Will a streaming stick make my old TV smart?

Yes. Any TV with an HDMI port becomes a smart TV instantly. You get Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and hundreds of other apps. The streaming stick does all the processing — your TV just displays the picture.

Do I need to pay for streaming services separately?

Yes — the device is a one-time purchase but streaming services (Netflix, Disney+, Hulu) require monthly subscriptions. Free options exist: Tubi, Pluto TV, Freevee, and YouTube provide thousands of hours of free content with ads.

Best Streaming Devices for Older TVs 2026