To cast Windows 10 to a Roku, first make sure screen mirroring is allowed on the Roku: go to Settings > System > Screen mirroring and set the mode to Prompt or Always allow. Then, on your PC, press Windows + K to open the Connect pane, choose your Roku from the list, and accept the request on the TV if asked. Your PC’s screen appears on the TV.
Roku uses Miracast for screen mirroring, which most Windows 10 PCs support. Below you’ll learn how to extend your screen instead of mirroring it, cast just a video, and fix a Roku that doesn’t show up.
Before you start
- Your PC and Roku should be on the same Wi-Fi network.
- Your Roku model must support screen mirroring. Most current Roku players and Roku TVs do, but check your model if the option is missing.
- Your PC’s Wi-Fi adapter must support Miracast. To check, press Windows + R, type dxdiag, click Save All Information, and look for Miracast: Available in the saved file.
Step 1: Allow screen mirroring on the Roku
- Press Home on the Roku remote.
- Go to Settings > System > Screen mirroring.
- Set Screen mirroring mode to Prompt (asks each time) or Always allow.
Step 2: Connect from Windows 10
- Press Windows + K, or click the Action Center icon and choose Connect.
- Wait for your Roku to appear in the list, then click it.
- If the Roku asks, choose Allow or Always allow with the remote.
Mirror vs. extend your screen
By default, Windows duplicates your screen. To use the TV as a second monitor, press Windows + P and choose Extend. Choose Second screen only to turn off the laptop screen while casting. To stop casting, press Windows + K and click Disconnect.
Casting video without mirroring
For smoother video, use the Roku’s own apps instead of mirroring. Many streaming services let you pick content on your phone and play it on the Roku. On Windows, you can also right-click a video file and choose Cast to Device, if your version and Roku support it.
For other TVs, see casting Windows 10 to a TV.
Related: Google apps that work on Roku.
Troubleshooting
- Roku doesn’t appear: Restart both devices, check that they’re on the same network, and make sure screen mirroring isn’t set to Never allow. Also check Settings > System > Screen mirroring > Screen mirroring devices for blocked devices.
- Connects then drops: Update Windows and your Wi-Fi driver. Moving closer to the router or using a 5 GHz network can help.
- Laggy video: Mirroring works best for presentations and photos. For movies, use the Roku’s streaming apps.
- No sound on the TV: Click the speaker icon on your PC and select the Roku as the output device.
Frequently asked questions
Can I cast Windows 11 to a Roku?
Yes. Press Windows + K and choose your Roku in the Cast list.
Can I cast from a Mac to a Roku?
Many Roku devices support AirPlay. Use Screen Mirroring in Control Center on your Mac.
Does screen mirroring use the internet?
No. It connects your PC and Roku directly, though both need to be nearby.
Kermit Matthews runs Live2Tech from just outside Philadelphia. He is an IT specialist with over 20 years of experience, from a university help desk to small-business IT, IT management and his own consulting practice, and has written tech guides full time since 2020. Steps are checked against the current software on a real device or the maker’s official documentation. More about Kermit.