If you don’t have a smartphone or tablet but still want to stream your videos, a good option to use is an HDMI connection. This simply hooks up your computer to your TV. Equipment needed to stream with an HDMI connection includes:
- TV with HDMI ports
- HDMI cable
- A laptop with HDMI ports
NOTE: Apple laptops (and some Microsoft laptops) do not have HDMI ports. The have what are called mini display ports. Check your device first, and see if you need to purchase a mini display port to HDMI adapter cable.
When you have all your necessary equipment, plug one end of your HDMI cable into your television’s HDMI port (it will be on the back of your TV). Plug the other end into your laptop’s HDMI port, or your mini display port to HDMI adapter cable. Once your TV and laptop are connected, change your TV input settings to your HDMI channel (usually named HDMI1 or HDMI2). Now you’re ready to watch your video!
Most of the equipment listed here, including HDMI and adapter cables, Apple AirPlay, and Chromecast, can be purchased at any big box store or tech retailer like Best Buy. Hint: you can use these same techniques to stream other services like Netflix and Amazon Prime to your TV!
