You can easily connect your Mac with an HDTV for watching videos or — though I don’t recommend it — using the television as an external display. Let’s look at how to do this in macOS Tahoe.
Methods to Connect
- HDMI Cable (Recommended): Connect your Mac to the TV using an HDMI cable, using a USB-C adapter if needed. Select the correct input on your TV.
- Wireless (AirPlay): Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. Click the Control Center icon in the top-right corner of your Mac, click Screen Mirroring (two rectangles), and select your TV.
Configuring Display Settings
Once connected, you can manage how the screen appears in System Settings > Displays:
- Mirror Display: Shows the exact same content on both screens.
- Extend Display: Uses the TV as a second, independent monitor.
- Optimization: Select which screen to optimize for (Mac or TV) and adjust resolution if necessary.
Adjusting Audio Output
If audio does not automatically play through your TV, go to System Settings > Sound > Output and select your television from the list.
Troubleshooting
- No Signal: Check that the HDMI cable is firmly plugged in and the correct source is selected on your TV.
- Lag/Quality Issues: If using AirPlay, ensure your Wi-Fi signal is strong.
- Not Recognized: If the display is not detected, restart your Mac or try a different cable/adapter.
- Display Settings: If the image doesn’t fit, toggle “Overscan” in the Display settings.
- Third-party tools: If using a Smart TV that does not support AirPlay, consider using third-party apps like Airscreen or Mirrorcast.
