Find out how to Chromecast from Mac to TV in this article. The list includes different streaming apps, including Chrome browser, that can connect to Chromecast devices. If you want to know how to mirror Mac to TV without HDMI, most of these apps will also be useful. Check the how-to sections if you’re having trouble using one of them. The presented applications are feature-rich but accessible to most users.
Google Chrome has a built-in streaming feature. It can be used as a Chromecast app for Mac. This functionality is not limited to Chrome tabs - you can mirror your desktop, too. In addition to websites like YouTube and Netflix, Chrome can also play MP4 and WebM.
JustStream is a streaming and mirroring widget that is compatible with Chromecast, AirPlay 2, and a large variety of DLNA receivers. Using JustStream, you can cast Mac screen to Chromecast with minimum setup. There’s a built-in playlist, detailed subtitle settings, playback controls, and resolution options.
Overall, it’s a convenient way to view your media on a big screen without HDMI. This app can also mirror Mac to TV - all you have to do is select your display as a source, instead of a video.
Even if your TV isn’t smart, attach a Chromecast dongle to it and launch JustStream to mirror or stream directly from your Mac!
Elmedia Player is a feature-rich player with an integrated DLNA, AirPlay, and Chromecast streaming component. It can cast Mac to Chromecast quickly, easily, and with lots of settings and conveniences. Elmedia opens nearly all video formats, including MP4, WMV, AVI, and MKV with any codecs. In order to maximize file compatibility with streaming devices and TVs, it can transcode the media while playing.
In order to stream, you need to unlock the premium upgrade - Elmedia PRO, which also includes an audio equalizer and a video tuner.
AirBeamTV Mirror for Chromecast is a part of the AirBeam Screen Mirroring Pack. It can mirror Mac to Chromecast and has a simplistic built-in media player for streaming. The player feature is very limited - it doesn’t even have a playlist.
Each app only supports one brand of devices, such as Roku, LG, or Samsung. And they are pretty expensive - $14.99 each, at the moment of writing. Considering the minimalistic feature set, the price is very steep.
AirFlow is a Chromecast app for Mac that uses custom technology to stream in 4K with lossless audio. It’s worth mentioning that you need to navigate complex menus and know some tech lingo to make full use of its special features. There’s also a useful text recognition feature that will help with burned-in subtitles.
The app costs $19.99. It’s difficult to use, but the benefits are worth it for a video/audio hobbyist. AirFlow is compatible with Chromecast and AirPlay 2.
Plex is a web app that allows you to turn one of your desktop devices into a media server. It can also cast videos from that device to Chromecast. It’s similar to using the default Chrome mirroring feature, but with the ability to stream local files. Even though Plex is a bit more advanced, it’s still not even close to dedicated streaming apps or media players. The main benefit Plex has is that it’s free to use, so trying it out should not be a problem.
Chromecast is an HDMI attachment that’s mainly used to make TVs "smarter". It can receive video streams from desktop apps, browse the internet, and use services such as YouTube or Netflix. High-end Chromecast models can decode 4K video and lossless sound, but, obviously, the output resolution is limited by the TV it’s attached to.
Chromecast is a handy solution if you want to enjoy media content on the big screen. However, it can be rather tricky and cause inconveniences if it’s not working correctly. Here we have gathered the most popular reasons for Chromecast playback on Mac issues:
Keeping in mind these simple steps will help you understand how to cast Mac to TV in the most efficient way.
If you’re having difficulties when trying to Chromecast Mac to TV, you can try one of the following solutions:
When enjoying services such as Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, YouTube, etc., you can automatically Chromecast from Mac to TV if you:
Chromecast is a popular way to connect Mac to TV, and so there are lots of apps that can help a macOS user stream to it. You should definitely try JustStream since it’s the best solution we know. Also, consider the Chromecast apps and the built-in browser - maybe you won’t need to stream or mirror in the first place.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Mirroring means showing your exact computer screen and your movements on another display. It practically duplicates it. For example, you can show your entire Mac screen on a TV screen when delivering a presentation.
On the other hand, casting means just playing a video or music file on another display. In a way, it’s like "sending" the file to the other display. Thus, you will not see the cast content on your computer, just on the TV screen. You can still use your device while you’re casting - this will not interrupt the video or show the work that you’re doing on your computer.
Here’s a 6-step tutorial to help you with the process. It should also help you with troubleshooting if you’ve attempted streaming on your own.