How to Connect an iPad to a Projector

This article explains how to connect an iPad to a projector with wires or wirelessly using an Apple TV. Instructions apply to iPadOS 14, iPadOS 13, and iOS 12.

How to Connect an iPad to a Projector With a Cable

The projector, TV, or monitor must allow input from either an HDMI or VGA connection. Because the iPad has a Lightning port, use an adapter to plug into the iPad and either an HDMI or VGA cable that connects to the display device.

In most cases, use the HDMI connection. HDMI transmits video and audio through a single cable. If you're a frequent presenter, you may encounter older systems that only allow a VGA connection, so you may want to carry both kinds of adapters and cables.

To connect an iPad to a projector, TV, or monitor:

1. Use the correct adapter. On an iPad Pro released in late 2018 or later with a standard USB-C port, use either a USB-C to HDMI adapter or a USB-C to VGA adapter depending on the display device. These are the same connectors that connect a macOS laptop with a USB-C connection to a projector. You can use the same USB-C adapter with Mac and iPad.

   On an iPad with a Lightning cable connector, use a Lightning to HDMI adapter or a Lightning to VGA adapter.

2. Get the correct cable. In most cases, use the HDMI or VGA cable that came with the projector, TV, or monitor. If you don't have an HDMI or VGA cable, purchase a Belkin HDMI cable from the Apple Store or buy an HDMI or VGA cable from a third-party vendor, such as Monoprice.

3. Connect the devices. Plug the adapter into the iPad, plug the cable (HDMI or VGA) into the other end of the adapter, and then plug the cable into the projector. If the adapter includes a port for power, connect a power cable. Some systems and setups only work with a power source.

4. Power on the devices. Turn on the projector and the iPad. The projector or display detects the connected iPad and automatically shows the screen.

5. Change the settings. If the screen doesn't appear after the projector has been on for a minute or two, you may need to change a setting on the projector, TV, or monitor. Look for buttons or menu items that control the source.

How to Share Your iPad Display Wirelessly

You can also connect an iPad to a projector wirelessly. You need a projector with an HDMI connection, an Apple TV, and an HDMI cable. Also, the Apple TV and iPad must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

1. Connect the Apple TV to the projector using an HDMI cable. The projector is the display instead of the TV. Turn on the projector and the Apple TV.

2. Swipe down from the upper-right corner of the iPad Home screen to open the Control Center.

3. Tap Screen Mirroring.

4. Tap the name of the Apple TV.

5. To stop sharing the iPad display with the Apple TV, go to the Control Center, tap the name of the Apple TV, then tap Stop Mirroring.

6. The Apple TV screen returns, and you can disconnect the iPad.

How to Use AirPlay From an App

Many apps can display a photo, video, or file via AirPlay from within the app. Use AirPlay when you want to share content without revealing everything on the iPad screen.

1. Open an app that supports AirPlay, such as YouTube, which supports AirPlay for some of its videos.

2. Find the video you want to share and tap the AirPlay icon.

3. Tap AirPlay & Bluetooth devices.

4. Tap the name of the Apple TV to connect to it.

5. To stop sharing, tap the AirPlay icon and then tap the name of the device to switch back from the Apple TV.

Why Connect an iPad to a Projector?

Connect your iPad to a projector to show slides, share videos, and mirror the screen. A projected screen makes it easier for others to see without crowding around your device or passing it from person to person. In most cases, you can also connect an iPad to a television or computer monitor.

With a wired connection, what you see on the iPad appears on the projector screen. With a wireless AirPlay connection, you can mirror the screen or share content from any app that supports it.