Whether you’re filming a vlog, a tutorial, or a short film, framing your shot properly is key - and that's hard to do when you can’t see yourself on screen. That’s where an external monitor for iPhone video comes in. With the right setup, you can preview your footage in real time, adjust framing, and ensure everything looks just right before hitting record.
In this article, we’ll walk you through five reliable methods to use an external monitor with your iPhone. From dedicated wireless monitors like the SYNCO XView M4 to smart setups using Apple TV or a second iOS device, these methods suit different shooting styles, budgets, and workflows.
1. Use a wireless external monitor for iPhone video
A wireless external monitor for iPhone video provides a simple way to view your front or rear camera feed in real time. It helps improve framing, focus, and overall control during shooting. This portable motoring device is ideal for phone vlogging, livestreaming, and solo content creation.
One of the best external monitors for iPhone video in this category is the SYNCO XView M4, a wireless selfie screen designed specifically for smartphones. It connects using P2P wireless technology, meaning you don’t need WiFi or mobile data. With just a few taps, the M4 pairs with your iPhone and delivers a smooth, low-latency40ms video feed with a 50-meter range, giving you freedom to move and frame your shots. Additional features for iPhone vlogging include:
🌟Bluetooth shutter to remotely control your iPhone’s camera
🌟Aspect ratio switching, mirroring, and rotation modes
🌟Adjustable brightness and volume
How to set up this external monitor for iPhone video:
1️⃣Turn on the monitor
2️⃣Open Control Center and enable Screen Mirroring on your iPhone
3️⃣Select the device to connect
4️⃣Adjust screen size, volume, or brightness as needed
Whether you’re livestreaming, filming tutorials, or capturing handheld vlogs, a wireless external monitor like the SYNCO XView M4 gives you the flexibility and clarity to get the perfect shot.
2. Connect your iPhone to an external monitor via an HDMI or USB-C adapter
Using a wired external monitor with HDMI or USB-C is another simple way to view your iPhone video. This solution uses an adapter to create a direct physical connection between your phone and the monitor, providing a stable and consistent video feed.
To set up a wired external monitor for iPhone video, choose the right adapter based on your phone model:
👉For iPhones with a Lightning port, use the Lightning Digital AV Adapter to output video via HDMI.
👉For newer iPhones with USB-C, such as the iPhone 15, a USB-C to HDMI or USB-C to DisplayPort cable can connect directly to the monitor.
👉Some older models also support VGA or composite output.
This solution is best suited for fixed shooting environments where reliable performance is required without relying on wireless connectivity.
For a wired vs. wireless comparison and more buying tips, check out our external monitor for iPhone filming guide.
3. Turn your laptop into an iPhone external monitor with screen mirroring apps
The most budget-friendly external monitor for iPhone video is actually your laptop. This affordable and flexible solution works well for users with an iPhone and a PC or Mac laptop.
By installing screen mirroring apps on your computer, you can turn it into an AirPlay receiver and wirelessly mirror your iPhone’s camera feed in real time.
Several apps support this, including Reflector, AirServer, and ApowerMirror. These apps create a virtual display on your computer that receives the iPhone screen via AirPlay, allowing you to monitor video without additional hardware.
For Mac users, there is also a free and simple way to use your laptop as an external monitor for iPhone video. By connecting your iPhone to your Mac via USB and using the built-in QuickTime Player, you can view the camera feed. Here’s how:
1️⃣Open QuickTime Player on your Mac.
2️⃣Go to File > New Movie Recording.
3️⃣Select your iPhone as the video source.
This method offers a stable, low-latency connection without the need for extra software.
4. Use a camera monitor app to view iPhone video on a second IOS device
An iPhone camera monitor app offers a wireless solution for using a second iOS device, such as an iPad or another iPhone, as an external video monitor. This method lets you view your camera feed in real time without cables or additional hardware.
These apps are designed specifically for iPhone video monitoring and allow you to stream the camera feed over the same WiFi network or a personal hotspot. They typically include features like remote control, live preview, and even multi-camera switching.
Unlike the screen mirroring apps in the previous solution, which replicate the entire iPhone screen to a computer, camera monitor apps only focus on the camera feed, offering better control and a cleaner preview for creators.
If you own an Apple Watch, discover how to use it as a video monitor for iPhone in this guide.
5. Use Apple TV with AirPlay to wirelessly monitor iPhone video
Using Apple TV is another wireless method to set up an external monitor for iPhone video. In this setup, Apple TV acts as a receiver that mirrors your iPhone’s screen to an HDMI-equipped monitor or TV using AirPlay.
To set it up:
1️⃣Connect your Apple TV to the external monitor using an HDMI (or HDMI to VGA) cable.
2️⃣On your iPhone, create a personal hotspot.
3️⃣Connect the Apple TV to that WiFi hotspot network.
4️⃣Open Control Center on your iPhone and tap Screen Mirroring.
5️⃣Select your Apple TV from the list to begin mirroring your camera feed.
This method is ideal for field shoots or wide setups where your iPhone is far from the monitor. It provides a stable wireless connection and works well for solo creators or small teams who already use Apple devices.
Conclusion: What is the best external monitor for iPhone video and filming?
Picking the right external monitor for iPhone video comes down to your shooting setup, mobility needs, and gear preference.
👉Want a dedicated screen for vlogging or livestreaming? A wireless selfie monitor offers real-time, flexible monitoring. Explore top options at SYNCO.
👉Prefer stability for desk setups or fixed angles? External monitors with HDMI or USB-C adapters provide the most reliable wired connection.
👉Looking for a cost-effective option using what you already own? Screen mirroring apps can turn your laptop into a wireless monitor in minutes.
👉Need to stay mobile while previewing footage? iPhone camera monitor apps stream video to a second iOS device with added remote control features.
👉Filming at a distance on set or in the field? Apple TV with AirPlay wirelessly mirrors your camera feed to any large display.
No matter your workflow, these five methods offer flexible ways to monitor your iPhone video and shoot with clarity and confidence.