How to Connect Your PC to a TV Wirelessly

The three ways to send your PC screen to a TV without cables

You can connect a PC to a TV wirelessly using one of three methods: Miracast (built into Windows), Chromecast (if your TV has it or you own a Chromecast device), or AirPlay (if you have an Apple TV). Miracast works with most Windows PCs and many modern TVs without needing extra hardware. Chromecast requires a compatible TV or a separate Chromecast dongle plugged into your TV's HDMI port. AirPlay only works if you own an Apple TV box.

The method you choose depends on what hardware you already own and what your TV supports. All three methods work over your home WiFi network, so you'll need both devices connected to the same network. None of them require a subscription or special setup beyond turning on the feature.

Key Takeaways

Miracast is the easiest option for Windows PC owners because it's built into Windows 10 and later, and many TVs made after 2015 support it without extra hardware.
Chromecast works with any TV if you buy a Chromecast device (around $30 to $50), or it's free if your TV already has Chromecast built in.
Both your PC and TV must be on the same WiFi network for any wireless connection method to work.
Miracast and Chromecast can lag slightly when you're playing games or watching video, so a wired HDMI cable is still the best choice if you need zero delay.

Using Miracast if you have a Windows PC

Miracast is the simplest option if you own a Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC and your TV was made after 2015. Check your TV's manual or settings to see if it supports Miracast — it may be called "Miracast", "Screen Mirroring", or "Wireless Display". If your TV doesn't support it, you can buy a Miracast adapter (around $20 to $40) that plugs into your TV's HDMI port.

To connect using Miracast, open the Windows Settings app, go to System, then Display. Scroll down and click "Connect to a wireless display". Windows will search for available devices. Select your TV from the list. Your TV will show a prompt asking you to allow the connection — accept it, and your PC screen will appear on the TV within a few seconds.

If Windows doesn't find your TV, make sure both devices are on the same WiFi network and that your TV's Miracast feature is turned on. Some TVs require you to enable it in their settings menu first. If you're still having trouble, restart both devices and try again.

Using Chromecast with any TV

Chromecast works with any TV if you own a Chromecast device — a small dongle that costs $30 to $50 and plugs into your TV's HDMI port. Plug it in, connect it to your WiFi network using the setup app on your phone, and you're ready to go. Some newer TVs have Chromecast built in, so check your TV's specs before buying a separate device.

To send your PC screen to a TV with Chromecast, open Google Chrome on your PC. Click the three-dot menu in the top right corner, then select "Cast". Choose your TV from the list. Your PC screen will appear on the TV within a few seconds. You can stop casting by clicking the Cast icon again and selecting "Stop casting".

Chromecast also lets you cast individual apps or tabs instead of your whole screen. Click the Cast icon, then select "Cast tab" to send only one browser tab, or "Cast desktop" to send everything. This is useful if you want to keep other windows private while showing something on the TV.

Using AirPlay if you have an Apple TV

AirPlay only works if you own an Apple TV box (the device itself, not the app). If you have an Apple TV, make sure it's on the same WiFi network as your Mac. Open Control Center on your Mac (click the icon in the top right corner), click "Screen Mirroring", and select your Apple TV from the list. Your Mac screen will appear on the TV within a few seconds.

AirPlay is the most seamless option if you're in the Apple ecosystem, but it requires owning an Apple TV device, which costs $100 or more. If you don't already own one, Miracast or Chromecast will be cheaper.

Fixing lag and connection problems

Wireless connections can sometimes lag, especially if your WiFi signal is weak or your network is crowded. If you notice delay when moving your mouse or typing, move your PC and TV closer together, or move your WiFi router to a more central location in your home. You can also try switching to a less crowded WiFi channel using your router's settings, though this requires logging into your router's admin panel.

If your TV keeps disconnecting, make sure both devices are on the same WiFi network and that your TV's wireless feature is turned on. Some TVs go into sleep mode and disconnect automatically — check your TV's settings to keep it awake while casting. If you're casting from far away or through multiple walls, the signal may drop; moving closer usually fixes it.

If lag is a problem for gaming or watching video, a wired HDMI cable is still the most reliable option. Wireless methods introduce a small delay that's usually not noticeable for web browsing or presentations, but it becomes obvious when you're playing fast-paced games.

Choosing between Miracast, Chromecast, and AirPlay

Use Miracast if you have a Windows PC and a TV made after 2015 — it's free and requires no extra hardware. Use Chromecast if your TV doesn't support Miracast or if you want a solution that works with any TV — the Chromecast device is inexpensive and reliable. Use AirPlay only if you already own an Apple TV.

If you're not sure which method your TV supports, check the manual or look up your TV model online. Most modern TVs support at least one of these methods. If your TV is older than 2015 and doesn't support any of them, a Chromecast device is your cheapest option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to buy anything to use Miracast?

Not if your TV supports Miracast — it's built into Windows and many TVs made after 2015. If your TV doesn't support it, you can buy a Miracast adapter for $20 to $40. Check your TV's manual to see if it has Miracast built in.

Can I use Chromecast with a PC that doesn't have Google Chrome?

Chromecast works best with Google Chrome, but you can also cast from other Chromium-based browsers like Microsoft Edge. Some apps like Netflix and YouTube have their own Cast buttons that work without Chrome. For full screen casting, Chrome is the most reliable option.

What if my TV is too old to support wireless casting?

Buy a Chromecast device ($30 to $50) and plug it into your TV's HDMI port. Chromecast works with any TV that has an HDMI input, regardless of age. This is usually cheaper than buying a new TV or a Miracast adapter.

Will wireless casting work if my PC and TV are on different WiFi networks?

No. Both devices must be connected to the same WiFi network. If you have a guest network, make sure both your PC and TV are on the main network, not the guest network.

Is there any lag when I'm watching a movie or playing a game?

Wireless methods can introduce a small delay, usually less than a second. For watching movies or browsing, you won't notice it. For fast-paced games, the lag may be noticeable. A wired HDMI cable has no lag and is the best choice for gaming.

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.