Surely you have heard of Android TV and Smart TV, but do you know the differences between the two? Well, today we will try to explain the Android TV vs Smart TV battle!

Smart TV vs Android TV: What is the difference?

Let us start with the basics. More than once, you have heard the word Smart TV, but, what is its meaning? Well, a smart TV is a TV that has many more features than a regular TV. Not only will you be able to play your regular TV shows or connect them to a DVD or Blu-Ray player, but you can also install other services. The most notable feature of a smart TV is that it can connect to the Internet wirelessly or via an Ethernet cable. This allows you to send content over the Internet.

A Smart TV works under an operating system that directs all the programs it contains. There are different operating systems in Smart TVs. For example, Samsung uses an operating system called Tizen, while LG has its OS called WebOS, and the AppleTV OS is tvOS. Like a smartphone, a smart TV can have downloaded applications on its storage. That means that applications such as Facebook, YouTube, Netflix, and other apps we typically use, can be used on these devices. SmartTVs are of the latest generation; therefore, the screens are of the best quality in the market.

That said, when we talk about Android TV, we mean a free operating system that is compatible with all devices. Google developed this system in 2014, and it allows a TV to receive content from the Internet. Android TV has the significant benefit of managing our TV from our smartphones and even smartwatches. With this system, we can have more possibilities to have more applications. We can use it to watch programs and shows. You can also download applications to listen to music such as Spotify, and even have applications to play games.

Android TV and Smart TV are the same since they allow you to browse and download content from the Internet. The fundamental difference is the OS with which they work and the advantages they offer.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of Android TV and Smart TV?

We have to start by saying that Android TV enjoys a library of applications thanks to Play Store support. If you are a user of this operating system, you will find all kinds of applications available. From YouTube to Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video, everything is available on Android TV. The best part is that they optimize all the apps for this platform and have intuitive controls for the bigger screen.

Those Smart TVs that use an OS such as Tizen or WebOS have limited application support. They only support some popular entertainment apps like YouTube, Prime Video, and Netflix. You will not find many apps on its app store compared to Android TV that offers you a wide range of apps.

Updates are scarce on SmartTV, compared to Android TV. In addition, you are unlikely to get major updates on your smart TV after a few years, and that will make your TV out of date. On the other hand, Android TVs get updates often. This is because developers regularly release new updates for a wide variety of apps. Android TVs receive much longer app updates, which means you will continue to have modern apps on your Android TV.

On the other hand, SmartTVs are much easier to navigate and use compared to Android TVs. To get the most out of Android TV, you must know the Android ecosystem, while SmartTVs are more intuitive. Similarly, SmartTVs also perform faster, which is positive.

Which is the more expensive, Smart TV or Android TV?

A Smart TV is usually a more expensive option than Android TV. While Smart TVs are more expensive, they also have a more intuitive and convenient interface if you want to enjoy your favorite online content without so much hassle. The interaction with SmartTV is better because you access everything with a single Smart TV remote that is easy to use. It has understandable menus that guide you to the online content you want to see.

Smart TV vs Android TV: Which is better?

Both Android TVs and Smart TVs have their benefits and shortcomings. And we understand that anyone who already uses an Android phone will probably be more comfortable using an Android TV. In addition, Android TV provides access to a wide variety of applications on the Google Play Store along with updates that keep you updated more frequently. All Android-based Smart TVs enjoy a competitive advantage over other types of Smart TVs, not to mention the best value for money they offer you.

A Smart TV that does not use the Android TV OS to run is a worthwhile option if you do not own an Android device and do not have spare time and energy to learn how to navigate new interfaces. Smart TVs work well right out of the box, and those who prefer convenience and simplicity more than anything else will be completely satisfied with one, especially if the budget is not an issue.

Conclusion

Now that you know a little more about Android TV and other Smart TVs, it will probably be easier for you to decide. Before any purchase, please try to consider your priorities, and you will surely gain a high-value product that will bring you a lot of fun.

Always remember that the choice of TV will come down to what suits your unique needs and requirements. Consider the differences and limitations of both devices that we mention here. Try to write a list of the characteristics you want to have on your TV so that you can make the most appropriate decision.