Converting your regular TV into a smart TV is a cost-effective way to access streaming services, apps, and internet browsing without purchasing a new television. Whether you’re looking to stream Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, or browse the web, these devices can help you do it all with ease. Here are the best options available in India:
Amazon Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen) with Alexa Voice Remote
Price: Around ₹4,499
Key Features:
- Full HD streaming with support for HDR, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos.
- Alexa Voice Remote with TV controls.
- Access to thousands of apps, including Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, and YouTube.
- Supports screen mirroring from compatible devices.
- Easy-to-use interface with a focus on Amazon’s ecosystem.
Why Choose: The Amazon Fire TV Stick is one of the most popular and reliable streaming devices in India. It’s easy to set up, offers a wide range of streaming options, and includes an Alexa Voice Remote for added convenience.
Google Chromecast with Google TV
Price: Around ₹8,589
Key Features:
- 4K HDR streaming with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support.
- Google TV interface with personalized content recommendations.
- Access to thousands of apps, including Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, and YouTube.
- Voice remote with Google Assistant for easy searching and smart home control.
- Cast content from your smartphone or tablet directly to your TV.
Why Choose: Google Chromecast with Google TV is an excellent choice for users who want a seamless Google ecosystem experience, with the ability to cast content from other devices and enjoy personalized content recommendations.
Price: Around ₹4,999
Key Features:
- Full HD streaming with Dolby Audio support.
- Android TV with access to Google Play Store.
- Built-in Chromecast for casting content from other devices.
- Google Assistant-enabled voice remote.
- Pre-installed apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar.
Why Choose: The Mi TV Stick is a budget-friendly option for those who want an Android TV experience. It’s easy to use and offers a wide range of apps and features at an affordable price.
Price: Around ₹6,387
Features: 4K HDR streaming, Dolby Vision, access to major streaming apps, voice remote with Alexa and Google Assistant support.
Why Choose: Offers high-quality 4K streaming at an affordable price, with easy access to a wide range of apps.
Price: Around ₹3,879 (with subscription plans)
Features: 4K HDR streaming, live TV channels, Android TV with Google Play Store, built-in Chromecast, combines OTT content and satellite TV.
Why Choose: Perfect for users looking to combine traditional live TV with smart TV features in one device.
Verdict
- Best Overall: Amazon Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen) now takes the top spot as the best overall option due to its competitive pricing, solid features, and user-friendly interface.
- Best for Google Ecosystem Users: Google Chromecast with Google TV is still the best for those who prioritize Google integration, despite its higher price.
- Best Budget Option: Airtel Xstream Box now becomes the best budget option, offering 4K streaming and live TV integration at a lower price than the other 4K devices.
- Best for Simple 4K Streaming: Roku Express 4K is a solid choice for straightforward 4K streaming, but its higher price makes it less competitive than other options.
- Best for Android TV Experience: Amazon Fire TV Stick remains a strong contender for users looking for the Amazon ecosystem with Alexa support, offering a balanced experience at a reasonable price.
List of all available streaming devices
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Is it possible to convert a normal TV to a smart TV?
Yes, you can convert a regular TV into a smart TV by using devices like the Amazon Fire TV Stick, Google Chromecast with Google TV, or Roku Express 4K. These devices plug into your TV’s HDMI port, enabling access to streaming apps, internet browsing, and more.
2. What device turns your TV into a smart TV?
Devices like the Amazon Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen) or Google Chromecast with Google TV are designed specifically to convert your TV into a smart TV. These devices provide access to apps like Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube, as well as features like voice control and casting.
3. How to watch OTT on a non-smart TV?
To watch OTT content like Netflix or Prime Video on a non-smart TV, you can use a streaming device such as the Mi TV Stick or Airtel Xstream Box. These devices connect to your TV’s HDMI port and transform it into a smart TV, giving you access to various streaming apps.
4. Can a LED TV be a smart TV?
Yes, an LED TV can be turned into a smart TV using a streaming device like the Amazon Fire TV Stick or Roku Express 4K. These devices provide all the functionalities of a smart TV, including streaming, app access, and even voice controls.
5. How can I connect my non-smart TV?
You can connect your non-smart TV to the internet and streaming services by plugging in a device like the Google Chromecast with Google TV or Mi TV Stick. These devices offer an easy way to access online content on your TV.
6. Can I use Chromecast on a non-smart TV?
Absolutely. As long as your TV has an HDMI port, you can use a Google Chromecast to cast content from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop directly to your TV. Google Chromecast with Google TV even adds smart TV capabilities, such as a remote and personalized content recommendations.
7. Can you upgrade a smart TV to Android TV?
If your smart TV isn’t running Android TV, you can upgrade its functionality by adding a device like the Mi TV Stick or Airtel Xstream Box. This allows you to enjoy the Android TV experience, including access to Google Play Store apps and Google Assistant.
8. Can a smart TV be Android?
Yes, some smart TVs come with Android TV pre-installed, offering access to Google Play Store apps and Google Assistant. If your smart TV does not run on Android, devices like the Amazon Fire TV Stick or Mi TV Stick can provide similar functionality.
9. Can I install Android on my TV?
You can’t install Android directly on a non-Android TV, but you can use a device like the Mi TV Stick or Airtel Xstream Box to add Android TV capabilities to your existing television, complete with app downloads and voice controls.
10. How can I watch Now TV on a non-smart TV?
To watch Now TV on a non-smart TV, a device like the Roku Express 4K would be ideal. Roku supports Now TV alongside other streaming services and provides an easy-to-navigate interface.