How to connect a Smart TV to a computer via Wi-Fi: all the wireless methods that work

Wireless image transmission from computer to Smart TV Wi-Fi opens up a ton of possibilities, from watching movies in high definition to streaming games without wires. However, many users encounter problems— Video lag of more than 100 ms makes it impossible to comfortably view dynamic scenes or games, and the incompatibility of protocols between brands (Samsung vs LG) forces one to look for workarounds.

In this article we will look at 5 proven methods connections - from built-in functions (Miracast, DLNA) to third-party solutions like Steam Link or AirPlayYou will learn which method provides minimal latency for games, how to bypass manufacturer restrictions (for example, the lack of Miracast on Mac), and why even with a Wi-Fi speed of 300 Mbps the picture can “slow down”.

Spoiler: If your TV was made before 2018, you'll likely need TV set-top box (For example, Amazon Fire Stick or Google Chromecast) for stable operation. And for the owners Apple TV luckier - their devices support it AirPlay 2 with minimal lag.

1. Miracast connection: a universal standard without lags

Miracast — is a wireless screen sharing technology built into most modern Smart TV (starting from 2019) and operating systems (Windows 10/11, Android 4.2+). The main advantage is minimal delay (30–50 ms), which is critical for gaming or watching sports.

To connect:

• 📺 On TV: Open Settings → Network Connections → Miracast (or Screen Mirroring at LG, Smart View at Samsung).
• 💻 On PC with Windows: click Win + K → select your TV from the list.
• 🔄 If the TV is not displayed, check that both devices are connected to one Wi-Fi network (or use Wi-Fi Direct).

Miracast Limitations:

• ❌ Doesn't work on Mac (must be used) AirPlay or third-party programs).
• ❌ On Windows 7 driver installation required Intel WiDi or NVIDIA GameStream.
• ❌ Some TVs (Xiaomi Mi TV 4A 2018) support only reception, but not transmission.

⚠️ Attention: If after connecting the image is “torn” or artifacts appear, reduce the resolution of the PC screen to 1920×1080 and set the frequency 60 Hz in the display settings. Miracast doesn't cope well with 4K@120Hz due to Wi-Fi bandwidth limitations.

Both devices are connected to the same 5 GHz Wi-Fi network|

Screen Mirroring mode is enabled on the TV|

Wi-Fi adapter drivers have been updated on the PC|

VPN and firewalls are disabled (they may be blocking the connection)-->

2. DLNA: View media files without screen mirroring

DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) is a protocol for transmitting photos, videos and music over a local network. Unlike MiracastIt doesn't mirror the screen, but only streams selected files. It's suitable for watching movies, but useless for gaming or using apps.

How to set up:

1. 📺 On TV: turn on DLNA in the network settings (at Sony Bravia This Home Network → Media Server).
2. 💻 On PC:
   • For Windows: open Settings → Network & Internet → Sharing options → turn on Media sharing.
   • For Mac: use iTunes or Plex Media Server.

🎬 Start playing the file through the standard TV player (for example, SmartShare on LG).

Pros and cons of DLNA:

⚠️ Attention: If the TV does not see the PC on the DLNA network, check that the protocol is enabled on the router UPnP (usually in the section LAN → UPnP Settings). Some models TP-Link And ASUS block it by default.

3. Steam Link: Ideal for Gamers

If you want to play on the big screen without buying a console, Steam Link — the best solution. This technology from Valve transmits images from a PC to a TV with a delay 10–30 ms (subject to 5 GHz Wi-Fi or wired connection).

Setup instructions:

• 💻 Install Steam on PC and turn it on Settings → Enable Steam Play.
• 📺 On TV:
  • Download the app Steam Link from Google Play (For Android TV) or App Store (For Apple TV).
  • Connect the gamepad via Bluetooth (recommended) Xbox Controller or DualShock 4).
• 🔗 Launch the app on your TV, select your PC from the list, and connect.

Requirements for stable operation:

• 📶 Wi-Fi speed not less than 50 Mbps (better to use 5 GHz).
• 🖥️ Must be installed on PC NVIDIA GeForce (series GTX 10xx and newer) or AMD Radeon (series RX 4xx and newer).
• 🎮 For games with high requirements (for example, Cyberpunk 2077) wired connection via is recommended Ethernet.

4. AirPlay: A Solution for the Apple Ecosystem

AirPlay — proprietary technology Apple, allowing you to broadcast your screen with Mac or iPhone on Smart TVThe main advantage is minimal delay (about 20 ms) and support 4K HDR. However, it only works with TVs that support AirPlay 2:

• 📺 Samsung (2018 and newer models, series QLED, The Frame).
• 📺 LG (series OLED And NanoCell With webOS 4.0+).
• 📺 Sony Bravia (models with Android TV 9.0+).

How to connect:

1. 📺 On TV: turn on AirPlay in the network settings (General → AirPlay and HomeKit at Samsung).
2. 💻 On Mac: open Control Center → Screen Sharing and select your TV.
3. 📱 On iPhone/iPad: swipe up to Control center → Screen mirroring.

Restrictions:

• ❌ Doesn't work on Windows without third-party programs (for example, 5KPlayer).
• ❌ Some TVs (Xiaomi, TCL) do not support AirPlay even with the latest updates.
• ❌ When transferring a screen with Mac You may notice some cropping of the image edges (this can be resolved by adjusting the resolution).

How to enable AirPlay on TVs without official support?

If your TV does not support AirPlay 2, you can use a workaround:

1. Buy Apple TV 4K (from 15,000 ₽) and connect it to the HDMI port.

2. Install on Android TV application AirScreen (paid version, ~500 ₽).

3. For Samsung An application older than 2018 will do ApowerMirror (delay ~100 ms).

5. Third-party programs: universal solutions for any device

If built-in methods don't work, third-party apps can help. They support cross-platform screen sharing, but often have resolution or FPS limitations.

Top 3 programs for connecting a PC to a TV via Wi-Fi:

How to choose a program?

• 🎮 For games: Parsec or Steam Link (minimal lag).
• 🎬 For films: ApowerMirror or DLNA.
• 💼 For work: TeamViewer (but with a noticeable delay).

⚠️ Caution: When using TeamViewer or AnyDesk To stream your screen to TV, your actions may be recorded on the servers of these services. Do not enter passwords or payment information during your session!

6. Optimize Wi-Fi for stable streaming

Even the most perfect protocol (Miracast or AirPlay) will "slow down" if the Wi-Fi network is configured incorrectly. Here 5 key parameters, which need to be checked:

• 📶 5 GHz band: Use it instead 2.4 GHz — less interference and higher speed. Turn on the router 80 MHz channel width.
• 🔄 Router operating mode: Install 802.11ac (or 802.11ax for Wi-Fi 6). Disable legacy standards (802.11b/g).
• 📡 Router location: It should be located at a distance of no more than 5 meters from the TV and PC, without obstacles (walls, furniture).
• 🔒 Qos (Quality of Service): Set up traffic priority for your PC in the router control panel.
• 🔌 Power over Ethernet (PoE): If you use Powerline adapters, make sure they support AV2 1200.

Speed ​​test:

Before connecting, check the speed between your PC and TV using the utility iPerf3:

iperf3 -s # Run on PC (server)
iperf3 -c [IP_address_of_PC] -t 20 # Run on TV (client)

If the speed is lower 30 Mbps, broadcast 1080p will be impossible without lags.

7. Common problems and their solutions

Even with the correct settings, errors may occur. Here top 5 problems and ways to fix them:

• 🚫 The TV doesn't see the PC:
  • Make sure both devices are on the same network (even if you are using Wi-Fi Direct).
  • Update your Wi-Fi adapter drivers on your PC (especially important for Intel AX200 And Realtek).
  • Turn it off VPN And Firewall (they can block multicast-traffic).
• 🐢 High lag:
  • Reduce your screen resolution to 1280×720.
  • Connect your PC to the router via cable, and leave the TV on Wi-Fi.
  • Turn on Game mode on TV (Settings → General → Picture Mode).
• 🔊 No sound:
  • IN Windows go to Sound Settings → Output → Select TV.
  • If you use DLNA, check if the TV supports the sound format (AC3, DTS).

If nothing helps, try alternative methodFor example, if Miracast doesn't work, use Steam Link or HDMI cable.

⚠️ Warning: On TVs Samsung With Tizen There may be no support for versions prior to 5.5. Miracast For MacIn this case, only AirPlay (if the TV was released after 2020) or third-party programs.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to connect a Smart TV to a PC via Wi-Fi if the TV does not have built-in Wi-Fi?

Yes, but additional equipment will be required:

• 📶 Wi-Fi adapter for TV (For example, ASUS USB-AC51, ~2 000 ₽).
• 🖥️ Android set-top box (Xiaomi Mi Box S, NVIDIA Shield TV).
• 🔌 Powerline adapters (if the Wi-Fi signal is weak).

The most budget-friendly option is an adapter TP-Link TL-WN725N (about 600 ₽), but it only supports 2.4 GHz.

Why does the image break up or artifacts appear when connecting via Miracast?

This is related to:

1. Low Wi-Fi bandwidth — switch to 5 GHz or reduce the resolution.
2. Interference from other devices - change the Wi-Fi channel in the router settings (use Channel 40–48 for 5 GHz).
3. Outdated drivers - update the Wi-Fi adapter driver on your PC (especially if you have Realtek or Broadcom).

If the problem persists, try connecting via USB-Wi-Fi adapter (For example, TP-Link Archer T4U).

How to connect a MacBook to a Smart TV without AirPlay?

Options for Mac:

• 🖥️ ApowerMirror - supports 1080p, but with a delay of ~100 ms.
• 🎮 Parsec — the best choice for games (lag ~20 ms), but requires registration.
• 📺 HDMI adapter (For example, USB-C to HDMI) - if minimal delay is required.

For Mac with a chip M1/M2 only suitable Parsec or wired connection - Miracast not supported.

What is the minimum Wi-Fi speed required to stream 4K?

Depends on the codec and protocol:

Permission	Miracast/AirPlay	DLNA	Steam Link
720p	10 Mbps	5 Mbps	15 Mbps
1080p	25 Mbps	10 Mbps	30 Mbps
4K	50 Mbps	25 Mbps	60 Mbps

For 4K HDR it will take at least 70 MbpsIf your router outputs less, reduce the bitrate in the streaming settings.

Is it possible to control a computer from a TV (as a second monitor)?

Yes, but with restrictions:

• 🖱️ Miracast/AirPlay — screen duplication only (control is possible only from a PC).
• 🎮 Steam Link - supports gamepads and keyboards, but not mice.
• 💻 TeamViewer — full control, but with a large delay (~300 ms).

For full functionality, it is recommended to connect to a TV Bluetooth keyboard and a mouse.