How to Connect Your iPad to a Samsung TV

The fastest way to connect your iPad to a Samsung TV

You can connect an iPad to a Samsung TV using AirPlay (if your Samsung TV is 2018 or newer and supports it), a USB-C to HDMI cable (for direct wired connection), or screen mirroring through Samsung's SmartThings app. The method you choose depends on your TV model, whether you want a wireless or wired connection, and what you plan to display.

The easiest route for most people is wireless screen mirroring if your Samsung TV supports it. If your TV is older or mirroring doesn't work, a physical HDMI cable is reliable and requires no setup beyond plugging it in. AirPlay works smoothly if your Samsung TV has it built in, but not all Samsung models do.

Key Takeaways

AirPlay works on Samsung TVs from 2018 onward that have AirPlay 2 support, but you must be on the same Wi-Fi network as your TV.
A USB-C to HDMI cable provides a direct wired connection that works on almost any Samsung TV without needing Wi-Fi or apps.
Samsung SmartThings app screen mirroring works on most newer Samsung TVs and does not require AirPlay or a cable.
Check your Samsung TV's model year and specifications before you start, because connection methods vary by age and features.
If you use a cable, your iPad will charge while connected, but wireless methods drain your iPad battery faster.

Connecting with AirPlay on compatible Samsung TVs

AirPlay is Apple's wireless standard, and Samsung added support for it on most TVs made in 2018 and later. To use AirPlay, your iPad and Samsung TV must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Open the Control Center on your iPad (swipe down from the top-right corner on newer iPads, or swipe up from the bottom on older models), tap Screen Mirroring, and look for your Samsung TV's name in the list. Tap it, and your iPad screen will appear on the TV within a few seconds.

If you don't see your TV listed, make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network and that your Samsung TV has AirPlay enabled. On your Samsung TV, go to Settings, then select General, then Apple AirPlay Settings, and turn it on. If your TV is older than 2018 or does not show an AirPlay option in settings, your model does not support it—move to the cable or SmartThings method instead.

AirPlay works for mirroring your entire screen, showing photos, playing videos, or presenting from apps like Keynote. The connection is stable as long as you stay within Wi-Fi range, but your iPad battery will drain faster than with a wired connection.

Using a USB-C to HDMI cable for a wired connection

A USB-C to HDMI cable is the most straightforward method and works on virtually every Samsung TV made in the last decade. Plug the USB-C end into your iPad and the HDMI end into any available HDMI port on your Samsung TV. Your iPad screen will appear on the TV almost when ready, with no setup required. This method also charges your iPad while you use it.

Make sure you buy a cable that is specifically labeled as USB-C to HDMI and supports video output—not all USB-C cables do. The cable should be at least 6 feet long to give you comfortable distance from the TV. If your iPad does not respond after plugging in, try a different HDMI port on your TV or restart your iPad.

The wired method is ideal for presentations, watching movies, or any situation where you want a stable connection without worrying about Wi-Fi. The downside is that you are tethered to a cable, so movement is limited. This method works on all iPad models with USB-C (iPad Pro 11-inch and 12.9-inch from 2018 onward, iPad Air 4 and later, and iPad mini 6 and later).

Screen mirroring through Samsung SmartThings app

Samsung's SmartThings app offers wireless screen mirroring on most Samsung TVs from 2016 onward, even if they don't support AirPlay. read the SmartThings app from the Apple App Store on your iPad, sign in with your Samsung account (or create one), and make sure your iPad and TV are on the same Wi-Fi network. Open the app, select your TV from the device list, and look for a screen mirroring or casting option.

The exact menu path varies by TV model and app version, but it is usually under a casting icon or labeled "Mirror Your Screen" or "Smart View." Tap it, and your iPad display will appear on the TV. This method works reliably on newer Samsung TVs and does not require AirPlay support.

SmartThings mirroring is wireless and does not require a cable, but it can be slower to connect than AirPlay and may occasionally drop the connection if your Wi-Fi signal is weak. If the app does not find your TV, restart both devices and make sure they are on the same network.

What to do if your Samsung TV is older or doesn't support wireless methods

If your Samsung TV was made before 2016 or does not appear in AirPlay or SmartThings, the USB-C to HDMI cable is your only option. This is not a limitation—it is a reliable, permanent solution that requires no troubleshooting. Plug the cable in, and it works every time.

Older Samsung TVs may also have older HDMI standards, but any HDMI cable will work. If you see a picture but no sound, check your TV's audio settings or try a different HDMI port. Some older TVs require you to manually select the HDMI input using the TV remote.

Troubleshooting common connection problems

If AirPlay or SmartThings is not finding your TV, the most common cause is that your iPad and TV are on different Wi-Fi networks. Check that both devices are connected to the same network name (SSID). Restart your Wi-Fi router, your iPad, and your TV, then try again. If your TV has a separate 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz network, try connecting your iPad to the same band your TV is using.

If you are using a USB-C to HDMI cable and see no picture, try a different HDMI port on your TV. Some ports are reserved for specific functions. If the TV still shows no signal, restart your iPad and try again. If you see a picture but it looks stretched or cut off, go to your iPad Settings, then Display & Brightness, and check if any scaling options are available.

For SmartThings app issues, sign out and sign back in, or uninstall and reinstall the app. If your TV does not appear in the device list, make sure it is powered on and connected to Wi-Fi. Some Samsung TVs require you to enable remote access in the TV settings before the app can find them.

Choosing the right method for your situation

Use AirPlay if your Samsung TV is 2018 or newer and you want the simplest wireless experience. Use a USB-C to HDMI cable if you want the most reliable connection, your TV is older, or you need your iPad to charge while connected. Use SmartThings if your TV is between 2016 and 2017, or if AirPlay is not working.

For watching movies or presentations, the cable method is most stable. For casual browsing or showing photos, wireless methods are more convenient. If you plan to use your iPad with your TV regularly, invest in a good quality USB-C to HDMI cable—it will outlast any wireless standard and never requires troubleshooting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special cable or adapter to connect my iPad to a Samsung TV?

You need a USB-C to HDMI cable if you want a wired connection. Make sure it is labeled as supporting video output, not just charging. For wireless methods, you need only Wi-Fi—no cable or adapter required.

Can I use an older iPad with a Lightning connector to connect to a Samsung TV?

Yes, but you will need a Lightning to HDMI adapter instead of a USB-C cable. These are available from Apple and third-party makers. The connection method is the same: plug the adapter into your iPad, then plug an HDMI cable into the adapter and your TV.

Will my iPad charge while connected to the TV with a cable?

Yes, if you use a USB-C to HDMI cable, your iPad will charge while connected. Wireless methods do not charge your iPad, so battery will drain faster during long sessions.

What if my Samsung TV does not show up in AirPlay or SmartThings?

First, check that your iPad and TV are on the same Wi-Fi network. Restart both devices and your router. If your TV is older than 2016, it may not support either method—use a USB-C to HDMI cable instead. If it is newer, check your TV settings to make sure AirPlay or remote access is enabled.

Can I use AirPlay and SmartThings at the same time?

No, your iPad can only mirror to one destination at a time. Choose one method and disconnect before switching to another. If one method is not working, try the other.

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.