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Like every device, your smart TV can age with time. While you may not lose out on core functionalities, old models can start to feel clunky after using them for a couple of years. However, that doesn’t always mean you need a new TV.
While you will get access to more cutting-edge features with the latest smart TV models, your old one can still serve you. Yes, about it being slow, there are a couple of things that you can do to make it stream smoothly again. And this guide is all about that, so keep on reading.
A Simple Reboot Can Do Wonders Sometimes
Feeling the lag? A simple restart might be all your smart TV needs to get back on track. Restarting clears temporary glitches that can bog down performance.
The exact steps might differ depending on your TV brand, but it’s usually done through the power menu on your remote or the TV’s settings menu. Once powered off, wait a few seconds before turning it back on for a clean restart.
Update Your Old Smart TV To Make It Run Smooth Again
Outdated software can be a major culprit behind a sluggish smart TV. Software updates often include performance improvements and bug fixes that can significantly enhance your viewing experience.
The specific steps to update your TV might differ slightly depending on the brand, but here’s a general guide that works for most smart TVs:
Power Up and Connect: Make sure your smart TV is turned on and has a stable internet connection.
Navigate to Settings: Grab your remote and use it to navigate to the “Settings” or “Setup” menu, usually represented by a gear icon.
Find the Update Option: Within the settings menu, look for options like “Support,” “Customer Support,” “Software Update,” or “System Update.” The exact wording might vary by brand.
Check and Download: Select the “Update” option. Your TV will check for new software versions. If an update is available, follow the on-screen prompts to download and install it. The download may take a few minutes, and your TV might restart automatically.
Enable Auto-Updates (Optional): Some TVs offer an option to enable automatic updates, ensuring your software stays current without manual intervention.
Remember, a stable internet connection is essential for downloading updates. Let’s explore some more solutions in the next section!
Uninstall the Unused Apps
Your smart TV might be juggling too many apps behind the scenes. Closing unused apps and background processes frees up system resources, leading to a smoother experience.
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Most smart TVs have an App Switcher, accessible through a dedicated button on your remote or the on-screen menu. This displays apps currently running in the background.
Use the arrow keys on your remote to find the app you want to close. Once highlighted, you can typically close it with the “Back” or “Exit” button. Some TVs might have a dedicated button for closing apps.
A Slow Internet Can Also Be the Culprit
A sluggish internet connection can make even the fastest smart TV feel sluggish. Here are some ways to troubleshoot your network connection and ensure a smooth streaming experience:
Check Your Connection: Navigate to your TV’s network settings menu and confirm it’s connected to the correct Wi-Fi network. Double-check that the network name (SSID) and password are entered correctly.
Restart Your Router: Sometimes, a simple router restart can clear up temporary network issues. Power cycle your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in.
Boost Your Signal Strength: If possible, move your smart TV closer to the router for a stronger Wi-Fi signal. Walls, furniture, and electronics can weaken the signal.
The Last Resort: Factory Reset Your Smart TV
If the previous solutions haven’t solved your slow TV woes, a factory reset can be a last resort. This wipes your TV clean and restores it to its original settings, potentially resolving stubborn performance issues. However, this also erases all your user data and settings, so proceed with caution.
Bonus Tip: You Can Also Enjoy a Speed Boost with a Smart TV Dongle
In some cases, even after implementing these troubleshooting steps, your smart TV’s overall processing power might be limited. If that’s the case, consider investing in a smart TV dongle.
These compact devices plug directly into your TV’s HDMI port and essentially transform it into a more powerful streaming machine. They often run on dedicated operating systems designed for a smoother and faster user experience.
Popular options include Chromecast with Google TV, Roku Streaming Sticks, and Amazon Fire TV Sticks. These dongles offer a wider variety of apps, faster performance, and often come with voice search remotes for added convenience.
So, if your TV remains sluggish after these troubleshooting steps, a smart TV dongle might be the ultimate solution for a speed boost and a more enjoyable streaming experience.
Disclaimer: We may be compensated by some of the companies whose products we talk about, but our articles and reviews are always our honest opinions. For more details, you can check out our editorial guidelines and learn about how we use affiliate links.
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