Want to watch Netflix on a bigger screen? Need to share vacation photos with family? Looking to play mobile games with better visibility? Screen mirroring is the answer, letting you display your device‘s content directly on your Samsung TV.
According to recent data, over 67% of smart TV owners use screen mirroring at least once a month, yet many aren‘t taking full advantage of all available methods. This comprehensive guide covers every possible way to connect your devices to Samsung TVs—whether you‘re using an iPhone, Android phone, or computer.
Understanding Screen Mirroring Technology
Screen mirroring (also called screen sharing or casting) wirelessly transmits your device‘s display to a TV. This technology has evolved significantly since its introduction in 2012, with each iteration bringing improvements in quality, latency, and ease of use.
The Evolution of Screen Mirroring
| Year | Technology | Key Advancement |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Miracast | First standardized wireless display technology |
| 2013 | Chromecast | Google‘s streaming device popularized casting |
| 2014 | Smart View | Samsung‘s proprietary screen mirroring solution |
| 2018 | AirPlay 2 | Apple‘s technology added to non-Apple TVs |
| 2020 | Tap View | NFC-based connection with a physical tap |
Why Samsung TVs Stand Out for Screen Mirroring
Samsung holds approximately 31.5% of the global TV market share as of 2023, making it the most popular TV brand worldwide. Their TVs are particularly well-suited for screen mirroring because they support multiple protocols:
- Miracast (built into Windows and Android)
- Smart View (Samsung‘s proprietary system)
- AirPlay 2 (on 2018+ models)
- Google Cast (for compatible apps)
- Tap View (on 2020+ models)
This multi-protocol support means virtually any device can connect to a Samsung TV using one method or another.
Samsung TV Compatibility Guide
Before attempting to mirror your screen, check if your Samsung TV supports your preferred method:
| Samsung TV Series | Year | Smart View | AirPlay 2 | Tap View | Miracast |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Q/QLED Series | 2017-2023 | ✓ | ✓ (2018+) | ✓ (2020+) | ✓ |
| Frame Series | 2017-2023 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ (2020+) | ✓ |
| Crystal UHD | 2019-2023 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ (2020+) | ✓ |
| 8/9 Series | 2015-2023 | ✓ | ✓ (2018+) | ✗ | ✓ |
| 7 Series | 2015-2023 | ✓ | ✓ (2019+) | ✗ | ✓ |
| 6 Series | 2015-2023 | ✓ | ✓ (2019+) | ✗ | ✓ |
| 5 Series | 2015-2023 | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| 4 Series | 2015-2023 | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
Note: Always check your specific model, as exceptions exist within each series.
Essential Prerequisites for Screen Mirroring
Before attempting any screen mirroring method, ensure you have:
- Updated firmware – Samsung regularly improves screen mirroring functionality through updates
- Strong WiFi connection – At least 5Mbps for standard content, 25Mbps+ for 4K
- Same network – Both devices must be on the same WiFi network (except for Tap View)
- Screen mirroring enabled – Some TVs require manual activation
Enabling Screen Mirroring on Your Samsung TV
Follow these steps to ensure your TV is ready to receive connections:
- Press the Home button on your remote
- Navigate to Settings
- Select one of the following (varies by model and year):
- General > External Device Manager > Device Connection Manager
- Connection > Screen Sharing
- Network > Screen Mirroring
- Set screen mirroring to Enabled or On
For optimal performance, Samsung recommends:
- Using a 5GHz WiFi network when available
- Keeping your TV within 15 feet of your router
- Reducing other network traffic during mirroring
- Updating to the latest firmware version
Screen Mirroring from Android Devices
Android devices offer the most options for connecting to Samsung TVs. According to usage statistics, Smart View and the SmartThings app are the most popular methods, accounting for 78% of Android-to-Samsung screen mirroring connections.
Method 1: Using the SmartThings App (All Android Devices)
The SmartThings app serves as Samsung‘s universal control center, connecting to over 40 million homes worldwide. It works with virtually all Android devices, not just Samsung phones.
Detailed Steps:
- Connect your Samsung TV and Android phone to the same WiFi network
- Download and install the SmartThings app from Google Play Store
- Open the app and sign in with your Samsung account (or create one)
- Tap the Devices tab at the bottom
- Tap the + icon in the top right corner
- Select Add device or Scan nearby
- When your TV appears, select it and follow the on-screen instructions
- Once connected, tap on your TV in the devices list
- Tap the three-dot menu in the top right corner
- Select Mirror Screen (or View TV on some versions)
- Tap Start Now to begin mirroring
Pro Tips:
- Keep the SmartThings app updated for the best compatibility
- For first-time setup, ensure your TV is in "pairing mode" by going to Source > Connection Guide > Screen Share
- If your TV doesn‘t appear, try restarting both the TV and your phone
Method 2: Quick Panel Smart View (Samsung Galaxy Devices)
Smart View comes pre-installed on Samsung Galaxy devices and offers the fastest connection method for Galaxy users. According to Samsung‘s internal data, it‘s used by over 65% of Galaxy owners who mirror their screens.
Detailed Steps:
- Ensure your TV and phone are on the same WiFi network
- Swipe down twice from the top of your screen to open the Quick Panel
- Swipe left to see more options if necessary
- Tap on Smart View
- Your TV should appear in the list of available devices
- Select your Samsung TV from the list
- Confirm the connection if prompted on your TV
- Your screen will now be mirrored to the TV
Advanced Smart View Settings:
Once connected, tap the Smart View icon in your notification panel to access:
- Aspect Ratio: Choose between fit-to-screen or original size
- Auto Rotation: Toggle whether the TV display rotates with your phone
- Game Mode: Reduces latency for better gaming experience (on supported TVs)
- Keep Screen On: Prevents your phone from sleeping during mirroring
Method 3: Tap View (Samsung Devices 2020 or Later)
Tap View represents the newest evolution in screen mirroring, using NFC technology to establish connections with a physical tap. It‘s available on Samsung phones from 2020 onward and compatible Samsung TVs.
Detailed Steps:
- Make sure both your phone and TV support Tap View
- Open the SmartThings app on your phone
- Go to Menu > Settings (gear icon)
- Enable Tap View, Tap Sound
- Gently tap the back of your phone against the TV frame (usually at the top center)
- When the "Start casting with Tap View" prompt appears, tap Start Now
Technical Note: Tap View uses a combination of NFC (Near Field Communication) for the initial handshake and then establishes a direct WiFi connection. This hybrid approach allows for quick pairing without sacrificing streaming quality.
Method 4: Screen Mirroring on Non-Samsung Android Phones
Most Android phones (91.3% according to compatibility testing) can mirror to Samsung TVs using the built-in Android screen mirroring function, though the name varies by manufacturer:
| Phone Brand | Feature Name | Menu Location |
|---|---|---|
| Google Pixel | Cast | Quick Settings |
| OnePlus | Cast Screen | Quick Settings |
| Xiaomi | Wireless Display | Settings > Connection & Sharing |
| Motorola | Wireless Display | Settings > Connected Devices |
| LG | Screen Share | Settings > Network |
| Sony | Screen mirroring | Settings > Device Connection |
| HTC | Media Output | Quick Settings |
General Steps:
- Connect your phone and Samsung TV to the same WiFi network
- Open Settings on your Android phone
- Search for the appropriate screen mirroring option (see table above)
- Tap the option when found
- Wait for your TV to appear in the list of available devices
- Select your Samsung TV
- Accept any prompts that appear on your TV
- Your screen will now be mirrored
Performance Tip: Non-Samsung Android phones typically experience 50-200ms more latency when mirroring compared to Samsung devices using Smart View. For gaming or real-time applications, consider using a wired connection instead.
Method 5: Samsung DeX (Select Samsung Galaxy Devices)
Samsung DeX transforms your phone experience into a desktop-like interface on your TV. It‘s supported on flagship Samsung devices from the S8/Note 8 onward and select A-series phones.
Detailed Steps:
- Make sure your Samsung phone supports DeX
- Connect your phone and TV to the same WiFi network
- Swipe down twice to open the Quick Panel
- Tap on DeX
- Select your Samsung TV from the list
- Tap Start Now
- Your phone will switch to DeX mode on the TV
DeX Productivity Features:
- Multi-window support for up to 5 apps simultaneously
- Desktop-like file management
- Keyboard and mouse support via Bluetooth
- Optimized app layouts for larger screens
- Phone can be used independently while DeX is running
According to Samsung‘s usage data, DeX users spend an average of 2.3 hours per session compared to 38 minutes for regular screen mirroring, indicating its value for productivity tasks.
Screen Mirroring from iPhone to Samsung TV
Despite being from competing ecosystems, iPhones can connect to Samsung TVs through several methods. According to market research, approximately 28% of Samsung TV owners use iPhones as their primary device.
Method 1: Using AirPlay (Samsung TVs 2018 or Later)
AirPlay 2 support was added to Samsung TVs starting in 2018, marking a rare collaboration between Samsung and Apple. This native integration provides the best quality and reliability for iPhone users.
Detailed Steps:
First, enable AirPlay on your Samsung TV:
- Go to Settings > General > Apple AirPlay Settings
- Turn AirPlay On
- Optional: Configure Require Code settings for security
On your iPhone:
- Connect to the same WiFi network as your TV
- Swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center
- Tap Screen Mirroring
- Select your Samsung TV from the list
- Enter the AirPlay code shown on your TV if prompted
To disconnect:
- Open Control Center again
- Tap Screen Mirroring
- Select Stop Mirroring
AirPlay 2 Advantages:
- Supports 4K resolution (on compatible TVs)
- Maintains Dolby Vision/HDR when available
- Allows audio to play through home theater systems
- Supports multi-room audio
Method 2: Using Third-Party Apps for Older TVs
For Samsung TVs manufactured before 2018 that lack AirPlay support, third-party apps can bridge the gap, though with some limitations.
Top Apps for iPhone to Samsung TV Mirroring:
| App | Rating | Free/Paid | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mirror for Samsung TV | 4.5/5 | Free with in-app purchases | Screen mirroring, media streaming, photo sharing |
| TV Assist | 4.3/5 | Free with in-app purchases | Screen mirroring, remote control, keyboard input |
| AirBeamTV | 4.1/5 | Paid | Low latency, audio support, no ads |
| Replica | 4.0/5 | Free with in-app purchases | Screen recording, streaming, DLNA support |
Using Mirror for Samsung TV (Example):
- Download from the App Store
- Open the app and allow necessary permissions
- Select your TV from the discovered devices
- For full screen mirroring, purchase the premium version
- Follow on-screen instructions to complete setup
Technical Limitation: Third-party mirroring apps on iOS can‘t access DRM-protected content from apps like Netflix or Disney+ due to Apple‘s security restrictions. For these apps, use their built-in casting features instead.
Screen Mirroring from PC or Mac to Samsung TV
Computers offer the most versatile screen mirroring options, with both wireless and wired methods available. According to usage statistics, 42% of Samsung TV owners connect computers at least occasionally.
Windows PC Wireless Screen Mirroring
Windows 10 and 11 have built-in wireless display capabilities that work seamlessly with Samsung TVs. This functionality uses the Miracast standard, which Samsung has supported since 2013.
Detailed Steps:
- Make sure your PC and Samsung TV are on the same WiFi network
- Press Windows key + K or click on the notifications icon in the taskbar
- Click Connect or Cast
- Wait for your Samsung TV to appear in the list
- Click on your TV name
- If prompted, accept the connection on your TV
- Choose your display mode:
- Duplicate: Shows the same content on both screens
- Extend: Uses the TV as a second monitor
- Second screen only: Shows content only on the TV
Performance Settings:
For optimal performance, you can adjust settings in Windows:
- Go to Settings > System > Display > Advanced display settings
- Select your TV
- Adjust resolution and refresh rate to match your TV‘s capabilities
- For gaming, enable Game Mode on your TV to reduce latency
Latency Comparison:
| Connection Method | Average Latency | Best Use Case |
|——————-|—————–|—————|
| Wireless (2.4GHz) | 100-150ms | Web browsing, presentations |
| Wireless (5GHz) | 50-100ms | Video playback, casual use |
| HDMI Cable | 5-15ms | Gaming, real-time applications |
Mac Screen Mirroring to Samsung TV
Mac users have fewer built-in options but can still connect to Samsung TVs through AirPlay or third-party solutions.
For Samsung TVs with AirPlay 2 (2018 or later):
- Make sure your Mac and Samsung TV are on the same WiFi network
- Enable AirPlay on your Samsung TV (Settings > General > Apple AirPlay Settings)
- On your Mac, click the Control Center icon in the menu bar
- Click Screen Mirroring
- Select your Samsung TV
