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6 Dec, 2025

Smart TV vs Android TV

Latest TV
smart tv vs android tv

Digital technology has presented numerous options today that can make even a simple act, such as purchasing a television, overwhelming. A common debate among competing television options is: smart TV vs. android TV. At the outset, both are similar. Both offer internet connectivity, apps and streaming services.

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

 

 

 

 

Android TV

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Smart TV

 

 

 

 

Android TV

 

 

 

 

App Selection

 

 

 

 

Pre-installed + Manufacturer’s store

 

 

 

 

Entire Google Play Store Access 

 

 

 

 

Interface style

 

 

 

 

Brand-specific, simple

 

 

 

 

Android-based, user-friendly, customizable

 

 

 

 

Navigation

 

 

 

 

Remote-focused, basic menus

 

 

 

 

Touch-friendly with voice control

 

 

 

 

Connectivity

 

 

 

 

Standard Wi-Fi, HDMI

 

 

 

 

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:

 

  • Want simple, no-fuss entertainment without complications

     

  • Prefer sticking to major streaming apps like Netflix and Prime

     

  • Don’t bother about customisation options or extra features and apps

     

 

Choose Android TV if you:

 

  • Want the flexibility to use thousands of apps from the Play Store

     

  • Like variety and the freedom to use a customised interface and try new features

     

  • Use Google services and want seamless integration with your devices

     

  • Are tech-savvy and like regular updates and support from Google

 

 

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

faq1

faqsQuestions
Which is better Smart TV or Android TV?
faqsAnswer

It depends on your viewing preferences. Smart TVs are for simple, straightforward viewing. If you want flexibility and variety in viewing choices, Android TVs are the better option.

faq2

faqsQuestions
Can we install apps in Smart TV?
faqsAnswer

Yes, but if your brand or model allows it. Most Smart TVs come with their own app stores, offering popular apps. But the range is limited compared to Android TVs.

faq3

faqsQuestions
Is Android TV cheaper than Smart TV?
faqsAnswer

Not always. Apart from the operating system, several factors, such as brand and size, also determine the price. Entry-level Smart TVs may be cheaper, but mid-range Android TVs can be a lot more economical than high-end Smart TVs. There are budget and premium options available in both categories.

faq4

faqsQuestions
Can I watch Netflix on Android TV?
faqsAnswer

Absolutely! Popular streaming apps, such as Netflix, are pre-installed on most models. You can also browse the Play Store and download other apps you like.

faq5

faqsQuestions
Can I install the Google Play Store on my Smart TV?
faqsAnswer

No, that is not possible because a regular Smart TV would run on the manufacturer’s operating system. The Google Play Store works only with Android devices.

faq6

faqsQuestions
Do all Smart TVs come with apps?
faqsAnswer

Yes, all Smart TVs come with at least a few pre-installed apps, such as Netflix or YouTube. The number and type vary by brand and model. Check the manufacturer’s app store for other apps you may like.

faq7

faqsQuestions
How do I know if I have a Smart TV?
faqsAnswer

A smart TV would typically have Wi-Fi connectivity and built-in apps, such as Netflix or YouTube. Check for a dedicated app store and its internet features to confirm if it’s a Smart TV.