If you’re wondering what are the main differences between the two, below is a brief overview to help make your decision making easier:
What is SmartTV?
A SmartTV is basically a TV that plays any sort of programs and channels by connecting to the Internet. In other words, it’s similar to using a computer, except it’s through a TV. Unlike regular normal TVs, it doesn’t connect to a satellite. Furthermore, you’ll get to enjoy more than just TV series or movies.
With a Smart TV, you can access a wide variety of services such as games, apps, internet browsing, social media platforms and so on.
What is AndroidTV?
An AndroidTV is similar to a SmartTV, except it runs on the Android operating system. It’s the same as using your Android smartphone, except you’re displaying via the TV. You can also access the Google Playstore via your TV.
That means you can access and download any games, streaming platforms, social media platforms, and so on.
The Main Differences between SmartTV and AndroidTV
The available app options
SmartTV runs on either WebOS or Tizen OS whereas an AndroidTV runs on Android. Therefore, as we all know, the Google PlayStore has a wide range of applications. For instance, the games, music, social media platforms, to name a few. In comparison with SmartTV, you’ll only be able to find the common ones such as Netflix, Youtube and Prime Video.
Screencasting
AndroidTV comes with a built-in screencasting system, also known as ChromeCast. Hence, you can stream your content from your Android smartphone to your AndroidTV directly. SmartTV requires you to use a third party device that needs to be manually paired. Thus, resulting in extra costs when you own a SmartTV.
Can be operated hands-free
AndroidTV allows you to operate and navigate via Google Assistant. That means you don’t need to type anything on the screen, all you have to do is speak your instructions out while maintaining your comfortable position on the couch.
SmartTVs generally do not come with a built-in voice assistant so you’ll have to type with the on-screen keyboard while searching for your content.
Consistent updates
SmartTV doesn’t have regular updates as compared to AndroidTV. Hence, you will enjoy the latest, modern apps and media streaming sources. At the very least, SmartTVs can easily be switched to an AndroidTV by simply getting an AndroidTV set-top box so you can stream it over to your SmartTV.
The Key Takeaway
Although the differences between the SmartTV and AndroidTV are quite minor, ultimately it boils down to your needs and requirements. You should identify what is your overall budget and in the long run, which works best for you. There is no one-size-fits-it-all solution, so either one would be a good choice.