Internet streaming is part of daily life now for many. If you do not have a smart television but you do have a TV with an HDMI port then you are in the right place. There are many ways you can view your favorite shows and browse the net other than a smartphone or tablet. Plus you can do it without having a PC or smart TV.
Streaming & Casting
The following device tips talk a lot about streaming or casting. This is not anything to veer away from and is quite easy to understand. Streaming or casting is when you are not downloading the video of choice but sending straight to a device to play directly from the provider. Downloading is different, this means you store a copy of the video on your device.
Internet Streaming HDMI Devices
The HDMI port on your monitor is the key to this. As well as DVD players, and consoles you can add other devices that allow full screen viewing and internet streaming.
Google Chromecast
Googles casting device is well known and gives solid performance. Personally, I have two at home; one for the bedroom and one for the living room.
Once the device is connected to your monitors HDMI and is setup you are good to go. If your tablet/phone is on home wifi and the chromecast is on the same wifi, you should have no issue casting.
Most apps will show a cast symbol if it is applicable on the network. All you need do is tap cast and choose the device you wish to cast to.
Amazon Firestick
If you already have an Amazon account then this is a no-brainer for you.
Again, same as with the chromecast, attach to the HDMI and make sure it is correctly powered. It is always best to power these devices with a separate power socket rather than straight into the TV USB.
The firestick offers casting and allows the installation of Amazon and third party apps to the device. Most apps worth having can be found on Amazon and are usually free.
Roku Streaming Stick
Roku claims to be the company that pioneered streaming to TV/monitor.
As well as streaming video/audio and installed apps you can also screen mirror via miracast from laptop, phone or tablet.
If interested, then the apps for this device can be found on the Roku Channel Store.
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