HomeAndroidAndroid TV vs Smart TV: Comparison for Which to Buy?

Android TV vs Smart TV: Comparison for Which to Buy?

In the ever-evolving landscape of technological advancements, modern TVs such as Smart TV Vs Android TV have revolutionized the entire entertainment industry. They have transformed passive entertainment into a dynamic one. Thanks to the best features and supreme functionalities that both these TVs offer.

Both Smart TV and Android TV have gained huge popularity because of their rich and innovative ecosystems. These TVs allow users to stream content from popular services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video and have full-fledged fun while watching their favourite shows on the big screen.

Undoubtedly, their user-friendly ecosystems have redefined the possibilities of television. However, buying any device after thorough research and evaluation is always wise. So, if you want to know which one is the better option between the two or if you have been searching for a comparative analysis of Smart TV and Android TV, you have landed on the correct platform.

To help you ease your stress, we have underscored an in-depth comparison of Smart TV vs Android TV. Scroll down to read the full comparison between Smart TV vs. Android TV. Let’s get started…

Smart TVs

Smart TV, also known as a Connected TV, is a traditional television set. These TV sets come equipped with integrated Internet and interactive Web 2.0 features, allowing users to stream online services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, etc. In addition, users can also stream music and videos, browse the internet, and view videos and photos.

Smart TVs bring together the power of computers, televisions, and digital media players. The smart TV industry has been expanding its market size on a year-on-year basis. With its integrated operating System or OS and engaging Web 2.0 features, it has eliminated the need for additional set-top boxes.

Now, with a robust internet connection, Users can stream their favorite shows, web series, movies, and content from their preferred OTT streaming platforms. Moreover, they can personalize the interface and monitor the smart home networking ecosystem.

Check out the following pointers to know what makes Smart TV different from others:

  • Built-in app store
  • Witty screen mirroring
  • High-resolution games
  • Multiple ports i.e. USB port. Ethernet Port, and HDMI
  • 4k ultra-HD picture quality
  • Personalized experience

Let’s now see what Android TVs are. Here we go…

Android TVs

Android TV is a smart TV platform created by Google. These TVs offer more interactive and connected experience to users than traditional television. These TVs can access a wide range of apps and services through the Google Play Store.

In addition, Android TV is powered by an Android phone operating system that integrates Google Services such as Google Play Store, Chromecast, and Google Assistant to offer users an intuitive and personalized experience. With its ultra-level features and benefits, it has been grabbing the attention of worldwide customers. It is known for its improved voice assistant, extensive app library with compatibility, and responsive user interface.

Users can do a lot of things on Android TVs, such as stream videos, play games, and use other entertainment apps in android tv. The best thing about these TVs is that they support voice commands. This allows users to control their TV using voice recognition. Overall, Android TV offers a more integrated and user-friendly smart TV experience, making it popular among consumers looking for a smart TV solution.

Go over the following pointers to learn why Android TV is so popular:

  • Built-in Chromecast
  • Voice assistant
  • Android TV just like your smartphone
  • Automatic updates
  • A wide content library
  • Unlimited games

Let’s now know how Smart TVs are different from Android TV. Here we go…

Smart TV vs Android TV: Key Differences and Comparison

Both Smart TV and Android TV come with a set of unique features, advantages, limitations, and other technical specifications. However, some Smart TVs are known as Android TVs because of the integration of the Google-powered Android TV operating System. Their users can avail of the benefits of downloading apps, voice assistants, and an extensive content library.

On the flip side, many Smart TVs like Samsung and LG come with different operating systems. Some of the operating systems used in Smart TVs include WebOS and Tizen OS. These are exceptional Oss, and are often preferred by those who love simplicity in interface with panoramic views on the screen. Let’s delve deeper into the following article to know the key difference between Smart TV and Android TV.

1. Applications and Gaming Ecosystem

The most common ground to find the difference between Smart TV and Android TV is the ecosystem of applications or games. Both Smart TV and Android TV offer an extensive catalog of applications and games.

Applications and Gaming Ecosystem
Images Source – TechCrunch

If the chosen device is equipped with apps or games, the user will get an extensive range of content just below his fingertip. Moreover, the applications should be well-integrated and compatible with running on the device. Let’s compare Android TV and Smart TV on the basis of this ground.

➢ Smart TVs Gaming and Applications

Smart TV users are privileged to watch the content from Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, HBO Now, and more directly on their screens. In addition, they can add more apps to the Smart TV. Some of the apps that people often add to Smart TVs include fitness apps, cooking recipe apps, or virtual game apps. All you have to do is go to the app store and download your favorite apps. However, in comparison to Android TV, Smart TV has a narrow range of compatible apps or games.

➢ Android TVs Gaming and Applications

One of the biggest advantages that Android TV users receive is that they can access unlimited apps or games via the built-in Google Play Store. Having an Android TV is similar to having a smartphone. Users can download or access various applications, music apps, or games with just a few taps. The complete layout is not only aesthetically pleasing but also easy to access. All applications that are or can be installed on Android TV are compatible with it.

2. Voice assistant

The integration of the voice assistant feature in modern TVs has grabbed everyone’s attention. This feature enables users to give voice commands to the TV to switch channels, search content, and control other options of TV.

Voice assistant
Images Source – IBC365

As a result, it enhances the overall experience of the user. Now, it’s time to explore whether both Smart TV and Android TV have integrated voice-assistant features or not.

➢ Smart TVs Voice assistant

The Voice Assistant does not support Smart TVs. This simply means that you’ll have to switch channels and search content manually. However, some Smart TVs use Alexa or Google Assistant technology to enable the option of voice assistant. Simply put, the feature will serve you as an ideal companion to obey your voice commands.

➢ Android TVs Voice assistant

The integration of Google Assistant into Android TV has redefined the users’ experience. They can use their voice commands to switch channels, control playback, search for the content, and operate smart home integrations. The Google Assistant completes users’ request in no time.

3. Screen Mirroring and Casting

Screen mirroring and casting play a crucial role. It fosters the experience of enjoying ultra-level entertainment. However, screen mirroring and casting are not the same concepts. Screen mirroring duplicates the exact display of one device on another device. While mirroring the complete screen, it also duplicates the real-time actions and screen layout.

Screen Mirroring and Casting
Images Source – AirDroid

In contrast, the screen casting is not mirroring the screen of one device’s display to another device’s screen. It is sending specific content such as videos or photos from one device to another. Suppose you cast a video from your phone to TV, you will only be able to watch the video on the TV. Let’s discover in the next section on Smart TV vs Android TV whether or not both devices use these functionalities.

➢ Smart TVs Screen Mirroring Cast

It is possible to leverage the efficiency of screen mirroring and casting for connect smartphone to Smart TV. However, you may need other pieces of projection equipment to enable these functionalities. This means that you will have to put in extra effort and costs.

➢ Android TVs Screen Mirroring Cast

Android TV users have access to both screen mirroring and casting because these TVs have built-in features such as Chromecast and Google Cast. These features enable you to enjoy a seamless transition experience.

4. Operating System and Easy User Interface

Operating System or OS is considered a brain of the screen. This is because it allows users to explore and stream a wide array of content with exceptional ease and intuitiveness. However, different types of operating systems come with a number of benefits.

Operating System and Easy User Interface
Images Source – MakeUseOf

Are you wondering which type of operating system the manufacturers of Smart TV and Android TV install in modern TVs? Let’s take a glance at the comparison between Smart TV and Android TV to learn more about them.

➢ Smart TVs Operating System

Currently, Smart TV manufacturers are empowering their Smart TVs with the best operating systems, such as LG’s WebOS, Samsung Tizen OS, Android TV, and Roku TV. These operating systems make the user interface not only aesthetically pleasing but also easy and intuitive.

For example, LG’s WebOS operating system comes with unique features such as Magic Remote and Launch Bar. This exceptional OS offers an ease with which users can switch between channels and apps. The Tizen OS of Samsung has made navigation of content easy with its easy user interface.

The users don’t need to be tech-savvy to view their favorite TV shows or movies on Samsung Smart TV. They can explore a wide array of content just below their fingertips.

➢ Android TVs Operating System

Android TV offers an easy and intuitive user interface. Plus, they get to enjoy personalized experience with these TVs. Since Android TVs have Android operating systems. Users have access to Google services such as Google Voice Assistant and Google Play Store or other app store.

In addition, users have access to a wide library of content and an opportunity to download apps and games and enjoy! Additionally, users can personalize the interface as per their preference and ease.

5. Automatic Updates

Automatic updates are essential to ensure the latest features, security upgrades, and app compatibility. However, there is a major difference between Smart TV and Android TV in terms of getting regular updates. Let’s move to the next section of Smart TV vs Android TV to know about this comparison.

Automatic Updates
Images Source – LG

➢ Smart TVs Updates

The ecosystem of Smart TVs largely depends on the brand and operating system (OS). Therefore, software updates that come with Smart TVs often end after some time. They do not receive regular updates. However, those Smart TVs that come along with the Android TV operating system receive frequent updates due to Google’s integration.

➢ Android TVs Updates

Google controls the ecosystem of the Android TV. That’s the reason Android TVs receive frequent updates. These updates are automatic and enhance the overall user experience. With these updates, users can enjoy the latest features, app compatibility, and new security upgrades. Moreover, most apps on Play Store are safe and secure.
Let’s now take a look at the list of the best Smart TVs and Android TVs available on the market. Here we go…

Top 10 Smart TV Picks for 2024

  1. LG HD Ready LED Smart TV (32-inch) Operating system: WebOS
  2. Samsung HD LED Smart TV PurColor (32-inch) Operating system: Tizen OS
  3. Xiaomi HD Ready Smart LED TV (32-inch) Operating system: Android OS
  4. OnePlus Y1 Ready LED Smart Android TV with Dolby Audio (32-inch) Operating system: Android OS
  5. Mi 5A HD Ready LED Smart Android TV with Dolby Sound (80 cm) Operating system: Android OS
  6. Sony HD Ready Smart LED TV (32-inch) Operating system: Android TV
  7. Vu (4K) Ultra HD Smart LED TV (55 inches) Operating system: Android System
  8. LG Smart HD TV (32-inch) Operating system: WebOS 22
  9. Croma (4k) Ultra HD LED TV (55-inch) Operating system: WebOS
  10. Haier (4k) LED Smart TV (43-inch) Operating system: Google Certified Android 9.0

Top 10 Android TV Picks for 2024

  1. Sony Bravia XR Series 4K Ultra HD Smart OLED Google TV (55 inches)
  2. Blaupunkt Quantum Dot Series 4K Ultra HD QLED Google TV (55 inches)
  3. Acer I Series 4K Ultra HD Android Smart LED TV (65 inches)
  4. TCL Bezel-Less S Series FHD Smart Android LED TV (32 inches)
  5. Hisense 4K Ultra HD Smart QLED Google TV (65 inches)
  6. OnePlus Y Series 4K Ultra HD Smart Android LED TV (43 inches)
  7. MI A Series HD Ready Smart Google TV (32 inches)
  8. Samsung HD Ready Smart LED TV (32 inches)
  9. Kodiak 9XPRO Series Full HD Certified Android LED TV (43 inches)
  10. Acer Advanced I Series Full HD Smart LED Google TV (43 inches).

Which is better Smart TV vs Android TV

Now, it’s time to evaluate the significant aspect of the comparison between Smart TV and Android TV. As you’ve read, both Smart TV and Android TV have their own advantages and limitations. Operating systems (or OS) installed in both the modern TVs enhance overall users’ experience in terms of ease and intuitiveness.From an easy user interface to new apps’ installation, from voice assistant functionality to other devices’ compatibility.

both Smart TV and Android TV have been offering an ultra-level experience of entertainment. Both the TVs are good in their own ways. Which one to select purely depends on your budget, and your personal preferences. It is advisable that you consider your needs prior to buying any of the TVs.

The Bottom Line

So, this all about Smart TV vs. Android TV. Hopefully, this article has helped you with key differences between Smart TV and Android TV based on different parameters such as application ecosystem and compatibility, gaming, voice assistant, operating system, and automatic updates.

We hope these differences can help you make an informed decision. Both the TVs offer excellent entertainment. Make sure to keep these differences in mind. Moreover, consider your unique needs and preferences when buying a new TV.

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