Still hanging onto that “dumb” TV that works perfectly but doesn’t have Netflix or YouTube? Good news: you don’t need to buy a new television to get a smart experience. With a few affordable tools, you can turn any TV into a fully functioning smart TV—without shelling out hundreds.
Here’s how to upgrade your screen for streaming, apps, and voice control on a serious budget.
What Makes a TV Smart Anyway?
A smart TV connects to the internet and runs apps like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, YouTube, and more. It also allows for:
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Streaming content directly
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Voice control and smart assistant support
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Screen mirroring and casting from phones or laptops
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Over-the-air updates and app installations
Fortunately, you can get all of that—without buying a smart TV—by adding an external streaming device.
Top Budget Tools to Make Any TV Smart
1. Google Chromecast (HD or 4K)
Price: $20–$50
Best for: Android users and Google ecosystem fans
Chromecast plugs into your TV’s HDMI port and lets you stream content from your phone, tablet, or Chrome browser. The newer versions include Google TV, which adds a user-friendly interface, remote, and app support directly on the screen.
Key Features:
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Control with your phone or voice via Google Assistant
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Cast photos, music, and video
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Support for most major streaming services
💡 Great for households that already use Android devices or Google Home speakers.
2. Roku Express or Roku Streaming Stick 4K
Price: $25–$45
Best for: Simple, reliable streaming with a great remote
Roku devices are among the most affordable and user-friendly. The Roku Express is perfect for basic HD TVs, while the Streaming Stick 4K is a great value for 4K resolution and faster performance.
Key Features:
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Tons of free and paid streaming channels
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Universal search across platforms
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Private listening with the mobile app
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Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple AirPlay
💡 Excellent for first-time streamers or non-tech-savvy users.
3. Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite or 4K
Price: $20–$50
Best for: Alexa users and Amazon Prime households
Fire TV Sticks are compact, fast, and deeply integrated with Amazon services. Even the Lite version includes Alexa voice control via the remote, while higher-end versions offer 4K support and better speed.
Key Features:
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Alexa voice remote
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Direct access to Prime Video, Netflix, Hulu, and more
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Works well with other Alexa-enabled devices
💡 Best choice if you already use Echo devices or shop on Amazon regularly.
4. Apple TV (Used or Refurbished)
Price: $60–$80 (used/refurbished older models)
Best for: Apple ecosystem users
Apple TV devices are pricier new, but if you find a refurbished or older model (like Gen 4), you can still enjoy most modern streaming features at a fraction of the cost.
Key Features:
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AirPlay support for easy iPhone/Mac mirroring
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Siri voice search
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Seamless iCloud, Apple Music, and HomeKit integration
💡 Ideal if you’re deep into Apple’s ecosystem and want a premium interface.
5. HDMI Android TV Boxes
Price: $25–$50
Best for: Tech-savvy users who want full Android apps on their TV
These budget-friendly boxes run a version of Android and let you install nearly any app, just like a tablet or phone. They often support USB ports, SD cards, and Bluetooth.
Key Features:
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Google Play Store access
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Full customization options
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Local media playback and streaming
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Some include Kodi or Plex support
⚠️ Pro tip: Be careful of cheap no-name brands. Stick with known ones like Xiaomi or Tivo Stream.
How to Set It All Up (In Minutes)
- Plug the device into your TV’s HDMI port
- Connect to Wi-Fi
- Sign into your streaming apps
- Customize your home screen or voice assistant preferences
- Start watching
Most of these setups take less than 10 minutes—even if you’re not tech-savvy.
Extra Features You Can Unlock
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Voice search and commands (depending on device)
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Screen mirroring from phones, tablets, or computers
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Parental controls for kid-friendly content
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Gaming and fitness apps
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Smart home integration for lights, cameras, and thermostats
Save Your TV—and Your Wallet
You don’t need to replace your perfectly good TV just to stream your favorite shows or control it with your voice. With one of these inexpensive tools, you can give your old TV a new lease on life—and join the smart home wave without the price tag.
So before you drop $500+ on a new set, consider spending just $25 to make the one you’ve got smart enough.