Introduction
Streaming videos from your PC to your Samsung Smart TV allows you to enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows, and home videos on a larger screen with better audio quality. Whether you want to binge-watch a new series, display a slideshow of your recent vacation photos, or watch a movie with friends and family, streaming video from your PC to your Samsung Smart TV offers a convenient and immersive experience.
In this article, we will explore various methods you can use to stream video from your PC to your Samsung Smart TV. These methods provide flexibility and compatibility, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
Before we dive into the different methods, it’s important to note that you’ll need a few requirements to stream video from your PC to your Samsung Smart TV. Firstly, ensure that your PC and Samsung Smart TV are connected to the same local network, either via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. This ensures a stable connection and smooth streaming experience. Secondly, make sure that your Samsung Smart TV supports the streaming protocol or app required by the respective method you choose.
Without further ado, let’s take a look at the various methods you can utilize to stream video from your PC to your Samsung Smart TV.
Requirements
Before you begin streaming videos from your PC to your Samsung Smart TV, there are a few essential requirements you need to fulfill. Ensuring that you have the following will help guarantee a smooth and successful streaming experience:
- A PC with compatible streaming software: To stream video from your PC to your Samsung Smart TV, you’ll need a computer that is running a compatible streaming software or has built-in streaming capabilities. Examples of popular streaming software include Samsung Smart View, Plex Media Server, and Windows Media Player.
- A Samsung Smart TV: Of course, you’ll need a Samsung Smart TV to receive the streamed video. Your TV should be connected to the same local network as your PC, either through a wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi) connection. Ensure that your Samsung Smart TV supports the streaming protocol or app required by the method you choose.
- A stable local network connection: It’s essential to have a stable and reliable local network connection between your PC and Samsung Smart TV for seamless streaming. Ensure that both devices are connected to the same network and that there are no issues with the network connection.
- Compatible video formats: Make sure that the video files you want to stream are in formats supported by your Samsung Smart TV. Common formats include MP4, AVI, MKV, and MPEG. If your videos are in unsupported formats, you may need to convert them using suitable software or tools.
- Adequate network bandwidth: Streaming videos requires a good amount of network bandwidth to ensure smooth playback without buffering or interruptions. If you have multiple devices connected to your network or are using a slow internet connection, consider reducing network usage or upgrading your internet plan for better performance.
By fulfilling these requirements, you’ll be well-prepared to begin streaming videos from your PC to your Samsung Smart TV using the methods we will explore in the following sections.
Method 1: Using Samsung Smart View
Samsung Smart View is a convenient and straightforward method to stream video from your PC to your Samsung Smart TV. It allows you to mirror your PC screen and stream multimedia content effortlessly. To use this method, follow these steps:
- Download and install the Samsung Smart View app on your PC from the official Samsung website.
- Make sure that both your PC and Samsung Smart TV are connected to the same local network.
- Launch the Samsung Smart View app on your PC and select your Samsung Smart TV from the available devices list.
- On your Samsung Smart TV, navigate to the Source menu, and choose Screen Mirroring or Smart View, depending on your TV model.
- On your PC, select the content you want to stream, such as a video or photo slideshow.
- Click on the “Play to TV” button within the Samsung Smart View app on your PC.
- The video or content should now start streaming on your Samsung Smart TV, mirroring your PC screen.
With Samsung Smart View, you can enjoy your favorite videos, photos, and even play games from your PC on a larger screen. It provides a user-friendly interface and supports various file formats, making it a versatile option for streaming video to your Samsung Smart TV.
Keep in mind that the Samsung Smart View app might have different features and functionalities depending on your TV model and PC operating system. Refer to the official Samsung Smart View documentation for specific instructions related to your setup.
Method 2: Using Samsung SmartHub
If your Samsung Smart TV has the SmartHub feature, you can use it to stream video from your PC. SmartHub is a built-in platform on Samsung Smart TVs that offers various apps and functionalities. Here’s how you can utilize SmartHub to stream video:
- Ensure that your PC and Samsung Smart TV are connected to the same local network.
- On your Samsung Smart TV, navigate to the SmartHub menu by pressing the SmartHub button on your remote control.
- In the SmartHub menu, locate the relevant media streaming app, such as “Samsung AllShare” or “Samsung Link.” These apps may vary depending on your TV model and region.
- Launch the media streaming app and follow the on-screen instructions to connect it to your PC.
- On your PC, open the media streaming software or app that is compatible with the SmartHub on your Samsung Smart TV, such as Samsung AllShare or Windows Media Player.
- Select the video you want to stream and choose the option to play it on your Samsung Smart TV.
- The video should now start playing on your Samsung Smart TV, allowing you to enjoy it on a larger screen.
Samsung SmartHub offers a convenient and integrated way to access media streaming apps and services directly on your Samsung Smart TV. By utilizing SmartHub, you can easily browse and stream videos from your PC without the need for additional devices or software.
Do note that the available media streaming apps and their functionalities may vary depending on your Samsung Smart TV model and region. Refer to your TV’s user manual or the Samsung website for specific instructions related to your setup.
Method 3: Using Plex Media Server
Plex Media Server is a powerful and versatile platform that allows you to stream video from your PC to various devices, including your Samsung Smart TV. Plex organizes your media library and provides a seamless streaming experience. Here’s how you can use Plex Media Server to stream video to your Samsung Smart TV:
- Download and install Plex Media Server on your PC from the official Plex website.
- Launch Plex Media Server and follow the on-screen instructions to set up your media library.
- Add the video files you want to stream to your media library, ensuring they are in formats supported by Plex and your Samsung Smart TV.
- On your Samsung Smart TV, download and install the Plex app from the Samsung Smart TV app store.
- Launch the Plex app on your Samsung Smart TV and sign in to your Plex account.
- Choose the media library where your video files are stored.
- Browse through your media library and select the video you want to stream on your Samsung Smart TV.
- The video should start playing on your Samsung Smart TV, streamed directly from your PC via Plex Media Server.
Plex Media Server offers transcoding capabilities, meaning it can convert video formats on the fly to ensure compatibility with your Samsung Smart TV. It also provides additional features such as multi-user support, parental controls, and the ability to stream content remotely over the internet.
By using Plex Media Server, you can centralize your media library and access it from any Plex-supported device, including your Samsung Smart TV. It offers a comprehensive streaming solution with a user-friendly interface and extensive customization options.
It’s worth noting that using Plex Media Server on your PC requires a dedicated machine or NAS (Network-Attached Storage) device to host the Plex server. Ensure that your PC or NAS meets the minimum system requirements specified by Plex for optimal performance.
Method 4: Using Windows Media Player
If you have a Windows PC, you can utilize the built-in Windows Media Player to stream video to your Samsung Smart TV. Windows Media Player supports DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) technology, allowing you to connect and stream media to compatible devices like your Samsung Smart TV. Here’s how you can use Windows Media Player to stream videos:
- Ensure that your PC and Samsung Smart TV are connected to the same local network.
- On your PC, open Windows Media Player.
- Add the video files you want to stream to the Windows Media Player library by going to the “Library” tab and selecting “Add to Library”.
- In Windows Media Player, click on the “Stream” menu and select “Turn on media streaming”.
- A new window will open, displaying the devices on your network. Select your Samsung Smart TV from the list.
- Configure the streaming settings according to your preferences, such as allowing or blocking certain devices or enabling transcoding.
- On your Samsung Smart TV, navigate to the Source menu and choose the appropriate media source, such as “PC” or “Media Server”.
- Select the video file you want to stream from your PC within the media source on your Samsung Smart TV.
- The video should start playing on your Samsung Smart TV, streamed from your PC using Windows Media Player.
Using Windows Media Player for streaming video offers a straightforward and hassle-free solution for Windows PC users. It leverages the DLNA technology to enable seamless connectivity and media streaming between your PC and Samsung Smart TV.
Windows Media Player supports various video and audio formats, providing wide compatibility and allowing you to enjoy your media collection on the big screen with ease. However, it’s important to note that the features and functionalities of Windows Media Player may differ depending on your PC’s operating system version.
Make sure that your Windows Media Player is up to date to ensure a smooth streaming experience and to take advantage of the latest features and improvements.
Conclusion
Streaming video from your PC to your Samsung Smart TV opens up a world of entertainment possibilities, allowing you to enjoy your favorite content on a larger screen with enhanced audio and video quality. In this article, we explored four different methods to accomplish this: using Samsung Smart View, utilizing Samsung SmartHub, utilizing Plex Media Server, and using Windows Media Player. Each method offers unique features and benefits, catering to various preferences and requirements.
Samsung Smart View provides a user-friendly interface for mirroring your PC screen and streaming multimedia content to your Samsung Smart TV. It offers simplicity and convenience, particularly for Samsung Smart TV owners.
Samsung SmartHub, a built-in feature on Samsung Smart TVs, offers a seamless way to access media streaming apps directly on your TV. It eliminates the need for additional software or devices, providing a streamlined experience.
Plex Media Server excels in organizing and streaming your media library across various devices, including your Samsung Smart TV. With advanced features like transcoding and remote access, Plex offers versatility and customization options.
Windows Media Player, a built-in application on Windows PCs, gives Windows users a simple and familiar way to stream video to their Samsung Smart TVs. It leverages DLNA technology, providing compatibility with a wide range of media file formats.
When choosing a method, consider factors such as your specific requirements, the availability of compatible devices, and your familiarity with the software or apps involved. Experimenting with different methods can help you find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
Whether you opt for Samsung Smart View, Samsung SmartHub, Plex Media Server, or Windows Media Player, streaming video from your PC to your Samsung Smart TV is a rewarding experience that enhances your entertainment possibilities. Enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows, and home videos on the big screen and create memorable viewing experiences with family and friends.