Projectors
How do you cast your phone to a projector? Miracast, Chromecast and AirPlay
Miracast and Chromecast are two ways to put what you see on your phone onto a projector or TV without cables. Miracast mirrors the screen exactly, over direct WiFi. Chromecast (Google Cast) only sends the command: the projector streams the video from the internet itself and your phone stays free. On iPhone, the equivalent is AirPlay.
Mirroring the screen (Miracast and AirPlay)
Mirroring shows exactly what is on the phone: photos, presentations, games, your gallery. Android and Windows do it with Miracast ("Cast screen" or "Smart View"); the iPhone uses AirPlay.
Because the phone sends every frame, there can be a slight delay and it uses battery. Also, many streaming apps block mirroring for copyright reasons and show a black screen.
Casting the video (Chromecast)
With Chromecast you tap the cast icon inside YouTube, Netflix or another compatible app, and the projector plays the video straight from the internet. You can keep using your phone or even turn its screen off.
The picture is better and steadier than mirroring, but both devices must be on the same WiFi network and the app must support it.
What to check before you buy
- If you have an iPhone, look for a projector that says AirPlay or "iOS compatible".
- For movies and series, it helps if the device has its own apps or Chromecast; for photos and presentations, mirroring is enough.
- 5 GHz WiFi gives smoother mirroring than 2.4 GHz.
Guides to help you choose
Frequently asked questions
Because the app blocks mirroring to protect its content. The fix is to cast with Chromecast if the device supports it, or to use the app installed on the projector itself.