Media server programs essentially turn your PC into a remote server that streams video to a receiver that’s hooked up to your TV. Required Receiver: Almost any computer, mobile device, streaming player or game consoleĪlthough media servers require a few minutes (or a few hours, depending on how much media you’ve accrued) to set up, they’re a much more reliable and efficient way to stream content than screen mirroring is. Required Transmitter: PC, Mac, Android device or iOS device There are also a fair number of smart TVs powered by Android TV, such as the Vizio SmartCast P-Series. You’ll also need an Android TV or Chromecast device as a receiver, but considering that Chromecasts start at $35, it’s one of the more affordable solutions. This protocol works with almost any modern Android device, making it an extremely accessible solution. Required Receiver: Google Chromecast or Android TV deviceĪrguably the best (and definitely the most accessible and reliable) method of screen mirroring is Google Cast. Each of these explanations assumes that you have already plugged the necessary receiver into your TV and have gone through any requisite setup procedures. There are three main types of screen mirroring protocols, and you’ll need different hardware and software depending on what you want to use. Scroll down for more information on how to do that. Bear in mind, though, that if you’re going to be streaming stuff from your computer or mobile device on a regular basis, you can save yourself a lot of time and effort in the long run by setting up a media server. Screen mirroring is the faster option, so we’ll cover that first. Setting them up takes some legwork, though. Then, you can broadcast content to your TV easily and with no loss of quality, as long as you’re on the same network. By running software on your computer or mobile device, you can effectively make it into a remote server. Media servers are the more traditional, more reliable and more involved solution.

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