How to Connect Android to Projector

Whether you want to watch a movie or show a PowerPoint presentation, it can be quite handy to connect your Android smartphone or tablet to a projector. The amount of options you have depends on the projector you use. Each projector has different ports and features. Let’s take a look at the most common options.

Wireless App

First and foremost, check to see if your projector has an app that can be used with it. This is by far, the most pain free solution if it’s possible. Brand name projectors like Panasonic may have apps that allow you to connect via a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth network and project a screenshot of what’s on your Android. If you can’t find an app on the Google Play website, have a look at the website of the company that made your projector or the documentation.

Chromecast

This option is a safe bet to work with most Android devices. Whether you are looking to watch movies or mirror the Android screen to your projector, Google Chromecast  is an excellent option. The Chromecast device attaches directly to the HDMI port on a projector where you can send video from your Android to it via a Wi-Fi network (required).

Miracast

Many newer Android devices and projectors support Miracast. If your Android device supports Miracast, but your projector doesn’t, you can purchase a Miracast video adapter that attaches to the HDMI port on the projector. Miracast allows you to mirror anything on your Android device.

Hard-wired Connection

If a wireless solution won’t work for you, the next best thing is to get a hard-wired connection. Your Android device will need to support some type of hard-wired video connection. Many do not. The two most common connections are MHL or HDMI.

• HDMI
  If your device has a Mini-HDMI port (which is rare), use a Mini-HDMI cable to connect between an HDMI port on the device and the standard HDMI port on the projector. Some devices like the Samsung Galaxy S8 and Note8 may support a USB-C to HDMI adapter.
• MHL
  If your Android device supports MHL, you can connect an MHL to HDMI adapter to the device, then connect it to the HDMI port on the projector.
  Note: Make sure if you buy an adapter, it supports to exact version (2.0, 3.0, etc.) of MHL required for your device.

If your projector doesn’t have an HDMI port, then you will likely need to use a VGA port. There are MHL to VGA and Mini-HDMI adapters available, but be careful about which one you buy. Many of them are not reliable. For best results, search for one that is specifically made for your model of phone or search the comments on product pages to ensure you’re getting what you pay for.

We have covered the best solutions on how to connect an Android to a projector. If you have any questions about specific devices or want to share your own experience with this type of set up, please leave a message in the Comments section below.