Streaming on an old TV might sound like a challenge, but with the right tech, anyone can transform a non-smart TV into a modern device. When one family member wants to watch a show on an outdated bedroom television while the rest catch the big game in the living room, adding streaming capabilities to some sets can make everyone’s TV time more enjoyable.
Before adding a streaming device to an old television, residents should first make sure the Wi-Fi signal is strong and they have sufficient bandwidth. There are several devices that will work to make streaming available, but all of these solutions require a good internet connection.
Streaming on a TV without smart technology is relatively easy and inexpensive, especially since some of these devices, like a Blu-ray player or gaming console, could already be in the family room. Before ditching a regular TV that cannot stream shows or live content, consider these options to get the functionality of a smart TV, without the hefty price tag:
1. External Streaming Device
Those who need to know how to stream on a non-smart TV should consider adding an external streaming device. A dongle is designed to plug into the back of the TV and is controlled by the accompanying remote so setup is simple and fast. The two most popular devices are the Amazon Fire Stick and Roku, which offer loads of applications for streaming on an old TV.
2. Gaming Console
Gamers with an Xbox Series X or a PlayStation 5 can use their console to turn any regular TV into a smart TV capable of streaming shows and videos and browsing the internet. These consoles plug directly into the TV and connect to the home’s wireless network. Users download the streaming apps of their choice from the app store to enjoy endless movies and videos, including YouTube content.
3. Laptops
Most PCs have HDMI outputs that plug directly into TV ports. Doing this turns the television into a large monitor that makes streaming shows or videos possible. This does not require the newest computer, either. A user choosing this route can even invest in a wireless keyboard and mouse to queue up the next show without getting off the couch. All it takes is a strong Wi-Fi connection and a login for any choice streaming service.
4. Android Media Player
A household running Android technology might appreciate streaming with Chromecast, an Android-based media player. This simple device is one of the cheapest on the market and is one of the easiest ways to get streaming services on a non-smart TV. The Chromecast is controlled by any Android smartphone, tablet or PC. A user can watch a show from the PC desktop or use apps on other devices to listen to Spotify or stream movies on the TV screen.
5. Apple TV Devices
An iPhone or iPad owner can add an Apple TV device to an old TV to stream movies, music and television shows with ease. Anyone familiar with the Apple operating system (iOS) will find the streaming interface of Apple TV familiar and viewers can sign in using their Apple IDs to select content to stream from a Mac, iPhone or iPad to the TV screen. An iPhone or iPad can also be used as a streaming device and plug into the TV through a choice of adapters and cables. The streaming service can be selected on the device and shown on the TV.
6. Smart Blu-Ray Players
A smart Blu-ray player offers many connection types to add streaming services to a regular TV using HDMI ports or coaxial cables. Most people are familiar with disc players and upgrading to a smart, Wi-Fi-capable player offers access to all the latest streaming apps, plus it allows users to play DVDs and Blu-ray discs. A household that does not rely only on streaming can use a smart Blu-ray player to upgrade an old TV with streaming capabilities while still using the technology to watch classic movies on discs.
Fast internet and simple technology upgrades can make streaming sports and other shows seamless. Any family struggling with buffering should utilize FTC’s Internet Speed Calculator and then view our Internet Plans to find the right internet package.
