You don’t have to buy a smart TV to watch Netflix on the big screen. In fact, you can get the job done for less than $40. All you need is a streaming stick or an HDMI cable.
Honestly, most smart TVs are stupid. In theory, smart TVs should make it easy to watch Netflix (and other services) on a big screen. But it doesn’t always work that way. Manufacturers shove “smart” features into regular TVs as an afterthought, and they don’t keep software up to date through routine updates and patches.
But, dedicated streaming sticks and computers receive routine updates, and they have intuitive interfaces that anyone can navigate. If you’re happy with your “dumb” TV’s performance (or frustrated that your smart TV hasn’t had an update in years), but you want to use it to binge Netflix shows, all you really need is a dedicated streaming stick or an HDMI cable paired with a laptop.
Dirt Cheap: Connect a Computer via HDMI ($8)
If you want to watch Netflix on your TV for less than $10, all you need is an HDMI cable and a computer. It’s easy, you just connect your computer to the TV with an HDMI cable. The sound and picture from your computer will show up on the TV, and you can navigate the internet with a mouse and keyboard.
A 10-foot long AmazonBasics HDMI cable only costs $8, but there’s a good chance that you have a spare HDMI cable lying around the house. Keep in mind that this method works best with a laptop, or a desktop that’s right next to your TV.
Cheap and Simple: Google Chromecast ($35)
If you’re looking for a dedicated device that can bring Netflix to your TV, then you should check out the Google Chromecast. It’s a small, fast, and unobtrusive streaming stick that can bring Netflix, Youtube, and Hulu to your TV in HD. You just plug it into an HDMI port and go to town. As an added bonus, you can use the Chromecast to wirelessly project your laptop or desktop’s screen to the TV.
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