Best Devices To Convert A Normal TV to A Smart TV

With the availability of different types of devices, you can transform your ordinary TV into a smart TV. Be it a gaming console or any streaming device, you will be able to use your television like a smart TV by just connecting to the internet. These devices enable you to access videos from different apps like YouTube, Hulu, and Netflix. We shall now look at ways to transform your TV into a smart TV.

Devices To Convert A Normal TV to A Smart TV –

1. Amazon Fire TV Stick

The first option will be by using Amazon Fire TV Stick. It works great and is available at an affordable value. You will have to plug the streaming device into the HDMI port of your TV and have a Prime subscription. It comes with a voice remote control due to Alexa compatibility. Fire TV Stick will let you have access to different apps including Prime Video, Netflix, Apple TV+, Hulu, and Disney+. One of the best things about it is that it lets you have an easy operation. There is also a Fire TV Cube which is completely operated with voice.

2. Roku

Roku has become very popular and it is also very affordable. With Roku, you can convert your normal television to a smart TV. Roku supports AirPlay so that you can mirror your iPhone or iPad with your TV. The portable device will let you watch content from Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and much more. For wall-mounted TVs, Roku has come up with Roku Streaming Stick and Streaming Stick 4K+. If you are looking to have added features then you can opt for Roku Ultra.

3. Apple TV

Apple TV is one of the best TV streaming boxes available. You can set it effortlessly due to its simple design. Apple TV lets you stream apps from your iPhone by opting for phone mirroring. Even it offers you all major streaming channels like Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, and Apple TV. It offers better stability and ensures there will be smooth videos. If you are looking to have HDR content, there is also Apple TV 4K.

4. Chromecast

Chromecast with Google TV has built-in Google TV. In comparison to previous Chromecasts, it offers you many options including transforming your normal TV into a smart TV. Old Chromecast models also don’t come with special interfaces or include a remote control. Similar to the other three products listed above, Chromecast with Google TV also lets you watch content from Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and others. The other advantage of using it is that you can download apps directly from Google Play Store.

5. Gaming Consoles

You may think that a gaming console is only for games. However, it serves a double purpose as you can use it as a TV streaming device. Whether it’s PlayStation or Xbox, these gaming consoles will take your normal TV to the next level. Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS3, PS4, and PS5 all have streaming capabilities. You can watch movies and TV shows on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV+, and HBO Max.

6. Set-top Boxes

Even your set-top box will provide you with streaming options. You can easily use a smart streaming device like a set-top box on your normal TV. Set-top boxes will allow you to download apps and access the internet. You can even cast movies and shows from computers and even mobile devices. Some of the popular set-top boxes are Xfinity X1, Atlantic Broadband, and Dish Network

7. Blu-ray Players

Thanks to the upgrade in Blu-ray players that it enables you to use it as a smart TV streaming device. Many popular brands like Sony, LG, Philips, and Toshiba have come up with smart Blu-ray players. These devices will not only allow you to play Blu-ray discs but also stream content from Netflix.

8. NVIDIA Shield TV

Nvidia Shield TV is a premium device that will provide you with many options. It lets you involve not only in cloud gaming but it can transform your television into a smart TV. Another great thing about Nvidia Shield is that it can stream games to your GeForce-powered computer. The Shield TV has pre-installed apps like YouTube, Netflix, Google Play Movies, Amazon Prime Video, and Plex. You will also find the Nvidia Games app. Nvidia Shield TV also comes with Chromecast support.

9. TiVo Stream

TiVo Stream is another popular device to make your TV a smart TV. It has over 5000 apps like Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Disney+. It is suitable for any TV and makes sure there will be high-quality streaming. The latest TiVo devices also come with Chromecast support so that you can cast content to your TV from your web browser. There is also TiVo Edge that lets you record live TV.

10. Portal TV

Portal TV by Facebook has different streaming apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Showtime, Sling TV, and ESPN. It features a built-in HD camera that lets you go for video calling. This makes it perfect for people who like to do video calling on their TV. The setup is easy as you will only have to plug it into the HDMI port of your normal TV. Another advantage of Portal TV is that you can use services like Zoom and Workplace for Facebook and even watch videos on Facebook Watch.

Conclusion

We have seen different products that will let you use your normal TV as a smart TV. These devices are simple to use and provide an affordable option. Some of them come with multi-capabilities like playing games or recording live TV. You can even find the ones that can come with added features. However, before getting any of these devices, you must ensure that it works in your region.