How to Cast Your Android Screen to Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Mirror Your Android Screen onto a Windows 11 PC

Eager to display your Android phone’s screen on your Windows 11 machine? It’s simpler than you might think. Whether you’re sharing photos, streaming videos, or giving a presentation, casting your Android screen is a handy trick. Just pick up your Android device, connect both to the same Wi-Fi network, and you’re set for a bigger, better view.

Let’s Get Those Screens Talking

Here’s the quick rundown on linking your Android phone to your Windows 11 PC. Sounds straightforward, right? Usually it is—unless you run into the odd hiccup. Just keep calm and carry on.

Check if Your Devices Can Cast

First up, ensure your Android phone and Windows 11 PC are both capable of screen sharing. Most newer Android devices (Android 10 and above) and Windows 11 have casting features built-in. No one wants to spend ages troubleshooting only to find they’re not compatible.

Both Devices Need to Be on the Same Wi-Fi

This is essential — both devices must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network for the magic to happen. If one switches networks mid-stream, it can be a nightmare to get them syncing again. Tip: Keep both close to the router to prevent dropouts.

Enable Screen Mirroring on Your Android

Swipe down from the top of your phone screen to access quick settings. Look for options like “Cast”, “Screen Mirroring”, or “Smart View”. Not seeing it? You might need to customise your quick settings or go into Settings > Connections > Screen Mirroring / Cast. A little poking around never hurt anyone!

Configure Your Windows 11 for Miracast

Now, let’s prepare Windows to receive the cast:

Navigate to Settings > System > Display.
Scroll to Multiple displays and click on Connect to a wireless display (or press Win + K to bring up the connect window).

If your PC doesn’t show the Miracast option, check if your device supports it by running this in PowerShell:

netsh wlan show drivers | findstr /R /C:"Wi-Fi Direct Off"

If it reports Wireless Display Supported as Yes, you’re good to go! If not, it might be time to update your drivers or consider a Miracast dongle.

Select Your PC on Your Phone

Your phone will start scanning for compatible devices. When it finds your Windows 11 PC, tap to connect. If it doesn’t appear, double-check your Wi-Fi settings or verify that your PC has the Wireless Display feature turned on:

Go to Control Panel > Programs > Turn Windows features on or off and ensure Wireless Display is checked.

Approve the Connection on Your PC

When a prompt pops up on your PC, click Accept. If you encounter firewall issues, navigate to Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Firewall & network protection and make sure Wireless Display is allowed through. If all’s well, your Android screen should appear on your Windows display — easy as that!

Tips for a Better Mirroring Experience

Want things to run more smoothly? Keep these handy tips in mind:

Keep both devices close to your Wi-Fi router for a stronger signal. Using the 5 GHz band can help reduce interference.
Make sure your Windows graphics drivers and your Android software are up to date. Head to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates on Windows, and update your phone’s apps too.
If you want audio, consider connecting external speakers or Bluetooth headphones to your PC for better sound quality.
Noticing lag? Close unnecessary background apps or try switching to a wired connection for increased stability.

Common Questions About Casting Android to Windows 11

Is Wi-Fi really necessary for this screen mirroring?

Absolutely. Both devices need to be on the same Wi-Fi network because Miracast uses Wi-Fi Direct to create the connection.

Why isn’t my Windows PC showing up in the device list?

This usually happens if the Wireless Display feature isn’t enabled. Double-check in Settings > Apps > Optional Features or Control Panel > Programs > Turn Windows features on or off. If it’s missing, try running this command in PowerShell:

DISM /Online /Enable-Feature /FeatureName:WirelessDisplay /All

Also, review your network settings — sometimes it’s just a minor configuration glitch.

Do I need extra apps to cast my Android screen?

Most recent Android phones can cast straight out of the box. But if you’re after more features, apps like LetsView or AirDroid offer additional options.

Can I cast via USB instead?

Yes, you can. Using scrcpy, a free tool that works over USB or TCP/IP, you can mirror your phone with low latency. Just run this in your command prompt:

adb devices

Followed by:

scrcpy

It’s a great way to get a stable and responsive connection.

Can I control my Android from my PC while casting?

Stand-alone Miracast doesn’t support remote control. For full control, consider apps like Vysor or Scrcpy. You’ll need to enable USB debugging in Settings > Developer options > USB debugging on your Android.

Quick Recap for Easy Mirroring

Check if both devices support casting.
Ensure both are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Enable screen mirroring on your Android via quick settings.
Open Settings > System > Display and select Connect to a wireless display (Win + K).
Pick your Windows PC from the list on your phone.
Confirm the connection on your PC and enjoy your mirrored screen.

If everything’s set up right, this casting trick should work smoothly. Keep your devices updated and configured correctly, and if Miracast lets you down, tools like scrcpy are excellent alternatives. Happy mirroring!

Just a reminder — these tips are based on common setups. Hopefully, they save you some time and hassle getting your Android onto Windows 11.