with active cooling or massive heatsinks. Do not cover the transmitter with a cloth while it's in operation.
Using Multi View and Smart View
Many modern Smart TVs from brands such as Samsung, LG or Sony, have built-in functions for unification into a single network. Technology Smart View or similar solutions allow you to stream content from a mobile device or PC to multiple screens simultaneously, provided they are on the same network. However, native TV-to-TV synchronization without an intermediary is rare.
Most often, one TV acts as the master (source), and the other as the client. To do this, activate discovery mode in the network settings menu of both devices. After searching for available displays, select the second TV from the list and initiate the connection. DLNA or Miracast takes care of encoding and transmitting the video stream.
The main problem with this method is desynchronization. Since the video stream is processed independently by both TVs, one screen may lag behind the other by several seconds. This is acceptable for displaying static ads or photos, but is critical for videos or games.
- 📺 Broadcasting mode: A feature in some Samsung models that allows you to display images on other TVs on the network.
- 📱 Broadcast via smartphone: Using your phone as a remote control to run content on two screens simultaneously.
- 🌐 AirPlay 2 protocol support: Lets you sync multiple Apple TVs or compatible Smart TVs via the Home app.
If your TVs are from different brands, the likelihood of successful native synchronization is virtually zero. In such cases, the ecosystems don't play nicely with each other, and you'll have to find workarounds using third-party software or universal set-top boxes.
Setup via PC and media server
The most flexible and free way to connect two TVs via Wi-Fi is to use a computer as a central server. You connect both TVs to the same Wi-Fi network and install display management software on the PC. The video signal is then rendered on the computer's graphics card and broadcast over the network.
To implement the "PC -> TV1 + TV2" scheme, you will need to configure desktop extensions. In the operating system Windows This is done through the "Screen Settings" menu, where the second (virtual) monitor is added as a wireless display. You can then run the video full-screen, spanning both devices, or use specialized software.
An excellent solution is to use the program OBS Studio In conjunction with streaming plugins or simply as a Windows desktop extension, you can stretch a browser or video player window across two screens, streaming the image via the protocol. WiDi or Miracast.
☑️ Setting up a media server
| Parameter | PC as a server | Hardware splitter | Native Smart TV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stability | Depends on CPU load | Maximum | Average |
| Delay | High (depending on Wi-Fi) | Minimum | Average |
| Price | Low (requires a powerful PC) | High | For free |
| Quality | Compressed (artifacts) | No losses | Compressed |
It's important to understand that stream compression occurs when transmitting video over Wi-Fi from a PC. Even with a gigabit internet connection, the wireless channel may be too narrow for two 4K streams, which may result in a reduced bitrate. This method works quite satisfactorily for Full HD content.
Using Android set-top boxes and repeaters
When the built-in functionality of your TVs isn't enough, external Android TV Boxes can help. By installing a dedicated synchronization app on two identical boxes, you can transform any old TVs into a single video wall. Popular apps like Sync & Share or enterprise digital signage solutions allow you to synchronize the playback of local files.
The principle is simple: both set-top boxes are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. One is designated as the Master, while the others are designated as Slaves. The Master controls the timecode, sending "Start," "Stop," and current playback time commands. The Slaves adapt to the Master, ensuring visual consistency.
- 📦 Installing APK files: You need to download the synchronization application to all used set-top boxes.
- 🔗 Setting up a static IP: Prevents connection interruptions when the router changes addresses.
- ⏱ Delay Calibration: In advanced applications, you can manually set the time offset for a perfect match.
⚠️ Attention: Android TV interfaces and app versions are frequently updated. The functionality described in a specific app's instructions may differ from the current version. Always check the compatibility of software versions on the developer's official website before purchasing equipment in bulk.
This method is ideal for creating information panels or restaurant menus, where the content doesn't change every second. For dynamic videos or games, network latency may still be noticeable, as Android systems don't always prioritize video streams over background processes.
Software synchronization via TeamViewer and remote access
There's a more laborious, but effective method for static content: using remote access programs. You can install a client app on one TV (if it's an Android TV), and then start screen mirroring on a second device (a PC or another TV with a set-top box). However, this method is more suitable for control than for viewing video.
Video walls are sometimes built using multiple Raspberry Pis synchronized over a network. This is an enthusiast-level setup that requires programming and Linux configuration skills. Python scripts or libraries like OMXPlayer allow us to achieve high synchronization accuracy comparable to hardware solutions.
If your goal is simply to display the same image (for example, a company logo or menu), simply play the same file from a flash drive on both TVs simultaneously. This sounds simple, but for short-term events, this is the most reliable solution, regardless of Wi-Fi signal quality.
In corporate environments, specialized cloud-based digital signage platforms are often used. They allow content management on hundreds of screens over the internet, ensuring millisecond synchronization. Examples of such services include: Xibo, Screenly or Yodeck.
Common problems and solutions
Even with the correct setup, you may encounter a number of difficulties. The most common one is audio and video desynchronization or between screens. This is often resolved by manually adjusting the audio delay in the TV settings or using external speakers connected to only one source.
The second common problem is Wi-Fi interference. If the router is far away or operates in the congested 2.4 GHz band, the picture will be blurry. The only solution is to switch to the 5 GHz band and ensure a clear line of sight between devices.
- 📉 Low transfer rate: Check if there is a speed limit (QoS) on your router for media devices.
- 🔄 Different screen resolutions: If the diagonals or matrices are different, a single image will appear distorted on one of the TVs.
- 🔋 Energy saving: Power saving modes can slow down the TV's processor, causing freezes.
⚠️ Attention: When using wireless syncing methods, there's always a risk of temporary connection interruptions. For critical events (presentations, weddings), always have a backup cable connection or spare flash drives with content on hand.
It's also worth considering that different TV models have different input lags. Even when receiving a signal simultaneously, one TV may process it faster than the other. It's recommended to enable "Game" or "PC" mode in the picture settings of both TVs, which disables unnecessary post-processing.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to sync TVs of different brands (Samsung and LG)?
Native means are practically impossible. The ecosystems are closed. This requires an external device, such as an Android set-top box with a syncing app installed, or an HDMI splitter with wireless receivers, regardless of TV brand.
Do I need internet access to use Wi-Fi synchronization?
No, internet access is not required. Devices only need to be connected to the same local router (LAN). However, if you're streaming online video (YouTube, Netflix), internet access will be required to download the content.
Why does the sound lag when synchronizing?
Audio requires more resources to decode and is often processed later than video. Solution: In your TV settings, find "Audio Delay" or "Lip Sync" and adjust the value, or mute the sound on one of the TVs and use an external speaker system.
Which Wi-Fi standard is best for a video wall?
Definitely Wi-Fi 5 (ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (ax) in the 5 GHz band. The older 2.4 GHz (b/g/n) standard won't provide stable transmission of two high-definition video streams without artifacts and latency.