Hulu is one of the most popular streaming services, offering thousands of TV shows, movies, and original content. However, some smart TVs and devices do not have the Hulu app available to install directly. Fortunately, with the right accessories and workarounds, you can still enjoy Hulu on any TV.
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Check if Hulu App is Available
Before looking into alternatives, check if your TV has access to the Hulu app in its app store:
- Smart TVs – Go to the app store and search for Hulu. If available, download and log in.
- Streaming devices – Such as Roku, Firestick, Chromecast may have the Hulu app pre-installed or available to add through their app store.
If the Hulu app does not show up, don’t worry! Here are the best ways to stream Hulu.
Use a Streaming Device
Streaming devices like Roku, Fire TV Stick, and Chromecast are affordable gadgets that plug into your TV’s HDMI port. They come preloaded with hundreds of apps, including Hulu:
- Roku – Supports Hulu app and includes models like Roku Express, Roku Streaming Stick, and Roku Ultra.
- Fire TV Stick – Access Hulu and thousands of apps. Choose the basic model or 4K Fire TV.
- Chromecast – Cast Hulu from your mobile device with ease. Get the standard Chromecast or the Chromecast with Google TV.
Streaming devices start from $30. Plug one in, connect to Wi-Fi, and enjoy the Hulu app’s full features on your TV.
Use a Game Console
Modern game consoles from Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo have entertainment apps alongside gaming.
PlayStation and Xbox have official Hulu apps. The app may need installing first, but you can log in with your account and watch Hulu on these consoles.
Mirror Your Computer
If you have a laptop, you can mirror its display to your TV using an HDMI cable. Anything on your computer will show up on your TV, allowing you to watch Hulu in the browser.
Just connect your laptop and TV with an HDMI cable, enable display mirroring, open Hulu in your browser, and enjoy!
Cast from Your Mobile Device
If you have an iPhone, iPad, or Android device:
- Install the Hulu app
- Use AirPlay (iOS) or Chromecast (Android) to cast Hulu onto your big screen.
You can browse for content on your phone and stream it directly on your TV via this method.
Use Screen Mirroring Apps
Apps like Roku Screen Mirroring, LocalCast, and Google Home allow you to select your TV from a list and cast your Android or iOS device’s screen.
The Hulu mobile app will display on your TV with such wireless casting.
Connect Your Computer via Cable
You can physically connect your computer to the TV using cables if wireless screen mirroring doesn’t work well:
- HDMI – Carries both video and audio signal.
- VGA – Older standard but still found on some laptops and TVs. Needs a separate 3.5mm audio cable.
- USB-C to HDMI adapters – For newer laptops with USB-C ports.
Once connected, mirror your computer’s display, open Hulu in a desktop browser, and enjoy!
Use a Smart TV Box
Television boxes like Apple TV and Android TV devices are similar to streaming sticks. They run a smart platform, provide access to thousands of apps, including Hulu, and connect to your TV’s HDMI port.
The benefit is getting a full smart TV-like interface, unlike basic screen mirroring. Popular options include:
- Apple TV 4K
- Nvidia Shield TV
- Xiaomi Mi Box
Get an OTA DVR Box
Over-the-air DVR devices connect your TV antenna to record free broadcast channels. However, products like the Tablo DVR also integrate popular streaming apps.
Connect an OTA DVR box, attach antenna, sign into Hulu, and watch on-demand shows alongside live TV.
Use TV Streaming Services
Live TV streaming providers such as YouTube TV, Sling TV, FuboTV, and DirecTV Stream offer a cable-like experience over the internet.
Even if your TV doesn’t support Hulu directly, streaming TV services have apps that work on most devices. You get live channels, cloud DVR, and on-demand content from services like Hulu.
Conclusion
While having the dedicated Hulu app is the ideal way to watch on a TV, various gadgets and casting techniques make enjoying Hulu possible on virtually any television.
Streaming devices and game consoles provide an app-driven smart TV-like experience. Screen mirroring options help cast Hulu from your personal devices. And smart TV boxes deliver a full streaming interface and access to services like Hulu.
With the solutions outlined above, you can transform even an old “dumb” TV into a smart one and start streaming the Hulu shows and movies you love!