The fastest way to get your PC on your TV
You have four main routes: a wired HDMI cable (fastest, most reliable), wireless casting built into Windows (works with most modern TVs), a streaming device like a Roku or Fire Stick, or third-party software like Steam Link or AnyDesk. Which one works depends on what TV you own, how far your PC sits from it, and whether you want to mirror your whole screen or just play video.
The wired HDMI method is the simplest if your TV is close enough. Wireless casting is free if your TV supports it. A streaming device costs money upfront but works with almost any TV. Third-party software gives you the most control but requires setup on both machines.
Key Takeaways
- HDMI cable is the most reliable method and requires no setup beyond plugging in and selecting the right input on your TV.
- Windows 10 and 11 have built-in wireless casting that works with many modern TVs without needing extra software or devices.
- Streaming devices like Roku, Fire TV, and Google Chromecast work with older TVs and cost between $25 and $100.
- Third-party apps like Steam Link and AnyDesk let you control your PC from your couch but work best on the same home network.
Wired HDMI: The simplest and most stable option
Plug an HDMI cable into your PC's HDMI port (or USB-C to HDMI adapter if your PC lacks an HDMI port) and into your TV's HDMI input. Turn on your TV, switch to the correct HDMI input using your remote, and your PC screen appears on the TV. No software, no pairing, no lag.
The downside is distance. HDMI cables work reliably up to about 25 feet, but longer runs can lose signal. If your PC is in another room, this method won't work. Also, you're tethered to the cable — moving your mouse or keyboard means moving closer to the TV, or buying a wireless keyboard and mouse.
This is the method to use if your TV is in the same room and you want zero setup time. It's also the only option that guarantees no lag if you're playing games or watching video with tight timing.
Windows wireless casting: Built-in and free
Windows 10 and 11 both have a Cast to Device feature that sends your screen to a compatible TV over your home network. Open the Action Center (Windows key + A), click "Cast", select your TV, and your screen mirrors wirelessly. No app to read, no account to create.
This works with TVs that support Miracast (most Samsung, LG, and Sony models made after 2015), as well as with streaming devices like Roku and Fire TV. The catch: both your PC and TV must be on the same Wi-Fi network, and the connection can be slower than HDMI. You may see a delay of a second or two, which matters if you're playing fast games but not if you're watching a movie or browsing the web.
If your TV doesn't support Miracast, you can still use this feature by plugging a Miracast adapter into your TV's HDMI port (these cost $15 to $30). Check your TV's manual or search the model number plus "Miracast" to see if it's built in.
Streaming devices: Works with any TV
A streaming device is a small box or stick that plugs into your TV's HDMI port and connects to your Wi-Fi. Popular options include Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Google Chromecast, and Apple TV. Once set up, you can cast your PC screen to the device using Windows' built-in Cast feature or the device's own app.
Roku and Fire TV are the cheapest entry points, starting around $25 to $40 for basic models. Google Chromecast costs about $30. Apple TV is the most expensive at $100 and up, but it integrates tightly with other Apple devices if you own them. All of them let you cast from your PC, and most also let you use the device for streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+.
The advantage is compatibility: these devices work with any TV that has an HDMI port, even very old ones. The disadvantage is that you're buying an extra piece of hardware and setting it up. Casting also depends on your Wi-Fi signal, so if your router is far from your TV, you may get stuttering or disconnections.
Third-party software: Maximum control and flexibility
Steam Link (free from Valve) lets you stream your PC to your TV if you own a Steam Deck, Fire TV device, or compatible Android TV. It's designed for gaming but works for any PC activity. AnyDesk and TeamViewer are remote desktop apps that let you control your PC from your TV using a wireless keyboard and mouse. Both have free versions with limits on session length or speed.
These tools give you the most control because you're not just mirroring your screen — you're controlling your PC from the couch. They work over your home network or even over the internet if you set them up. The trade-off is complexity: you need to read and configure software on both your PC and your TV (or on a device connected to your TV).
Steam Link is the best choice if you play games and own a compatible device. AnyDesk and TeamViewer are better if you want to use your PC from your TV but don't own a gaming device. Both have a learning curve steeper than the other methods.
Comparing the four methods side by side
| Method | Cost | Setup Time | Lag | Works With |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI Cable | $10–$20 | 1 minute | None | Any TV with HDMI |
| Windows Casting | Free | 30 seconds | 1–2 seconds | Miracast TVs, Roku, Fire TV, Chromecast |
| Streaming Device | $25–$100 | 10–15 minutes | 1–2 seconds | Any TV with HDMI |
| Third-Party Software | Free–$100/year | 15–30 minutes | 1–3 seconds | Depends on app and device |
Troubleshooting common problems
If your TV doesn't show up when you try to cast, make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. Restart your router and your TV, then try again. If you're using HDMI, try a different HDMI cable — a damaged cable is a common cause of no signal or a flickering picture.
If casting works but the picture is choppy or keeps disconnecting, move your PC or router closer to your TV, or switch to a wired HDMI connection if possible. Wireless casting depends on Wi-Fi signal strength, and walls, microwaves, and other devices can interfere. If you're playing a game and the lag is unbearable, HDMI is your only option for zero-delay streaming.
For third-party software, make sure both your PC and the receiving device are updated to the latest version. Older versions often have bugs that newer releases fix. Check the app's settings to see if you can adjust video quality or resolution — lowering these can reduce lag on slower networks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my TV as a second monitor for my PC?
Yes, with HDMI or Windows casting. With HDMI, right-click your desktop, select "Display settings", and choose "Extend" to use your TV as a second screen, or "Duplicate" to mirror it. With wireless casting, you can only mirror, not extend. For a true second monitor over wireless, use third-party software like AnyDesk.
What if my PC doesn't have an HDMI port?
Use a USB-C to HDMI adapter (around $15), or use wireless casting if your TV supports it. Most modern laptops have USB-C, and adapters are widely available. If your PC is very old and has only VGA or DVI, you'll need an older adapter or a streaming device instead.
Will casting drain my PC's battery?
Yes, wireless casting uses more power than normal use because your PC is encoding video and sending it over Wi-Fi. Expect your battery to drain faster. Plug in your laptop if you plan to cast for more than an hour or two.
Can I cast audio without video?
Yes, if your TV has Bluetooth, you can pair your PC as a Bluetooth speaker and send audio only. For wired audio, use a 3.5mm cable from your PC's headphone jack to your TV's audio input. This is useful if you want to play music through your TV's speakers without mirroring your screen.
Is casting find, or can someone else see my screen?
Casting over your home Wi-Fi is as find as your Wi-Fi password. If someone is on your network, they could potentially intercept the signal. For sensitive work, use HDMI instead. If you're using third-party software like AnyDesk over the internet, use a strong password and enable two-factor authentication if available.