What cables do I need for a smart TV?
Rachel Ellis
Published Jan 17, 2026
For these you'll need an HDMI to mini HDMI adapter or a mini HDMI to HDMI cable. Tip: If you have a Smart TV that connects to the internet, you can also get an HDMI cable with built-in Ethernet – so you won't need as many cables.
Do you need a special cable for a smart TV?
Smart TVs are meant to be used without cable. The freedom to choose from numerous streaming services is part of what makes these devices so great. All you need to start watching content on your smart TV without cable is a high-speed internet connection. The device must be connected to your home's Internet to work.
What kind of HDMI cable do I need for my smart TV?
The Kind of HDMI Cable To Use
All Samsung TV's from 2010 and 2011 use either the 1.3 or 1.4 HDMI standard. If your TV has the 3D feature it uses the 1.4 HDMI standard. All other TV's use the 1.3 HDMI standard.
Does smart TV come with HDMI cable?
HDMI cables to connect a digital cable-TV box or a Blu-ray player, generally do not come packed in the box along with the TV, so you have to buy them separately.
How do I connect my Smart TV to cable?
Connect the cable box to your smart TV with an HDMI cable.
If you're using an HDMI adapter for a non-HDMI cable box, connect that adapter to the end of the component cable that's plugged in to your cable box, and then plug the HDMI end into an available HDMI port.
37 related questions foundWhat do I need to setup smart TV?
Whether it's Netflix or some other service, you'll need to enter your username and password, using your smart TV's remote control and on-screen keyboard. The one exception to this rule is Samsung, which offers an option to automatically set up your TV using a smartphone.
Will a smart TV work with just Wi-Fi?
Yes, your smart TV will work fine without an internet connection. You will be able to watch TV channels with a cable box or antenna, connect Blu-ray/DVD players, hook up speakers, etc – just like a regular TV. You will not, however, be able to use any of the video streaming apps that come with it.
What is the downside of a smart TV?
Let's examine some disadvantages of smart TVs.
- Smart TV Security and Privacy Risks Are Real. ...
- Other Streaming Devices Are Superior. ...
- Smart TVs Have Inefficient Interfaces. ...
- Smart TV Performance Is Often Unreliable.
Is Netflix free on smart TV?
The app will be free to download and install on your connected TV but you will need a subscription. You do get a 30-day free trial though, if you've never used Netflix before.
What channels are free on smart TV?
Try these free TV apps out and see which works best for you.
- Crackle. One of the go-to names not just in free streaming but in streaming video in general is Crackle. ...
- Tubi TV. ...
- Pluto TV. ...
- NewsON. ...
- PBS Kids. ...
- Xumo. ...
- Crunchyroll. ...
- Twitch.
Is it worth it to buy a smart TV?
If you are looking into a new TV, however, then a smart TV is absolutely worth it. Between the streaming services, broader smart home control, and in some models, built-in smart assistants, a modern smart TV is worth the additional cost.
Do smart TVs require an aerial?
Do I need an aerial for a smart TV? You can stream on your smart TV without an aerial. However, if you wish to receive full HD content and all the internet has to offer you will need one installed in addition to your TVs internal one.
Why won't my smart TV connect to the internet?
Unplug all components of your smart TV and router for five minutes to reset the system. Re-plug and try again. Restore the smart TV to its “default” setting. Scan for your Wi-Fi network and re-enter the password.
Are smart TVs difficult to set up?
But even though it may look like a regular (if very slim) TV, the smart TV is really more of a computer and will require a little bit of setting up to get it working the way you want it to.
How do you set up a smart TV for the first time?
Set up your smart TV
- Turn on your TV for the first time. When you first turn on your TV, you'll need to pair your remote and select your desired language so you can navigate through the initial setup without any hiccups. ...
- Connect the TV to the internet. ...
- Sign in or create a Samsung account.
How do I get my smart TV to pick up WiFi?
Go to the TV's welcome screen, search for available wireless networks, select your network, and enter the password. To change the network, go to Setup > Network > Open Network Settings > Wireless > choose your network, and enter the password.
What is an Ethernet cable used for on a TV?
Ethernet connection (RJ45 cable)
A network connection via Ethernet cable, also called a LAN connection, consists in connecting the 4K television or network media player's network port to one of the RJ45 ports on the internet box or router.
How do I connect my TV to Netflix wireless?
Connect using Netflix 2nd Screen
- Connect your mobile device to the same Wi-Fi network as your TV.
- Launch the Netflix app on both your TV and your mobile device.
- Sign in to the same Netflix account on both your TV and your mobile device.
- Select the Cast icon.
How do I watch Freeview on my smart TV?
Plug in the aerial and turn on the TV. If you have a smart TV you'll be asked for your wi-fi network and password, so have these ready. You'll then be asked to tune your TV to find the available Freeview channels. This will take three to four minutes.
Can I watch Freeview without an aerial?
You do need an aerial to receive Freeview live on TV through the TV Guide but can also view certain channels on internet connected devices without one. If you already have an aerial, make sure the cables are undamaged and connected to the aerial point in your home.
Which is the best brand for smart TV?
Top 10 smart LED TVs in 2021
- Sony Bravia 55 inches 4K UHD android LED TV KD-55X9500G. ...
- LG 55 inches smart ultra HD 4K OLED TV OLED55C8PTA. ...
- LG 77 inches OLED 4K UHD TV (OLED77W8PTA) ...
- Mi LED TV 4X 138.8 cm (55 inches) ultra HD android TV (Black) ...
- Samsung (55 Inches) Super 6 Series 4K UHD LED smart TV UA55NU6100.
Does smart TV have free to air channels?
Smart TV services and features don't affect a TV's ability to get Freeview stations. . You will still require a HD Digital TV Antenna to pick up local, over-the-air broadcasts for free.
Do smart TVs get local channels?
Can a smart TV get local channels? Smart TV services and features don't affect a TV's ability to get local stations. If you have cable or satellite service, you will continue to receive the same stations.
Can I watch live TV on my smart TV?
Currently 2018/2019 Samsung Smart TV models will have access to Live TV. If your TV is an older model, unfortunately you will not have access to Live TV.
Can I get local channels on smart TV without cable?
Streaming Local Channels: ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC
There are a number of ways you can replace a cable TV or pricey satellite TV service with a streaming service. All you need is an Internet subscription, and a streaming device or Smart TV. You can get local channels and cable networks such as ESPN and CNN.