If you're in the market for a new TV, the quest for the latest features will eventually bring you to the age-old confusion- which is better, Smart TV or Android TV?The battle between Smart TV vs Android TV has been a raging one. But with top brands coming up with unique features in each category, that's a given.
For some, a Smart TV is a clear winner because of the host of exclusive features it offers. At the same time, others prefer an Android TV to leverage the ease of an Android operating system. While, on the surface, they both allow you to stream online content on a big screen, they are still many differences between Smart TV and Android TV.
So, what is the difference between Smart TV and Android TV? And which is better? Let's explore.
What is a Smart TV?
Also called the internet TV, a Smart TV brings exclusive features and additional programs to the table through internet connectivity. You can connect a Smart TV to the internet wirelessly or through an Ethernet cable to access online content. Smart TVs come with an operating system similar to what you use on Smartphones and PC.
Most Smart TVs come with in-built apps like Netflix, YouTube, Facebook, and more that lets you play games, watch videos, and stream movies. However, the operating system used in a Smart TV cannot be upgraded, which means you cannot access the latest apps.
Advantages and Limitations of Smart TV
Advantages of Smart TV
Here are the various benefits of a Smart TV-
1. Stream video content
A Smart TV brings you endless entertainment from several streaming apps. From Netflix and YouTube to Amazon Prime Video and other streaming platforms, you can watch unlimited shows and movies online.
What's more, you can even browse the internet to view pages, gain knowledge, or watch videos.
2. Cast content from other devices
Smart TVs allow you to mirror or cast content from your smartphone or tablet to your TV when connected to WiFi. This makes it easier to view images, watch videos, or share your content on a bigger screen.
3. Play games
Many Smart TVs also come with built-in games or allow you to download gaming apps from the internet.
Limitations of Smart TV
Now let's explore the limitations of a Smart TV-
1. Unreliable picture quality
While a Smart TV offers unlimited content via a WiFi connection, it can also impact the video and picture quality if your internet connection is slow.
2. Security issues Smart TVs are connected to the internet to stream content and various smart devices in your home. This can raise security concerns, as your systems might be vulnerable to hackers. Additionally, Smart TVs collect personal data to show content recommendations, which may also raise serious privacy issues.
What is an Android TV?
An Android TV is a type of Smart TV that has similar features like in-built apps and internet connectivity. But this is where the similarity ends. Android TV runs on the Android operating system powered by Google.
Android TV is definitely a step up from the conventional Smart TVs as it comes with access to the Google Play store, and you can download and update the latest app versions. As an added bonus, many Android TVs offer you access to Chromecast and built-in Google Assistant for a better TV experience. This is a significant difference between Smart TV and Android TV.
With such amazing features in each category, no wonder the Smart TV vs Android TVtussle is making the TV market more competitive.
Now that you've covered the technical aspects of a Smart TV vs Android TV, it's time to get into the specific details and determine the difference between Smart TV and Android TV.
Advantages and Limitations of Android TV
Advantages of Android TV
Looking to buy an Android TV? Here are the several benefits of an Android TV that you must consider-
1. Vast App Availability
Android TV offers access to the Google Play Store, allowing you to download and access a wide range of apps, from popular streaming services to games and productivity tools.
2. Google Assistant Integration
Most Android TVs feature built-in Google Assistant for voice commands to search for content, control smart home devices, and more. Such advanced features make it convenient and user-friendly to browse and view content.
3. Regular Updates
Android TV receives regular updates from Google, ensuring the platform stays up-to-date with new features and security enhancements.
Limitations of Android TV
1. App Compatibility
While the Google Play Store offers many apps, not all Android apps are optimised for TV use, which can lead to compatibility issues or subpar user experiences.
2. Complex Interface
The interface offered by an Android TV may be more complex and less intuitive for non-tech-savvy or non-Android users compared to some other smart TV platforms.
What is the difference between Smart TV and Android TV?
Both these TVs offer you a diverse range of features and functionality, and you bring home an exceptional viewing experience. You can browse the internet, watch your favourite OTT shows, play music, or even connect your Smart home devices to the TV.
Here we will compare and understand the difference between Android and Smart TVbased on the following parameters and ultimately decide Smart TV vs Android TV – which is better.
Operating system
App support
Automatic updates
Voice assistant
Screen casting
Navigation
Let's explore – Smart TV vs Android TV, which is better?
1. Operating system
The main difference between Android TV and Smart TV is their operating system. Smart TVs are powered by different operating systems depending on the brand you choose. For instance, LG uses an OS called WebOS, while Samsung Smart TVs come with an OS called Tizen.
On the contrary, Android TVs run on the Android operating system developed by Google. This gives you a better overall experience as you can easily control your Android TV with an Android Smartphone or Smartwatch.
2. App support
If we were to decide Smart TV vs Android TV, which is better in terms of app availability, Android TV would be the clear winner. Although they both support numerous in-built apps, thanks to Play Store support in an Android TV, you have millions of apps at your fingertips. From Netflix and Amazon Prime Video to YouTube, Chrome, and Instagram – you can download apps just like on your Smartphone.
Conversely, Smart TVs lack this advantage as they offer access to only a handful of popular in-built apps. Not to mention, app updates on Smart TVs are hard to come by, giving it a significant disadvantage.
3. Automatic updates
Not only does an Android TV offer you a bigger app library, but it also wins the battle of Android vs Smart TVin firmware and app updates. Typically, Android TVs enjoy active tech development, and developers keep coming up with the latest updates. Besides, when connected to the internet, you can also enjoy automatic updates.
Whereas in the case of Smart TVs, you might not get frequent updates, and the TV OS becomes outdated after a few years. It is a major difference between Android and Smart TV, making Android TV a better choice.
4. Voice assistant
Another noticeable difference between Android and Smart TVis the voice assistant feature. Android TV's built-in Google voice assistant makes it stand out from its competitor. With this feature, you don't have to use an input device as you can switch between channels and search for your favourite content online with voice control.
Moreover, many Smart TVs also support voice control, but you will need to spend some extra bucks on a device like Alexa and pair it with your TV.
5. Screen casting
When it comes to Android vs Smart TV, both offer you the option to mirror your Smartphone to your TV. However, Screen casting in Android TVs is easier to use since it comes with the Chromecast feature. And you get crystal clear images and video streaming in high definition. In contrast, even with the built-in screen mirroring feature in a Smart TV, pairing and connecting the devices is a hassle.
6. Navigation
To choose between Android vs Smart TV in terms of ease of experience, Smart TV takes the cake. With a simple and user-friendly interface, it is easier to switch between apps as they appear on the home screen. Additionally, since it is an all-in-one TV, you don't need to spend much time to set up.
On the other hand, an Android TV might be difficult to navigate, especially for those unfamiliar with the Android ecosystem.
Smart TV vs Android TV – at a glance
Here's an overview of the major difference between Android and Smart TVto help you decide which is better – Smart TV or Android TV.
Comparison
Smart TV
Android TV
Operating System
Different OS for different brands like Tizen in Samsung Smart TVs
Android by Google
Apps
Limited built-in library of apps
Download and update apps with Google Play Store
Firmware Update
Smart TV's inbuilt apps rarely receive updates.
With Google Play Store support, you can access the latest apps
Performance
Smart TVs are faster in performance due to a simple interface
Android TVs have slow performance
Which is better, Android TV or Smart TV?- Take your pick
The choice between Android and Smart TV ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Android TVs offer extensive app support through the Google Play Store, regular updates, and features like Google Assistant integration and Chromecast built-in, making them a robust option for tech-savvy users. In contrast, Smart TVs provide a more straightforward, user-friendly experience with essential apps and features tailored to basic streaming and media needs. If you prioritise extensive app availability and Google services, an Android TV is ideal; for simplicity and ease of use, a Smart TV might be better.
Conclusion
Now that you've explored the differences between Android TV and Smart TV and their pros and cons, you can decide which one to buy based on your viewing preferences, specific features, and budget.
And once you've made your choice, turn to Tata Capital to finance your new purchase. Apply for a quick consumer durable loan at competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms. Visit the website to know more.
12 July 2024
9 mins read
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