Connecting your smartphone to your television with an HDMI cable is way easier than you think. I’ve done it myself multiple times, and it only takes a few minutes.

All you need is a USB-C to HDMI adapter—no Wi-Fi, no audio/video lags, and you can even watch in 4K.

A hand holding a  USB-C to HDMI adapter

How to Connect Your Smartphone to a TV Using a USB-C to HDMI Adapter

First,confirm that your smartphone supports HDMI Alt Mode. If your smartphone has a USB-C port, it probably does, which is great news.

Next, get the rightUSB-C to HDMI adapter. Alternatively, you can get aUSB-C to HDMI cable, which basically is the same as the adapter. The USB-C to HDMI cable is simply a combination of the features of an adapter and an HDMI cable to form one cable.

A smartphone connected to a TV via a USB-c to HDMI adapter mirroring it’s screen and displaying a man using a keyboard-2

However, I prefer the adapter because it’s more portable. Almost everyone with a TV has an HDMI cord, so I can take my compact adapter along.

If I take a USB-C to HDMI cable with me, even though it’ll be a hassle because of how long it typically is, it might still end up not being long enough.

USB-C to HDMI adapters are relatively affordable, and you can get them online or in most electronics stores. Just make sure you’re getting one that’s compatible with your device. With the right adapter, you’re halfway there. Here’s what you should do next.

That’s all—no extra apps and confusing settings. Even with this simple method, you still get the full package—video and audio.

So you’ll have a great time whether you’re streaminginspiring movies from Netflix, playingmobile games to kill time, or showing off your latest vacation photos to the family.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that your phone’s screen will stay on all through the time it’s connected to your TV, which can drain your battery faster. If you plan on a long viewing session, you should fully charge your phone before you begin. you may alsotry wirelessly charging the smartphonesimultaneously, but your phone could overheat.