If you have a laptop computer, one straightforward way to play your movies on your TV is to connect your laptop to your TV. There are two primary methods to achieve this: HDMI or casting.
The first method is to connect your laptop to your TV with an HDMI cord. Make sure your laptop's power cord is also plugged in, as streaming movies to your TV can drain the battery quickly.
Typically, you’ll just connect the laptop to the TV, browse to your thumb drive, and click on your movie to play. This method provides a direct, reliable connection for smooth playback.
Modern "thin" computers, such as Apple’s MacBook line, have recently done away with the HDMI port in favor of the compact USB-C port. If you have a MacBook or another laptop without an HDMI port, you may need to purchase a USB-C to HDMI adapter from Amazon, which typically costs $10-$15.
This is a more advanced method that we only recommend to "techies."
If you prefer to skip the cables, you can cast your screen wirelessly—though this method can sometimes be less reliable than a direct HDMI connection. If you have a smart TV, look for built-in casting options like Screen Mirroring, Chromecast, Miracast, or, if you have an Apple laptop, AirPlay. For casting to work, your laptop and TV must be connected to the same WiFi network.
Ensure that your laptop won’t fall asleep while playing. Sometimes, if the mouse or keyboard isn’t used for 10 minutes or so, your laptop may log off automatically, interrupting your movie. Adjust your power settings to prevent this from happening.
For the best viewing experience, set your video player to fullscreen mode (usually by pressing F11 or clicking the fullscreen icon). You may also need to adjust your resolution settings to match your TV for optimal picture quality.
Jonathan Fouch is the founder of History Creators. He has spent the greater part of his 11-year career helping families build their legacy through technology. You can read his full biography here.
