Moonlight

Moonlight is a lightweight, open-source streaming client that lets you play PC games, run desktop applications, or mirror your full PC screen on an Android device while sending keyboard, mouse, and controller input back to the host. Moonlight is designed to deliver low-latency performance at high resolutions and refresh rates, supporting surround sound and modern codecs, and it runs without ads or locked features so you can focus on a flexible streaming experience. Whether you want to move a demanding title from your desktop to a tablet, access productivity apps remotely, or use a controller away from your desk, this app provides a capable bridge between your PC and Android device.

Key features and how they help

The client supports streaming of games, programs, or an entire desktop with configurable resolution and frame-rate targets so you can prioritize image quality or responsiveness depending on your network and hardware. It decodes H.264 and HEVC streams and can receive AV1-encoded streams when both the host software and GPU support that codec; this gives you options for efficiency and quality on modern systems. Moonlight also carries multi-channel audio including 7.1 surround when available on the host, which preserves immersive sound for games and media. Local co-op is possible with many connected controllers, and the app forwards mouse, keyboard, stylus, and gamepad input to the host for full remote control.

Controls and user input

Input fidelity is a central focus: mouse movement and clicks, keyboard presses, and controller buttons are transmitted to the PC so you can play competitive or precision-focused titles from a handheld device. The client accepts input from PS and Xbox controllers that Android recognizes and supports force feedback and motion sensors on newer Android releases when the host and hardware allow it. Touch and stylus interactions are transmitted as pointer events so desktop programs that depend on a cursor or fine input remain usable, and many users find the combination of hardware controllers and precise touch input a practical way to play or work remotely.

Performance and visual style

Moonlight aims to preserve the visual character of PC titles by supporting very high resolutions and frame rates when the host and network permit, including up to 4K at 120 frames per second under ideal conditions. HDR streaming is supported but requires an HDR-capable client display and host encoder that can write HDR metadata, so visual fidelity can vary by device. Because streaming quality depends on the encoding and network path, the app provides settings to tune bit rate, resolution, and frame pacing so you can find an acceptable balance between image quality and latency. These options let you maintain smooth motion on fast-paced games or prioritize clarity for single-player experiences.

Setup, compatibility, and recommended network tips

To stream, the host PC must run compatible server software; when that software is active and configured, Moonlight will discover and pair with the host over a local network and can also connect over the internet when the host is reachable. For the best results use a wired Ethernet connection on the host or a 5 GHz Wi-Fi link on both ends, minimize background uploads and downloads, and keep GPU drivers and the host server software up to date. If you encounter input lag or stuttering, lowering the target resolution or bit rate and testing a different transport mode usually improves responsiveness. The app works across a wide range of Android devices and scales its features with client hardware capabilities.

Use cases, replay value, and customization

Moonlight is useful for players who want to continue single-player campaigns away from their desk, for couch co-op sessions using a tablet as a shared screen, and for professionals who need to access desktop-only tools from another room or while traveling. Customization focuses on performance and control rather than cosmetic skins: you can tailor resolution, frame rate, and input mappings to suit different games and applications. Because it streams your actual PC installation, replay value comes from the breadth of titles and programs you already own rather than built-in progress systems; each new game or productivity workflow you try can change how you use the client.

Limitations and troubleshooting to expect

Streaming quality is inherently dependent on the host GPU, encoding settings, and your network. HDR requires an HDR10-capable client, a host encoder that supports HEVC Main 10, and an HDR-capable game, so not all setups will show true HDR. Certain advanced capabilities such as AV1 decoding or higher controller counts are gated by specific host software and compatible GPUs, which means functionality can vary from one system to another. If you rely on low latency for competitive play, test and tune settings on your home network before using remote connections over the internet.

Accessibility, privacy, and open-source benefits

Moonlight benefits from an open-source codebase that allows community review and contribution and avoids subscription walls or advertisements; this transparency can make it easier to assess privacy implications and keep the client lean. Accessibility is supported through broad input compatibility so users who need physical controllers, styluses, or keyboard navigation can adapt their setup. Because streaming requires a live host, the client has limited offline functionality: local settings and logs can be viewed without a connection, but the core streaming experience requires an active PC host and network connectivity.