Cheap Easy Ways to Connect to the Internet Onto a Tv
RobotPoweredHome is reader-supported. When you buy through links on my blog, I may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
I've been connecting my Smart TV to Wi-Fi to watch my favorite shows on streaming services like Netflix.
I like watching new episodes as soon as they come out to avoid spoilers.
I was going to spend a weekend at my folks' place, but they didn't have a Smart TV on which I could watch online-exclusive shows.
But they did have an older TV that didn't connect to Wi-Fi. So I had to figure out how to Connect a Non-Smart TV to Wi-Fi.
I was familiar with most modern television technology, but I had to do some research online to figure this out.
The Internet had many helpful articles, so I put together this comprehensive article using everything I'd learned.
To connect a Non-Smart TV to Wi-Fi, use a streaming device, an HDMI cable, a Blu-Ray player, a gaming console, or even Mirroring/Screencasting from another device.
Connect via Streaming Devices
Using a streaming device is the easiest way to connect to Wi-Fi because of its obvious perks.
It is user-friendly. Aside from providing internet access to your TV, it also has so many inbuilt applications like YouTube and Twitter. But the content being offered varies from one streaming device to another.
There are different streaming devices available in the market. The exact method of connecting the device to your TV may vary depending upon its kind.
However, the general process remains the same:
- Locate the HDMI port of your TV and plug in the device to that port.
- Plug in the USB cable to your device and connect the USB port to your TV.
- Switch on the TV and pair it with the input of your device.
- Download any app that is required.
- Accept all the terms and conditions to begin streaming.
A variety of streaming devices are available in the market like Apple TV, Roku, Google Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV Stick, etc.
Apple TV, although expensive, works well if you have an Apple ecosystem at home.
Roku offers an extensive free movie channel but doesn't support all streaming devices.
Google Chromecast lets you mirror your phone, tablet, or laptop on the TV, but you have to download streaming apps to your device.
Amazon Fire TV Stick is cheap and easy to use, but it prioritizes Amazon content.
Connect via HDMI Cable
If you don't want to spend a notable amount on streaming devices, an HDMI cable will work just fine for you.
Nowadays, almost all laptops, smartphones, and smart televisions come with HDMI cables and adaptors. So you can directly link it with your Non-Smart TV.
Although wired connections can be inconvenient at times, they will work perfectly well for occasional use.
Moreover, it allows you to view and share home videos/pictures as it practically mirrors everything on your device.
Let's see how to connect Non-Smart TV to Wi-Fi via HDMI cable:
- Turn off your laptop and TV.
- Connect your laptop/PC to the Non-Smart TV using an HDMI cable.
- Choose something to watch on your laptop/PC
- Make sure your laptop/PC has a video out and your TV, an HDMI port.
- Select the input option on your Non-Smart TV.
- Press source on your TV console and choose the input that matches your plugin port.
- Now you'll be able to watch your desired movie or content on your Non-Smart TV.
Use Blu-Ray Players
Blu-ray is a digital optical disc storage format. Originally designed to succeed DVD players, they are used for data storage purposes.
Aside from that, it also allows you to stream content from the Internet. Moreover, you'll also have access to various apps and social networking sites.
Compared to streaming devices, they offer better picture and audio quality.
You only need an HDMI cable to connect blu-ray with your TV. After plugging it in, press source and match the input of your TV with that of the blu-ray. That's it; you're good to go.
Use a Gaming Console
Both modern gaming consoles and consoles as old as 2003 can connect to the Internet with their built-in Wi-Fi. Some of the popular gaming consoles include PlayStation 4 and Xbox 360.
It won't allow you access to many apps, but you will be able to access some of the popular apps like Netflix.
Moreover, it can be connected the same way as the blu-ray; all you need is an HDMI cable.
First, connect the HDMI cable to your TV and gaming console. Then, match the input options in your TV with that of the gaming console.
Mirroring or Screencasting
Screen mirroring or Screencasting allows you to mirror your Phone/PC to TV.
Even though both have the same function, casting and mirroring are different.
Casting is more limited compared to mirroring. But the whole mirroring process is not as difficult as one might think.
You need to ensure a screen mirroring option is available on your TV and your mobile device.
If you don't have that feature on your phone, download screen mirroring apps on your phone and follow the app's instructions.
Smartify your Non-Smart TV
While selecting the streaming device, choose the ones which best support the apps that you prefer.
Also, while using an HDMI cable, ensure that an HDMI port is available both on your PC and TV. In case you don't have it, you can always get one.
Buying a gaming console is not a sensible option since it's very expensive. So if you already own one, you can use it to connect to a TV.
Moreover, older models of blu-ray might not have the option to connect to the Internet.
But the models released in the past five years or so offer excellent streaming qualities.
In addition, there are several apps like ApowerMirror and LetsView which will enable screen mirroring in your phone.
You May Also Enjoy Reading:
- Best TVs With Built-In Wi-Fi: We Did The Research
- How To Connect TV To Wi-Fi Without Remote In Seconds
- How To Convert a Normal TV into a Smart TV
- Does A Smart TV Work Without WiFi or Internet?
- Best Web Browsers For Your Smart TV
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I connect my non-smart TV to my phone?
You may either use an HDMI cable or screen mirroring apps.
How do I install apps on a non-smart TV?
You cannot install apps on a non-smart TV. However, you may install apps on the desired streaming device/blu-ray/gaming console/phone and access it on your TV.
Can screen mirroring be done on any TV?
No, You can only do screen mirroring on TVs that support that option. However, screen mirroring using an HDMI cable is possible on any TV.
How do I know if my TV has Wi-Fi capability?
Go to the settings section of your TV and see if you can find the Network Connections or Wi-Fi Setup Section. If not, then it doesn't have Wi-Fi capability.
Source: https://robotpoweredhome.com/how-to-connect-non-smart-tv-to-wifi/
0 Response to "Cheap Easy Ways to Connect to the Internet Onto a Tv"
Post a Comment