Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
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
For the most reliable connection, connect the laptop to the TCL TV with HDMI, then choose the matching HDMI input on the TV. For wireless use, first identify the TV platform: Google TV supports casting from Chrome and Chromecast-enabled apps, while select TCL Roku TVs support Windows screen mirroring or AirPlay. Those wireless methods do not all mirror the entire laptop screen.
Choose the connection that matches what you want to do
Connecting a laptop can mean displaying the whole desktop, extending the desktop as a second screen, or sending video from a supported app. HDMI can carry the laptop display to the TV. Wireless casting may send only a tab or media, depending on the app and method.
| Method | Best fit | Main dependency | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI | A direct laptop display connection | A compatible laptop video output and an available TV HDMI input | A cable runs between the devices; an adapter may be needed. |
| Chrome or app casting | Castable browser content or media to TCL Google TV | Both devices on the same Wi-Fi network and a supported Cast option | Casting content is not necessarily full-desktop mirroring. |
| Windows screen mirroring | A Windows laptop and compatible TCL Roku TV | Screen Mirroring enabled on the TV and wireless display support on the laptop | Compatibility can vary by TV model and computer. |
| AirPlay | A Mac and a supported TCL Roku TV | Compatible model and Roku OS, with AirPlay enabled | AirPlay is not available on every TCL TV. |
Connect with an HDMI cable
- Check the laptop for an HDMI video output and the TCL TV for an available HDMI input. If the laptop has a different port, confirm that it outputs video and choose a compatible adapter.
- Connect the cable to the laptop and the TV.
- Using the TCL remote, select the HDMI input where the cable is connected.
- On the laptop, choose whether to mirror or extend the display if you want to change how the TV is used. The exact display controls depend on the laptop’s operating system.
A USB-C-to-HDMI adapter works only if that USB-C port supports video output through DisplayPort Alternate Mode. Check the laptop specifications or manual before buying an adapter; the shape of a USB-C connector alone does not confirm video support. TCL also describes converting a DisplayPort output to HDMI with an adapter. TCL’s HDMI and wireless connection guide.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Cast from Chrome or an app to TCL Google TV
TCL’s Google TV casting guidance covers the current Chrome browser and Chromecast-enabled apps when the laptop and TV are on the same Wi-Fi network. This is a way to send supported content; it does not establish that the TV accepts Windows’ Miracast “Connect to a wireless display” projection method. TCL Google TV casting support.
#1 Best Overall
- 4K HDMI Cable: Male to Male HDMI Cable Supports 4K Video @ 60Hz, 2K, 1080P, 48 bit/px HDR color depth, TrueHD 7.1, Audio Return Channel (ARC) & Ethernet
- Premium Quality HDMI Cable: This HDMI cable has 30WG copper wire, triple tin shielded in a double braided premium nylon with gold plated corrosion resistant connectors for guaranteed top tier image & sound
- Full Compatibility: High speed 4K HDMI cable supports 18Gbps transfer and is backwards compatible with earlier versions of HDMI cable (1.3/1.4/2.0/2.0a) NOT for 8K
- Universal HDMI Cable: Works with all of your HDMI devices. Compatible with Blu-ray players, Fire TV, Apple TV, PS5, PS4, XBox One, Nintendo Switch, computer, laptop, monitor, projector and more. An essential HDMI cable for all of your home & office devices
- 10 Feet 1 Pack: One 10 ft HDMI cables (3 meters) thickness 0.24 inches (6 mm)
- Connect the laptop and TCL Google TV to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open the content in Chrome or a Chromecast-enabled app.
- Select the Cast control and choose the TCL Google TV.
- To stop casting, use the Cast control again and disconnect.
Many Chromebook casting needs can use Chrome’s Cast feature under the same network and support conditions. A TCL Google TV with Chromecast built-in does not need an additional Chromecast for supported casting.
Mirror a Windows laptop to TCL Roku TV
TCL documents Windows screen mirroring for Roku TV. On the TV, go to Settings > System > Screen mirroring and enable the feature. Then use the wireless display or projection control on the Windows laptop and select the Roku TV. The exact Windows label varies by version, and success depends on compatibility between the laptop and TV. TCL’s Roku screen mirroring support.
Rank #2
- 【HDMI 2.1 Certification】Only 1% of HDMI cables on the market have passed HDMI 2.1 certification. Scan with the QR code Scanner app for verification
- 【120Hz/144Hz Gaming Excellence】Elevate your gaming experience with smooth 4K@120Hz gameplay for PS5 and Xbox, and ultra-responsive 4K@144Hz for PC. Whether you’re pushing your console or PC to the limit, enjoy unparalleled performance across all platforms(Requires game to support 4K@120Hz)
- 【Exclusive "E-Braid" Technology】Experience unprecedented durability with our unique double-layer fishnet winding and nylon braiding techniques. Copper cores and ferrite magnetic beads ensure uninterrupted signals, eliminating black screens and flickering
- 【HDMI 2.1-48Gbps Bandwidth】Unleash the full potential of your devices with lightning-fast data transfer rates, ensuring seamless connectivity for all your high-definition needs
- 【Next-Level Resolution Support】Dive into the future with support for mind-blowing resolutions, including 10K 8K@60Hz, 12-bit; 5K@120Hz/90Hz, 12-bit; 4K@144Hz/120Hz, 12-bit; and 2K@240Hz/165Hz
TCL says Apple devices are not supported by this particular Roku screen-mirroring method. For a Mac, check whether the TV supports AirPlay instead.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Use AirPlay from a Mac with a supported TCL Roku TV
AirPlay is available on select TCL Roku TV models, not universally. Confirm that the specific TV model and its Roku OS version meet TCL’s support requirements. With AirPlay available and enabled, select the TV from the Mac’s display settings to use it as a display; if prompted, enter the code shown on the TV. TCL’s AirPlay and HomeKit setup instructions.
Rank #3
- 4K@60Hz Visual Performance - Experience ultra-clear, smooth visuals with HDMI 2.0 support, delivering sharp 4K resolution at 60Hz for fluid motion, detailed clarity, and immersive viewing. Supports HDR, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Blu-ray with 3D technology in 1080P & 2160P
- High-Speed 18Gbps Transmission – supports up to 18Gbps & ethernet channel speed upto 100 Mbps for fast, stable signal transfer, ensuring seamless audio-video sync, reduced lag, and uninterrupted streaming or gaming sessions.
- Premium Build – This cable is designed with pure copper conductors and 24K gold-plated connectors to minimize signal loss, resist corrosion, and deliver consistent high-definition performance, while the PVC jacket ensures durability and flexibility.
- Wide Device Compatibility - Wozoyo HDMI cables work seamlessly with TVs, gaming consoles (PS5, PS4, Xbox, etc.), laptops, monitors, and streaming devices for easy screen mirroring or extended display setups.
- Warranty - Covered by a 2-year warranty, the Wozoyo HDMI cables ensures reliable performance, long-lasting durability, and consistent high-speed connectivity.
If the TV is powered off and does not appear, TCL suggests enabling Fast TV Start so the TV maintains network connectivity.
Troubleshoot a laptop that cannot connect
The TCL Google TV does not appear in Cast
- Confirm that the laptop and TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Check that the Chromecast built-in system app is enabled on the TV.
- Restart the TV and check for a system update.
Windows cannot find the Roku TV
- On the TV, verify that Settings > System > Screen mirroring is enabled.
- Use Windows’ wireless display or projection control.
- Check compatibility: TCL’s guidance does not guarantee every laptop and Roku TV combination will work.
A Mac cannot find the Roku TV
- Confirm that the exact TV model and Roku OS version support AirPlay.
- Check that AirPlay is enabled in the TV settings and both devices use the same wireless network.
- If the TV is powered off, try enabling Fast TV Start.
The TV shows “no signal” over HDMI
- Make sure the TV is set to the HDMI input actually used.
- Check that the laptop is outputting video through the connected port and that any adapter supports that laptop’s video output.
Should you buy an adapter or streaming device?
Check the ports and TV platform before buying anything. An adapter is useful only when it matches a laptop port that supports video output. An external Chromecast may be relevant if the existing TV lacks a compatible built-in casting route and you want wireless casting, but it is not a default requirement for TCL Google TV with Chromecast built-in.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- IN THE BOX: HDMI cable (A Male to A Male) for connecting 2 HDMI-enabled devices; 6 feet long in Black
- DEVICE COMPATIBLE: Connects Blu-ray players, Fire TV, Apple TV, PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and computers to TVs, displays, A/V receivers, and more
- SUPPORTS 4K VIDEO: Supports 4K video at 60 Hz, 2160p, 48-bit/px color depth, as well as bandwidth up to 18Gbps, Ethernet, 3D, and Audio Return Channel (ARC)
- EASY CONNECTION: Share an Internet connection among multiple devices (no need for a separate Ethernet cable)
- BACKWARDS COMPATIBLE: Works with earlier versions to allow for use with a wide range of HDMI-enabled devices
Rank #4
- Top Technology----8K@60HZ: This 8K Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable uses the most cutting-edge technology, is compatible with 8K@60HZ and 4K@120HZ, clearly displays every particle, and accurately processes every signal source
- Upgrade Revolution: Highwings Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable supports 48Gbps (6GB/s) which can will no longer be stuck or dropped frames when watching video. It is also backward compatible with HDMI 2.0b/2.0a/1.4/1.3/1.2/1.1 versions.
- For Game Enthusiasts: This 8K Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable can achieve a super smooth picture of 4K@120HZ. Its latest game mode supports variable refresh rate, maximizes the value of the graphics card and CPU to obtain a smoother and more detailed picture.
- Reinforced high-quality materials: This 8K HDMI Cord uses Highwings' most popular classic style. The tail's anti-bending design has been upgraded to make it more durable. The military grade tensile nylon material also greatly extends its life.
- The ultimate perfectionist: Highwings every parts of the cable has been put through rigorous the performance tests in the laboratory. After we've combined every flawless part into a perfect 8K cable and it can be presented to you.
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.
