How to Stream Games from PC to TV

If you’re anything like me, you’ve been trying to figure out how to stream your PC games to your TV. Let me tell you, it’s not as straightforward as it seems. I spent many hours trying to figure out the best way to do this and had some successes and some failures. But I’m here to share what I learned! In this blog post, I’ll be walking you through the ins and outs of streaming games from PC to TV, sharing tips, tricks, and resources to help you along the way.

Streaming video games from a PC to a TV can be done by using a Google Chromecast device, Nvidia GameStream, or Steam Remote Play.

Method	Requirements	Pros	Cons
Chromecast	Google account, Chromecast device, same WiFi network	Convenient, easy to set up	Possible lag, not the most effective
Nvidia GameStream	Nvidia Shield TV, GTX 650+ graphics card, 4GB+ RAM, Windows 7+	Smooth experience, optimized for gaming	Requires specific hardware and software
Limelight	Android 4.1+ TV, GTX 600+ graphics card, 5 GHz internet connection	Free alternative to Shield TV, streamlined streaming	Third-party software, may have compatibility issues
Steam Remote Play	Steam Link device or compatible smart TV, Steam-supported games	Specifically designed for gaming, seamless integration	Only works with Steam-supported games

Table of Contents

4 Ways to Stream PC Games to Your TV

Here are some of the most effective methods available for streaming video games from your PC to your TV.

Using Chromecast

One way you can enjoy your favorite games on your TV screen is to use a Google Chromecast device. Chromecast is a quick and efficient way to mirror your PC’s screen onto your TV.

To use this method, you’re going to need a valid Google account. You’ll also need to connect your computer and Chromecast device to the same WiFi network.

Once you’re signed in, and all devices are connected, here’s what you need to do:

Using your TV remote, switch to the same input your Chromecast is plugged into by selecting ‘Source’ and then selecting the corresponding HDMI input.
Then, power on your PC and start up the game you want to play.
Next, launch the Google Chrome browser and click on the three-dotted icon located on the right-hand side of the address bar.

Click on ‘Cast’ and select Desktop as the source.
Finally, choose your Chromecast device.

While this method is one of the most convenient and easy ways to cast PC games onto the TV, it isn’t the most effective.

You’re likely to experience considerable lag when playing a game being cast to a TV using a Chromecast. This may also happen if you have a stable internet connection.

Using Nvidia GameStream

Another way to cast PC games to your TV is by using Nvidia GameStream. This method works best when used with an Nvidia Shield TV.

It also requires your PC to have a GTX 650 graphics card, at least 4GB RAM, and a system software version of Windows 7 or higher. You’ll also need a 5GHz internet connection to ensure a smooth experience.

Make sure to also have Geforce Experience installed on your PC to be able to access Nvidia GameStream.

Using Nvidia GameStream With Shield TV

Here are the steps you’ll need to follow to cast PC games to your TV using Nvidia GameStream via a Shield TV:

Log into your Geforce Experience account on your PC. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one.

Launch the settings menu, click on the Shield section, and enable the GameStream feature.
Next, switch on your Shield TV and select GameStream from your device’s Home menu.
Then, log in to the service using the same credentials you logged in with on your PC.

Once your Shield TV and PC are synced, the Shield TV will automatically detect any compatible game.
Finally, it’s time to pick the game you want to play, sit back, and enjoy!

Using Nvidia GameStream Without Shield TV

If you don’t have a Shield TV and don’t want to shell out $200 to get one, you can use a great third-party alternative: Limelight.

Limelight is a free software that emulates Shield TV. In addition, it allows you to connect with Nvidia GameStream for more streamlined streaming.

It requires your TV to be equipped with Android 4.1 software. As for the PC, you’ll need a GTX 600 graphics card or higher. You’ll also need a 5 GHz internet connection for optimum results.

Using Steam Remote Play

You can also stream games from your PC to your TV using Steam Remote Play by using a Steam Link device. However, you should note that this method only works for Steam-supported games.

If you have a smart TV, it may have Steam Link equipped without needing any additional hardware.

Here’s what you’re going to need to do:

Launch Steam on your PC and open up the Settings menu.

Click on Remote Play, then click on Pair Steam Link.
On your TV, open up the Settings menu, navigate to Computer, and select your PC from the available devices.
Your TV will show a verification code, which you’ll need to enter into your PC to complete the pairing process.

Conclusion

If your PC’s screen isn’t giving you the immersive experience you’d hoped for when gaming, it may force you to start looking around for a bigger alternative. This is when learning how to stream games from a PC to a TV can come in handy.

Luckily, there are several methods you can use to do this. They include using Google Chromecast, Nvidia GameStream, and Steam Remote Play.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your controller and use these methods to enjoy your favorite games on the big screen!