If you have a conventional television and you want to enjoy all the advantages of a SmartTV, you don't need to buy a new device. There are various devices on the market that will allow you turn your old TV into a smart TV in a simple and affordable way. We tell you everything you need to know to choose the best option according to your needs.
What do you need to convert your TV into a SmartTV?
First of all, check that your television has these basic requirements:
- HDMI port: It is essential that your TV has an HDMI input, since most devices connect through this port.
- Power outlet nearby: The devices will need to be plugged into power, so make sure you have a free outlet near the television.
- Internet connection: To enjoy all the features of a SmartTV, you will need to connect the device to your home WiFi network or, ideally, via an Ethernet cable for greater stability.
Factors to consider when choosing a device
Once you have verified that you meet the requirements, it is time to assess what type of device best suits your needs. Take into account the following aspects:
- Operating System: The most common are Android TV and Google TV, which share the same application store. If you are an iPhone or Mac user, you may be more interested in an Apple TV. And if you use Amazon a lot, you might prefer a Fire TV Stick.
- Image resolution: If your TV is FullHD, you don't need a 4K capable device. But if you have or plan to buy a 4K TV, make sure you choose a compatible model.
- Extras: Consider whether you want a voice remote control, greater storage capacity, Ethernet cable connectivity, etc.
- Power: If you are going to use the device mainly to watch streaming content, you don't need very powerful hardware. But if you want to play video games, look for models with a good processor and memory.
- Price: Set a budget and look for the best option within that range. There are alternatives from less than €50 to more than €200.
The best devices to convert your TV into SmartTV
Currently, there are a wide variety of options on the market to choose from. These are some of the most popular and highest-rated devices:
Google Chromecast
El Google Chromecast It has become one of the public's favorites for its simplicity and good operation. It connects to the HDMI port and allows you to send content from your mobile or tablet. The latest models incorporate Google TV, an operating system with a complete app store. It is available in HD and 4K versions.
Amazon Fire TV Stick
El Amazon Fire TV Stick is another great option, especially if you are an Alexa user and Amazon Prime. It has a wide selection of applications and its own Android-based operating system. You can choose between FullHD and 4K models, with or without voice controls on the controller.
Xiaomi Mi TV Box
The My Xiaomi TV Box They stand out for their excellent quality-price ratio. They use Android TV, so you will have access to the entire catalog of applications and games. The most recent model is the Mi TV Box S, with 4K resolution, voice control and USB ports.
Apple TV
El Apple TV It is the ideal option if you are within the Apple ecosystem, since it will allow you to synchronize your devices and access all your iTunes content. Its strong point is the Apple TV application, which unifies the main streaming apps so you can search and continue watching series and movies without changing apps. It has HD and 4K models.
NVIDIA ShieldTV Pro
If you are looking for maximum power to play demanding Android video games, the NVIDIA ShieldTV Pro It's your device. It has a powerful processor, 3GB of RAM, 16GB of storage, 4K resolution and USB 3.0 ports. Its controller includes motion controls. Of course, it is the most expensive option on this list.
How to configure a device to turn your TV into a SmartTV
Each device has its own configuration process, but in general these are the steps to follow:
- Connect the device to an HDMI port on your television and to the electrical outlet.
- Change the input of your television to that of the HDMI port where you have connected the device.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to set up the WiFi connection and link your account (Google, Amazon, Apple, etc.).
- Download the apps you want to use from the corresponding store and sign in to each of them.
- Ready! You can now enjoy your old television as if it were a next-generation SmartTV.
As you see, converting your normal television into a SmartTV is easier and cheaper than you imagine. You just have to choose the device that best suits your needs and budget, and in a few minutes you will be enjoying all the content and applications that smart televisions offer you. What are you waiting for to immerse yourself in the world of SmartTVs?
I am Sebastián Vidal, a computer engineer passionate about technology and DIY. Furthermore, I am the creator of tecnobits.com, where I share tutorials to make technology more accessible and understandable for everyone.