Smart TVs have become the norm, so if you have an older TV, you might feel like you’re missing out on all the latest streaming apps and content. The good news is that you may easily turn a regular LED TV into a smart TV.
Turning a regular TV into a smart TV is easier than you think. Here are some of the easiest and most affordable methods to do so:
1. Connect Media Streaming Devices
The easiest (and my personal favorite) method to turn a regular TV into a smart TV is by using a media streaming device. These are essentially compact dongles or boxes that are capable of connecting to the internet and, thus, allow you to stream videos and music on your TV.
Some of the more popular media streaming devices include:
2. Connect to a Smart Blu-Ray Player
There are a number of smart Blu-ray players that can turn your regular TV into a device that’s capable of streaming content. Keep in mind, though, that not all Blu-ray players have the same features and capabilities, so be sure to read the description carefully before you make a purchase.
After you purchase a Blu-ray player, all you need to do is connect it to your TV using the HDMI port. Turn on both devices and you can complete the setup process and begin streaming.
3. Use Gaming Consoles
Many modern gaming consoles double up as streaming devices that you can use to access content on streaming apps like Amazon Prime, Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, and more. To set it up, connect the console to your TV using an HDMI cable. After that’s done, connect the gaming console to a power outlet, and turn on your TV and the console.
Press the input button on your TV remote to select the HDMI port to which the console is connected. Then, you can navigate to the main menu, download the streaming apps you want to use, and start streaming after you’re logged into the apps.
4. Use a Chromecast Device
You can plug in a Chromecast device to your TV using the HDMI port to turn it into a smart-adjacent TV. Once connected to your home’s WiFi network and TV, this media streaming device lets you stream music, videos, and other content from streaming apps from your smartphone.
5. Connect Your Laptop to Your TV
You can also connect your laptop to your TV using an HDMI cable and enjoy movies, TV shows, and YouTube content that you would have otherwise played on your laptop. I’ve personally done this a number of times, not only to stream content but also to use the larger TV screen as a secondary monitor.
Potential Issues That You Might Encounter
While connecting a streaming device or one of the other options mentioned above to your standard LED TV to turn it into a smart TV is usually straightforward, there are a few issues that you might encounter during the process…
1. Lack of HDMI Ports
Older TVs might not have HDMI ports, which are essential for connecting to most streaming devices. Given this, before you purchase any streaming device, be sure to check if your TV is equipped with an HDMI port.
Additionally, if you want to connect your laptop to your TV, you might find that your laptop, especially if it’s a newer model, doesn’t have an HDMI port either. In this case, you might have to purchase an adapter to facilitate the connection.
2. Resolution Limitations
If you have an older TV that doesn’t support HD or 4K resolutions, you might find that the content you’re streaming lacks sharpness and clarity. This can make the viewing experience less enjoyable.
3. The Need to Purchase Additional Streaming Devices
Another thing you’ll have to account for is the additional cost that you’ll have to incur to purchase a streaming device. While this is nowhere close to the cost of a brand-new smart TV, it’s still an extra expense that you’ll need to account for.
Can You Put Off Buying a Smart TV by Transforming Your Regular TV Into One?
If you don’t want to purchase a new TV, using these methods provide an alternative way to bring smart capabilities to your TV. I’ve streamed movies and TV shows on a regular LED TV using many of the methods mentioned above. But keep in mind that you might encounter issues, like lower resolution, lag, and apps freezing on you, from time to time.
If you want the seamless viewing experience that a dedicated smart TV provides, you might want to consider upgrading to one eventually.
