I'm shopping for a television and don't know much about the different options. My main goal is to visit websites and use a browser on the TV, but I'm unsure whether I need a smart TV or whether smart TVs require subscriptions. Are all TVs from brands like Sony and LG smart, or only certain models? Could I add internet access to a regular TV with something like a Roku, Fire TV Stick, or another device? I'd appreciate an explanation of what each option can and can't do.
5 Answers
Streaming sticks such as Roku, Fire TV, and similar devices plug into an HDMI port and add their own operating system and apps to a regular TV. They’re mainly designed for services like Netflix, YouTube, and other streaming platforms, not unrestricted web browsing. Roku in particular isn’t usually the best choice if browsing websites is your main goal. The stick itself normally has no monthly fee, but individual streaming services may require subscriptions.
A smart TV has built-in software and Wi-Fi, but not every model from a brand is necessarily smart, so check the specifications before buying. Many smart TVs include a basic browser, though browsing with a remote can be awkward and some websites may not work well. You don’t need a subscription just to use the TV’s built-in features, although paid apps and services can charge separately.
An HDMI cable is generally all you need for the picture and sound. Set the TV to the matching HDMI input, and the computer should detect it as another display. You may need to adjust the computer’s display settings if you want to mirror the screen or use the TV as a second monitor.
For full web browsing, the most flexible option is connecting a computer or mini PC to any TV with an HDMI cable. The TV simply acts as the computer’s display, so you can use a normal desktop browser, stream videos, play local files, and do pretty much anything you would on a monitor. A wireless keyboard and mouse make it much easier to control from the couch.
A small computer, such as a mini PC, is usually a better fit than a streaming stick if you expect to browse regularly. A Bluetooth keyboard with a touchpad makes navigation practical. Any of these options will also require Wi-Fi or a wired network connection to access the internet.
Would I need special software for that, or would connecting the computer with HDMI be enough to show the computer screen on the TV?