Today’s question comes from Wanda, who asks, “Is there a way to watch Tablo on a non-smart TV that connects via Ethernet?”
Most ‘dumb’ TVs can be converted into a smart TV capable of accessing the Tablo app by investing as little as $20 in a compatible streaming TV device. These gadgets are small internet-connected computers designed specifically for accessing television content. They all come with their own remote controls and can be purchased from major retailers.
If your ‘dumb TV’ was manufactured after 2005, it should have at least one HDMI port located on the back or the side. This port will allow you to connect a streaming device and download, access and display content from apps like Tablo on your big screen using a remote control.
Streaming TV Devices 101
There are two formats for streaming devices: box or stick. Box-style devices are more expensive but much more feature-rich and powerful. They use an HDMI cable, which is sometimes included with purchase, to connect the device to the HDMI port. Stick-style streaming devices are less expensive and therefore more popular and plug right into the HDMI port on your television.
All streaming devices can connect wirelessly to your home Wi-Fi network. This flexibility means you don’t have to physically connect the streaming device to your internet router with an Ethernet cable. In fact, most devices on the market today don’t come with Ethernet connectivity built in because modern Wi-Fi technology generally works well enough.
But, if your home Wi-Fi network is older, slow or prone to interference and buffering, a streaming device with the speed and stability of a hardwired Ethernet connection is a great choice.
Ethernet-Capable Streaming TV Devices
For this feature, check out ‘box style’ streaming device models, including:
- Roku Ultra – Popular with a feature-packed remote control
- Amazon Fire TV Cube – Also feature-packed and popular, especially with Prime Video subscribers
- ONN 4K Pro – A great value from Walmart’s house brand
- Google TV Streamer – Offers a very basic remote and a menu that can be difficult to navigate for new users
- Apple TV 4K – Only the more expensive ‘Wi-Fi + Ethernet’ model offers both types of connectivity
Some stick-style streaming devices can also be combined with purpose-built or third-party Ethernet adapters, but it’s probably best to avoid the additional expense and complexity.
Have a question about watching TV that you’d like answered? Send us a note and you may see your question on the Tablo blog and in an upcoming issue of our newsletter, Stay Tuned!
