Mirror Anything from Your PC to Your TV

Part 1. How to Mirror a Laptop/PC to a TV?

Connectivity between devices has come a long way, and so has the selection of ways to mirror your PC to your TV. Here, you’ll find detailed steps on the three most effective methods.

Method 1: Using an HDMI Cable

The most straightforward and reliable method to mirror your PC screen to your TV is through a trusty HDMI cable.

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Step 1. Select the Right Port: Identify the available ports on your PC and the input ports on your TV. Most modern laptops have an HDMI port, as do the majority of Flat-screen TVs. If your PC or TV lacks an HDMI port, you can use alternatives like DisplayPort or USB-C if your devices support it.
• Step 2. Connect the Cable: Plug one end of the HDMI cable into your PC's HDMI port, and the other into the TV's HDMI input.
• Step 3. Configure the TV: Turn on the TV and switch the input to the HDMI connection you used in the previous step.
• Step 4. Adjust Display Settings: On your PC, right-click on the desktop and select 'Display settings.' Under 'Multiple displays,' choose 'Duplicate these displays' from the drop-down menu. Your PC's screen should now be mirrored on your TV.

Pros of using an HDMI cable include high-quality video and audio transmission and a reliable connection. However, it lacks the wireless convenience that other methods provide.

Method 2: Using Screen Mirroring with Google Chromecast

Google Chromecast has been rated as one of the top tools to wirelessly mirror PC to TV because of its many exciting features that include, ability to stream online videos, photos, and music to your television using not only your PC but tablet and/or smartphone, it supports several apps that include YouTube, Netflix, HBO Go, Google Play Movies and Music, Vevo, ESPN, Pandora and Plex, and its easy set up that we discuss below:

How to set up with Google Chromecast:

1. Casting Chrome Tabs

• The first step is to install the Chromecast application which is available here：https://cast.google.com/chromecast/setup/
• Click the "Google Cast "button in chrome to mirror your tab.

• On that button, it will display if you are having more than one Chromecast on your network, you will then have to select the Chromecast from the menu that will dropdown and your Chrome tab will display on your TV.
• To stop, you can click the Cast button, then select "Stop casting".
• On the Cast button, you can click "Cast this Tab" to mirror another tab.

While this procedure is very easy, you may get varying results though it works considerably well.

2. Video files can be streamed in the Google Chrome tab

To increase the experience when streaming a video, you can select full-screen and the output device will also fill out the whole screen. You can also minimize the mirrored tab.

You might also find that some video formats are not supported, that can be dodged through casting your entire screen, the steps of which we list below:

• On the Cast button again, there is a small arrow in the upper-right corner where you see other options.

3. Casting abs optimized for audio

Following the steps we set out above, you may have noticed that the sound is produced from the source device, of which the experience may not be as exciting. "Cast this tab (optimized for audio)" solves that slight problem. The sound is mirrored to your output device giving you an even better quality.

The sound is controlled on your app/webpage/TV, your PC volume becomes useless. The mute button on your webpage is what you will need to mute your audio from your device, as shown above.

"Cast entire screen" will help you mirror more than one tab or your entire desktop.

4. Casting your desktop

It is labeled "experimental" as it is a beta feature but it will work perfectly well.

You will need to use the "Screen Resolution" option on your desktop. This you get by right-clicking on the desktop.

• On the Resolution panel, you can then choose your TV as your second or even third display.
• This brings back the HDMI cable that limits the location of the PC though giving a perfect output.
• Mirroring your whole screen should allow one to move their PC to where ever they want but still maintain the quality.

• When you choose to mirror/cast your TV, you will see a warning screen displayed. You will have to click "Yes".(above)
• After your screen is displayed on the output device, your PC will display a small control bar which will be at the bottom and can be dragged to anywhere on the screen or even hide it by clicking "Hide".

• Casting can always be stopped by clicking Cast, then "Stop Casting".
• To get an even better video quality, you can click the "Cast youtube.com" from the drop-down menu.

This service can be done from other services like Netflix and is great because it streams directly to your Chromecast from your router, it increases the quality by eliminating the computer factor in the streaming procedure.

Google Chromecast offers a balance of convenience and quality, with the added benefit of being able to stream from various sources directly to your TV.

Method 3: Wireless Display Adapters

Another favorite among users is a wireless display adapter like Microsoft's Wireless Display Adapter or an alternative from brands like Roku.

Using a Wireless Display Adapter:

• Step 1. Connect the Adapter: Plug the wireless display adapter into the HDMI port of your TV.
• Step 2. Switch TV Input: Change your TV's input to the same HDMI port you plugged the adapter into.
• Step 3. Connect to the Adapter: On your PC, go to 'Settings' > 'Devices' > 'Bluetooth & other devices,' and then select 'Add Bluetooth or other device.' Choose 'Wireless display or dock' as the device type. Your TV adapter should appear in the list; click to connect.

This method provides flexibility and mobility without the need for physical cords. However, it's important to consider the quality of the wireless connection – and be aware of any potential latency issues, especially when streaming video content.

Part 2. FAQs about Screen Mirroring

Screen mirroring can sometimes be finicky. Here are some common questions that users have:

Q1. Can I still use my PC while mirroring my screen to a TV?

Most methods allow for you to multitask on your PC while mirroring, however, there might be some limitations. For instance, if you're wirelessly mirroring via a casting method, bandwidth and performance can suffer if you're conducting multiple tasks.

Q2. My computer doesn't have an HDMI port, what can I do?

If your computer doesn't have an HDMI port, don't worry. You can use alternative ports like DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort, or USB-C with the appropriate adapter or cable to link up with HDMI on your TV.

Q3. The TV is displaying a mirrored screen, but there's no sound. How do I fix this?

In the display settings of your computer, ensure that the sound output is set to the TV or the HDMI input where the TV is connected.

Q4. What if my TV isn't compatible with casting or doesn't have an HDMI port?

For older technology or TVs without HDMI ports, you may need to research specialty adapters or consider upgrading to a modern digital TV that caters to screen mirroring preferences.

Part 3. Bonus Tips - How to Mirror Phone to a PC?

For those who lean more on their smartphones, syncing a phone to a PC can expand your entertainment and productivity horizons. You didn't think we'd forget about you, did you? Here are two prime methods to mirror your phone onto your PC.

Method 1: Using Wondershare Dr.Fone

Dr.Fone provides a simple and effective way to mirror your smartphone to your PC.

Wondershare Dr.Fone

Mirror your phone to your computer easily!

• Drag and drop files between your computer and phone directly.
• View multiple notifications simultaneously without picking up your phone.
• Use android apps on your PC for a full-screen experience.
• Record your classic gameplay.
• Screen Capture at crucial points.

Available on: Windows Mac

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• Step 1. Download and install Dr.Fone on your PC.
• Step 2. Connect your phone to your computer using a USB cable, and enable USB debugging on your phone if prompted.
• Step 3. Once connected, select ‘Screen Mirroring’ from the Dr.Fone interface to duplicate your phone screen on your PC screen.

Dr.Fone Air provides a stable and high-quality screen mirroring experience without the need for additional hardware.

Method 2: Using Dr.Fone Air (online screen mirror)

For those who prefer not to clutter with downloads, Dr.Fone Air offers an online solution to mirror phones to PCs.

• Step 1. Visit the Dr.Fone Air website on your PC and select ‘Wireless Connection’.
• Step 2. On your phone, download and open the Dr.Fone app from the Google Play Store. Scan the QR code on the PC screen to establish a connection.

• Step 3. Enjoy a wireless and secure screen mirroring experience.

Conclusion

Screen mirroring is no longer the domain of the tech elite. With numerous methods available, it's become a tool for anyone looking to enjoy an enhanced visual experience. Whether it's by using a traditional HDMI cable, a wireless display adapter, or newer casting technologies, the choice is yours. By following the instructions provided, you can transform your humble PC or laptop into a media powerhouse that broadcasts directly onto the canvas of your TV screen. If you’re a smartphone user looking to expand your mirroring capabilities, the bonus tips have you covered. Happy mirroring!

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