This article is part of our guide IPTV Compatible Devices: How to Check if Yours Will Work.
You can stream on a non-smart TV — or on an older Smart TV whose apps stopped working — without replacing it. In most cases the fix is a small streaming device plugged into an HDMI port, and even TVs without HDMI have options. This guide explains each one.
Option 1: Add a streaming stick (TV with HDMI)
If your TV has an HDMI input — most flat-screen TVs from the last decade or more do — a streaming stick is the simplest solution.
- Plug the stick into a free HDMI port.
- Connect its power adapter to a wall socket.
- Switch the TV to that HDMI input.
- Follow the on-screen setup, then install a player.
Popular options include Fire TV devices, Google TV devices and Apple TV. See the Fire TV Stick guide, the Android TV guide or IPTV on Apple TV.
Things to check
- Resolution: an HD TV does not need a 4K stick, although a 4K model works fine on an HD TV and may be faster.
- Power: use the stick's own adapter rather than the TV's USB port.
- HDCP: very old HDMI TVs may not support the copy protection used by streaming devices; if you see a black screen or an error, the TV may be too old for that device.
Option 2: Connect a laptop or computer
Any laptop with HDMI output can turn a TV into a big screen. See connecting a laptop to a TV with HDMI. This is a good temporary solution, but a streaming stick is more convenient for everyday viewing.
Option 3: TVs without HDMI
Very old TVs may only have composite (yellow, red, white) or SCART connectors. You can still stream by adding an HDMI-to-AV converter (or HDMI-to-SCART), which turns the stick's HDMI output into an analogue signal.
Expect some limitations:
- Picture quality is limited by the TV — standard definition at best.
- The converter needs power, often via USB.
- Some devices may not work with converters because of copy protection.
- Set the streaming device to a low output resolution (such as 720p) if the converter requires it.
If the TV is very old, a low-cost modern TV may give a far better experience than a converter.
Old Smart TVs whose apps stopped working
Manufacturers stop updating Smart TVs after a few years, and apps gradually stop working. A streaming stick gives the TV a current app store and interface. Read what to do when a Smart TV app is not available for other options.
Quick decision guide
| Your TV | Best option |
|---|---|
| Has HDMI, not smart | Streaming stick |
| Smart, but apps outdated or slow | Streaming stick |
| Has HDMI, temporary need | Laptop via HDMI |
| No HDMI (composite or SCART only) | Streaming stick + HDMI-to-AV converter, or consider a newer TV |
Check your TV's inputs first
| Connector on the TV | What it looks like | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| HDMI | Flat port, slightly wider at the top | Nothing extra — plug in a streaming stick |
| Component (Y/Pb/Pr) | Three round sockets: green, blue and red | An HDMI-to-component converter |
| Composite (AV) | One yellow socket, plus red and white for audio | An HDMI-to-AV converter |
| SCART | Wide 21-pin connector, common in Europe | An HDMI-to-SCART converter |
If the TV has HDMI, use it — every other option lowers picture quality. Check the labels next to the sockets or the TV's manual if you are unsure.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make any TV smart?
Any TV with an HDMI input can use a streaming stick. TVs without HDMI need a converter and have picture-quality limitations.
Do I need Wi-Fi for a streaming stick?
You need an internet connection. Most sticks use Wi-Fi; many support an Ethernet adapter for a more stable connection.
Will a 4K stick work on an HD TV?
Yes. It will output a resolution the TV supports.
Which option fits your TV
For most older TVs, a streaming stick in the HDMI port is all you need. For TVs without HDMI, a converter can work with limitations. For more ways to check whether a device will work, see the device compatibility checklist.