How to Connect Your Samsung Phone to Your TV

The fastest way: Samsung SmartThings or Screen Mirroring

The easiest connection depends on what TV you have. If you own a Samsung TV made in the last five years, use SmartThings — the official Samsung app that handles both casting and control. If you have any other TV or an older Samsung model, use Screen Mirroring, which is built into every Samsung phone and works with most modern televisions.

Both methods are wireless and take under a minute to set up. You do not need cables, adapters, or a computer. Your phone and TV must be on the same Wi-Fi network.

Key Takeaways

SmartThings is the fastest route for Samsung TVs and lets you cast video, music, and photos while controlling your TV from your phone.
Screen Mirroring works with almost any modern TV and mirrors your entire phone screen, not just apps.
Both methods require your phone and TV to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network before you start.
If wireless does not work, a USB-C to HDMI adapter or an HDMI cable with a DeX dock will create a wired connection.
Casting through individual apps like YouTube or Netflix is the simplest option if you only want to watch one service.

Connecting with SmartThings on a Samsung TV

Open the SmartThings app on your Samsung phone. Tap the plus icon in the top left corner, then select "Add device." Choose "TV" from the list. The app will scan for Samsung TVs on your network and display them by name.

Tap the TV you want to connect. Your phone will send a code to the TV screen. Enter that code into your phone to confirm the pairing. Once paired, you can cast content from your phone to the TV, control the volume and channels, and switch inputs — all from the SmartThings app.

To cast a specific video or photo, open the app where it is stored (Gallery, YouTube, Netflix), look for the cast icon (usually a rectangle with a Wi-Fi symbol), and select your TV from the list. The content will play on the TV while your phone acts as a remote.

Using Screen Mirroring for any TV

Screen Mirroring copies everything on your phone screen to your TV. Open the Quick Settings panel by swiping down twice from the top of your phone. Look for "Screen Mirroring" or "Smart View" (the name varies by model). Tap it.

Your phone will search for available devices. Select your TV from the list. Some TVs will ask you to confirm the connection on the remote or screen. Once connected, your entire phone display appears on the TV — apps, notifications, and all.

Screen Mirroring works with most LG, Sony, Vizio, and TCL TVs, as well as older Samsung models. If your TV does not appear in the list, check that both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network and that your TV has Screen Mirroring or Miracast enabled in its settings.

Casting from individual apps

YouTube, Netflix, Spotify, and most streaming services have their own cast button built in. Open the app, start playing a video or song, and look for the cast icon — a rectangle with a curved line in the corner. Tap it and select your TV.

This method is simpler than full screen mirroring because it only sends the video or music to your TV, not your entire phone screen. Your phone stays unlocked and you can use it for other things while content plays on the TV. If you only watch one or two streaming services, this is usually the fastest option.

Wired connection with USB-C to HDMI

If wireless does not work or your TV is older, connect your phone directly with a cable. Buy a USB-C to HDMI adapter (around $15 to $30) and plug it into your phone's charging port. Connect an HDMI cable from the adapter to your TV's HDMI input.

Your phone screen will appear on the TV when ready. This method works with any TV that has an HDMI port and does not depend on Wi-Fi. The downside is that your phone stays tethered to the TV and drains battery faster.

For a more permanent setup, Samsung also sells DeX docks that connect your phone to a monitor or TV via HDMI and add a keyboard and mouse. This turns your phone into a desktop computer, but it costs $50 to $100 and is only worth it if you plan to use it regularly for work.

Troubleshooting when nothing appears on the TV

First, check that your phone and TV are on the same Wi-Fi network. Open Settings on your phone, go to Wi-Fi, and confirm the network name. Then check your TV's Wi-Fi settings the same way. If they do not match, connect your phone to the TV's network.

If they are on the same network but your TV still does not appear, restart both devices. Turn off your TV completely, wait 10 seconds, and turn it back on. Then restart your phone. Try the connection again.

For Screen Mirroring specifically, go into your TV's settings and look for "Screen Mirroring," "Miracast," or "Wireless Display." Make sure it is turned on. Some TVs hide this setting under "Network" or "Connectivity." If you cannot find it, check your TV's manual or search the model number online.

If you are using SmartThings and the TV does not appear, make sure you are signed into the same Samsung account on both devices. Go to Settings on your phone, tap "Accounts and backup," and confirm you are logged in with the same email address you use on your TV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I connect my Samsung phone to a non-Samsung TV?

Yes. Screen Mirroring works with most LG, Sony, Vizio, and TCL TVs made in the last five years. Individual app casting (YouTube, Netflix) works with any TV. If Screen Mirroring does not work, a USB-C to HDMI adapter will work with any TV that has an HDMI port.

Do I need to be on Wi-Fi to connect my phone to my TV?

Yes, for wireless methods like SmartThings and Screen Mirroring. Both your phone and TV must be on the same Wi-Fi network. A wired USB-C to HDMI connection does not need Wi-Fi.

Can I use my phone as a remote after I connect it to my TV?

With SmartThings, yes — you can control volume, channels, and inputs from the app. With Screen Mirroring, your phone screen controls the TV, so you can tap buttons as if you were touching the TV itself. With app casting, your phone controls only that app (pause, play, volume).

Why does my phone keep disconnecting from my TV?

This usually means your Wi-Fi signal is weak. Move your phone and TV closer together or move your router to a more central location. If disconnections keep happening, try restarting both devices and forgetting the Wi-Fi network on your phone, then reconnecting to it.

Is there a way to connect without Wi-Fi?

Yes. A USB-C to HDMI adapter creates a direct wired connection that does not need Wi-Fi. Plug the adapter into your phone's charging port, connect an HDMI cable to your TV, and your phone screen will appear on the TV when ready.

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.