Which streaming device or smart TV app is better?

Difference between Smart TV application and streaming device

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Smart TVs are essentially audio-visual computers with built-in streaming capabilities. You can download streaming services like Netflix and Hulu to your TV and play using the TV's operating system as an all-in-one streaming solution that works seamlessly out of the box.

Alternatively, you can choose a separate streaming device, like Amazon's Fire TV Stick, Google's Chromecast, or Apple's Apple TV. Streaming devices turn regular TVs into smart TVs by acting as receivers for streamed content, connecting via standard HDMI ports. They often come with handhelds or are controlled through mobile devices, and in some cases they offer additional benefits like storage for downloads, high-resolution video, and live audio. dynamic.

Reasons why Smart TV applications are popular

Here are some reasons why Smart TV apps are often the best choice for watching digital TV compared to their plug-in counterparts:

The Smart TV application is very easy to use

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There is much to be said about the applications that work through the Smart TV's built-in operating system. Not only can they be controlled with the TV's remote control, but as part of the TV's native user interface (UI), they are often intuitively configured, optimized, and easy to operate.

Setting up the Smart TV app couldn't be easier. Simply download the app of your choice from your TV's app store, enter your account details or create a new account and you're ready to go. While there may be different features and limitations, depending on the Smart TV, most will offer apps for the most popular free and paid channels, such as YouTube, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and Hulu.

The Smart TV application does not require additional hardware

While an external streaming device is a practical solution for upgrading or switching your TV, it's also an additional expense. Depending on the model, the cost can range from under $50 to over $100 and may not be worth the expense, if you are completely satisfied with the existing Smart TV apps and stock user interface.

Like all smart gadgets, streaming devices must be replaced every few years as technology inevitably changes. Smart TV apps, on the other hand, require no additional purchases, other than a subscription cost, and require little maintenance, especially if you set them to auto-update.

Reasons why streaming devices are better

Streaming devices are practical and valuable additions to a digital TV setup. Here's where they outperform built-in Smart TV apps:

Streaming devices provide an easy upgrade to your TV

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Smart TV hardware cannot be upgraded on the device so it needs to be replaced sooner than non-smart devices. As audio and video codecs become more advanced and applications and user interfaces are updated, more processing power is needed to meet demand. Eventually, load times will become significantly slower and navigation between programs will become increasingly sluggish until the latency becomes unbearable.

The streaming device provides a plug-and-play solution. It can be regularly converted to the latest version with updated, faster chip, optimized software and native user interface. Wireless technology is the heart of Smart TVs, so it makes more sense to consider using an external device to stream, bypassing built-in Smart TV apps completely. When purchasing a new TV, an external streaming device allows you to prioritize audio-visual features and connectivity without worrying about its processing power and user interface.

Streaming devices are portable and flexible

A significant benefit of streaming devices is their portability. Unlike Smart TV's built-in apps that are limited to the TV, streaming devices mean you can stream TV on the go. If you're on a business trip, visiting friends or relatives, or on vacation, you can take your device with you and watch your favorite shows in your free time.

Streaming devices also offer flexibility in how you watch TV. You can watch downloaded content directly from some streaming devices, such as Apple TV, or download content to your mobile device and stream it to any HDMI-enabled TV display. You can usually customize your streaming device to suit your preferences in terms of wallpaper, channel organization, parental controls, and keyboard shortcuts.

There are many options available for streaming devices

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If you're shopping for a streaming device, you're spoiled for choice. There is a solution to suit almost every requirement and budget, each with its own unique features and benefits, even though they all perform the same basic task. Some streaming providers, including Apple, Amazon, and Roku, have native devices, but these devices still work perfectly with other providers' apps. Viewing quality is not compromised when connected to a high-definition TV, as even some affordable streaming devices offer 4K high-definition video.

Popular streaming devices include the Apple TV 4K, which is a good solution for users of Apple products, although relatively expensive. Benefits include FaceTime video calling, multi-device connectivity and Siri remote control, with smooth operation and advanced features.

If you don't want to pay the high price for an Apple product, most other streaming devices are significantly cheaper and comparable in features. For example, Google's entry-level Chromecast is HD-ready and stores all your favorite apps for around $30, while a 4K Chromecast typically costs around $45 - $50

Additionally, Amazon's flagship Fire TV Stick 4K Max offers Wi-Fi 6E connectivity and Dolby Vision for $45. For $40, you can pick up the Roku Express 4K Plus, with AirPlay compatibility to link all Apple devices and next-generation 4K HDR streaming resolution. These are just a few examples of the many streaming device options available.

David Pac

Update 10 July 2024