When 'casting' to another device, such as a Chromecast or Apple TV, that device takes over the job of showing videos, photos or music. Screen mirroring is technically not the same as casting, but it is another way of sharing content from one device to another and the two terms are often confused. Likewise, a search of app stores will turn up numerous other apps that can stream from computer to TV using the hardware listed above and the same basic ideas.

Some of these connect with different software, or work differently with your TV. Miracast, Amazon Fire Stick, and Roku are some other popular options. While we've shown some easy and popular methods for screen casting, there are plenty of other media devices out there, aside from Chromecast and Apple TV. The paid version unlocks the ability to add subtitles and create playlists that auto-play the next video. You can also download the Videostream app on Android or iOS to control video playback or select new videos from your phone or tablet, so long as Videostream is open on your computer. Videostream shares video to Chromecast via the Google Chrome web browser, which you will need installed on your computer. Windows PC or Mac with Google Chrome browser installed.Some paid features ($2 per month, $21 per year, or $49 for lifetime).

I get the google chrome logo when trying to cast