There are a few ways to connect your tablet to your TV, either wirelessly (by casting or mirroring) or via a cable. However, each method will work best for different types of devices and will require certain hardware.
Wired methods:
If you have an HDMI compatible TV, the easiest and most straightforward way to connect your tablet is through a cable. Most tablets come with a HDMI port, which can be plugged into the back of your TV to transfer audio and video. Some older devices might have micro-HDMI or Mini-HDMI connections, which can also be used with HDMI cables.
You might also want to check if your TV supports HDMI Alt Mode, which is a special version of the standard that allows mobile devices to output video. If it does, you can buy an HDMI adapter that plugs into your tablet’s USB-C port, then connects to your TV via an HDMI cable. This method will take up one of your USB-C ports, but it’s a convenient and affordable option if you have an HDMI-compatible TV.
Wired methods:
Some Android devices can also be connected to your TV through MHL, a wired standard that sends power and audio/video from the device’s micro USB port to your TV. MHL supports many Android smartphones and tablets, so it’s worth checking if yours can be connected to your TV this way.
MHL-compatible TVs, monitors and projectors aren’t always available, but you should be able to find plenty of HDMI-to-MHL cables in the market. If you have a MHL-compatible television, this might be the easiest option to connect your Android tablet to it.
Wireless methods:
If you’re looking for a way to connect your Android tablet to your TV without the need for messy wires or a messy adapter, you might want to consider wireless casting. This works by using an app to create a “cast” from your tablet’s screen, which then sends the content onto your TV in real-time.
AirDroid Cast is a great app that lets you stream your iPad to your television in this manner. It’s free and easy to use, and it connects automatically when you’re within range of your tablet.
Apple’s AirPlay is another simple way to connect your iPhone or iPad to a TV. You’ll need an Apple TV and your tablet to make this work, but it’s a fast and simple way to show your tablet’s contents on your TV.
Similarly, Samsung’s DeX mode is a similar solution for connecting your Galaxy Tab S4 or Tab S5e to your TV in order to display a desktop-like interface. This requires a Samsung DeX-compatible TV and a USB to HDMI adapter, but it’s free and easy to use.
Samsung’s DeX mode is a very useful feature, especially when you have multiple Samsung phones and tablets in the house. It’s a great way to watch movies or play games, and it’s even possible to control your TV through your tablet, if you have the right apps installed.