How to Screencast Laptop to TV – Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Hi, I’m Jessica, and today I’m going to walk you through something a lot of people want to know: how to screencast your laptop to your TV. Whether you want to stream Netflix on a bigger screen, share a presentation with your family, or enjoy gaming on a large display, screencasting makes it all possible.

The best part? You don’t need to be a tech wizard. Depending on your laptop and TV, there are several ways to connect. Some are super simple (like plugging in a cable), while others use modern wireless technology for a cord-free experience.

Let’s go step by step and cover all the different methods.

What is Screencasting?

Before we dive into methods, let’s get the basics right.

Screencasting means projecting your laptop’s screen onto a TV. This way, everything you see on your laptop—videos, documents, photos, or games—appears on the big screen.

It’s slightly different from screen mirroring:

• Screencasting lets you project specific apps or media (like YouTube via Chromecast).
• Screen mirroring duplicates the entire laptop screen to the TV.

For simplicity, I’ll use both terms interchangeably in this guide, because in everyday use, they feel quite similar.

Method 1: Using an HDMI Cable (Wired Connection)

The easiest and most reliable way to screencast is by using an HDMI cable.

Steps:

1. Check your laptop and TV – Most modern HP, Dell, and MacBook laptops have HDMI or USB-C (with HDMI adapter) ports. TVs almost always have HDMI ports.
2. Plug in the HDMI cable – Connect one end to the laptop and the other to the TV.
3. Select HDMI input on TV – Use the TV remote to switch to the correct HDMI channel.
4. Adjust display settings on laptop:
   • On Windows: Press Windows + P and choose “Duplicate” or “Extend.”
   • On Mac: Go to System Preferences > Displays > Arrangement.

Pros:

• Stable, no lag.
• Works with almost any laptop/TV.

Cons:

• Requires a cable (not as flexible).

Method 2: Wireless Screencasting with Miracast (Windows)

If you have a Windows laptop and a smart TV that supports Miracast, you can cast wirelessly.

Steps:

1. On your laptop, press Windows + K.
2. A list of available devices will appear. Select your TV.
3. Accept the connection on the TV screen.

Your laptop screen will now appear on the TV.

On Windows 11 you can see an option of Connect to a wireless display under System >> Display Settings

Pros:

• No cables needed.
• Built directly into Windows 10 and 11.

Cons:

• Both laptop and TV must support Miracast.
• May experience slight lag with videos.

Method 3: Chromecast (For All Laptops)

Google’s Chromecast is a small device that plugs into your TV’s HDMI port and lets you stream wirelessly.

Steps:

1. Plug Chromecast into your TV’s HDMI port and power it on.
2. Connect Chromecast and laptop to the same Wi-Fi network.
3. Open Google Chrome browser on your laptop.
4. Click the three-dot menu > Cast.
5. Choose your Chromecast device and select Cast desktop to mirror your whole screen.

Pros:

• Works with almost any laptop.
• Great for streaming YouTube, Netflix, and presentations.

Cons:

• Requires a Chromecast device.
• Dependent on Wi-Fi speed.

Method 4: AirPlay (For MacBook to Apple TV or AirPlay TV)

If you own a MacBook and an Apple TV (or AirPlay-compatible smart TV), AirPlay is your best friend.

Steps:

1. Ensure both MacBook and TV are on the same Wi-Fi.
2. On your Mac, click the Control Center icon (top right).
3. Select Screen Mirroring > choose your Apple TV or AirPlay device.
4. Enter the code displayed on your TV (if prompted).

Pros:

• Seamless integration for Apple users.
• Supports both mirroring and streaming.

Cons:

• Only works with Apple ecosystem devices.

Method 5: Wireless HDMI Transmitters

If your TV doesn’t support Miracast or AirPlay, you can use a wireless HDMI kit.

Steps:

1. Plug the HDMI transmitter into your laptop’s HDMI port.
2. Plug the receiver into your TV’s HDMI port.
3. The two devices will connect wirelessly, and your laptop screen will appear on TV.

Pros:

• Works with any laptop/TV with HDMI.
• No Wi-Fi required.

Cons:

• Additional cost for the kit.

Method 6: DLNA (For Media Streaming)

Many smart TVs support DLNA, which allows streaming media (not full screen mirroring).

Steps:

1. Connect both laptop and TV to the same Wi-Fi.
2. On your laptop, right-click a video or photo > Cast to Device.
3. Select your TV from the list.

Pros:

• Great for playing movies, photos, and music.

Cons:

• Cannot mirror the entire screen.

Method 7: Using Apps (Smart TVs with Built-in Casting)

Some TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, TCL have built-in apps for casting.

• Samsung Smart View – Allows you to mirror a Windows laptop.
• LG Screen Share – Works with Miracast-enabled laptops.
• Sony Bravia TVs – Support both Chromecast and Miracast.

Simply download the app on your laptop, follow pairing instructions, and enjoy.

Comparing Methods

Tips for the Best Screencasting Experience

1. Use 5GHz Wi-Fi for smoother casting (less lag than 2.4GHz).
2. Keep devices close to router to improve connectivity.
3. Check resolution settings – Set display resolution to match your TV for the best picture.
4. Close background apps – Helps reduce lag while streaming.
5. Use wired HDMI if you need zero delay (e.g., gaming or business presentations).

Common Issues and Fixes

• Laptop not detecting TV?
  • Check Wi-Fi connection and make sure both devices are on the same network.
• HDMI not working?
  • Try a different cable or port.
• Laggy casting?
  • Switch to a 5GHz Wi-Fi band.
• No audio on TV?
  • On Windows, right-click sound icon > Playback devices > set TV as default.

Final Thoughts

Screencasting your laptop to your TV isn’t complicated once you know your options.

• If you want the simplest setup, use an HDMI cable.
• If you want wireless freedom, try Miracast (Windows), AirPlay (Mac), or Chromecast (any laptop).
• For ultimate flexibility, a wireless HDMI kit or smart TV apps can help.

Now you can enjoy movies, share presentations, or even play games on a much bigger screen right from your HP, Dell, or MacBook laptop.

So, grab your remote, connect your laptop, and bring the big-screen experience home!