Quick Answer
Click the clock to open Quick Settings, select Cast, and choose your Chromecast or smart TV from the list. Both devices need to be on the same Wi-Fi network. For a wired option, connect an HDMI or USB-C to HDMI cable directly.
Casting Wirelessly
Step 1: Confirm both devices share a network
Your Chromebook and your Chromecast or smart TV must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network — casting won’t find devices on a different network or a guest network.
Step 2: Open the Cast menu
Click the clock in the bottom-right corner to open Quick Settings, then click Cast. ChromeOS scans the network and lists any available Chromecast devices or cast-enabled TVs.
Step 3: Choose what to cast
Select a device to mirror your entire desktop, or, within Chrome, right-click a tab and choose Cast to send just that tab instead — useful for streaming video without exposing your whole screen.
Step 4: Stop casting
Open Quick Settings again and click Stop next to the active cast session, or simply close the browser tab if you cast a single tab.
Casting with a Cable Instead
If your Chromebook has an HDMI port, connect it directly to your TV with an HDMI cable. If it only has USB-C, use a USB-C to HDMI adapter or cable. This mirrors the display instantly with no Wi-Fi required — the same physical connection covered in our external monitor connection guide.
Still Not Working?
If no devices appear in the Cast menu, double check that your Chromebook is actually connected to Wi-Fi, not just showing a saved network. Some routers isolate devices from each other for security, which blocks casting even when both are technically online — check your router’s “AP isolation” or “client isolation” setting if casting consistently fails to find a nearby Chromecast.
FAQ
Can I cast without a Chromecast device?
Only if your TV has built-in Chromecast or Google Cast support, common on many smart TVs. Otherwise, a Chromecast dongle plugged into any HDMI port adds the capability.
Why is my casted video laggy or low quality?
This is usually a Wi-Fi bandwidth issue. Move closer to the router, or use a wired HDMI connection instead for demanding content like gaming or video editing.
Does casting drain the battery faster?
Yes, casting keeps Wi-Fi active continuously and, for full desktop mirroring, uses more CPU than normal — expect somewhat faster battery drain during a cast session.
