Are you ready to watch your favorite shows, share photos, or play music from your Mac on your big TV screen?
Learning how to AirPlay from Mac to TV is easier than you might think! All you have to do is click the AirPlay icon on your Mac, select your TV, and start streaming or mirroring wirelessly.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from setup to troubleshooting, in a simple and friendly way.
Whether you want to mirror your Mac or stream videos, we’ve got you covered. Read on to become an AirPlay pro!
What Is AirPlay and Why Use It?
AirPlay is a handy feature that lets you wirelessly stream or mirror content from your Mac to your TV.
With AirPlay, you can watch movies, show off your vacation photos, or listen to music through your TV’s speakers without any messy cables. It’s perfect for family movie nights, sharing memories with friends, or just enjoying your favorite content on a bigger screen.
💡 Don’t forget: AirPlay works best when both your Mac and your TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
What You Need Before You AirPlay from Mac to TV
Not all TVs support AirPlay. Only TVs with AirPlay 2 built in, or TVs connected to an Apple TV or compatible streaming device, can receive AirPlay from your Mac.
Compatible Mac and TV
- ✅ Mac: Most newer MacBook, iMac, and Mac Mini models support AirPlay. For best results, your Mac should be running macOS Mojave (10.14.5) or newer.
- ✅ TV: You’ll need a TV that supports AirPlay 2 or a streaming device like Apple TV that connects to your TV and supports AirPlay.
Wi-Fi Network
Both your Mac and TV must be on the same Wi-Fi network. This helps them see each other and connect easily.
Check AirPlay Support
To double-check, look for the AirPlay icon (it looks like a rectangle with a triangle at the bottom) on your Mac’s menu bar. If you see it, you’re good to go.
The AirPlay icon will only appear when a compatible device is detected and "Show mirroring options in the menu bar when available" is enabled in your display settings.
📌 Want to connect more devices? Check out 5 ways to connect iPad or iPad Pro to a monitor for more cool ideas!
How to AirPlay from Mac to TV: Quick Start Steps
Getting started with AirPlay is simple and only takes a few steps. Follow these instructions to see your Mac’s screen on your TV in no time.
✅ Step 1: Turn On Your TV and Mac
Make sure both devices are powered on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
✅ Step 2: Find the AirPlay Icon
Look for the AirPlay icon on the right side of your Mac’s menu bar at the top of the screen. If you don’t see it, open “System Settings” (or “System Preferences” on older macOS) > “Displays” and check “Show mirroring options in the menu bar when available.” The icon only appears when a compatible device is detected.
✅ Step 3: Choose Your TV
Click the AirPlay icon. A list of available devices will appear. Select your TV from the list.
✅ Step 4: Start Streaming or Mirroring
Your Mac’s screen will now appear on your TV. You can choose to mirror your entire screen or just stream a video or song.
✅ Step 5: Stop AirPlay
When you’re done, click the AirPlay icon again and select “Turn AirPlay Off.”
📌 Don’t forget to browse our guide on how to sync your iPhone and iPad for even more ways to connect your Apple devices!
How to Mirror Your Mac Screen to TV Using AirPlay
How to Mirror Your Screen
- Click the AirPlay icon in your menu bar.
- Select your TV from the list.
- Choose “Mirror Built-in Display” to match your Mac’s screen to your TV. The wording may vary slightly depending on your macOS version.
- To adjust the screen size or quality, go to “System Settings” or “System Preferences” > “Displays.”
Adjusting Display and Sound
For the best picture, you can change the resolution in your Mac’s display settings. To play sound through your TV, click the volume icon and select your TV as the output.
📌 If you enjoy watching movies on the go, check out how to download movies on iPad for easy entertainment anywhere!
How to Stream Videos, Music, and Photos from Mac to TV
AirPlay isn’t just for mirroring your screen. You can also stream videos, music, and photos directly from your Mac to your TV for a bigger and better viewing or listening experience.
Some third-party apps or websites may not support AirPlay natively. In those cases, you can use screen mirroring instead.
✅ Streaming Videos
Open a video in Safari, QuickTime, or your favorite app. Look for the AirPlay icon in the video player, click it, and select your TV. The video will play on your TV while you use your Mac for other things.
✅ Playing Music
Open your music app and start playing a song. Click the AirPlay icon and pick your TV as the speaker.
✅ Sharing Photos and Slideshows
Open the Photos app on your Mac and select the photos or album you want to share. Click the share button, then choose AirPlay and select your TV.
Troubleshooting: AirPlay Not Working from Mac to TV?
If you run into problems with AirPlay, don’t worry. There are a few common issues and easy fixes that can help get things working again.
Some networks with special settings, like guest networks or VPNs, may block AirPlay from working. Make sure you are on a regular, private Wi-Fi network.
Common Problems and Quick Fixes
- Devices Not Showing Up: Make sure both your Mac and TV are on the same Wi-Fi network. Restart both devices if needed.
- No Sound: Check the sound output settings on your Mac and select your TV.
- Lag or Delay: Move your Mac and TV closer to your Wi-Fi router for a stronger signal.
Restart and Reset
If you’re still having trouble, try restarting your Mac, your TV, and your router. This often solves most connection problems.
AirPlay Alternatives: Other Ways to Connect Mac to TV
If AirPlay isn’t available or you’d like to try something different, there are other simple ways to connect your Mac to your TV.
Chromecast and Miracast are not AirPlay, but they are alternative solutions for casting or mirroring from your Mac with extra steps or browser extensions.
✅ Using an HDMI Cable
Plug one end of an HDMI cable into your Mac and the other into your TV. Switch your TV to the correct HDMI input and your Mac screen should appear on your TV right away.
✅ Using Third-Party Streaming Devices
Some streaming devices allow you to cast or mirror your Mac’s screen using their own apps or browser extensions. These can be a good backup if AirPlay isn’t working, but the process is different from AirPlay.
✅ Pros and Cons
AirPlay is wireless and easy but needs a strong Wi-Fi connection. HDMI is reliable and has no lag but requires a cable. Third-party apps or devices are flexible but may need extra setup and do not use AirPlay protocol.
Tips for the Best AirPlay Experience
A smooth AirPlay experience can make everything more enjoyable. Here are some simple tips to help you get the best results.
Improve your Wi-Fi by keeping your Mac and TV close to your router. Close unused apps to free up your Mac’s resources, and always update your software for the latest features and fixes.
You can also use AirPlay with more than one device, but make sure your Wi-Fi can handle it.
Enjoy Your Mac on the Big Screen!
Now you know how to AirPlay from Mac to TV like a pro. With just a few clicks, you can stream, mirror, and share all your favorite content from your Mac to your TV.
For more helpful guides and tips, visit Chesona for easy-to-follow advice on getting the most out of your devices.
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FAQs about How to AirPlay from Mac to TV
Why can't I AirPlay from Mac to TV?
If you can’t AirPlay from your Mac to your TV, it’s usually because your devices aren’t on the same Wi-Fi network or your TV doesn’t support AirPlay. Make sure both devices are updated and connected properly. Sometimes, restarting your Mac and TV helps fix the problem. Also, check if AirPlay is enabled in your Mac’s settings.
How do I turn on AirPlay on my Mac?
To turn on AirPlay, click the AirPlay icon in the menu bar at the top of your Mac’s screen. If you don’t see it, go to your display settings and check the box to show mirroring options. Once you see the icon, you can select your TV from the list. This will let you start streaming or mirroring right away.
How to AirPlay to TV?
To AirPlay to your TV, make sure both your Mac and TV are powered on and on the same Wi-Fi network. Click the AirPlay icon on your Mac, pick your TV from the list, and choose whether to mirror your screen or just send a video or song. When you’re done, click the AirPlay icon again and turn it off.
How to AirPlay photos from Mac to TV?
To AirPlay photos, open the Photos app on your Mac and choose the pictures or album you want to share. Click the share button, select AirPlay, and pick your TV from the list. Your photos will appear on your TV screen, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Why isn't screen mirroring working?
If screen mirroring isn’t working, check that both your Mac and TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Make sure AirPlay is turned on and both devices are updated. Restarting your Mac and TV can often fix connection issues. Also, be sure your TV is set to allow screen mirroring or AirPlay connections.
