Popular media players like VLC Media Player make it easy to stream content to Google Chromecast, transforming it into a versatile smart media center. How to Make Chromecast Your Smart Media Center. VLC's robust features have made it a desktop favorite for years.
Want to beam videos from your PC to your TV via Chromecast using VLC? Follow these tested steps—we've verified them on Windows 10 64-bit.
To stream from VLC to Chromecast, ensure you have:
Download the matching VLC version for your PC and install it. Connect your Chromecast to your TV and power it on. For setup help, see our guide: How to Set Up Your New Google Chromecast.
Download: VLC Media Player 3.0
With Chromecast ready, launch VLC on your PC.
Navigate to Playback > Renderer > Scan.
VLC will detect your Chromecast. Return to the menu and select Chromecast.
Load a video via Media > Open File or drag it from File Explorer.
A "Site Insecure" warning may appear due to network streaming—safe to proceed. Click View Certificate, then Accept permanently.
Most formats play directly, but others (e.g., WMV) may need conversion:
Click OK to convert, or OK, don't warn me again for auto-conversion. Note: Avoid on battery-powered or low-spec devices to prevent lag.
If issues arise:
For performance tweaks, go to Tools > Preferences > Show All > Stream Output > Sout streams > Chromecast (or search "chromecast").
Adjust Conversion quality (Low CPU to High). Save, restart playback.
Hit Play—your video streams in HD to the TV. Control playback, volume, and seeking from VLC (PC screen stays black by default).
Future streams: Select Playback > Renderer > Chromecast directly.
If direct streaming fails, cast via Chrome:
Open VLC, click Chrome's Cast button (near address bar) > Cast desktop. Play and maximize VLC for TV viewing. Quality may vary vs. direct method.
Key steps:
Alternatives: Miracast, Chromecast vs. Miracast, or Steam Link.
