iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Open the streaming service’s app and look for its Cast or AirPlay button. If the app and your TV or streaming receiver support the same method, select the TV to play the movie there. If there is no casting button, try screen mirroring only when both devices support it—or use the streaming service’s TV app instead.
A smart TV does not automatically support casting from every phone app. The available route depends on the service, phone, TV or receiver, and sometimes your Wi-Fi settings.
How do I cast free movies from my phone to my TV?
First check the movie service’s app for a Cast or AirPlay control. Casting sends the selected video to a compatible TV or receiver; it does not simply duplicate everything on your phone. Google Cast, for example, requires a Cast-enabled app and a compatible endpoint such as Chromecast, Google TV Streamer (4K), or a TV with Google Cast. Google lists Android 6.0 or later and iOS 12.0 or later as supported mobile devices. See Google’s Cast setup instructions.
- Connect your phone and the TV or streaming receiver to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open a streaming app that supports the receiver’s casting method. Start a movie if the Cast button is not visible yet.
- Tap the app’s Cast button, choose your TV or receiver, and check that playback begins on the television.
For Google Cast, the receiver must support Google Cast; an app’s support for casting to one platform does not guarantee it can cast to another. If the app offers AirPlay rather than Google Cast, use an Apple TV or compatible AirPlay TV and the app’s AirPlay control instead.
#1 Best Overall
- 【1080P 60FPS Video Capture Card】 This HDMI game capture card is based on USB3.0 high speed transmission port, input resolution up to 4K@30HZ, output resolution up to 2K@30Hz or 1920×1080@60Hz. Type c and USB interface can meet most of the devices in daily life. Easily meet the online capture, real-time recording, online meetings, live gaming and other functions, so you have a better visual enjoyment. Note: For capture use only; requires capture software to function and is not intended for direct screen casting to a monitor or TV
- 【Ultra Low Latency Screen Sharing】 HDMI capture card is made of good quality aluminum alloy with strong heat dissipation, allowing you to enjoy ultra low latency while live gaming or video recording or live streaming, avoiding blue screens and lag. This HDMI to USBC capture card supports easy recording of good quality audio or HD video and transferring it to your computer or streaming platform, allowing you to record 60 fps HD video directly on your hard drive and real-time preview
- 【Plug and Play, Easy to Carry】 This HDMI 1080P video capture card does not require any additional drivers or external power supply, just plug and play for fast capture. The capture card is small and lightweight, so you can put it in your bag for emergencies, making it very portable for outdoor live streaming. It's also a great way to share content in game recording, video conference, video recorder and online teaching
- 【Wide Compatibility USB Capture Card】 Easily streams to Facebook, Youtube or Twitch. With the connection, this HDMI to USB C/3.0 video capture devices can be working on several Operating Systems and various software: Windows 7/ 8/ 10, Mac OS or above, Linux, Android, Laptop, Xbox One, PS3/PS4/PS5, Camera, DVDs, Set Top Box, Webcame, DSLR, Switch/Switch 2, TV BOX, HDTV, Potplayer/VLC, ZOOM, OBS Studio etc.
- 【Package Content & Note】 1x HD Audio Capture Card , 1x USB 3.0 to USB C Adapter (A-side 3.0, B-side 2.0), 1x user manual. Please note that you need to restart the OBS Studio software after the audio setup is complete, otherwise it will result in no sound output. When using an adapter, if the device is recognized as USB 2.0, try using the other side with the USB-C port. Simply flip the capture card and reconnect it to be recognized as USB 3.0
Which free streaming apps and TV setups can you use?
Free services may offer mobile and TV apps, but support for a particular phone-to-TV casting method can vary. Check the service’s current app and device support for your region rather than assuming that every free movie app can cast.
Tubi: Chromecast, AirPlay, or Tubi Linking
Tubi documents casting from its mobile app to Chromecast-supported TVs and AirPlay to Apple TV or AirPlay 2-compatible smart TVs. For Chromecast, put the phone and TV or receiver on the same Wi-Fi, open Tubi, tap the Cast icon, select the device, choose a video, and press Play. For AirPlay, open Tubi’s Cast menu on an iOS device and select an available Apple TV or AirPlay 2 TV on the same network.
Rank #2
- Perfect HD Quality HDMI Dongle：The wireless HDMI adapter can support HD video output and high-quality sound effect output, greatly enhances your visual effects, and lets you share many excellent videos and pictures with your families and friends.
- 5G Super Stable WIFI：Our wireless HDMI display dongle is equipped with smart dual-band 2.4G/5G WiFi signal strength that is 30% higher than that of an external antenna. Eliminate the trouble of not receiving the signal due to the loss of external antenna. Enjoy ultra stable, low latency HD video streaming even on congested networks. Ensure smooth flow of cinema quality visuals, perfect for home entertainment, outdoor movie night or business presentations.
- Easy to operate：Plug and play, no driver and APP required, say goodbye to cumbersome steps and cables, just connect the external WLAN antenna to easily receive wireless signals. Please read the setup details to learn how to connect this WiFi wireless receiver to your router. (⚠️Note: Charging plug is not included in the package)
- Flexible Screen Switching： Provides two options: mirror mode and extended mode. Mirror mode is suitable for sharing videos, photos and presentations. Extended mode allows multitasking. The unique extended mode allows you to turn off the screen or perform other operations after you play a video, ensuring uninterrupted entertainment and work. In addition, our 4K wireless HDMI adapter also supports horizontal and vertical screens to meet your various screen needs.
- Flexible Screen Switching： Provides two options: mirror mode and extended mode. Mirror mode is suitable for sharing videos, photos and presentations. Extended mode allows multitasking. The unique extended mode allows you to turn off the screen or perform other operations after you play a video, ensuring uninterrupted entertainment and work. In addition, our 4K wireless HDMI adapter also supports horizontal and vertical screens to meet your various screen needs.
If Tubi is installed on both the phone and TV, Tubi also documents a linking option for Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, and Google TV. Tubi recommends Linking for its service and says it may be more reliable than casting or mirroring; that is Tubi’s guidance, not an independent comparison. See Tubi’s mobile-to-TV setup guide.
Roku: supported app casting or mirroring
For Roku app casting, the streaming service must support the method and its matching app must be installed on both the phone and Roku. Connect them to the same wireless network, open the phone app, tap its Cast control, and select the Roku. The Roku TV app may launch automatically; the Cast control may appear only after playback begins. Roku explains the requirement this way: “To use casting, the supported app must be installed on both your mobile device and your Roku streaming device.” See Roku’s casting help.
Rank #3
- iOS ONLY = ZERO COMPATIBILITY HEADACHES — Unlike adapters that claim "works with all devices" but fail on Android due to brand/model/OS differences, this adapter is designed exclusively for iPhone & iPad (iOS 7+). No app downloads, no Bluetooth pairing, no WiFi needed — just plug in and your screen mirrors instantly. Works with iPhone 16/15/14/13/12/11 and all iPad models.
- 📺 MIRROR EVERYTHING EXCEPT DRM-PROTECTED CONTENT — Stream YouTube, TikTok, Photos, Safari, Games, PowerPoint and most apps to any HDMI TV, monitor or projector in crisp 1080P HD. Note: Netflix, Disney+ and other DRM-protected streaming apps cannot be mirrored (this applies to ALL wireless HDMI adapters, not just ours). Perfect for presentations, travel entertainment, and sharing memories on the big screen.
- ⚡ 3-STEP SETUP IN 10 SECONDS — ① Connect iShare HDMI adapter to TV ② Use a 5A/1A adapter (not included) to power the device for best streaming quality ③ Select HDMI input on TV remote. That's it. No app, no account, no configuration. Works on any TV or monitor with HDMI port. Includes 1x iShare Wireless Adapter + 1x USB charging cable.
- 🏆 4.1★ RATING FROM VERIFIED iOS USERS — While most wireless HDMI adapters average 3.3–3.5★ due to Android compatibility complaints, our iOS-focused design means buyers know exactly what they're getting. 500+ real reviews from iPhone and iPad users who successfully mirror to their TVs daily.
- 📱 COMPATIBILITY: iPhone 17/16/15/14/13/12/11/X/8/7/6/5, iPad Air/Mini/Pro (all Lightning and USB C port models). NOT compatible with: Android phones, Windows PC, Mac. OUTPUT: 1080P 30Hz HD video + audio sync. PACKAGE: 1x iShare Wireless HDMI Adapter + 1x USB power cable. Questions? Contact us — we respond within 24 hours.
Roku also supports screen mirroring from compatible Android and Windows devices; Apple devices use AirPlay on compatible Roku models. Support depends on the precise phone and Roku model. Roku lists model exceptions, so check your device under Settings > System > About and consult Roku’s model and mirroring guidance.
Pluto TV: use a supported app or browser
Pluto TV offers free movies through official apps and web viewing. Its device information lists Android mobile, Apple TV, Fire TV, and browser access. That does not establish that every phone-and-TV combination supports casting: look for a casting control in the current app and confirm support for your platform and region. See Pluto TV’s device listing.
Rank #4
- True Wireless Freedom: The wireless HDMI display adapter is plug and play, no app, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi required. Simply plug in your device for instant screen mirroring. Free from cables, enjoy seamless sharing for casting video, audio and files
- High-Definition Screen Sharing: Our Wireless HDMI Adapter supports 4K decoding and 1080p Full HD output. You can project videos, photos, and presentations from your iPhone/iPad onto TV/monitor in stunning HD quality for a crisp, clear picture
- Ultra Convenient Setup: Simply plug the mirroring cable into your TV/monitor/projector/other device. Then tap Screen Mirroring on your phone/iPad/computer. Finally, enter the dynamic password that appears on the screen for first-time use only
- Wide Compatibility: This wireless HDMI supports AirPlay and Miracast, compatible with Windows 10 or later, macOS, iOS, and Android devices. It works with iPhone 17/16/15/iPad/iPad Pro/iPad Air/Samsung S26/Google Pixel/Sony Z, and more
- Portable Cable Design: Compact and lightweight design allows you to carry it with you and enjoy wirelessly projecting content from your phone, tablet, or laptop to a big screen anytime, anywhere for movies, games, or business presentations
Casting versus screen mirroring: what is the difference?
| Route | What appears on the TV | What the phone does | What must be compatible |
|---|---|---|---|
| App casting | The selected video plays on the TV or receiver. | After playback starts, you can use the phone for other tasks; Roku says its casting method can continue if the phone is powered off. | The app and receiver must support the same casting route. Roku app casting also requires the matching app on both devices. |
| Screen mirroring | The phone’s screen is duplicated, including its interface. | The phone remains active and controls playback. | The phone’s operating system and model, and the TV or receiver model, must support a compatible mirroring or AirPlay method. |
Roku describes these differences in its casting help. Mirroring is a possible fallback when an app has no Cast control, but it is not guaranteed to work with every phone, receiver, app, or video. It also does not bypass an app’s playback restrictions.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWhy can’t I see my TV in the Cast list?
- Check app support. The streaming app must support casting to that receiver; a smart TV alone does not make every app cast-compatible.
- Check the network. Put the phone and receiver on the same Wi-Fi network. A guest or isolated network may prevent devices from discovering one another.
- Update the app and receiver. Google recommends using the latest version of a Cast-enabled app. Also check for available receiver software updates.
- Allow local-network access on iPhone or iPad. iOS 14 and later require Local Network access for Google Cast device discovery. Allow the streaming app to access the local network when prompted; Tubi also calls out this permission in its setup guide.
- Restart the devices. If the receiver still does not appear, restart the phone and TV or receiver, and reconnect both to the same network. Roku includes restarts and reconnecting devices among its mirroring troubleshooting steps.
What if the app has no casting button?
Check whether the service has an app for your TV or streaming device; using that app avoids relying on phone-to-TV casting. For Tubi, its documented Linking option is another route when the service is installed on both devices. You can also try system-level screen mirroring if your particular phone and receiver support it, with the understanding that the entire phone screen appears on the TV and the phone must stay active.
Best Value
- Seamless HD Wireless Streaming: Experience crisp, high-definition visuals with our wireless HDMI display dongle adapter, supporting 4K and delivers an impressive 1080P/60Hz Full HD output.
- Plug & Play: No apps, no Bluetooth, no Wifi required, one-click to mirror the screen of mobile phones or laptops to a big screen, with support for privacy mode and one-click disconnect. The Wireless Display Adapter can easily switch between landscape and portrait mode to enhance your viewing experience
- Stable Transmission, Low Latency: Featuring 2.4/5GHz dual-band high-speed antennas, the wireless HDMI display adapter ensures stable transmission and high-quality video decoding. It boasts a transmission distance of up to 16 feet/5 meters and an impressively low latency of only 100ms.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: This portable Wireless HDMI Dongle Adapter supports Airplay for Apple IOS and MAC systems and Miracast for Android and Windows systems. Its powerful Integrated chipset ensures compatibility with a wide range of HDMI output devices. Easily switch between landscape and portrait modes for a versatile viewing experience. It's perfect choice for conference rooms, home entertainment, and multimedia education
- App Limitations: Please be aware that certain apps with "HDCP" protocol, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Videos, Hulu, Comcast TV, Xfinity, Vudu, Sky Go, BT Sport, may not be supported due to copyright protection.
If your TV lacks a compatible built-in receiver, an external streaming device may add one. Google lists Google TV Streamer (4K) as a Google Cast endpoint. Before buying hardware, check the TV’s existing features, available HDMI connection and power, phone compatibility, service support, region, and the device’s current specifications and price. No receiver is a universal solution for every app or phone.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
