How to Mirror PC Screen to Android TV

Edited 4 hours ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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Mirroring your PC screen to an Android TV can be incredibly useful in a variety of scenarios, whether it's watching videos, showing presentations, or playing games on a big screen. Fortunately, the process is generally simple, and with the right tools and knowledge, you can easily share your computer's display with your Android TV. This guide will walk you through all the steps needed to achieve seamless screen mirroring.

Understanding screen mirroring

Screen mirroring involves displaying the screen of one device on another. In this case, you see your computer's desktop on your Android TV. This process requires certain hardware and software compatibility, and there are a variety of ways to facilitate this connection, including the use of cables, wireless networks, and dedicated software.

Preparation

Before we begin, make sure your PC and Android TV meet the necessary requirements:

• Wi-Fi connectivity: Both your PC and Android TV must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. This is important for most wireless mirroring methods.
• Compatible devices: Your Android TV must be able to receive screen mirroring from your PC. Modern Android TVs usually have this capability.

Ways to mirror PC screen to Android TV

There are several methods available for screen mirroring from PC to Android TV. Here are some of the most effective methods:

Method 1: Using Google Chromecast

Google Chromecast is a popular and trusted device for screen mirroring. It plugs into your Android TV and allows you to cast content from your PC using the Google Chrome browser. Here's how you can set it up:

1. Set up Chromecast: Connect the Chromecast device to your TV's HDMI port and plug the power cable into an available USB port or power outlet. Follow the on-screen instructions to set it up with the Google Home app on your phone.
2. Open Google Chrome: On your PC, open the Google Chrome browser. Make sure it's updated to the latest version for best performance.
3. Select the “Cast” option: Click the three-dot menu icon in the upper-right corner of Chrome. From the dropdown menu, select “Cast.”
4. Select your Chromecast: Chrome will search for available devices on the network. Select your Chromecast device from the list.
5. Share your screen: Select "Cast Desktop" from the options provided. A preview of your entire computer screen will appear. Click "Share" to begin mirroring your screen to the TV.

This method is straightforward, but requires purchasing a Chromecast device. It's a robust solution that supports a wide range of video codecs and resolutions, making it ideal for media consumption and general use.

Method 2: Using the built-in Miracast

Miracast is a wireless technology that your devices can use to share screens without requiring an internet connection. Many Windows PCs and Android TVs support Miracast natively. Here's how you can use Miracast for screen mirroring:

1. Enable Miracast on your Android TV: Go to Settings on your Android TV. Look for Input Connection Options or Display Settings and enable Miracast or Wi-Fi Direct. The exact steps and naming conventions may vary depending on the manufacturer.
2. Activate projection on Windows: On your Windows PC, go to "Settings" and select "Devices." Under the "Bluetooth & other devices" section, click "Add Bluetooth or other device" and select "Wireless display or dock."
3. Connect to your TV: Your PC will search for available devices. Select your Android TV from the list to begin sharing your screen.

If both the devices support Miracast then it is convenient to use as it does not require any additional hardware or software installation. However, the performance may vary depending on device compatibility and network interference.

Method 3: Using an HDMI cable

If suitable ports are available on both your PC and TV, choosing a wired connection using an HDMI cable may be the simplest way. This ensures low latency and high-quality transmission. Follow these steps to set up a wired connection:

1. Check the ports: Verify that your PC has an HDMI output port and your TV has an HDMI input port. Modern hardware typically supports HDMI.
2. Connect the devices: Use an HDMI cable to connect the two devices. Make sure both the TV and PC are turned on.
3. Select the HDMI input: On your Android TV, go to the Input/Source menu and select the HDMI port where you plugged the cable in.
4. Adjust display settings: On your PC, open the display settings by right-clicking the desktop and choosing "Display Settings." You may need to adjust the screen resolution or choose whether you want to duplicate or extend the display.

The HDMI method is reliable and does not rely on network stability, making it suitable for streaming high-definition content without interruptions.

Method 4: Using third-party software

Finally, using third-party software can provide additional features and increased flexibility. Applications such as Plex, Kodi, and VLC Media Player allow you to cast media files, while other applications such as VNC and TeamViewer enable screen sharing and remote access. Here is an example using a popular tool called "ApowerMirror":

1. Download ApowerMirror: Install ApowerMirror on both your PC and Android TV. You can find the PC version on their official website and the TV version on the Google Play Store.
2. Connect the devices: Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
3. Run the application: Launch ApowerMirror from both devices. The PC version should start with options to cast to the TV.
4. Select your TV: The app will show the devices available for connection. Select your Android TV from the list.
5. Enable screen mirroring: Follow the on-screen instructions, such as accepting the connection request or granting permissions.

The advantage of using third-party software is that it offers additional features such as screen recording, annotations, and in some cases, remote control. However, these features may require purchasing premium versions of the software.

Troubleshooting common problems

Although mirroring technology has advanced, you may still encounter some issues. Here are common problems and their solutions:

• No device found: Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network and that your device's software is up to date.
• Poor image quality or delay: Improve your Wi-Fi connectivity by reducing interference, such as moving the router closer. Alternatively, use an Ethernet cable for a direct connection where possible.
• Connection drops frequently: Check for software updates for both your PC and Android TV. In some cases, a simple restart of both devices may resolve this issue.

Conclusion

Mirroring your PC screen to an Android TV can improve your viewing experience by providing a larger display for your activities. Whether you're using a wireless method like Chromecast, a built-in option like Miracast, a direct HDMI connection, or third-party software, different methods suit different needs. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each method will help you choose the method that best suits you. As technology evolves, new and more efficient ways to achieve seamless screen sharing will continue to emerge, making this an exciting area to explore.

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