If you isolate and restrict the word “free” to a singular circumstance, you could often get away with saying, “this is free.” Of course, nothing is truly free, and everything has a payoff to one degree or another. But, there are some great deals to take advantage of, such as casting to your smart TV for free.

Using your smartphone—iOS or Android—you can cast to your smart TV for free. With Apple’s AirPlay and multiple Miracast options for Android, there’s a way to cast just about any kind of content imaginable.

Unless you’re planning on streaming the free version of YouTube, or free “B” movies that couldn’t make the major streaming platforms, then you’ll have to circumvent subscription plans. There’s plenty of ways to do that. While it might not completely meet the definition of “free,” you can get pretty close. This is especially true if you take advantage of free trials, cell-carrier plans, and learn to play streaming tag with your family members.

Free Casting with Your Phone Plan

Well, sort of free. You still have to pay for your phone plan. You can always check your carrier to see what your options are. With free subscription streaming services, you can cast to your smart TV for free or simply enjoy them on your phone.

Now that you know you can cast to your smart TV for free, here are a few carrier options to make the most of it:

  • Verizon Wireless Mix and MatchAT&T Unlimited EliteSprint UnlimitedMetro Unlimited PlanT-Mobile Magenta and Magenta Max

Verizon Wireless has several streaming packages available depending on the Unlimited tier you pick:

None of the other plans—under other carriers— are multi-tiered like Verizon’s. However, they all offer specific streaming networks built into their plans.

Share Free Trials or Family Accounts to Cast

Netflix recently cracked down on shared accounts and free trials, wanting to force each friend or family member to purchase an individual subscription.

Hulu’s Basic Plan allows users to stream on two devices at the same time. For $54.99 a month, Hulu + Live TV allows unlimited sharing, including up to three mobile devices. You can spread out the cost or share an account with a friend or family member who is a paying subscriber. Hulu offers a 30-day free trial for its advertisement-free plan. If you carefully bounce the free trial around to friends and family, you could potentially have months of free Hulu.

For free streaming, always shop around and be on the lookout for free trials or discounted offers!

Final Thoughts

Many streaming services come with the option to mirror your screen to a smart TV. With smart TVs constantly upgrading their software and TV sets, more options—like Apple AirPlay and Google Apps such as Miracast for Android—are available.

Casting from your phone to a smart TV is free and easy—all you need is an internet connection. With a healthy knowledge of carrier plans, subscription packages, account sharing, and free trials, you’re well on your way to casting free, or as free as you can get, content to your smart TV.