Easiest way to watch videos from my laptop (have Android TV & Chromecast)

Question

I have a Sony tv with Android TV and a Chromecast. What is the easiest way to watch the videos I have on my laptop (with subtitles) by browsing the files on the tv itself? I've installed Kodi on Android TV and tried connecting using SMB but can't seem to login even though I use my Windows login and password (as is stated on the Kodi wiki).

Is there not a simple way like click connect with an app on the tv, a prompt opens on the laptop on which you just need to click OK and everything is synced?

cheeto0 · Accepted Answer

I like kodi the most.  But since you had trouble with that try plex which is similar but easier to setup.  Or in the chrome webstore try videostream for Chromecast:  https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/videostream-for-google-ch/cnciopoikihiagdjbjpnocolokfelagl

goodhur · Answer

See if Airflow will work for you https://www.reddit.com/r/Chromecast/comments/3137a3/

ArtieMack · Answer

I use Plex on my AppleTV and it's really good.

ninjacheeseburger · Answer

If you have windows 10 the media player has a cast button.