How to Connect a MacBook to a TV via Wi-Fi: A Complete Guide with Step-by-Step Instructions

Wireless connection MacBook to the TV through Wi-Fi — a convenient way to broadcast your screen to a larger screen without unnecessary wires. However, not all users know that there are several options for this connection: from the built-in AirPlay to universal protocols like Miracast or DLNAThe choice of method depends on the model of your MacBook (For example, MacBook Pro M1 vs MacBook Air 2017), operating system (macOS Sonoma or older) and TV capabilities.

In this article we will look at all current methods connections, including nuances for different brands of TVs (Samsung, LG, Sony Bravia), and we'll also tell you how to overcome common issues like no sound or lag during streaming. If you've previously tried connecting devices via HDMI and are experiencing problems, the wireless method can be a great alternative.

⚠️ Attention: Some functions (eg. AirPlay 2) require that and MacBook, and the TV were connected to one Wi-Fi networkIf you have a dual-band router (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz), make sure both devices are on the same subnet (for example, both on 5 GHz).

1. Connect via AirPlay (for TVs with Apple TV support or built-in AirPlay)

AirPlay — corporate protocol Apple, which allows you to broadcast your screen MacBook to your TV without delays. This method works if you:

• 📺 TV with built-in support AirPlay 2 (models Samsung 2018 and newer, LG With webOS 4.0+, Sony Bravia 2019 and later).
• 🖥️ MacBook on macOS Mojave (10.14) or later.
• 🌐 Both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi networks.

To start broadcasting:

1. On MacBook open Control center (icon in the upper right corner next to the clock).
2. Click Mirroring screen (or AirPlay in older versions macOS).
3. Select your TV from the list of available devices.
4. If required, enter the confirmation code that appears on the TV screen.

⚠️ Attention: If your TV does not appear in the list, check if the feature is enabled. AirPlay in its settings. For example, on Samsung it's done like this: Settings → General → Apple AirPlay.

Advantages of the method:

• ⚡ Minimal latency (ideal for videos and presentations).
• 🔊 Transmission of sound along with the image.
• 🔄 Possibility to mirror the entire screen or broadcast only video (for example, from Safari or QuickTime Player).

2. Using Apple TV for wireless streaming

If your TV does not support AirPlay directly, but you have a prefix Apple TV (4th generation or newer), you can use it as a proxy. This method ensures a stable connection and additional features, such as advanced control via Siri Remote.

Connection instructions:

1. Connect Apple TV to the TV through HDMI and make sure it is turned on.
2. On MacBook open Control Center → Mirror Screen.
3. Choose yours Apple TV from the list.
4. When prompted, enter the 4-digit code that appears on your TV screen.

💡 Advice: If the image is broadcast with artifacts, try reducing the screen resolution. MacBook V System Preferences → DisplaysThe optimal resolution for broadcasting is 1920×1080.

⚠️ Attention: When broadcasting via Apple TV Audio delays of up to 2 seconds may occur. To synchronize audio and video, open System Preferences → Sound → Output on MacBook and select Apple TV as an output device.

Turn on Apple TV and update firmware|

Connect to the same Wi-Fi network as your MacBook|

Enable AirPlay in Apple TV settings (Settings → AirPlay and HomeKit)|

Make sure Bluetooth is turned on on your MacBook (required for initial setup)-->

3. Connecting via Miracast (for TVs without AirPlay)

If you have a TV without support AirPlay (For example, Xiaomi Mi TV or old models Philips), you can use the standard Miracast — a universal wireless broadcast protocol supported by most modern Smart TV. However MacBook has no built-in support Miracast, so third-party software will be required.

The most reliable programs for macOS:

• 🖥️ AirParrot 3 (paid, but with a free trial period).
• 🌐 Reflector 4 (requires installation of the server part on the TV).
• 🔄 ApowerMirror (works via USB debugging for Android TV).

Instructions for AirParrot 3:

1. Download and install the program from official website.
2. Turn on the TV Miracast (usually in Settings → Network → Miracast or Mirroring screen).
3. Launch AirParrot 3 on MacBook and select your TV from the list.
4. Adjust broadcast parameters (resolution, frame rate).

Important: When using Miracast, video lag can reach 1–2 seconds, which is critical for games, but not noticeable when watching movies.

Why can't my MacBook see my TV via Miracast?

The most common cause is incompatibility of protocol versions. TVs often support Miracast based on Wi-Fi Direct, and the MacBook requires an adapter that supports it. Wi-Fi DisplaySolution: Use an adapter (eg. Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter), connected to the HDMI port of the TV.

4. Broadcast via DLNA/UPnP (for media files)

Protocol DLNA allows you to broadcast to TV media files only (video, music, photos), but not the entire screen MacBookThis method is suitable if you need to show a movie or presentation on TV in a format .mp4, .mov or .jpg.

To set this up you will need:

• 📁 Media server on MacBook (For example, Plex, Kodi or built-in iTunes).
• 📺 TV with support DLNA (almost everything Smart TV after 2012).

Step by step instructions for Plex:

1. Install Plex Media Server on MacBook With official website.
2. Add folders with media files to the library Plex.
3. On your TV, open the app Plex (if you don't have it, install it from the app store).
4. Log in to one account on both devices.
5. Select a file to play.

⚠️ Attention: When broadcasting via DLNA The TV may not support some formats (for example, .mkv with codec H.265). In this case, use Plex with the option enabled Transcoding (in server settings).

5. Connecting via third-party applications (for Android TV and other platforms)

If your TV is running on Android TV (For example, Sony Bravia or Xiaomi Mi Box), you can use specialized screencasting apps. The most popular ones are:

• 📱 Google Home (For Chromecast And Android TV).
• 🖥️ ApowerMirror (requires installation on both devices).
• 🎮 Steam Link (for broadcasting games).

Example of connection via Google Home:

1. Install Google Home on MacBook (available via BlueStacks or Chrome in mode ARC Welder).
2. Make sure the TV and MacBook in one network.
3. In the application, select yours Android TV and press Broadcast your screen.

💡 Advice: For stable broadcasting through Google Home It is recommended to use a router with support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) or at least 5 GHz.

6. Troubleshooting connection issues

Even with proper setup, errors can still occur. Let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them:

⚠️ Attention: If you use VPN on MacBook, disable it before broadcasting. A VPN can block local discovery of devices on the network.

If none of the methods worked, check:

• 🔄 Update your TV firmware and macOS to the latest version.
• 🛠️ Restart your router (sometimes resetting your network settings helps).
• 📡 Check if the router is in the "Secure Mode" mode. AP Isolation (it blocks interaction between devices on the local network).

7. Alternative methods (if Wi-Fi doesn't work)

If wireless connection is not possible due to network issues or device incompatibility, consider alternatives:

• 🔌 HDMI adapter (For example, USB-C to HDMI for new ones MacBook).
• 📶 Wi-Fi Direct (direct connection without a router, but requires TV support).
• 🖥️ Wired connection via Thunderbolt (for professional tasks).

💡 Advice: If you frequently screen share, consider purchasing Wi-Fi 6 router with support MU-MIMO - this will significantly reduce lags when multiple devices are running simultaneously.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about connecting a MacBook to a TV

Is it possible to connect a MacBook to a TV without an Apple TV?

Yes, if the TV supports it AirPlay 2, Miracast or DLNA. For Miracast you will need third-party software like AirParrot, A DLNA Suitable only for streaming media files, not screen.

Why is there no sound when connecting via AirPlay?

Check your sound settings on MacBook: go to System Preferences → Sound → Output and select your TV or Apple TV as the output device. If the problem persists, restart both devices.

How to reduce lag during broadcasting?

The delay depends on the connection method:

• AirPlay/Apple TV: minimal lag (up to 0.5 sec).
• Miracast: 1–2 sec (depending on the program).
• DLNA: only for media files, no lag.

To reduce latency, connect to the network 5 GHz, reduce the broadcast resolution or use a wired connection from the router to the TV.

Is it possible to stream my MacBook screen to a TV over the internet (not a local network)?

No, all the methods described (AirPlay, Miracast, DLNA) require that devices be in one local networkFor remote broadcasting, use services like Zoom or Discord (with screen capture).

Does MacBook with M1/M2 chip support Miracast?

No, MacBook on chips Apple Silicon (M1/M2) do not have built-in support MiracastTo broadcast using this protocol, you will need third-party software, for example, AirParrot 3 or Reflector.