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To cast Netflix from a phone or tablet, open the Netflix app, sign in if prompted, choose a profile, tap the Cast icon, select a compatible Chromecast, and start a title. Netflix’s mobile-casting instructions list Chromecast (3rd generation or older) without a physical remote; newer remote-equipped devices may require you to open Netflix on the device itself and use its remote.
Before you cast: check your Chromecast, plan, and Wi-Fi
Netflix’s current mobile-casting list is narrower than its general list of devices that can run Netflix. For casting from the Netflix app, it names Chromecast (3rd generation or older) without a physical remote, Google Nest Hub Smart Displays, and select cast-enabled Vizio and Compal TVs. A device being described generally as a Chromecast or streaming player does not establish that it supports this phone-to-device casting flow. See Netflix’s mobile casting instructions and its supported-device information.
- Model: Confirm that your Chromecast is 3rd generation or older and has no physical remote. If your remote-equipped device is not listed for casting, use its remote and Netflix app instead, if available.
- Netflix plan: Netflix says casting or mirroring is available on Standard or Premium plans. Plan names and availability can vary by country or change, so check your current plan in your Netflix account if casting is unavailable.
- Wi-Fi: The phone or tablet and receiver should be on the same Wi-Fi network. Make sure the Chromecast is powered on and connected.
How to cast Netflix from a phone or tablet
- Connect the compatible Chromecast and your phone or tablet to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open the Netflix app on your Android phone, iPhone, or iPad. Sign in if prompted, then choose your profile.
- Tap the Cast icon in the upper-right corner of the app.
- Select your Chromecast from the device list.
- Choose a show or movie and start playback. Use the mobile device to pause, seek, change audio, or adjust subtitles.
Netflix’s casting steps require ordinary Netflix account sign-in; the Chromecast does not create an account or membership. Netflix’s getting-started guidance explains signing in through the app or website. It also distinguishes the number of simultaneous screens allowed by a plan from the number of devices that can be added to an account.
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What to do if the Cast icon is missing or no device appears
Work through these checks in order. Netflix’s troubleshooting instructions are in “Cast device or cast icon isn’t showing in the Netflix app” and “Netflix says ‘No devices found’.”
#1 Best Overall
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
- Confirm casting compatibility. Check that the receiver is on Netflix’s mobile-cast-compatible list. If it is not, navigate to Netflix using the device’s remote and on-device app, if supported.
- Check power and network. Turn on the receiver and confirm that it and the mobile device are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Reconnect the receiver if it is offline.
- Allow local network access on iPhone or iPad. Open Settings → Netflix and enable Local Network.
- Update supporting software. Netflix advises updating Google Home; on Android, it also calls out Google Play Services.
- Check the operating-system version. Netflix’s troubleshooting page specifies Android 9 or later and iOS/iPadOS 16 or later for casting.
- Restart both devices. If the previous checks do not help, fully power off and restart the phone or tablet and the compatible receiver, then try again.
If mobile casting is not an option
| Option | How it works | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix app on the TV or streamer | Open Netflix on the device and control playback with its remote. | Netflix must be available on that model in your region, and you must be able to sign in. Netflix lists supported device categories and provides Google TV Streamer instructions. |
| Wired phone-to-TV connection | Connect the phone to the display using a supported video cable or adapter. | Check that the phone supports video output, the adapter matches its port, and the display has a compatible input. Netflix notes that not every device or adapter is supported. |
Netflix says AirPlay is not supported. It also cautions that some screen-mirroring methods and apps may not work, so mirroring is not a dependable substitute for a compatible Cast receiver. Netflix’s mobile-device guidance covers wired connections and these limitations.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Essential 4K streaming – Get everything you need to stream in brilliant 4K Ultra HD with High Dynamic Range 10+ (HDR10+).
- The newest Fire TV experience (2026) – Our biggest update to Fire TV has a new, modern design that gets you to your entertainment fast. Browse dedicated content categories, pin more of your favorite apps, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+. Spend less time scrolling, and more time watching.
- Make your TV even smarter – Fire TV gives you instant access to a world of content, tailor-made recommendations, and Alexa, all backed by fast performance.
- All your favorite apps in one place – Experience endless entertainment with access to Prime Video, Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Apple TV+, HBO Max, Hulu, Peacock, Paramount+, and thousands more. Easily discover what to watch from hundreds of thousands of movies and TV episodes (subscription fees may apply), including free, ad-supported content.
- Getting set up is easy – Plug in and connect to Wi-Fi for smooth streaming.
Rank #4
- Watch the entertainment you love with Chromecast with Google TV, including live TV in up to 4K HDR; discover over 700,000 movies and TV episodes, plus millions of songs
- Get fast streaming, and enjoy a crystal clear picture up to 4K and brighter colors with HDR
- Your home screen displays movies and TV shows from all your services in one place with Chromecast 4K; get personal recommendations based on your subscriptions, viewing habits, and content you own
- Press the Google Assistant button on the remote and use voice search to find specific shows, youtube tv streaming, or search by mood, genre, actress, and more; control the volume, switch inputs, play music, and get answers, hands-free
- Chromecast is easy to install and compatible with almost any TV that has an HDMI port; to get started, just plug it into your TV’s HDMI port, connect to Wi-Fi, and start streaming
Rank #3
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
Rank #2
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
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