Executive Summary


QtScrcpy is a free, open-source Android screen mirroring and control application that enables real-time display and control of Android devices from Windows, macOS, and Linux computers. Built on top of the highly regarded scrcpy project from Genymobile, QtScrcpy enhances the original with a Qt-based graphical interface, advanced features like custom key mapping, batch device control, and enterprise-grade performance specifications including sub-30ms latency and support for managing 500+ devices simultaneously.

Project Homepage: https://github.com/barry-ran/QtScrcpy
Original Project (scrcpy): https://github.com/Genymobile/scrcpy
License: Apache License 2.0
Developer: barry-ran (Rankun)


What is QtScrcpy?


QtScrcpy is a cross-platform application that provides real-time display and control of Android devices connected via USB or wireless network. Unlike commercial screen mirroring solutions, QtScrcpy requires no root privileges on the Android device, no special applications installed on the phone, and operates with minimal latency suitable for gaming, development, and enterprise device management.

The application leverages the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) to establish communication with Android devices and streams screen content as H.264 video, which is then decoded and rendered on the computer using OpenGL acceleration. All input from keyboard and mouse is transmitted back to the device, enabling seamless remote control.

Source: QtScrcpy GitHub Repository

Key Characteristics


Performance Specifications:

  • Frame rate: 30-60 FPS
  • Resolution: Up to 1920x1080 and beyond (native device resolution supported)
  • Latency: 35-70ms typical, under 30ms achievable via USB at 1080p
  • Startup time: Approximately 1 second to first frame

Platform Support:

  • Windows (7, 10, 11)
  • macOS
  • GNU/Linux (all major distributions)

Android Requirements:

  • Android API 21+ (Android 5.0 Lollipop or newer)
  • USB debugging enabled in Developer Options
  • No root access required
  • No special apps required on device

Sources: QtScrcpy GitHub, scrcpy Wikipedia


Technical Architecture


How QtScrcpy Works


QtScrcpy operates through a client-server architecture:

Server Component (Android Device): The application deploys a lightweight server (scrcpy-server) to the Android device via ADB. This server:

  • Captures the device screen content
  • Encodes video as H.264 stream using hardware encoders when available
  • Receives input events from the client
  • Translates input to Android touch/keyboard events
  • Requires no persistent installation (removed when connection closes)

Client Component (Desktop Computer): The QtScrcpy application running on the computer:

  • Establishes ADB connection (USB or TCP/IP)
  • Receives H.264 video stream
  • Decodes video using FFmpeg
  • Renders frames using OpenGL for GPU acceleration
  • Transmits keyboard/mouse input to server
  • Provides GUI for configuration and control

Communication Flow:

Android Device                          Desktop Computer
┌─────────────────┐                    ┌──────────────────┐
│ scrcpy-server   │◄───ADB Tunnel────►│   QtScrcpy       │
│  - Screen       │                    │   - Video        │
│    Capture      │                    │     Decode       │
│  - H.264        │                    │   - OpenGL       │
│    Encode       │                    │     Render       │
│  - Input        │                    │   - Input        │
│    Injection    │                    │     Capture      │
└─────────────────┘                    └──────────────────┘

Source: scrcpy Wikipedia - Technical Details

QtScrcpy vs Original scrcpy


QtScrcpy is a complete reimplementation of scrcpy with architectural differences:

Componentscrcpy (Original)QtScrcpy
UI FrameworkSDL (Simple DirectMedia Layer)Qt Framework
Video EncodingFFmpegFFmpeg
Video RenderingSDLOpenGL
Cross-PlatformCustom implementationQt abstraction layer
Programming LanguageCC++
Architecture StyleSynchronousAsynchronous (signal-slot)
Key MappingNot supportedCustom key mapping system
Build SystemMeson + Gradleqmake or CMake
Multi-DeviceSingle device focusBatch control supported

Advantages of Qt-Based Approach:

  • Easier GUI customization and extension
  • Asynchronous signal-slot mechanism improves responsiveness
  • Better integration with desktop environments
  • Simplified cross-platform development
  • Native look-and-feel on each platform

Source: QtScrcpy GitHub - Differences from scrcpy


Core Features


1. Real-Time Screen Mirroring


Display Capabilities:

  • Native resolution support (up to device maximum)
  • Configurable resolution and bitrate
  • 30-60 FPS frame rates
  • Low latency (35-70ms typical, under 30ms via USB)
  • GPU-accelerated rendering via OpenGL

Display Modes:

  • Windowed mode with resizable window
  • Fullscreen mode
  • Always-on-top mode
  • Background recording mode (no display, recording only)

Source: QtScrcpy Features

2. Device Control


Input Methods:

  • Mouse clicks mapped to touch events
  • Keyboard input forwarded to device
  • Multi-touch simulation (mouse-based)
  • Scroll wheel support
  • Custom key mapping (see Advanced Features)

System Controls:

  • Power button
  • Volume up/down
  • Home button
  • Back button
  • App switcher
  • Screen on/off (while continuing mirroring)
  • Notification panel expand/collapse

Keyboard Shortcuts:

ActionWindowsmacOS
Fullscreen toggleCtrl+FCmd+F
Resize to 1:1Ctrl+GCmd+G
Remove black bordersCtrl+WCmd+W
Home buttonCtrl+HCtrl+H
Back buttonCtrl+BCmd+B
App switcherCtrl+SCmd+S
Menu buttonCtrl+MCtrl+M
Volume upCtrl+↑Cmd+↑
Volume downCtrl+↓Cmd+↓
Power buttonCtrl+PCmd+P
Screen offCtrl+OCmd+O
Expand notificationsCtrl+NCmd+N
Copy to clipboardCtrl+CCmd+C
Paste from clipboardCtrl+VCmd+V

Source: QtScrcpy GitHub - Shortcuts

3. File Management


File Transfer:

  • Drag-and-drop files from computer to device
  • Files transferred to device’s default download directory (configurable)
  • No size limits (constrained only by device storage)

APK Installation:

  • Drag-and-drop APK files onto device window
  • Automatic installation initiated
  • No manual ADB commands required

Source: QtScrcpy User Guide

4. Screen Recording and Screenshots


Recording Capabilities:

  • Record device screen to video file
  • Configurable video format (MP4, MKV, etc.)
  • Configurable bitrate and quality
  • Background recording mode (record without displaying)
  • Custom save path configuration

Screenshot Features:

  • Instant screenshot to PNG file
  • Keyboard shortcut support
  • Automatic file naming with timestamp

Source: QtScrcpy Basic Operations

5. Clipboard Synchronization


Bidirectional Clipboard:

  • Ctrl+C: Copy device clipboard to computer
  • Ctrl+Shift+V: Copy computer clipboard to device
  • Ctrl+V: Paste computer clipboard as text events
  • Requires Android 7.0 or higher for full functionality

Source: QtScrcpy GitHub - Features

6. Wireless Connectivity


Connection Methods:

USB Connection:

  1. Enable USB debugging on Android device
  2. Connect device via USB cable
  3. Click “Update Device” to detect device
  4. Click “Start Service” to begin mirroring

Wireless (Wi-Fi) Connection:

  1. Initially connect device via USB
  2. Click “Get Device IP” to retrieve device IP address
  3. Click “Start adbd” to enable ADB over network
  4. Click “Wireless Connect” using the retrieved IP
  5. USB cable can be disconnected after wireless connection established

Requirements for Wireless:

  • Device and computer on same network
  • ADB over network enabled (via USB first time)
  • Port 5555 accessible (default ADB port)

Source: QtScrcpy GitHub - Wireless Setup


Advanced Features


1. Custom Key Mapping System


QtScrcpy provides a powerful key mapping system that allows users to map keyboard and mouse inputs to specific screen locations and gestures. This is particularly valuable for mobile gaming, allowing desktop-style controls for touch-based games.

Key Mapping Capabilities:

  • Map keyboard keys to screen tap locations
  • Map mouse movements to swipe gestures
  • Configure key combinations
  • Create multiple mapping profiles
  • Enable/disable mappings with toggle key (default: ~ tilde)

Mapping Components:

Tap Mapping:

[KeyName]
pos = x,y          // Screen position (percentage or absolute)

Swipe Mapping:

[KeyName]
pos = x1,y1>x2,y2  // Swipe from position 1 to position 2
time = duration    // Swipe duration in milliseconds

Default Mappings Provided:

  • PUBG Mobile (battle royale game controls)
  • TikTok (navigation and interaction)
  • Generic game templates

Creating Custom Mappings:

  1. Write mapping script following syntax rules
  2. Save script file to keymap directory
  3. Click “Refresh Script” in QtScrcpy
  4. Select your custom script
  5. Connect device and click “Apply”
  6. Press toggle key (default ~) to enable/disable mapping

QuickAssistant Tool: For users who prefer not to write mapping scripts manually, the developer provides QuickAssistant, a GUI tool for creating key mappings through visual interface rather than text editing.

QuickAssistant Download: Official Link

Source: QtScrcpy Key Mapping Documentation

2. Batch Device Control (QuickMirror)


QtScrcpy supports connecting and controlling multiple Android devices simultaneously, making it suitable for device testing, retail demonstrations, and enterprise device management.

Multi-Device Capabilities:

  • Connect up to 500+ devices simultaneously (with appropriate hardware)
  • Individual control of each device
  • Batch control (same action on all devices)
  • Group management (organize devices into groups)
  • OTG mode for reduced latency

QuickMirror Features:

  • Batch screen casting
  • Individual or batch control switching
  • Group organization and management
  • WiFi and OTG screen mirroring modes
  • File transfer to multiple devices
  • APK installation across device fleet
  • ADB shell shortcut commands

Free Version Limitations:

  • Up to 10 simultaneous device connections
  • All features available except automatic screen mirroring

Performance Optimization for Multi-Device:

  • Lower resolution settings reduce bandwidth requirements
  • Reduced frame rate improves system resource usage
  • OTG mode minimizes latency
  • Dedicated network recommended for 100+ devices

QuickMirror Tutorial: Official Documentation
Telegram Support Group: https://t.me/+Ylf_5V_rDCMyODQ1

Source: QtScrcpy QuickMirror Features

3. Audio Streaming


QtScrcpy integrates with sndcpy to provide audio streaming from Android device to computer.

Audio Capabilities:

  • Real-time audio forwarding
  • Requires Android 10 or higher
  • Based on sndcpy project
  • Synchronized with video stream
  • Low latency audio transmission

Setup:

  1. Install sndcpy component via QtScrcpy interface
  2. Click “Install Sndcpy” button
  3. Grant necessary permissions on Android device
  4. Audio automatically streams with video

Source: sndcpy project, QtScrcpy User Guide

4. Configuration Options


Pre-Connection Settings:

  • Video bitrate configuration
  • Resolution override (custom or device native)
  • Recording format selection (MP4, MKV, etc.)
  • Recording save path
  • Maximum FPS limit
  • Crop screen region

Connection Options:

  • Background recording mode
  • Always-on-top window
  • Automatic screen-off on connection
  • Reverse connection mode
  • Stay awake (prevent device sleep)

Source: QtScrcpy GitHub - Usage


Installation and Setup


System Requirements


Desktop Computer:

  • Operating System: Windows 7/10/11, macOS 10.12+, or Linux (any modern distribution)
  • CPU: Any modern multi-core processor (Intel/AMD)
  • RAM: 4GB minimum, 8GB recommended for multi-device
  • Graphics: GPU with OpenGL 3.0+ support
  • Network: USB 2.0/3.0 port or WiFi for wireless connection

Android Device:

  • Android Version: 5.0 (Lollipop) or newer (API level 21+)
  • Developer Options: Enabled
  • USB Debugging: Enabled
  • No root required
  • No special apps required

Source: QtScrcpy GitHub - Requirements

Installation Steps


Windows:

  1. Download Latest Release:

    • Visit QtScrcpy Releases
    • Download Windows package (e.g., QtScrcpy-windows-x64-v1.x.x.zip)
  2. Extract Archive:

    Extract to desired location (e.g., C:\Programs\QtScrcpy)
    
  3. Run Application:

    • No installation required
    • Double-click QtScrcpy.exe
    • ADB is included in the package

macOS:

  1. Download Latest Release:

  2. Install:

    • Open DMG file
    • Drag QtScrcpy to Applications folder
    • ADB is included in the package
  3. First Launch:

    • Right-click QtScrcpy in Applications
    • Select “Open” (security bypass for first launch)

Linux:

Option 1: Arch Linux (AUR):

yay -Syu qtscrcpy

Option 2: Prebuilt Package:

  1. Download Linux package from Releases
  2. Extract archive:
    tar -xzf QtScrcpy-linux-x64-v1.x.x.tar.gz
    cd QtScrcpy-linux-x64-v1.x.x
    
  3. Run:
    ./QtScrcpy
    

Option 3: Build from Source: See Building from Source section below.

Source: QtScrcpy GitHub - Get Started

Android Device Setup


Enable Developer Options:

  1. Open Settings on Android device
  2. Navigate to About Phone
  3. Tap Build Number 7 times
  4. Developer Options now enabled

Enable USB Debugging:

  1. Open Settings
  2. Navigate to Developer Options
  3. Toggle USB Debugging ON
  4. Confirm security prompt

Connect via USB:

  1. Connect Android device to computer via USB cable
  2. On device, tap “Allow USB debugging” when prompted
  3. Optionally check “Always allow from this computer”

Source: Android Developer - ADB Setup

First Connection


USB Connection:

  1. Launch QtScrcpy
  2. Connect Android device via USB
  3. Click “Update Device” button
  4. Device serial number appears in device list
  5. Select device from list
  6. Click “Start Service”
  7. Device screen appears in window

Wireless Connection:

  1. First connect device via USB (required for initial setup)
  2. Click “Get Device IP”
    • Device IP address populated in wireless section
  3. Click “Start adbd”
    • ADB daemon enabled on device network
  4. Click “Wireless Connect”
    • Connection established via WiFi
  5. USB cable can now be disconnected
  6. Click “Update Device” to see wireless device
  7. Select wireless device (shows IP address)
  8. Click “Start Service”

Troubleshooting First Connection:

Device Not Detected:

  • Verify USB debugging is enabled
  • Try different USB cable (some are charge-only)
  • Try different USB port
  • Install device-specific USB drivers (Windows)
  • Check adb devices in command line

Connection Timeout:

  • Disable VPN on computer
  • Check firewall not blocking ADB (port 5037)
  • Restart ADB server: adb kill-server then adb start-server

Multiple Devices Detected Error:

  • Use device serial number to specify which device
  • Disconnect other Android devices temporarily

Source: QtScrcpy GitHub - Usage


Use Cases


1. Mobile Gaming on Desktop


Advantages:

  • Play touch-based games with keyboard and mouse
  • Larger screen for better visibility
  • Custom key mappings for desktop-style controls
  • Record gameplay without performance impact on device
  • Lower latency than game streaming services

Recommended Settings:

  • Resolution: 1920x1080 or native device resolution
  • Bitrate: 8 Mbps (USB) or 4 Mbps (WiFi)
  • FPS: 60 FPS
  • Connection: USB for lowest latency

Popular Game Mappings:

  • PUBG Mobile (included by default)
  • Call of Duty Mobile (community mappings available)
  • Free Fire (community mappings)
  • Genshin Impact (custom mapping recommended)

Source: QtScrcpy Features

2. Android App Development and Testing


Developer Benefits:

  • Test apps on real hardware without handling device
  • Larger screen for UI inspection
  • Easy screenshot and screen recording for documentation
  • Quick file transfer and APK installation
  • Monitor multiple test devices simultaneously

Integration with Development Workflow:

  • Run app in Android Studio
  • Mirror device with QtScrcpy for visual testing
  • Use keyboard/mouse for rapid interaction testing
  • Record screen for bug reports
  • Screenshot UI for documentation

Source: Open-Source Android Display Apps

3. Technical Support and Remote Assistance


Support Scenarios:

  • Guide users through device configuration
  • Demonstrate procedures on user’s device
  • Troubleshoot issues remotely (with screen sharing)
  • Train users on mobile applications
  • Document support procedures with recordings

Best Practices:

  • Use wireless connection for flexibility
  • Enable always-on-top mode for multitasking
  • Record sessions for reference
  • Use ADB commands for advanced diagnostics

4. Presentations and Demonstrations


Presentation Benefits:

  • Display mobile app to audience on projector
  • No additional hardware required (no Chromecast, no cables)
  • Demonstrate mobile-only features to desktop audience
  • Control device without touching it
  • Record presentation for later distribution

Recommended Settings:

  • Resolution: Match projector native resolution
  • Always-on-top: Enabled
  • Fullscreen mode for clean presentation
  • Wireless connection for mobility during presentation

5. Device Fleet Management


Enterprise Use Cases:

  • Retail device management (kiosks, displays)
  • Testing device fleet (QA departments)
  • Device provisioning and configuration
  • Mass APK deployment
  • Simultaneous device monitoring

QuickMirror for Enterprise:

  • Manage up to 500+ devices per computer
  • Group devices by location/function
  • Batch configuration deployment
  • Centralized monitoring
  • Remote troubleshooting

Source: QtScrcpy QuickMirror Features

6. Content Creation


Creator Benefits:

  • Record mobile app tutorials
  • Create mobile game content
  • Demonstrate mobile-only applications
  • Higher quality than device recording
  • No watermarks or limitations

Workflow:

  • Configure recording settings (resolution, bitrate, format)
  • Start background recording if device display not needed
  • Perform actions on device
  • Stop service to save recording
  • Edit with standard video editing tools

Performance Analysis


Latency Characteristics


USB Connection:

  • Typical latency: 35-50ms at 1080p
  • Optimized latency: Under 30ms at 1080p
  • Low latency contributors:
    • Hardware H.264 encoding on Android device
    • Direct USB data transfer
    • GPU-accelerated decoding via OpenGL
    • Minimal buffering

Wireless Connection:

  • Typical latency: 50-100ms at 1080p
  • Factors affecting wireless latency:
    • Network congestion
    • WiFi signal strength
    • Router quality
    • Distance from access point

Comparison with Alternatives:

  • Lower than commercial solutions at equivalent resolution
  • Comparable to or better than other scrcpy-based tools
  • Significantly lower than cloud-based game streaming

Source: QtScrcpy Performance Specifications

Resource Usage


CPU Usage:

  • Typical usage: 5-15% on modern quad-core CPU
  • Pure C++ implementation for efficiency
  • Hardware acceleration reduces CPU load
  • Multi-device increases CPU usage proportionally

GPU Usage:

  • OpenGL rendering offloads work to GPU
  • Dedicated GPU recommended for multi-device
  • Integrated graphics sufficient for single device

Network Bandwidth:

USB Connection:

  • No network bandwidth consumed
  • Limited only by USB 2.0/3.0 speeds

Wireless Connection:

  • Bitrate determines bandwidth usage
  • Recommended bitrates:
    • 1080p: 4-8 Mbps
    • 720p: 2-4 Mbps
    • 480p: 1-2 Mbps

Multi-Device Bandwidth:

  • 10 devices at 1080p, 4 Mbps: ~40 Mbps total
  • Dedicated network segment recommended for 20+ devices
  • Gigabit Ethernet recommended for 50+ devices

Source: QtScrcpy Technical Details

Frame Rate Performance


Achievable Frame Rates:

  • 30 FPS: Standard, smooth for most use cases
  • 60 FPS: Gaming, high-motion content
  • Configurable maximum FPS

Factors Affecting Frame Rate:

  • Device hardware capabilities
  • Resolution setting
  • Network bandwidth (wireless)
  • Computer CPU/GPU capabilities
  • Number of simultaneous devices

Comparison with Alternatives


QtScrcpy vs scrcpy (Original)


When to Choose QtScrcpy:

  • Need custom key mapping for gaming
  • Prefer GUI over command-line
  • Managing multiple devices simultaneously
  • Want batch control features
  • Prefer asynchronous architecture

When to Choose scrcpy:

  • Minimal dependencies preferred
  • Command-line workflow
  • Embedded systems deployment
  • Lower memory footprint required

Source: QtScrcpy GitHub - Comparison

QtScrcpy vs Commercial Solutions


Vysor:

  • Vysor: Subscription-based ($40/year for Pro)
  • QtScrcpy: Free and open-source
  • Vysor: Cloud-based option available
  • QtScrcpy: Local connection only
  • Vysor: Simpler setup
  • QtScrcpy: More features, better performance

ApowerMirror:

  • ApowerMirror: Commercial ($59.95/year)
  • QtScrcpy: Free
  • ApowerMirror: iOS support
  • QtScrcpy: Android only
  • ApowerMirror: Annotation tools
  • QtScrcpy: Lower latency, better for gaming

TeamViewer (Mobile):

  • TeamViewer: Subscription-based (€24.90/month)
  • QtScrcpy: Free
  • TeamViewer: Remote access over internet
  • QtScrcpy: Local network only
  • TeamViewer: Requires app on device
  • QtScrcpy: No device-side installation

Source: AlternativeTo - QtScrcpy Alternatives

QtScrcpy vs KDE Connect


KDE Connect:

  • Focus: Device integration and notifications
  • Screen mirroring: Basic, not primary feature
  • File transfer: Full bidirectional sync
  • Use case: General device integration

QtScrcpy:

  • Focus: Screen mirroring and control
  • Screen mirroring: Primary feature, high performance
  • File transfer: One-way (computer to device)
  • Use case: Gaming, development, presentations

Best Choice: Use both - they serve different purposes and don’t conflict

Source: AlternativeTo Comparison


Advanced Configuration


Optimizing for Gaming


Configuration:

Resolution: Native device resolution or 1920x1080
Bitrate: 8 Mbps (USB) or 6 Mbps (WiFi)
Max FPS: 60
Connection: USB (for lowest latency)
Crop: Disable (full screen)
Stay awake: Enable
Screen off: Disable

Key Mapping Setup:

  1. Identify game controls (buttons, joystick areas)
  2. Map keyboard keys to button positions
  3. Map WASD or arrow keys to joystick
  4. Test mapping in non-competitive environment
  5. Refine positions and timings
  6. Save mapping for reuse

Optimizing for Multi-Device


Hardware Recommendations:

  • CPU: 8+ cores for 20+ devices
  • RAM: 16GB for 50+ devices, 32GB for 100+
  • Network: Dedicated gigabit switch
  • Storage: SSD for recording multiple streams

Software Configuration:

Resolution: 720p or lower
Bitrate: 2 Mbps per device
Max FPS: 30
Disable audio streaming (reduces overhead)
Use OTG mode when possible

Network Setup:

  • Dedicated VLAN for device traffic
  • QoS prioritization for video streams
  • Sufficient DHCP pool for all devices
  • Static IPs for critical devices

ADB Command Shortcuts


QtScrcpy provides quick access to common ADB commands through its interface:

Useful ADB Commands:

# Install APK
adb install -r app.apk

# Uninstall package
adb uninstall com.package.name

# Clear app data
adb shell pm clear com.package.name

# Get device properties
adb shell getprop

# Reboot device
adb reboot

# Take screenshot (alternative)
adb shell screencap /sdcard/screenshot.png

# Pull file from device
adb pull /sdcard/file.txt

Execute via QtScrcpy:

  1. Click “ADB Command” button
  2. Enter command (omit adb prefix)
  3. Click Execute

Note: Blocking commands (like adb shell interactive shell) are not currently supported in the GUI.

Source: QtScrcpy User Guide


Building from Source


For developers who want to modify QtScrcpy or build for unsupported platforms.

Build Prerequisites


Common Requirements:

  • Qt 5.12 or higher (Qt 6 supported)
  • CMake 3.16 or higher
  • Git (with submodules support)
  • C++ compiler with C++11 support

Platform-Specific:

Windows:

  • Visual Studio 2019 or newer (MSVC compiler)
  • Qt for MSVC

Linux:

  • Packages: base-devel, cmake, qt5-base, qt5-multimedia, qt5-x11extras
  • GCC or Clang

macOS:

  • Xcode Command Line Tools
  • Qt for macOS

Android Server Build:

  • Android Studio
  • Android SDK
  • Gradle

Source: QtScrcpy Build Instructions

Build Steps


Clone Repository with Submodules:

git clone --recurse-submodules https://github.com/barry-ran/QtScrcpy.git
cd QtScrcpy

Windows Build:

# Open CMakeLists.txt with Qt Creator
# Configure project for MSVC 2019 x64 Release
# Build > Build All
# Executable: output/x64/Release/QtScrcpy.exe

Linux Build:

# Install dependencies (Arch Linux example)
sudo pacman -S base-devel cmake qt5-base qt5-multimedia qt5-x11extras

# Build
./ci/linux/build_for_linux.sh "Release"

# Output: output/x64/Release/QtScrcpy

macOS Build:

# Install dependencies via Homebrew
brew install qt@5 cmake

# Build
./ci/mac/build_for_mac.sh "Release"

# Output: output/QtScrcpy.app

Build Android Server (Optional):

# Open server/ directory in Android Studio
cd server
# Build APK
# Rename output to scrcpy-server
# Replace QtScrcpyCore/src/third_party/scrcpy-server

Source: QtScrcpy GitHub - Build Section


Troubleshooting


Common Issues


Issue: Device Not Detected

Symptoms:

  • Device not appearing in device list
  • “No devices found” message

Solutions:

  1. Verify USB debugging enabled on device
  2. Check USB cable (use data cable, not charge-only)
  3. Try different USB port
  4. Install device-specific USB drivers (Windows)
  5. Revoke USB debugging authorizations on device and reconnect
  6. Restart ADB server:
    adb kill-server
    adb start-server
    

Issue: Black Screen or Connection Timeout

Symptoms:

  • Window opens but shows black screen
  • “Connection timeout” error

Solutions:

  1. Check device is unlocked
  2. Disable VPN on computer
  3. Check firewall not blocking ADB (port 5037)
  4. Verify sufficient USB power (use direct port, not hub)
  5. Try lower resolution setting
  6. Enable “USB configuration” to “MTP” or “File Transfer” on device

Issue: Laggy or Stuttering Video

Symptoms:

  • Frame drops
  • Choppy video
  • High latency

Solutions:

  1. Reduce resolution (1080p → 720p)
  2. Lower bitrate (8 Mbps → 4 Mbps)
  3. Reduce max FPS (60 → 30)
  4. Close other applications
  5. Use USB instead of WiFi
  6. Update graphics drivers
  7. Disable hardware overlays (some devices)

Issue: Input Not Working

Symptoms:

  • Mouse clicks not registered on device
  • Keyboard input not appearing

Solutions:

  1. Ensure device is not locked
  2. Disable power saving mode on device
  3. Verify “Stay awake” is enabled in Developer Options
  4. Check no accessibility services blocking input
  5. Try disabling key mapping if enabled
  6. Restart connection

Issue: Wireless Connection Fails

Symptoms:

  • Cannot connect via WiFi
  • “Connection refused” error

Solutions:

  1. Verify device and computer on same network
  2. Check device IP is correct (may have changed)
  3. Verify “Start adbd” was clicked before wireless connect
  4. Check router not blocking port 5555
  5. Disable AP isolation on router
  6. Try manual ADB connection first:
    adb connect <device-ip>:5555
    

Issue: Audio Not Working

Symptoms:

  • No audio from device
  • Audio sync issues

Solutions:

  1. Verify Android 10 or higher
  2. Reinstall sndcpy component
  3. Grant all permissions requested
  4. Check device volume not muted
  5. Verify audio output device on computer
  6. Restart connection

Source: QtScrcpy GitHub Issues

Log Analysis


Windows Log Location:

C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Local\QtScrcpy\log.txt

Linux/Mac Log Location:

~/.config/QtScrcpy/log.txt

Useful Information in Logs:

  • ADB connection status
  • Device detection events
  • Video codec information
  • Error messages with codes
  • Network connection details

Enable Verbose Logging:

# Set environment variable before launching
export QT_LOGGING_RULES="*.debug=true"
./QtScrcpy

Security and Privacy Considerations


Data Security


Local Operation:

  • All communication between computer and device is local
  • No cloud services or internet connectivity required
  • No data sent to third parties
  • Open-source code available for security audit

USB Debugging Risks:

  • USB debugging grants significant device access
  • Only enable when needed
  • Revoke debugging authorization for untrusted computers
  • Use “Always allow from this computer” carefully

Best Practices:

  • Only use QtScrcpy on trusted computers
  • Disable USB debugging when not needed
  • Verify application integrity (download from official sources)
  • Keep device and computer updated
  • Use wireless connection on trusted networks only

Source: Android Security Best Practices

Network Security (Wireless Mode)


Risks:

  • ADB over network exposes device to network attacks
  • Anyone on network can potentially connect if adbd running
  • Port 5555 should not be exposed to internet

Mitigations:

  • Use wireless mode only on trusted networks
  • Disable ADB over network when not in use
  • Use firewall rules to restrict ADB port access
  • Consider VPN for remote access instead of port forwarding

Disable ADB Over Network:

adb usb
# Or on device: Developer Options > USB Debugging (toggle off and on)

Community and Support


Official Resources


GitHub Repository:

Telegram Groups:

Developer Resources:

  • Video course on QtScrcpy development (paid): CSDN Blog Post
  • Architecture documentation in repository
  • Code examples and samples

Source: QtScrcpy GitHub

Contributing


Ways to Contribute:

  • Report bugs with detailed reproduction steps
  • Suggest features and improvements
  • Submit pull requests for bug fixes
  • Create key mapping scripts for games
  • Translate documentation
  • Help other users in Telegram groups

Contribution Guidelines:

  1. Open PRs to dev branch (not master)
  2. Rebase on latest code before submitting
  3. Keep PRs focused (one feature/fix per PR)
  4. Follow existing code style
  5. Test thoroughly before submitting
  6. Provide clear description of changes

Source: QtScrcpy Contributing Guide

Funding and Support


Open Collective: QtScrcpy accepts financial contributions to support development:

Corporate Sponsorship: Organizations using QtScrcpy can sponsor development and have their logo displayed in project documentation.

Source: QtScrcpy GitHub


Future Development


Planned Features


Based on GitHub issues and developer communications, potential future enhancements include:

Audio Improvements:

  • Android 11+ audio streaming to computer (in development)
  • Bidirectional audio (computer microphone to device)
  • Audio format configuration options

Performance Enhancements:

  • Hardware encoder support optimization
  • Reduced latency modes
  • Multi-monitor support improvements

User Interface:

  • Dark mode theme
  • Customizable layouts
  • Dockable control panels
  • Device thumbnails for multi-device view

Advanced Features:

  • Reverse tethering (share computer internet with device)
  • File sync capabilities
  • SMS/notification mirroring
  • Virtual camera (use device as webcam)

Note: These are community requests and potential developments, not confirmed roadmap items.

Source: QtScrcpy GitHub Issues


Conclusion


QtScrcpy represents a mature, feature-rich solution for Android screen mirroring and control that successfully bridges the gap between the command-line efficiency of the original scrcpy and the user-friendly requirements of desktop users. Its combination of zero-cost licensing, high performance (sub-30ms latency), extensive feature set (key mapping, batch control, recording), and cross-platform support makes it an exceptional choice for developers, gamers, IT professionals, and anyone requiring reliable Android device control from their computer.

The project’s active development, open-source nature, and growing community ensure continued improvements and long-term viability. Whether deploying a single device for gaming or managing hundreds of devices in an enterprise environment, QtScrcpy provides the tools and performance necessary for professional-grade Android device interaction.

Key Strengths


  1. Performance: Industry-leading low latency (under 30ms via USB)
  2. Features: Comprehensive feature set including key mapping and batch control
  3. Cost: Completely free and open-source
  4. Platform Support: Windows, macOS, and Linux
  5. No Device Requirements: No root, no special apps
  6. Multi-Device: Support for 500+ simultaneous devices
  7. Active Development: Regular updates and community support

  • Mobile game enthusiasts wanting desktop controls
  • Android developers requiring efficient testing workflows
  • IT support teams managing Android device fleets
  • Content creators producing mobile app tutorials
  • Retail and enterprise device management
  • Anyone needing reliable screen mirroring without subscription costs

References and Further Reading


Primary Sources:

  1. QtScrcpy GitHub Repository: https://github.com/barry-ran/QtScrcpy
  2. Original scrcpy Project: https://github.com/Genymobile/scrcpy
  3. scrcpy Wikipedia Article: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scrcpy

Documentation: 4. QtScrcpy User Guide: https://deepwiki.com/barry-ran/QtScrcpy/3-user-guide 5. Android Debug Bridge Documentation: https://developer.android.com/studio/command-line/adb

Community Resources: 6. ByteNote QtScrcpy Guide: https://www.bytenote.net/article/254875647531286529 7. Open-Source Android Display Apps Article: https://medevel.com/share-display-android-windows-apps-1800/ 8. AlternativeTo Comparison Page: https://alternativeto.net/software/qtscrcpy/

Additional Projects: 9. sndcpy (Audio Streaming): https://github.com/rom1v/sndcpy 10. QuickAssistant: https://lrbnfell4p.feishu.cn/drive/folder/Hqckfxj5el1Wjpd9uezcX71lnBh