While the Roku streaming platform offers an easy and convenient way to access and enjoy all your favorite content on your TV, there are times when you may want to project the content from your device or computer directly onto your Roku.
This is where top screen mirroring apps for Roku comes into play – an ingenious functionality that lets you share your device’s screen with your TV.
Important: Everything you need to know about screen mirroring on Roku
Furthermore, while some apps are free, others may require a purchase or subscription. This guide will provide you the best screen mirroring and casting apps for Roku (free & paid), along with a valuable how-to guide to make your experience as smooth as possible.
- Do I really need an App in order to Screen Mirror on Roku??
- Best screen mirroring apps for Roku & Roku TV (Free & paid)
- What to do when screen mirroring apps won't work?
- Pros and cons of using an app for screen mirroring and casting to Roku
- How we chose and ranked the best Screen mirroring & casting apps for Roku
- How to use a third party app for casting to Roku
Do I really need an App in order to Screen Mirror on Roku??
No, A third party app is not always required for screen mirroring. For example, Many Samsung smartphones like the Galaxy models have a built-in featured called ‘Smart view’ to mirror your screen and Cast to Roku.
On the other hand, the Google pixel has its own casting connection options. While iPhone uses Airplay for screen mirroring on Roku, but there are also third party apps you can download to cast to Roku that we’ll go into further detail on.
We explain how to cast to Roku from any device without any complications: How to screen mirror to Roku
Pro tip:
Here are the Best screen mirroring apps for Roku & Roku TV (Free & paid):
- 1. AirPlay – Best for iOS & Mac
- 2. Google Home – Best for Android devices
- 3. Smart View Cast – Best for Samsung galaxy devices
- 4. AirDroid Roku app – A Top third party app
- 5. AirBeamTV Roku screen mirroring app A balanced Top third party app
- 6. Web Video Caster – My personal favorite because it allows for a Roku web browser in addition to mirroring
- 7. LetsView
- 8. TV Cast
- 9. MirrorMeister
- 10. AllCast
- 11. Castto
- 12. ApowerMirror
- 13. EasyCast
- 14. Screen Mirroring for Roku Cast
Also see: What to do when Screen mirroring to Roku from iPhone or Android doesn’t work
Best screen mirroring apps for Roku & Roku TV (Free & paid)
Below we will cover the best screen mirroring ^ casting apps for Roku & Roku TV. These include both native and third party apps and some may only be supported on certain devices like the iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, Android devices and other smartphones, tablets, and PCs.
1. AirPlay
AirPlay is a proprietary protocol developed by Apple Inc. that allows wireless streaming of multimedia content between devices. It is a built-in feature on all Apple devices and is also supported on many third-party devices, including Roku.
View: How to use airplay with Roku
With AirPlay, you can easily mirror your iPhone, iPad, or Mac screen to your Roku device.
This also works for casting from iPhone in general. See our list of the 7 Best Screen Mirroring Apps for iPhone (Tested for streaming)
One advantage of using AirPlay is its seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. If you’re an Apple user, you can start mirroring your screen with just a few taps. However, keep in mind that AirPlay is not available on Android or Windows devices.
2. Google Home
Google Home is another excellent option for screen mirroring to your Roku device. This app is designed to help you manage and control your Google Home and Chromecast devices, but it also has a built-in screen mirroring feature.
With Google Home, you can mirror your Android device’s screen to your Roku device (see entire screen mirroring guide for Roku here)
Unlike AirPlay, Google Home is available on both Android and iOS devices. However, the screen mirroring feature is only available on Android.
One advantage of using Google Home is its compatibility with a wide range of devices, including not only Roku but also Chromecast and other Google Home devices.
View: Do Rokus have chromecast?
3. Smart View Cast
Smart View Cast is a third-party app designed specifically for screen mirroring. It allows you to mirror your Android device’s screen to your Roku device, as well as other devices that support DLNA or Miracast.
Smart view cast is built in, as mentioned earlier, you can see exactly how to use smartview for mirroring to Roku from a samsung, google pixel, and other devices.
One advantage of using Smart View Cast is its user-friendly interface. I found that the The app is easy to set up and use, even for those who are not tech-savvy. However, keep in mind that Smart View Cast is only available on Android devices.
Also see: we can show you how to connect roku tv to wifi without remote.
4. AirDroid Roku app
AirDroid is a popular app that allows you to manage and control your Android device from your computer. With the AirDroid Roku app, you can also mirror your Android device’s screen to your Roku device.
One advantage of using the AirDroid Roku app is its wide range of features. In addition to screen mirroring, the app also allows you to transfer files between your Android device and your computer, send and receive text messages from your computer, and more.
5. AirBeamTV Roku screen mirroring app
AirBeamTV is another third-party app that allows you to mirror your screen to your Roku device. It supports a wide range of devices, including not only Roku but also Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, and more.
One advantage of using AirBeamTV is its support for both Android and iOS devices. However, keep in mind that the iOS version of the app requires a one-time purchase.
6. Web Video Caster
The Web Video Caster app for Roku is one of my favorites because not only does it allow you mirror your screen from almost any device, but it allows you to cast a web browser on Roku.
The Web Video Caster app stands out as a potent solution for those who wish to mirror or stream internet and video content onto their Roku devices.
Diving deeper into the features, the app not only allows users to cast videos and web content, but also boasts functionalities such as IPTV, phone file playback, access to recent media, playlists, bookmarks, browser history, and more.
See: How to install and watch IPTV on Roku
Yet, while the app seems promising, potential users should be prepared to troubleshoot occasional issues like audio-video syncing or connection errors. Nonetheless, its comprehensive features make it a top contender in the Roku screen mirroring realm.
7. LetsView
LetsView is a free screen mirroring app that supports a wide range of devices, including Roku. With LetsView, you can mirror your Android, iOS, or Windows device’s screen to your Roku device.
Another benefit of using LetsView is its support for screen recording. This means you can record your screen while you’re mirroring it, which can be useful for creating tutorials, presentations, and more.
8. TV Cast
TV Cast is a third-party app that allows you to cast videos, music, and photos from your mobile device to your Roku device. While it’s not a screen mirroring app per se, it can be a good option if you want to cast specific content to your TV.
One advantage of using TV Cast is its support for a wide range of formats, including MP4, MP3, JPG, and more. However, keep in mind that the app requires a one-time purchase.
9. MirrorMeister
MirrorMeister is a third-party screen mirroring app that supports a wide range of devices, including Roku. With MirrorMeister, you can mirror your iPhone, iPad, or Mac screen to your Roku device.
One advantage of using MirrorMeister is its support for both video and audio mirroring. This means you can mirror not only your screen but also your device’s audio to your TV.
Also see: 5 Ways to get Roku Apps on your MacBook or Laptop
10. AllCast
AllCast is a popular app that allows you to cast photos, music, and videos from your Android or iOS device to your Roku device. While it’s not a screen mirroring app per se, it can be a good option if you want to cast specific content to your TV.
One advantage of using AllCast is its support for a wide range of devices, including not only Roku but also Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, and more.
11. Castto
Castto is a free screen mirroring app that allows you to mirror your Android device’s screen to your Roku device. The app is easy to set up and use, and it supports a wide range of devices.
When I tested this app, I found I really liked that Castto as it has support for both video and audio mirroring. This means you can mirror not only your screen but also your device’s audio to your TV.
12. ApowerMirror
ApowerMirror is a powerful screen mirroring app that supports a wide range of devices, including Roku. With ApowerMirror, you can mirror your Android, iOS, or Windows device’s screen to your Roku device.
One advantage of using ApowerMirror is its wide range of features. In addition to screen mirroring, the app also allows you to take screenshots, record your screen, and more.
13. EasyCast
EasyCast is a free screen mirroring app that allows you to mirror your Android device’s screen to your Roku device. The app is easy to set up and use, and it supports a wide range of devices.
One advantage of using EasyCast is its support for both video and audio mirroring. This means you can mirror not only your screen but also your device’s audio to your TV.
14. Screen Mirroring for Roku Cast
Screen Mirroring for Roku Cast is a third-party app that allows you to mirror your Android device’s screen to your Roku device. The app is easy to set up and use, and it supports a wide range of devices.
One advantage of using Screen Mirroring for Roku Cast is its support for both video and audio mirroring. This means you can mirror not only your screen but also your device’s audio to your TV.
What to do when screen mirroring apps won’t work?
If you’re having trouble with a screen mirroring app, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take. First, make sure your Roku device and your mobile device are both connected to the same Wi-Fi network. If they’re on different networks, the screen mirroring app may not be able to establish a connection.
To solve for this view: How to Fix Screen Mirroring and Casting Not Working on Roku
Next, check to see if your Roku device and your mobile device are both updated to the latest software version. Outdated software can sometimes cause compatibility issues with screen mirroring apps.
If you’re still having trouble, try restarting both your Roku device and your mobile device. Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve any temporary software glitches that may be causing the problem.
Lastly, if all else fails, you may want to try a different screen mirroring app. Not all apps are compatible with all devices, so it may be a matter of finding the right app for your specific device.
Pros and cons of using an app for screen mirroring and casting to Roku
Pros of using an app
Using a screen mirroring or casting app can greatly enhance your viewing experience. For starters, it allows you to display content from your mobile device or computer onto your TV, which can be much more enjoyable thanks to the larger screen size. This can be especially beneficial when watching movies, playing games, or showing off your latest vacation photos.
Another advantage of using a screen mirroring or casting app is that it can make sharing content with others much easier. Instead of everyone crowding around your small device screen, you can simply mirror your screen onto your TV so everyone can see.
Discover: Everything you need to know about roku bluetooth in our blog post.
Finally, many screen mirroring and casting apps also offer additional features, such as the ability to record your screen, take screenshots, and more. These features can be very useful in certain situations, such as when giving a presentation or creating a tutorial.
Related: Check out our post on the Best free roku remote apps that also includes online options.
Cons of using an app
While screen mirroring and casting apps offer many benefits, they also have a few downsides. For one, not all apps are compatible with all devices. This means you may need to try several different apps before you find one that works with your specific device.
Another potential downside is that screen mirroring and casting can sometimes be a bit laggy, especially if you’re trying to mirror high-quality video or complex games. This can lead to a less-than-ideal viewing experience.
Finally, while many screen mirroring and casting apps are free, some require a one-time purchase or a subscription. This can add an extra cost to your viewing experience, especially if you’re already paying for a streaming service.
Side Note: Have a look at our post on Roku tips you can use.
How we chose and ranked the best Screen mirroring & casting apps for Roku
Choosing and ranking the best screen mirroring and casting apps for Roku is not an easy task. There are many factors to consider, including compatibility, ease of use, features, and user reviews.
First and foremost, we looked at compatibility. The best screen mirroring and casting apps should support a wide range of devices, including not only Roku but also Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac devices.
Next, we considered ease of use. The best apps should be easy to set up and use, even for those who are not tech-savvy. They should also offer clear instructions and helpful customer support.
We also looked at the features offered by each app. The best apps should offer not only screen mirroring and casting, but also additional features such as screen recording, screenshot taking, and more.
Finally, we considered user reviews. The best apps should have positive reviews from users who have tried and tested them. We looked at both the quantity and quality of reviews, as well as the overall rating.
Check out our post What is the best streaming device?
How to use a third party app for casting to Roku
Using a third-party app for casting to Roku is usually quite straightforward. Here’s a general guide on how to do it:
- Download and install the app on your mobile device or computer.
- Make sure your Roku device and your mobile device or computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to connect your device to your Roku device.
- Once connected, you can start casting content from your device to your Roku device.
Keep in mind that the exact steps may vary depending on the specific app you’re using. Be sure to check the app’s instructions or help section for more detailed instructions.
You could also use Vlc on Roku, see How to Cast Videos from VLC to ANY Smart TV (Mac & Windows).
Screen mirroring vs screen casting
While the terms “screen mirroring” and “screen casting” are often used interchangeably, they actually refer to two slightly different things.
Screen mirroring refers to the process of duplicating your device’s screen onto another display. This means that whatever you see on your device’s screen will also appear on the other display. This can be useful for sharing photos, videos, presentations, and more.
Screen casting, on the other hand, refers to the process of sending video and audio content from your device to another display. Unlike screen mirroring, screen casting does not display your device’s screen on the other display. Instead, it only displays the specific content you’re casting.
Side Note: I’ve learned there are different ways of connecting a device like the iPhone to Roku. Screen mirroring and casting are just one of 4. See a few more different ways of connecting your iPhone to Roku here.
Both screen mirroring and screen casting can be useful in different situations. For example, screen mirroring can be useful when you want to share your entire screen with others, while screen casting can be useful when you want to watch a movie or listen to music on a larger display.
Also see: how to hook up Roku.
Alternatives to third party apps
While third-party apps can be a great way to mirror your screen or cast content to your Roku device, they’re not the only option. Depending on your device and your Roku model, you may be able to use built-in features for screen mirroring or casting.
For example, many Android devices support a feature called Miracast, which allows you to mirror your screen to a compatible TV or streaming device. Similarly, Apple devices support a feature called AirPlay, which allows you to cast content to a compatible TV or streaming device.
If you have a Roku TV, you may also be able to use a feature called CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) to control your TV and other devices with a single remote. This can make it easier to switch between different inputs and control your devices.
See our post on: Do you need a Roku stick with a Smart TV?
Analyzing User Reviews
When choosing a screen mirroring or casting app, it’s always a good idea to check user reviews. User reviews can give you a good idea of what to expect from an app, including its ease of use, performance, and compatibility with different devices.
When analyzing user reviews, look for common themes. For example, if many users are complaining about the same issue, such as lag or compatibility problems, it’s likely that you’ll encounter the same issue.
Also, pay attention to the overall rating. While it’s not the only factor to consider, a high overall rating can be a good indication of a quality app.
You can see how we chose which Roku streaming player is the best where we considered user reviews and feedback comprehensively.
See our comparison review of two streaming devices the Roku vs Google Chromecast.
FAQ
In this section, we’ll answer some common questions about screen mirroring and casting to Roku.
- Can I mirror my iPhone to Roku with an app?
Yes, you can mirror your iPhone to Roku using a third-party app like AirBeamTV or MirrorMeister. However, keep in mind that not all Roku devices support screen mirroring, and the ones that do may not support all third-party apps. - Can I cast from my Android device to Roku?
Yes, you can cast from your Android device to Roku using a third-party app like Google Home or Smart View Cast. Again, make sure your Roku device is compatible with the app you’re using. - Do I need a Wi-Fi connection to mirror or cast to Roku?
Yes, both your Roku device and your mobile device or computer need to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network in order to mirror or cast. - Can I mirror or cast to Roku without a third-party app?
Depending on your device and your Roku model, you may be able to use built-in features for screen mirroring or casting without needing a third-party app. However, these features may not be available on all devices or Roku models. - Why is my screen mirroring or casting app not working?
If your screen mirroring or casting app is not working, make sure your Roku device and your mobile device or computer are both updated to the latest software and connected to the same Wi-Fi network. If you’re still having trouble, try restarting both devices, or try a different app.