Chromecast and Xiaomi TV compatibility: What you need to know before you start
Using Google Chromecast with Xiaomi TVs (Mi TV 4/5, Redmi TV, Mi TV Q1/Q2) opens up new possibilities for streaming content, but has nuances. Unlike native Android TV devices, where Chromecast is built-in by default, Xiaomi TVs based on PatchWall or Google TV require separate settings, the main advantage is the ability to stream the screen of a smartphone, YouTube, Netflix or even games with Google Stadia without wires.
Not all Xiaomi models are equally friendly with Chromecast, however. For example, older Android 8/9 TVs may not support the latest versions of the Google Cast protocol, and in some regions (e.g. China) the feature is disabled at the firmware level. Before buying a device, check if your Mi TV has a built-in Chromecast - close all apps and look for the "Translation" icon in the notification bar.
If there is no built-in module, you will need an external device - Chromecast 3/4 generation or Chromecast with Google TV. The latter option is preferable, since it supports 4K HDR and has a remote control. Note: for stable operation you need Wi-Fi 5 GHz (at 2.4 GHz frequency lags are possible) and a router with Multicast support (otherwise the TV will not see the Chromecast).
Step-by-step: how to connect Chromecast to Xiaomi TV
The connection process depends on whether you use an external Chromecast (connected via HDMI) or an integrated module in your TV.
Option 1: External Chromecast (via HDMI)
If you have a 3/4 generation Chromecast or a Chromecast with Google TV, follow these steps:
- Connect Chromecast to the free port HDMI You can use it for food. USB-cable (can be connected to the port) USB on TV or 5V).
- Switch the TV to the appropriate one. HDMI-input (Source or Input button on the remote control).
- Download the Google Home app to your smartphone (Android or iOS) and follow the setup instructions.
- In the app, select your Chromecast from the device list and connect it to the same Wi-Fi network as the TV.
Option 2: Built-in Chromecast (on Xiaomi TVs)
For models with Google Cast preinstalled (e.g. Mi TV Q1/Q2):
- 📱 Make sure your TV and smartphone are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- 🔍 On your smartphone, open an app that supports broadcasting (for example, YouTube or Google Photos).
- 📺 Click the Cast icon in the upper right corner and select your Mi. TV list.
- 🎬 It will start transferring content to the big screen.
☑️ Checking before connection
If the TV doesn’t appear in the list of broadcast devices, check:
- 🔄 Restart your router and TV (sometimes resetting your network to a new location helps). TV through settings → Network → Forget the net).
- 🛠️ Update the TV firmware: Settings → On TV. → Updating the system.
- 📶 Try connecting to 5 GHz (if the router is dual-band).
⚠️ Note: On Xiaomi TVs for the Chinese market (with firmware) MIUI TV) Chromecast can be disabled, in which case you need firmware for the global version or use an external device.
Chromecast setup on Xiaomi TV: Optimizing quality and speed
Once you’ve successfully connected, it’s important to set your settings correctly to avoid delays and loss of quality.The main settings are in the Google Home app (for external Chromecast) or in the TV menu (for built-in module).
Permission and staffing frequency
By default, the Chromecast can transmit video in resolution up to 4K, but in practice, the quality depends on the speed of Wi-Fi.
- 📺 For movies: 1920×1080 upon 60 Hz (if the router does not support) 5 GHz).
- 🎮 For games: 1280×720 upon 60 Hz (less than lags).
- 📱 To mirror the screen of the smartphone: Auto (Chromecast itself will choose the optimal resolution).
2. Network settings
For a stable broadcast:
| Parameter | Recommended value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi range | 5 GHz | Less interference, higher speed |
| Channel width | 40 MHz or 80 MHz | Increases throughput capacity |
| Security protocol | WPA2/WPA3 | Avoid WEP – Incompatible with Chromecast |
| Multicast (IGMP) | Included. | Device detection is required |
If the image is "braking" or tearing, try:
- 📶 Reconnect Chromecast to 5 GHz network (if 2.4 GHz is used).
- 🔌 Connect Chromecast to the socket instead USB-TV port (power shortages can cause failures).
- 🔄 In the router, disable the Band Steering function (it can interfere with a stable connection).
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If the broadcast is constantly interrupted, try connecting the Chromecast and TV to the network via an Ethernet cable (using a USB-Ethernet adapter for Chromecast 4K).
How to stream a smartphone screen on Xiaomi TV via Chromecast
One of the most popular features of Chromecast is screen mirroring, which allows you to show everything that happens on your smartphone on your TV: games, social networks, presentations or even video calls. However, there is a nuance: not all applications support broadcasting due to DRM restrictions (for example, Netflix or Disney+ can block the output to the external screen).
Instructions for Android
- Open Settings on your smartphone and go to Connected Devices → Connect to your device → Screen Broadcast.
- In the list of available devices, select your Mi TV or Chromecast.
- Confirm the connection on the TV (coding may be required).
- Now the smartphone screen is duplicated on TV.
Instructions for iPhone (iOS)
On the iPhone, mirroring only works through apps that support Google Cast (like YouTube or Google Photos). Full screen duplication is only possible through AirPlay, but Xiaomi TV does not support this protocol.
- 📱 Install the Streamer for Chromecast app from the App Store.
- 🔗 Connect to the same Wi-Fi as Chromecast.
- 🎥 Run the broadcast through the application (there will be a slight delay).
⚠️ Note: When mirroring the screen from Android to Xiaomi TV You may see black bars on the sides (due to different aspect ratios). To eliminate this, select Full Screen mode in Chromecast settings or change the screen resolution of your smartphone to 16:9.
Why does mirroring work on some applications?
Solving Common Chromecast Problems on Xiaomi TV
Even after you set it up properly, you can have failures, and we'll look at the errors and how to fix them.
1. Chromecast doesn't find TV (or vice versa)
Causes and solutions:
- 🔌 Different Wi-Fi networks: Make sure that both Chromecast and smartphone are connected to the same network. If you use guest Wi-Fi, switch to the main network.
- 🛡️ Firewall/Antivirus: temporarily turn off the firewall on the router or antivirus on your smartphone (they can block Multicast).
- 🔄 Chromecast reset: Press the button on the device body for 25 seconds until the indicator starts flashing orange.
2.The video slows or tears
Most often, the problem is on the network.
- 📶 Wi-Fi signal strength: Chromecast should be no further than 5 meters from the router. Obstacles (walls, furniture) degrade the signal.
- 🎮 Network Congestion: Disable other devices that consume traffic (torrents, online games).
- 🔧 Router settings: In the Administrator Panel (192.168.1.1) enable QoS and prioritize Chromecast.
3. No sound during broadcast
If there is a picture but no sound:
- 🔊 Check if the sound on the TV is turned off (Mute button on the remote control).
- 🎧 In the Chromecast settings (Google Home) → The device → Settings → Select the sound HDMI source.
- 🔄 Restart Chromecast (turn off power for 30 seconds).
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If the problem persists after all the manipulations, try resetting the Chromecast to factory settings through the Google Home app (Device Settings → Three Points → Reset).
Chromecast Alternatives for Xiaomi TV: What to Choose When Nothing Works
If Chromecast refuses to work consistently, consider alternative ways to stream content on Xiaomi TV:
1. Xiaomi's built-in features
- 📱 Mi Screen Sharing: Xiaomi TVs have its own mirroring feature → Connection and sharing → Wireless screen broadcasting works only with Xiaomi devices (smartphones, tablets).
- 🖥️ DLNA: It's supported by most models, and it allows you to stream media files from a PC or a smartphone through apps like this. VLC or BubbleUPnP.
External devices
| The device | Pluses | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Fire TV Stick | 4K HDR support, a large selection of applications | No built-in Chromecast, requires separate setup |
| Apple TV | Stable work, support for AirPlay 2 | Expensive, not optimized for Android devices |
| Xiaomi Mi TV Stick | Low price, integration with Xiaomi ecosystem | Weak processor, lags when broadcasting 4K |
3. Software solutions
For advanced users:
- 🖥️ Steam Link: Allows you to stream games from PC to TV over a local network. Requires a powerful PC and stable Wi-Fi.
- 📱 ApowerMirror: A screen mirroring app Android/iOS on TV via Wi-Fi or USB. There is a paid version without advertising.
Important: If your Xiaomi TV is released before 2019 and runs on Android 8 or older, the built-in Chromecast may not support streaming at a resolution above 720p. In this case, an external device (such as the Chromecast 4K) would be the best solution.