How to stream content from your PC to your TV via Wi-Fi

Modern multimedia capabilities allow you to do without unnecessary cables and enjoy content on a large screen in comfort. Wireless image transmission HDMI has become a standard, available in virtually every home with a smart TV or set-top box. Users often want to display vacation photos, play a movie from their hard drive, or even display a desktop for presentations without the hassle of HDMI cables.

There are several basic protocols and technologies that ensure a stable connection between a computing device and a display. The choice of a specific method depends on your computer's operating system, TV brand, and image quality requirements. In this article, we'll cover all the current methods, from built-in Windows functions to specialized apps.

The main condition for successful synchronization is that both devices must be on the same local network. Router In this case, it acts as an intermediary, transmitting the data stream. If you're using a guest Wi-Fi network or different frequencies (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) with client isolation, the connection may fail, so make sure your router settings allow devices to see each other.

Using Miracast Technology in Windows 10 and 11

Microsoft operating systems come with a built-in projection tool that is based on the standard MiracastThis technology allows you to duplicate your screen or extend your desktop without installing additional software. Most modern Samsung, LG, Sony, and Philips TVs support this protocol out of the box.

To get started, press the key combination Win + K on the keyboard. The "Connection" panel will appear on the right, where the system will begin searching for available displays. If the TV is turned on and waiting for a signal (often called Screen Share or Miracast in the source menu), it will appear in the list. Tap it to pair.

⚠️ Note: Some older TV models require manual activation of the reception mode via the source menu (Input or Source button on the remote control), otherwise the PC will not see the device on the network.

Once connected, you can select the operating mode. Click Win + Pto switch between "Second Screen Only," "Duplicate," or "Extend" modes. In extended mode, the TV becomes a second monitor onto which you can drag browser or video player windows while continuing to work on your PC.

Connection stability directly depends on the router's signal strength. If you notice cursor lag or image artifacts, try moving closer to the router or switching your computer to the 5 GHz frequency, which is less congested and provides higher throughput for video streaming.

Broadcasting via Google Chrome (Chromecast built-in)

If your TV is equipped with Android TV or has built-in Chromecast support, you can use the Google Chrome browser to cast. This method is convenient because it doesn't require extensive Windows configuration and works cross-platform. It's ideal for displaying the contents of browser tabs.

Open the Chrome browser on your computer and click the three dots in the upper-right corner of the menu. Select "Cast." In the window that opens, select the source: a tab, the entire screen, or a file. The system will find your TV, and after clicking, the image will begin casting.

The advantage of this method is the ability to display a specific tab without overloading the system with displaying the entire desktop. However, it's worth keeping in mind that compression codec in the browser may slightly reduce the image quality compared to the system Miracast, especially when watching dynamic 4K video.

Why might streaming through Chrome be slow?

Slowdowns are often caused by a lack of hardware acceleration in the browser or an overheating processor when encoding a video stream in real time. Try opening additional tabs or updating your graphics card driver.

For TV owners without built-in Chromecast, there are external set-top boxes that plug into the HDMI port. These turn any HDMI-equipped monitor into a fully-fledged browser-based streaming platform, making them a great solution for upgrading older devices.

Apps from TV manufacturers

Major electronics brands often develop their own utilities to simplify interaction with the ecosystem. These programs can provide advanced functionality not available in standard protocols, such as managing media files of certain formats or transmitting audio separately from video.

Here is a list of popular solutions for different brands:

• 📺 Samsung: The Smart View app not only allows you to broadcast your screen, but also use your phone or PC as a remote control and transfer media files from your gallery.
• 📺 LG: The LG TV Plus app offers a user-friendly interface for managing content and mirroring your PC screen to webOS TVs.
• 📺 Sony: Video & TV SideView utilities help you control playback and stream content from your computer to Bravia TVs.
• 📺 Philips: The MyRemote app allows streaming and control while providing a stable connection over your local network.

Installing proprietary software often solves compatibility issues that arise when using generic methods. Drivers and the compression algorithms in such applications are optimized for the specific hardware of the TV, which can reduce input lag.

However, this approach has a downside: if you change TV brands, the app will become useless. Furthermore, proprietary software sometimes requires account registration and may contain advertising modules, which is not always convenient for users who simply want to display a picture.

DLNA and media servers for file playback

If your goal is not to duplicate your desktop, but to view movies or photos stored on your PC's hard drive, then the technology DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) is ideal. It allows the TV to view your computer's folders as network storage and play content using its own processor.

In Windows 10 and 11, the media server feature is built into the default player. Open "Media Streaming Settings" in the search bar and enable this option. Then, find the video file in File Explorer, right-click it, and select "Cast to Device."

For advanced users, it is recommended to use third-party media servers such as Plex or DLNA ServerThey automatically download movie covers, descriptions, and organize your library, turning your TV into a fully-fledged cinema with a user-friendly interface.

Broadcasting for macOS users (AirPlay)

Apple computer owners can take advantage of the technology AirPlay 2, which ensures the highest transmission quality and minimal latency. Many modern TVs (Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio) already have built-in AirPlay support, eliminating the need for an Apple TV set-top box.

To connect, click the "Screen Mirroring" icon in the macOS Control Center. Select your TV from the list. If a code appears on the TV screen, enter it on your computer to confirm the pairing. This protects your screen from unauthorized access.

AirPlay not only allows you to mirror your screen but also output audio to external speakers or a sound bar connected to your TV, regardless of where the video is playing. The system automatically adjusts the resolution and frame rate to the display's capabilities.

⚠️ Important: Make sure your TV's AirPlay settings allow "First Time Connection" or require a code, otherwise any device on the network will be able to interrupt your movie.

If your TV is older and doesn't support AirPlay, you can install an emulator app on the TV itself (if it's an Android TV) or use an intermediary device. Picture quality using Apple's native protocols is usually higher than using third-party utilities.

Troubleshooting and quality adjustment

Even with proper setup, image quality issues or connection interruptions may still occur. A common cause is Wi-Fi congestion. If there are many neighboring networks in the apartment, the signal may drop, causing artifacts.

Try changing the Wi-Fi channel in your router settings to a less congested one. It's also a good idea to disable it while downloading torrents or large updates on other devices, as screen sharing requires stable bandwidth.

If the image appears blurry, check the resolution settings in Windows. It should match the native resolution of the TV matrix (usually 1920×1080 or 3840×2160). Inconsistency in scale may result in a blurry image.

In some cases, updating your TV's firmware can help. Manufacturers regularly release updates that improve network module performance and compatibility with new versions of Windows and macOS. Check for updates in your TV's support menu.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is it possible to stream an image if the router is not connected to the Internet?

Yes, you can. For Miracast and DLNA to work, the PC and TV only need to be connected to the same router, even if the router doesn't have access to the external network (WAN). The local area network (LAN) will still work.

Why is there no sound on the TV when streaming via Wi-Fi?

You need to manually switch the audio output device in Windows. Click the speaker icon in the system tray and select your TV's name instead of your computer speakers. In some applications (such as browsers), you can select the audio device in the player's settings.

Does screencasting affect computer performance?

Yes, real-time video encoding puts a strain on the processor and graphics card. This can cause a drop in FPS in heavy games or resource-intensive tasks. It's best to use a wired HDMI connection for gaming.

Does my old TV support wireless streaming?

If your TV isn't a Smart TV, it won't be able to receive the signal directly. You'll need to purchase a set-top box (such as an Android or Chromecast) or connect your PC via HDMI, using Wi-Fi only for accessing network resources.

Which standard is better: 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz for broadcasting?

Definitely 5 GHz. This range provides higher data transfer rates, which is critical for high-definition video, and is less susceptible to interference from household appliances and neighboring networks.