Introduction
Television has undergone a remarkable evolution over the past few decades, transitioning from the tube box sets of yesteryears to today’s slim, sleek, and feature-packed Smart TVs. However, not every household has made the upgrade to a Smart TV yet. A non-Smart TV— traditionally defined as a television without the ability to connect to the internet or run apps — is still widely in use. That said, in a time where streaming platforms dominate the entertainment world, you might find yourself wanting to connect your non-smart television to the internet. This article will provide an overview of various methods to achieve internet connectivity for your non-smart TV, including streaming devices, gaming consoles, PCs, laptops, and smart DVD players.
Methods to Connect a Non-Smart TV to the Internet
Streaming Devices
Popular Streaming Devices
Streaming devices are a popular choice for connecting non-smart TVs to the internet. Devices such as Roku’s Streaming Stick, Google’s Chromecast, Amazon’s Fire TV Stick, or AppleTV are renowned for their efficiency and user-friendliness.
How Streaming Devices Work
Streaming devices generally work by plugging directly into your television’s HDMI port and connecting to your home Wi-Fi network. They allow you to stream content from numerous sources like Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu.
Gaming Consoles
Popular Gaming Consoles with Internet Connection Capabilities
Apart from gaming, consoles like PlayStation 4, Xbox One, or Nintendo Switch can also provide internet connectivity to your non-smart TV.
How Gaming Consoles can provide an Internet Connection
Like streaming devices, these consoles connect to a Wi-Fi network and can stream content from various platforms via their in-built apps.
PC or Laptop
PC or Laptop Setup with HDMI Cable
An alternative method to connect your TV to the internet is by using your PC or Laptop. You’ll need an HDMI cable to connect your TV to your device and stream content directly from your computer.
Smart DVD Players
Explanation of a Smart DVD player
Smart DVD Players are DVD devices with integrated Wi-Fi capabilities. They can stream content from popular platforms like Netflix and YouTube, effectively upgrading your non-smart TV.
Step-by-Step Guide to Connect a Non-Smart TV to the Internet
In this section, we’ll provide detailed steps on how you can connect your non-smart TV to the internet using Streaming Devices, Gaming Consoles, PCs or Laptops, and Smart DVD players.
Connecting via Streaming Devices
1. Connect the streaming device to your TV’s HDMI port.
2. Follow the on-screen setup instructions to connect to your home Wi-Fi network.
3. Log in to your preferred streaming services via the device interface, and begin streaming.
Connecting via Gaming Consoles
1. Connect your gaming console to your TV using the HDMI port.
2. Set up the console to connect to your Wi-Fi network.
3. Navigate to the console’s media or TV & video section to access and log into your preferred streaming services.
Connecting via PC or Laptop
1. Connect the HDMI cable from your computer to your TV.
2. Use your computer to navigate to a streaming site, and the content will display on your TV.
Connecting via Smart DVD players
1. Connect the smart DVD player to the TV using an HDMI cable.
2. Set up the DVD player to connect to your Wi-Fi network.
3. Navigate to the player’s streaming services section and log in to your preferred apps.
Comparing Methods of Connection
Each method for connecting a non-smart TV to the internet has its own sets of pros and cons. Ease of use, cost, and certain technical limitations may factor into your decision.
Recommendations
Best Method for Those with Limited Technical Knowledge
For simplicity, the Streaming Devices method is recommended for individuals with limited technical knowledge. These devices often come with a user-friendly interface and simple setup procedures—a hassle-free way to navigate through hundreds, if not thousands, of varied content.
Best Method for Those on a Budget
For those on a budget, using an existing PC or Laptop as a streaming device can be the most cost-effective way to connect a non-smart TV to the internet.
Best Method for Those Wanting the Quickest Setup
The quickest setup is generally via a Streaming Device or Gaming Console, provided these are already available and set up for use.
Conclusion
Despite not having built-in internet connectivity, non-smart TVs can still offer you a wealth of online content via streaming platforms. Understand your needs and comforts before choosing a suitable method to connect your non-smart TV to the internet.
FAQ
What is the easiest way to connect a non-smart TV to the internet?
The easiest way to connect a non-smart TV to the internet is generally via a Streaming device.
Will connecting my non-smart TV to the internet make it a smart TV?
Connecting your non-smart TV to the internet will not technically make it a smart TV. However, it will allow it to carry out many of the functions of a smart TV, including streaming online content.
Can I connect my non-smart TV to the internet without an HDMI cable?
Most methods to connect your non-smart TV to the internet will require an HDMI cable, although some older streaming devices can connect via an AV port.
What is the cheapest way to connect my non-smart TV to the internet?
The cheapest method is typically to use an existing PC or Laptop, assuming you already have an HDMI cable readily available.
Can all non-smart TVs be connected to the internet?
As long as the non-smart TV has an HDMI or AV port for device connectivity, it can generally be connected to the internet.