5 Actionable Ways to Watch Netflix on Your TV

Posted on Wednesday, November 04 2020 @ 9:31 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck
Whether you're planning to subscribe to Netflix, or you're already a Netflix customer but already watching Netflix on your laptop or smartphone, it's good to know the different ways to watch Netflix on your TV. Why limit yourself to a small screen when you have a bigger one at home. So what are your options? Let's take a closer look at five different ways to watch Netflix on your TV.

1. Use a Smart TV App
The smart TV operating systems are usually confusing for most people. Since Firefox TV disappeared in 2016, four main operating systems are still in use: Tizen, WebOS, Android TV, and Roku TV.

However, the interfaces of Smart TVs are not alike. Each manufacturer tries to customize the operating system in their own way. Because of this, there is no easy way to explain how to get Netflix on your smart TV. The good news, however, is that all four of the major smart TV operating systems offer a Netflix app.

Some of you are lucky enough to have a TV that comes with the app pre-installed and a shortcut button on the remote. But don't change your TV for this unless your TV is only used for Netflix.

Install the app first if you don't have it, then launch the app and enter your Netflix credentials. You'll be watching the content in seconds… or more, depending on your agility.

Netflix on TV

2. Use a Media Streaming Device
Smart TV apps don't always offer the best solution for media. Depending on the quality of your TV hardware, the application may be slow or buggy. It could also be that your television is not at all smart. It's okay, are there other options?

If you have a smartphone or tablet, use a streaming device to stream Netflix directly from your mobile app. TVFix Caster is one of the best media streaming devices of this year. Want a review? read more here.

You can cast Netflix from your phone to the Chromecast screening device by clicking the Cast icon in the app. A list of all available devices will display. Tap to connect to the streaming device.

3. Use Your ISP's Decoder
Before switching to a more traditional and more physical method, see if the box of your internet service provider does not allow you to connect to Netflix, among other options.

You only have to activate the channel, enter your login details, and choose your movie.

4. Use an HDMI Cable
Of course, you could try to turn to an HDMI cable. It may not be on the cutting edge of technology anymore, but it will still do its job. You can pick up a relatively inexpensive 3 to 5 meter long working HDMI cable from Amazon or most supermarkets.

On PC
Connecting the HDMI cable is easy. Just connect one end of the cable to your TV and the other end to your computer. On your computer, log into the Netflix website and find the content you want to watch. And on your TV, make sure you've selected the correct input channel. These sometimes have several HDMI inputs.

Ideally, your computer will recognize your TV, and it will connect immediately. If not, the next step will vary depending on the operating system you are using.

To instruct your Windows operating system to send your monitor screen to your TV, follow the step-by-step instructions below:

  • Left-click on the comment icon at the bottom right of your screen.
  • Among the executives choose the "Project" option
  • Among the options, choose 2nd screen only
  • Your Windows screen will go black, and video and audio will play on your TV.

    On Mac
    If you have a Mac operating system, follow these steps:
  • Open the Apple menu.
  • Click on System Preferences.
  • Choose Views.
  • Hold down the Option key.
  • Click Detect Displays in the lower right corner.

    If your computer is still failing to connect to the TV, then you have an issue with the TV's HDMI port, the Mac's HDMI port, or the HDMI cable itself.

    Fortunately, you should now see Netflix on your TV screen. You may notice that the edges of the screen are missing. Don't worry, this is called "Overscan" and is a common occurrence. Usually, the problem should be resolved in your TV settings rather than the operating system.

    5. Use an Apple TV and Apple AirPlay
    Unsurprisingly, Apple is the only company that doesn't offer Chromecast support or an HDMI cable.

    Instead, the company asks you to buy an Apple TV and install the app version of that platform, or use its proprietary AirPlay technology and launch the web app version of Netflix.

    AirPlay works well, but given its exclusive status, support for the standard among smart TVs and digital set-top boxes is sorely lacking. Voila, there is more to it. After that, watching Netflix on your TV will become quite convenient.