ThisCalculator

Everyday

How to Use VLC with Chromecast: Step-by-Step

Updated · Standard formula, shown below

This guide shows you how to stream videos, music, and photos from your computer to a TV or display using VLC media player and a Google Chromecast device. You’ll learn how to set up the connection, start casting, and fix common issues when the cast doesn’t appear or drops out.

What You’ll Need

  • A computer running VLC 3.0 or newer (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
  • A Chromecast device (Chromecast, Chromecast Ultra, Chromecast with Google TV, or a TV with built-in Chromecast) that is powered on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer.
  • The Google Home app installed on a phone or tablet (optional, but helpful for checking device status and network).
  • Media files that VLC can open (most common formats: MP4, MKV, AVI, MP3, etc.).

Step-by-Step

  1. Connect your Chromecast to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer. Open the Google Home app on your phone, tap your Chromecast device, and check its Wi-Fi network. Your computer must be on that exact network (or a network that can reach it, like a guest network with device isolation disabled). If they are on different networks, casting will fail.
  2. Update VLC to the latest version. VLC added Chromecast support in version 3.0. If you have an older version, go to VLC’s official website and download the latest release. On Windows, you can check via Help > Check for Updates; on macOS, use VLC > Check for Updates.
  3. Open VLC and load the media you want to cast. Use Media > Open File (or Open Multiple Files for a playlist), or simply drag and drop a file into the VLC window. You can also open a network stream via Media > Open Network Stream.
  4. Start playback locally first. Press the Play button in VLC. The video or audio should begin playing on your computer. This is not strictly required, but it ensures the file is loaded correctly and makes the next step easier.
  5. Open the Playback menu. At the top of the VLC window, click Playback. In the dropdown, you’ll see a submenu called Renderer. Hover over it to see a list of available devices.
  6. Select your Chromecast from the Renderer list. In the Renderer submenu, you should see your Chromecast device listed (e.g., “Living Room TV”). Click on it. VLC will now try to connect to the Chromecast.
  7. Wait for the connection to establish. A message may appear in VLC’s status bar or a dialog box saying “Connecting…” or “Renderer selected.” After a few seconds, the media should start playing on your TV. The video window on your computer may go blank or show a placeholder—this is normal.
  8. Control playback from VLC. Use VLC’s play/pause, seek, and volume controls. They should send commands to the Chromecast. Note that volume control may not work if the Chromecast is connected to a TV with its own volume settings.
  9. Stop casting when done. To stop, go back to Playback > Renderer and select Local (or Disable). Alternatively, close VLC entirely—the cast will stop after a few seconds.

Common Mistakes

  • Not being on the same network. This is the #1 reason casting fails. Check both the computer’s Wi-Fi and the Chromecast’s network in the Google Home app.
  • Using an outdated VLC version. Chromecast support was only added in VLC 3.0. If you have 2.x, you won’t see the Renderer option.
  • Choosing the wrong renderer. If you have multiple Chromecasts, make sure you pick the correct one. The name in the Renderer list may differ from the name in the Google Home app.
  • Expecting all file formats to work. While VLC can play almost anything locally, the Chromecast has limited codec support. Some MKV files with certain audio codecs (like DTS) may not play or may play without sound.
  • Using a VPN or firewall that blocks local network traffic. These can prevent VLC from discovering the Chromecast.

Tips

  • Use a wired connection for your computer (Ethernet) if possible—it reduces buffering and improves stability, especially for high-bitrate 4K files.
  • Convert problematic files first. If a file doesn’t cast, use VLC’s Convert/Save feature (under Media) to convert it to H.264 MP4 with AAC audio, which is widely compatible with Chromecast.
  • For subtitles, enable them in VLC before casting. Subtitles are burned into the video stream when casting, so they will appear on the TV. If subtitles don’t show, try embedding them into the file or using a separate SRT file that VLC can load.
  • Keep VLC and your Chromecast firmware updated. Updates often fix casting bugs.
  • If casting a playlist, create it in VLC first (using Media > Open Multiple Files or the playlist panel) and then select the renderer—this can be more reliable than adding files after casting has started.

Troubleshooting

No renderer appears in the Renderer menu. First, confirm VLC is 3.0+ and your Chromecast is on the same network. Restart VLC and your Chromecast (unplug it for 10 seconds). On Windows, check that your firewall allows VLC to communicate on the local network—add an exception for VLC if needed. On macOS, check System Settings > Privacy & Security > Local Network and ensure VLC is allowed.

Connection fails or times out. This often happens with large files or weak Wi-Fi. Try a smaller file to test. Restart your router and Chromecast. If using a VPN, turn it off temporarily. Also, try disabling IPv6 on your computer’s network adapter, as some routers have issues with it.

Video plays but no sound. The Chromecast may not support the audio codec (e.g., DTS, AC-3). Convert the audio track to AAC or MP3 using VLC’s Convert feature. Also check that the TV’s volume is not muted and that the correct input is selected.

Playback is choppy or buffering. Reduce the video quality by converting the file to a lower bitrate, or close other bandwidth-heavy applications. Move your router closer to the Chromecast or use a Wi-Fi extender.

VLC crashes when selecting a renderer. This is a known bug in some VLC versions. Update to the latest version. If it persists, try resetting VLC’s preferences (go to Tools > Preferences, click Reset Preferences) and restart.

Subtitles don’t appear. As mentioned, subtitles are burned in when casting. Ensure the subtitle track is enabled in VLC before selecting the renderer. If using an external SRT file, make sure it’s in the same folder and has the same name as the video file, and that VLC loads it (check Subtitle > Sub Track).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cast from VLC to a Chromecast without the Google Home app? Yes, VLC uses the standard Chromecast protocol, so the Google Home app is not required for casting itself. However, you may need it to set up the Chromecast initially or to check its network.

Does VLC support Chromecast on all operating systems? VLC 3.0+ supports Chromecast on Windows, macOS, and Linux. On mobile (Android/iOS), VLC also has Chromecast support, but the steps differ slightly (look for the Cast icon in the player).

Can I cast a DVD or Blu-ray disc from VLC? VLC can play DVDs, but casting a DVD’s content is often problematic due to copy protection and menu navigation. It’s better to rip the DVD to a file first and then cast that file.

Why does my Chromecast not show up in VLC? The most common reasons are: VLC is outdated, devices are on different Wi-Fi networks, or a firewall is blocking discovery. Try restarting VLC and the Chromecast, and check your network settings.

Can I cast a YouTube video using VLC? No, VLC’s Chromecast feature is for local media files or network streams that you open directly in VLC. To cast YouTube, use the YouTube app on your phone or the Chrome browser.

Is there a way to cast without using the Renderer menu? Some VLC versions have a dedicated Cast button in the toolbar (looks like a rectangle with a Wi-Fi symbol). If you don’t see it, you can enable it via View > Interface or just use the Playback menu as described.

Related

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.