How to Connect a MacBook Air to a TV Using HDMI
For this demonstration, we will be connecting a MacBook Air using a Mini DisplayPort-to-HDMI adapter, connecting to the TV’s HDMI port. Follow the same steps using the appropriate adapters and cables for your setup. (See below for information on finding the right adapters and cables.)
Connecting a MacBook Air to a TV Using Apple TV
An Apple TV is very good for streaming content directly to your TV or casting content from macOS and iOS products. It also serves as a great device for mirroring or expanding your MacBook Air desktop to your TV.
How to Connect a MacBook Air to a TV Using a Chromecast
Google’s Chromecast is a versatile TV dongle that lets you cast video, audio, and more from smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
Mirror Built-In Display: matches your ratio and resolution to the TV.Mirror TV: reconfigures to your TV’s ratio and resolution.Use As Separate Display: treats your TV as an additional display.
When a MacBook Air and Chromecast are connected, you can cast from the Mac to a TV, cast a file from your MacBook Air to your TV, or mirror your desktop to your TV.
How to Cast a Chrome Tab From MacBook Air to TV
Use your Chromecast with the Chrome browser to put tabs on the big screen.
How to Mirror a MacBook Air Desktop to a TV
You can also use a Chromecast to send your entire screen to a TV. Here’s how.
Cast a File From a MacBook Air to a TV
You don’t have to share your entire screen. You can also cast individual files from your MacBook Air. Here’s what to do.
About Ports and Cables
To complete any of these processes, you’ll need to determine what type of ports you have on your TV and MacBook Air. If you’re unsure, here’s a quick guide.
TV Ports
Several TV video input standards exist, but VGA (or RGB) and HDMI are the most common. HDMI supports higher-resolution displays and has faster transfer rates, making it better suited for connecting your MacBook Air to a TV. However, if your TV only has a VGA port, or it’s the only input available, you can still use it to connect your MacBook Air.
MacBook Air Video Ports
The MacBook Air has gone through several iterations with a variety of video display ports. Your MacBook Air must have one of the following to connect to a TV:
A Mini DisplayPort.A Thunderbolt port.A USB-C Thunderbolt 3 port.
To see what your computer has, select About This Mac under the Apple icon in the top left corner of your desktop. Click the Support tab, and then select Specifications to open a browser page with a detailed spec list for your device. Scroll down to Graphics and Video Support to see details of your display port and the various technologies it supports.
What Cables Will You Need?
Once you’ve established which ports you have on your TV and MacBook Air, you’ll need the correct adapters and cables. Check the table below to see what you need.
