Comparison of Mainstream Screen Casting Standards: Choose the Optimal Solution

In the era of digital device interconnection, various screen casting standards offer multiple options for cross-device screen sharing. Understanding the features and differences of these standards helps users pick the perfect casting solution tailored to their needs.

I. Overview of Technical Standards

Industry Standard Classification

  • Open Standards: Miracast, DLNA
  • Proprietary Standards: AirPlay, Google Cast
  • Vendor-specific Standards: Samsung DeX, Huawei Cast+

Technology Development History

  • Early Standards: DLNA (2003)
  • Mobile Era: Miracast (2012)
  • Ecosystem Competition: AirPlay, Google Cast
  • Future Development: New standards for Wi-Fi 7 & 5G

II. Detailed Analysis of Miracast

Technical Features

  • Open Standard: Developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance
  • Working Principle: Wi-Fi Direct peer-to-peer connection
  • Function Scope: Real-time screen mirroring
  • Device Support: Natively integrated on Android & Windows

Application Status

  • Android Devices: System-level integration
  • Windows Devices: Wireless display function
  • Smart TVs: Widely supported
  • Advantages: Excellent cross-brand compatibility

III. Analysis of AirPlay Standard

Apple Ecosystem Features

  • Proprietary Protocol: Developed by Apple Inc.
  • Function Scope: Mirroring + streaming + multi-room audio
  • Device Support: All Apple devices
  • Extended Support: Third-party certified devices

Technical Advantages

  • Seamless Experience: Optimal within Apple ecosystem
  • Rich Functions: Full support for audio & video
  • Stability: High level of optimization
  • Security: End-to-end encryption

IV. Analysis of DLNA Standard

Media Sharing Standard

  • Initial Positioning: Home multimedia sharing
  • Working Principle: Based on UPnP protocol
  • Core Features: Media file streaming only
  • Limitation: No support for real-time screen mirroring

Application Scenarios

  • Smart TVs: Built-in media playback function
  • Video Apps: In-app casting button
  • Home Servers: NAS media services
  • Advantages: Strong format compatibility

V. Introduction to Google Cast Standard

Google Ecosystem

  • Technical Architecture: Cloud-local hybrid integration
  • Working Mode: URL-based content streaming
  • Device Types: Chromecast & certified devices
  • Unique Feature: Multi-room audio support

Application Characteristics

  • Cloud Services: Integration with Google services
  • Operation: In-app Cast button
  • Background Playback: Sender device available for other tasks
  • Voice Control: Integration with Google Assistant

VI. Performance Comparison

Latency Performance

  • Wired Connection: < 5ms
  • Miracast: 30–100ms
  • AirPlay: 20–50ms
  • Google Cast: Network-dependent

Video Quality Support

  • Maximum resolution comparison
  • HDR support status
  • Color depth differences
  • Compression technology variations

VII. Compatibility Comparison

Device Compatibility Range

  • Smartphone support
  • Computer device compatibility
  • TV & display device support
  • Audio system integration

Cross-platform Capability

  • Interoperability between different systems
  • Cross-brand compatibility
  • Compatibility with legacy devices
  • Future compatibility outlook

VIII. Security Comparison

Data Transmission Security

  • Encryption strength comparison
  • Authentication mechanism differences
  • Privacy protection measures
  • Security update frequency

Access Control

  • Device authentication methods
  • Permission management functions
  • Connection history management
  • Parental control support

IX. Usage Scenario Recommendations

Home Entertainment Scenarios

  • Recommended Solutions: Based on existing device ecosystem
  • Key Factors: Current devices & primary applications
  • Budget Consideration: Device investment cost
  • Expansion Needs: Future device additions

Enterprise Office Scenarios

  • Recommended Solutions: Unified standard deployment
  • Security Requirements: Enterprise-grade security
  • Management Needs: Centralized management capability
  • Compatibility: Support for diverse employee devices

X. Development Trend Forecast

Technology Convergence Trend

  • Enhanced interoperability between standards
  • New protocols compatible with legacy standards
  • Cloud service integration
  • AI-powered intelligent optimization

Application Innovation Directions

  • Augmented reality applications
  • Cloud gaming casting
  • Connected car integration
  • IoT expansion

XI. Selection & Decision Guide

Key Decision Factors

  • Existing device ecosystem
  • Primary usage scenario requirements
  • Budget constraints
  • Future expansion plans

Implementation Recommendations

  • Test before final decision
  • Consider hybrid solutions
  • Focus on long-term support
  • Prepare transition plans

Summary & Recommendations

When selecting a screen casting standard, you should:
  1. Prioritize compatibility with existing devices
  2. Evaluate requirements of core usage scenarios
  3. Consider long-term usage costs
  4. Keep an eye on technology development trends
No single standard fits all scenarios; the optimal choice depends on specific device environments and usage needs. We recommend maintaining technical openness to leave room for future upgrades and standard evolution.