However, there are differences between them as well. Before we explore the smart TV and Android TV differences, let’s understand each option better.
What Is a Smart TV?
A smart TV is like your regular television’s tech-savvy cousin. A regular TV uses cable or DTH channels. However, a smart TV comes with internet connectivity and built-in apps, such as Netflix, YouTube, or Amazon Prime. It lets you stream shows, movies and videos directly without an extra device. Smart TVs come with their manufacturer’s custom operating system. For example, Samsung has Tizen, LG uses webOS and so on.
They are user-friendly, featuring simple remote controls, screen mirroring, and basic voice control. So, you can easily connect it to Wi-Fi, log in to your favourite platforms, and start watching. However, the choice of apps and updates depends on the brand.
What Is an Android TV?
An Android TV is Google’s version of a smart TV. So, it runs on Google’s Android operating system. This gives your TV access to the Google Play Store with thousands of apps, games and streaming platforms, so you are not restricted to a particular manufacturer’s ecosystem. Google Assistant (for easy voice search) and Chromecast (for casting content from your laptop or phone) are preloaded.
If you already use Android devices, an added advantage is that you will be familiar with the interface. Also, regular updates from Google keep the TV secure and fresh.
Key Differences Between Smart TV and Android TV
The generic comparison table shows clearly the difference between smart TV and Android TV:
Overall Attributes
|
Smart TV
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Android TV
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Operating System
|
Manufacturer’s system
|
Google’s Android TV OS
|
Updates
|
Depends on the manufacturer, rare
|
Regular updates from Google
|
Voice Control
|
Varies brand-to-brand (Bixby, Alexa, etc)
|
Google Assistant built-in
|
Casting
|
May not be supported
|
Chromecast built-in
|
Flexibility / Customization
|
Limited to the manufacturer’s interface
|
Highly customizable
|
Gaming
|
Basic casual games
|
Full Android gaming ecosystem
|
Features Comparison: Apps, Interface, and Connectivity
The table below details the differences between Smart TV and Android TV based on specific features:
Features
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Smart TV
|
Android TV
|
App Selection
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Pre-installed + Manufacturer’s store
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Entire Google Play Store Access
|
Interface style
|
Brand-specific, simple
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Android-based, user-friendly, customizable
|
Navigation
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Remote-focused, basic menus
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Touch-friendly with voice control
|
Connectivity
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Standard Wi-Fi, HDMI
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Wi-Fi + Chromecast, Bluetooth with device pairing, Voice Control
|
Which One Should You Choose?
Let’s get to the crux of the discussion: which is better smart TV or an Android TV? This depends on the kind of viewing experience you like.
Choose a Smart TV if you:
Choose Android TV if you:
Conclusion
Ultimately, both Smart TVs and Android TVs will keep you entertained – they will provide you with a great viewing experience. The real question is about the quality of viewing experience you would like. Smart TVs are great if you want a straightforward setup. On the other hand, Android TVs offer variety, flexibility, and integration with the Google ecosystem.
So, if you ask, “Smart TV vs Android TV, which is better?” remember there is no correct answer. It’s just a lifestyle choice. You can browse the Vijay Sales website for the best television collections, whether Smart TV or Android TV. Be assured of some awesome price deals on authentic, quality brands.