Difference Between Smart TVs and Android TVs: What is better for you?

What is a Smart TV and What is an Android TV?

A Smart TV, also known as an Internet TV, is a television equipped with internet connectivity, allowing it to access additional content and services online. Essentially, it integrates computer-like features into the television, providing built-in apps for streaming videos, playing games, and using services such as Netflix, YouTube, and Facebook. However, the operating system of a Smart TV is generally fixed and not upgradable, which means it may not support the latest apps. Any TV that connects to the internet to offer online content can be classified as a Smart TV, which includes Android TVs.

Differences Between Smart TVs and Android TVs

1. Applications:
   • Android TV: Benefits from access to the Google Play Store, offering a vast selection of over 10,000 apps. This extensive library allows users to download a wide variety of applications, similar to what you’d find on smartphones, including popular services like YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video.
   • Other Smart TVs: May run on different operating systems such as Tizen OS or WebOS, which generally offer a more limited selection of apps. The availability of apps can be restricted compared to Android TVs.
2. Automatic Updates:
   • Android TV: Frequently updated with new features and app improvements due to active development. It also supports automatic updates when connected to Wi-Fi.
   • Smart TVs: Typically experience slower updates and may not receive new features or app updates as regularly.
3. Voice Assistants:
   • Android TV: Comes with built-in Google Assistant, enabling users to control channels and search for content via voice commands without needing additional devices.
   • Smart TVs: May support voice control, but usually require external devices like Alexa for this functionality. Users may need to input commands via a full-size keyboard.
4. Screen Mirroring and Casting:
   • Android TV: Includes Google Cast (Chromecast), allowing users to easily mirror their smartphone screens or cast content directly to the TV.
   • Smart TVs: Generally lack built-in casting features and may require additional equipment for screen mirroring, which can involve extra cost and effort.

Which is Better: Android TV or Smart TV?

While Android TV is a type of Smart TV with added features and a larger app library, it may offer more advanced functions but could be slower due to the numerous apps it supports. Smart TVs, on the other hand, typically provide a more straightforward interface and can operate more swiftly with fewer apps. Additionally, you can upgrade a regular Smart TV to an Android TV using devices like Chromecast.

Both Smart TVs and Android TVs offer enhanced connectivity, streaming capabilities, and, in some cases, smart home integration. As the market evolves, both types continue to be popular choices, each with its unique advantages.