Mirror your device/computer screen to projector
Once you have your projector, before setting it up, connect it to the computer/device you will be projecting from.
“Mirroring screen” is also called “Duplicate”, or screen sharing, and allows projector to show what is displayed on your computer/or device screen. Then you can open patterns on your computer or device and they will also show up in the projected image.
Connection between projector and computer/device can be done either by:
- HDMI cable
- the wifi feature available on many mini projectors
- or by a Chromecast or other casting device (Firestick, Roku or Apple TV for example) which connects to projector’s HDMI port and makes any projector wireless. For help understanding wireless protocols and choosing a casting device, see the info on this page: Wireless connections to a projector.
No projector can screen mirror via Bluetooth. Bluetooth capability on projectors is for sound only.
Before connecting, choose a connection method, then follow steps for your chosen method in the blue link in the table.
| Connection Type | Best for | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| HDMI cable (click here for connection instructions) | Everything. The simplest and most reliable option, and the best choice with ultra short throw projectors such as Epsons because they are so close, so only a short cable is needed. | You’ll need to get long HDMI cable if connecting to mini projector, the one that comes in box is too short. If connecting to a Mac, ios device or tablet, a USB-C to HDMI adaptor will be needed, or USB-C to HDMI cable. |
| Built-in Wi-Fi of a mini projector: most mini projector models have it (click here for connection instructions) | Almost all devices can be connected this way: Windows, Mac, Android and iPhone/iPad, Exception is Chromebooks and Pixel phones – they need a chromecast device. | Can freeze or lag, especially with a distant wifi router or a high-resolution screen. But most people don’t experience these issues. |
| Chromecast added to the projector’s HDMI port (click here for connection instructions) | Windows, Mac, Android, Chromebook, Google Pixel phones. Chromecast can be added to any projector to make it wireless. | iPhones and iPads need a third-party casting app to work with a Chromecast, which require subcription or viewing ads, so not recommended to connect them with Chromecast. |
| Anycast, Roku or other casting device that supports Miracast (Windows/Android and Airplay (Mac/iOS) added to the HDMI port (click here for connection instructions) | Almost all devices can be connected this way: Windows, Mac, Android and iPhone/iPad, Exception is Chromebooks and Pixel phones – they need a chromecast device. These casting devices can be added to any projector to make it wireless. | A Fire Stick has no AirPlay, so it will not mirror a Mac, iPhone or iPad. But Firestick has Miracast, so will connect to Windows and Android. An older, even first generation Apple TV (much cheaper than current models) can be connected to projector like other casting devices, and will then connect wirelessly with Macs, iPhones and iPads. |