Mirroring your iPad to a Roku device opens up a whole new world of possibilities. Whether you want to share vacation photos with your family, stream your favorite videos on a bigger screen, or use your iPad as a presentation tool, Roku makes it surprisingly easy. With a few simple steps and the right setup, you can enjoy your iPad’s content from the comfort of your couch without the need for extra cables or complicated installations.
What Is Screen Mirroring?
Screen mirroring allows you to duplicate the content from your iPad’s screen on another device — in this case, your Roku-enabled television. This means whatever you do on your iPad, from browsing and gaming to watching videos, happens in real-time on a larger screen.
Unlike casting, where content such as videos or music plays directly from the Roku device after being sent a command, mirroring transmits a real-time video feed of your iPad’s screen. This gives you more flexibility but also requires a stable network connection for optimal performance.
What You Need Before You Start
Before diving into the steps, make sure you have the following:
- An iPad running iOS 12.3 or later
- A Roku device (Roku Express, Roku Streaming Stick+, Roku Ultra, etc.)
- Both devices connected to the same Wi-Fi network
- The Roku device updated to the latest firmware
Once all these requirements are met, you’re all set to get started!
Step-by-Step Guide to Mirror Your iPad to a Roku
Step 1: Enable Screen Mirroring on Your Roku
Before you try to connect your iPad, make sure your Roku is ready to accept screen mirroring requests.
- Go to the Roku home screen and select Settings.
- Scroll down and choose System > Screen Mirroring.
- Click on Screen Mirroring Mode and select Always allow or Prompt.

Step 2: Download a Third-Party App
iPads do not support native screen mirroring to Roku using AirPlay unless the Roku device is AirPlay 2 compatible. If yours isn’t or you’re experiencing issues, you can use a third-party app like:
- Mirror for Roku
- iWebTV
- Video & TV Cast for Roku
These apps are available on the App Store and allow you to mirror your screen or cast media directly.
Step 3: Connect Your iPad to Roku
Once you’ve installed your selected mirroring app:
- Open the app on your iPad.
- Ensure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Search for your Roku device in the app’s device list and select it.
- Follow any on-screen instructions to initiate the connection.

Some apps may require installing a separate Roku channel to receive mirroring from the iPad. This is often automatic, but you may be prompted to approve it on your TV.
Step 4: Start Mirroring
After you’ve connected, you should see your iPad’s screen appear on your TV. From there, anything you do on your iPad — browsing photos, watching YouTube, or navigating Google Maps — will be displayed in real-time on your TV.
Tip: For smoother performance, minimize the number of other devices using your Wi-Fi during mirroring. A strong and stable internet connection can significantly improve the viewing experience.
Benefits of Mirroring an iPad to Roku
Here are just a few ways screen mirroring can elevate your digital life:
- Entertainment: Watch streaming content from apps that may not be available on Roku.
- Education: Share educational apps, notes, and presentations during meetings or lessons.
- Productivity: Use your iPad as a second screen or present work materials wirelessly.

Troubleshooting Tips
If you experience trouble with mirroring, try these common fixes:
- Restart both your iPad and Roku.
- Check for software updates on both devices.
- Confirm both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
- Reconnect to the Roku through the mirroring app.
Final Thoughts
While screen mirroring from an iPad to a Roku may require a third-party app in most cases, the experience can be seamless and enjoyable once set up properly. From family movie nights to project presentations, the ability to wirelessly display your iPad’s screen onto a large TV with Roku is not just convenient but also incredibly versatile.
Now that you understand how to mirror your iPad to your Roku device, it’s time to grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the big screen experience!