Guide
Cast Android to a TV Without a Chromecast: 5 Easy Ways
You don't need to buy a Chromecast to send videos, photos or music from your Android phone to your TV. Most smart TVs already include at least one way to receive them.
Do you really need a Chromecast?
Probably not. Before buying anything, check what your TV already supports:
- Android TV and Google TV sets have Chromecast built in.
- Most smart TVs can receive media over DLNA / UPnP.
- Many TVs and phones support Miracast screen mirroring.
- Any TV with an HDMI port works with a cable adapter.
Option 1: DLNA / UPnP (works on most smart TVs)
DLNA lets your phone send a video, photo or song straight to the TV over your Wi-Fi network. There's nothing to install on the TV, and local files don't need internet access. Read what DLNA is and how to use it for the details.
- Connect the phone and TV to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open SmartGoCast, tap the cast button and choose your TV.
- Pick a video, photo or song and cast it.
Good to know: the TV decides which file formats it can play, and DLNA doesn't mirror the whole screen.
Option 2: Google Cast built into your TV
If your TV runs Android TV or Google TV (many Sony, Philips, TCL, Hisense and Xiaomi models do), it already is a Chromecast. It shows up as a cast target in apps with a cast button, including SmartGoCast. It needs an internet connection.
Option 3: Miracast / Smart View screen mirroring
Miracast mirrors your phone's whole screen to the TV with a direct wireless link. Android calls it Smart View, Cast, Screen Cast or Wireless display. It works without a router, but your phone stays busy while mirroring and some phones (including recent Google Pixel models) don't support it. Step by step in how to mirror Android to a TV.
Option 4: your TV maker's app
Several brands publish a companion app that can send photos and videos to their own TVs. Samsung's Smart View and SmartThings are examples. It works well within one brand, but not with other TVs.
Option 5: an HDMI cable
A USB-C to HDMI adapter is the most reliable option when your phone supports video output (DisplayPort Alt Mode). It mirrors the screen with almost no delay, but you need a cable and your phone stays on the TV.
Quick comparison
| Option | Internet needed? | Works on | Phone stays free? |
|---|---|---|---|
| DLNA / UPnP | No | Most smart TVs | Yes |
| Google Cast built in | Yes | Android TV, Google TV and other Chromecast built-in TVs | Yes |
| Miracast / Smart View | No | Many TVs and phones | No, it mirrors the screen |
| TV maker's app | Depends | One brand | Depends |
| HDMI cable | No | Any TV with HDMI | No, it mirrors the screen |
Tips for smooth playback
- Use 5 GHz Wi-Fi and stay close to the router.
- MP4 with H.264 video and AAC audio plays on almost every TV. HEVC or MKV files may not play on older sets.
- Turn off any VPN while casting.
- Keep the TV's software up to date.