How to Display Your Computer on a TV Wirelessly

The fastest way to get your computer screen on your TV

Most computers and TVs made in the last five years can connect wirelessly without any cables or extra hardware. The method depends on what devices you own: Windows computers usually use Miracast, Apple computers use AirPlay, and both can work with Chromecast if you have a Google Chromecast device plugged into your TV. All three work the same way — your computer sends video and audio to your TV over your home WiFi network, and you control what appears on the big screen from your keyboard and trackpad.

The connection takes 10 to 30 seconds to establish the first time, and after that your TV will remember your computer. You do not need to pair them every time — once they are connected, you can disconnect and reconnect as often as you want.

Key Takeaways

Windows 10 and 11 computers can send video to any TV with Miracast support using the built-in Settings menu, with no extra software needed.
Apple computers and iPhones use AirPlay to connect to Apple TV or AirPlay-compatible smart TVs, found in the Control Center or menu bar.
Chromecast devices work with Windows, Mac, and Android by casting from your browser or screen, and cost between $30 and $100 depending on the model.
Your computer and TV must be on the same WiFi network, and the TV must support wireless display or have a compatible device plugged in.
If your TV does not support wireless display, a Chromecast, Fire TV Stick, or Roku device can add the feature for under $50.

Connecting a Windows computer using Miracast

Windows 10 and 11 have wireless display built in. Open the Settings app, go to System, then select Display. Scroll down and click Connect to a wireless display. Your computer will search for available devices for about 10 seconds. When your TV appears in the list, click it. Your TV will show a code — enter that code on your computer to confirm the connection.

If your TV does not appear, make sure both devices are on the same WiFi network. Some older TVs do not support Miracast — check your TV manual or look for "Miracast" or "wireless display" in the TV settings. If your TV does not have it, you can add Miracast support with a Chromecast device or a Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter (around $50).

Once connected, your entire screen appears on the TV. You can move your mouse, type, and open programs normally. To disconnect, go back to Settings and click the TV name, then select Disconnect.

Connecting a Mac using AirPlay

Apple computers send video to Apple TV or AirPlay-compatible smart TVs using AirPlay. Click the Control Center icon in the top-right corner of your screen (it looks like a rectangle with lines). Select Screen Mirroring and choose your TV from the list. Your Mac will connect in a few seconds.

If you do not see your TV, make sure your Mac and TV are on the same WiFi network. Not all smart TVs support AirPlay — Samsung, LG, and Sony models made after 2018 usually do, but check your TV manual. If your TV does not support AirPlay, an Apple TV device (starting at $99) will add it.

Your Mac screen will appear on the TV, and you can use your trackpad and keyboard normally. To stop mirroring, open Control Center again and click Screen Mirroring, then select Stop Mirroring.

Using Chromecast to connect any computer or phone

Chromecast works with Windows, Mac, Android, and iPhone. Plug the Chromecast device into an HDMI port on your TV, then connect it to your WiFi network using the Google Home app (read from Google Play or the App Store). Once set up, open any web browser on your computer, click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner, and select Cast. Choose your Chromecast device from the list.

You can cast your entire screen or just a single browser tab. Casting a tab uses less internet bandwidth and is useful if you only want to share one window. To cast your whole screen, select Cast desktop instead of a tab. Your computer screen will appear on the TV within a few seconds.

Chromecast devices cost between $30 and $100 depending on the model. The basic Chromecast works well for most uses. Chromecast with Google TV ($50) adds a remote and built-in apps like Netflix and YouTube. To disconnect, click the Cast icon again and select Stop casting.

What to do if your TV does not support wireless display

If your TV is older or does not have built-in wireless features, you can add wireless display support with a separate device. Chromecast (starting at $30), Amazon Fire TV Stick (starting at $40), and Roku Streaming Stick (starting at $50) all plug into an HDMI port and let you cast from your computer. All three work with Windows and Mac computers.

Chromecast is the simplest if you only need to cast from a computer. Fire TV Stick is better if you also want to watch streaming services like Prime Video. Roku works well if you want a remote control and a full menu of apps. Pick whichever fits your budget and the services you use most.

Troubleshooting common connection problems

If your computer and TV are not finding each other, the most common cause is that they are on different WiFi networks. Check that both devices are connected to the same network name (SSID). If you have a 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz network with the same name, try connecting both devices to the 2.4 GHz network — some older devices do not work on 5 GHz.

If the connection keeps dropping, move your computer closer to the TV or WiFi router. Wireless display uses a lot of bandwidth, and walls or distance can weaken the signal. If you are far from the router, the connection may be unreliable. Restarting both your computer and TV usually fixes temporary glitches — turn off the TV for 10 seconds, turn it back on, then try connecting again.

If your TV does not appear in the list at all, restart your TV and make sure wireless display is turned on in the TV settings. Some TVs have a setting called Screen Mirroring, Miracast, or SmartThings that must be enabled. Check your TV manual for the exact name and location of this setting.

Performance tips for a smooth experience

Wireless display works best when your computer is within 30 feet of your TV and router. If you notice lag or stuttering, close other programs on your computer — video streaming, downloads, and background updates use bandwidth and can slow down the wireless connection. Pause any downloads or streaming services before you cast.

If you are watching video or playing games, the wireless connection may not be fast enough for smooth playback. Wired HDMI cables are more reliable for video, but if you prefer wireless, make sure your WiFi router is close to your TV. Some routers have a 5 GHz band that is faster than 2.4 GHz — if both your computer and TV support 5 GHz, use that network for better performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to buy anything to connect wirelessly?

Not if your TV was made in the last five years and supports Miracast or AirPlay. If your TV is older or does not have wireless features, a Chromecast device ($30) or Fire TV Stick ($40) will add wireless casting. Windows and Mac computers have wireless display built in — no software to read.

Can I use wireless display while someone else is watching cable?

Yes. Wireless display sends video over WiFi, not through the TV tuner. You can cast to your TV while someone else watches cable on a different input. Just switch the TV input to the one your computer is using.

Will wireless display work if my internet is down?

Yes. Miracast, AirPlay, and Chromecast all work over your home WiFi network — they do not need internet. As long as your WiFi router is on, you can cast to your TV even if your internet connection is out.

What happens if I move my computer to another room?

The connection will drop if you move too far away (usually beyond 30 feet or through multiple walls). You can reconnect by opening the wireless display menu again and selecting your TV. The TV will remember your computer, so reconnecting is faster than the first time.

Can I cast from my phone to the TV the same way?

Yes, but the method depends on your phone. iPhones use AirPlay the same way Macs do — open Control Center and select Screen Mirroring. Android phones can cast using Chromecast or built-in casting features. The process is the same: select your device and confirm the connection.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.