Do you need a smart TV for Netflix?

One of the most popular streaming services that many people subscribe to is Netflix. This contains a lot of TV series and movie genres that can keep you entertained.

You can access Netflix in different ways. Most people prefer streaming Netflix through a smart TV. Though smart TV can give you a good streaming experience, it is not the only option for you to enjoy Netflix. You can also access Netflix using a tablet, laptop, smartphone, streaming media player, and game console. This means that you don’t necessarily have to own a smart TV for you to stream Netflix. Read on!

Here are the different ways people stream Netflix

Using a smart TV

According to reports, Netflix has more than 100 million subscribers located in different parts of the globe. People spend so many hours on this streaming service consuming different kinds of content. The highest percentage of viewers prefer streaming Netflix via a smart TV. Most smart TVs from companies such as LG or Samsung have large flat screens that make viewing and enjoyable experience.

They also contain media players built-in them and thus can connect to different streaming services, including Netflix. If you own a smart TV, you only need to find the Netflix app on this device and subscribe. This can help you start enjoying any content you prefer on Netflix.

Utilizing a streaming media player

You can still watch Netflix even if your TV is not smart. Streaming media players were invented to transform dumb TVs into smart ones. The market offers all kinds of streaming media players to help you access Netflix without spending all your cash to get a smart TV. Some of the streamers you should consider purchasing include Apple TV, Roku, and Google Chromecast.

If, for instance, you have the Apple TV streaming device, you can watch Netflix through the built-in app. Navigate to the App store so that you can download the app. Once you have installed the Netflix app, you can launch it and create a Netflix account.

Most people choose the Roku streaming device since it is quite user-friendly. It can help you access Netflix in a short period. As soon as you plug this device at the back of your TV, you will notice the Netflix app on the homepage. From the home screen, you should click on the option labeled streaming channels. Select movies and TV then on the Netflix icon. Click on add channel, then go to channel.

Google Chromecast is also another streaming device that can help you stream Netflix even when you don’t have a smart TV. Ensure that you connect this device to your wifi network and TV, then utilize your smartphone to create a Netflix account. Look for the cast icon that will appear on one of the screen’s sides, then tap on it. Once you pick your Chromecast from the available list, you be able to play any content you desire from Netflix.

Using an HDMI cable

If you have a laptop and a TV that is not smart, you can still access Netflix content using an HDMI cable. Feel free to download Netflix on your laptop and get an HDMI cable that you can use to connect the laptop to your TV. You should also ensure that both devices are close to an electric socket to avoid any power issues. The laptop should have an HDMI output and the TV an HDMI input. If you don’t notice any HDMI ports on your device, you should consider getting a mini display port.

The HDMI cable should connect your laptop to the TV so that you can watch Netflix. Ensure you modify the video input of your TV to HDMI. On your remote, press on the section labeled input or source to find HDMI. If the connection is successful, your laptop will be displayed on the TV screen. You can therefore start streaming Netflix on the TV as you please.  Ensure you also adjust the sound source so that the volume comes from your TV rather than the laptop.

Through a gaming console

Most of the popular gaming consoles available in the market are compatible with streaming services such as Netflix. If you own the Xbox 360, PS4, or Xbox one, you can use them to access Netflix even when you don’t have a smart TV. On the home screen of your PlayStation, click on TV and video, then select the Netflix app.

Give it adequate time to download to the game console. If, for instance, you are using Xbox one, you should visit the Microsoft store and choose apps. Find Netflix, then click on install. Once you launch the Netflix app, you can start streaming content from it.

How to access Netflix through different techniques

Conclusion

Whether you own a smart TV or not, you can easily access Netflix and enjoy all your favorite shows in different ways. Though smart TV can give you the most straightforward way to watch Netflix shows, it is not the only option. If you don’t have a smart TV, you can still access this streaming service using a streaming device, gaming console, or HDMI cable. 

FAQs

Can I use the internet on my phone for my TV?

Yes. Your smartphone should be able to plug into your TV through the HDMI port. This enables you to use the phone internet on the TV.

What is the difference between streaming and downloading Netflix?

Though both involve sending a file to a device, they are not the same. Downloading Netflix involves storing the file onto memory while streaming involves playing the file as soon as it becomes available.