We use cookies and similar technologies to process personal information for the operation of our website, statistical analysis, and providing targeted advertising. We share information about your use of the site with our advertising partners who may further share it with additional parties. You may opt out of performance cookies here, and learn more about how we use cookies here” 

What is The Best Wireless Screen Mirroring System for Linux Devices?

  • BenQ
  • 2020-08-06

A recent IDC report identified Linux as one of the fastest-growing worldwide operating systems as the open-source OS is now used in desktop computers, thin clients, development boards, and other innovative applications. Yet when it comes time to connect these devices to a meeting room display, most of the time you are stuck stringing an HDMI cable over the floor or through a wall. No longer.

With wireless presentation systems now growing at 40% in 2018, it only makes sense that companies will eventually enable Linux devices to connect to a projector or TV in a meeting room wirelessly without a cable. But which systems work with Linux – and how hard are they set up and use? In this article, we will evaluate different solutions for wireless screen mirroring on flexibility to use with other devices except for Linux, data protection and cost. 

What are these devices? Can I connect other devices except for Linux?

The three popular systems for wireless screen mirroring that support Linux devices to some degree are: BenQ InstaShowBenQ InstaShow S and AirTame2. While Barco ClickShare CS-200 has discontinued support for their Linux client but does support Google cast.

 

The BenQ InstaShow can support any Linux device that outputs an HDMI 1.4 signal, which includes nearly every development board such as Raspberry Pi, Ubuntu, and other Linux devices. Just connect the HDMI button to your device – and tap to present onto a projector or larger flat panel display. BenQ designed InstaShow for a wide variety of devices and technical instruments beyond traditional notebooks, phones, and tablets.

 

Another alternative is the Airtame2 system that uses a proprietary application that supports Ubuntu but is not officially supported on Fedora or other Linux based OS.

Is the content protected?


IT experts prefer Linux due to its ability to move data securely with less risk of attack. For a wireless screen mirroring solution, this is also a concern as unsecured wireless transmissions could be recorded or captured.

 

The BenQ InstaShow systems seamlessly encrypt all the data being transmitted through the InstaShow button to the receiver using advanced 128-bit security.

The Airtame does not encrypt any transmissions sent through the network.

Can I use it with other devices except for Linux?

Professionals such as engineers, scientists, photographers, and realtors often utilize Linux based devices, and also have other equipment such as cameras, media players, and technical instruments that may need to connect to a wireless collaboration system.

With an InstaShow, you can connect nearly any device (such as a Raspberry Pi or digital camera) that outputs HDMI to a projector or flat panel display simply by plugging in a button.

BenQ InstaShow - WDC10

Wireless Presentation System WDC10

How much does it cost?


For commercial systems that wireless enable screen mirroring, many IT managers utilize the Gartner TCO model for wireless presentation systems to calculate the cost of setup, network configuration, app deployment, and network device management.

While both the BenQ and the Barco ClickShare CS-200 have a higher initial cost, they don’t need complicated network setup or testing and don’t impact the available bandwidth of the network typically needed with the AirTame2.

Comparison Table: Wireless Screen Mirroring System for Linux Devices

While there are many choices for wireless screen mirroring systems with HDMI, here is a summary of how the top-selling commercial wireless presentation systems that are popular for corporate and education collaboration stack up when using Linux devices.

Feature BenQ InstaShow S BenQ InstaShow Barco Clickshare CS-200 Airtame2
Feature

Easy to use - Connection options

BenQ InstaShow S

USB-C Button
HDMI Button

BenQ InstaShow

USB-C Button
HDMI Button

Barco Clickshare CS-200

No Linux support - only Google Chromecast

Airtame2

Airtame Linux App for Ubuntu devices

Feature

Easy to set up

BenQ InstaShow S

Very Easy - no networking or apps required

BenQ InstaShow

Very Easy - no networking or apps required

Barco Clickshare CS-200

Easy - no networking required

Airtame2

Complicated – Excess bandwidth and network configuration required. App required for use

Feature

Security - Encryption

BenQ InstaShow S

128-bit encryption

BenQ InstaShow

128-bit encryption

Barco Clickshare CS-200

128-bit encryption

Airtame2

No encryption

Feature

# of Presenters on the screen at once

BenQ InstaShow S

Four

BenQ InstaShow

One

Barco Clickshare CS-200

Two

Airtame2

One

Why should I choose InstaShow for Linux devices?

InstaShow delivers a simple and reliable way to wirelessly present from nearly any Linux device with an HDMI port. The InstaShow button takes the HDMI 1.4 output and wirelessly encrypts and transmits the stream to the receiver for a stress-free presentation. And with the InstaShow S, you can add up to four presenters at the same time – perfect for scrums and detailed collaboration sessions.

Try for Free

Receive a 300$ Discount if You Buy!