Difference between a Smart TV and an Android TV
A Smart TV is a modern TV set that goes beyond the traditional function of displaying broadcast content. Smart TVs run on an Operating System (OS), which is very similar to a computer or a smartphone and allows them to connect to the internet. The most popular Operating System is Android OS, and Smart TVs that run on the Android Operating System are also called Android TVs.
Thus, Android TVs are a subset of Smart TVs and run specifically on Google’s Android Operating System. Smart and Android TVs have similar features, such as Wi-Fi and Ethernet options, USB and HDMI ports, and voice recognition. However, Android TVs also give you access to the Google Play Store and integrated Google services, such as Google Assistant and Chromecast.
If you are weighing your options, you must know the key differences between Android and Smart TVs before buying a model.
Differences between Smart TVs and Android TVs
In the Smart TV vs Android TV debate, you must understand the key differences between both types of TVs.
Screen mirroring and casting
While screen mirroring and screen casting may sound the same, they are not exactly alike. Screen mirroring duplicates the entire screen of one device onto another (mirror), including the screen layout and actions in real time. However, screen casting sends specific content, such as a video, from one device to another. The actions you perform on the source device will not be displayed on the TV.
Smart TVs may offer screen mirroring and casting capabilities, but their methods and compatibility can differ based on the TV’s OS. Android TVs boast a built-in Chromecast, making them natively compatible with devices supporting Google’s casting technology.
Voice assistants
Smart TVs and Android TVs differ in their integration with voice assistants. For instance, Smart TVs can employ various voice assistants, depending on the brand and OS. This includes Samsung’s Bixby with Tizen OS and Roku Voice with Roku TV. On the other hand, Android TVs natively integrate with Google Assistant, resulting in consistent voice command features, easy access to Google services, and broader smart home integrations. With Android TVs delivering a standardised Google-based voice experience, most people prefer Android TVs.
Automatic updates
A key difference between Android and Smart TVs pertains to the software updates they receive. Android TVs operate under Google’s ecosystem and benefit from regular updates. This ensures users can access the latest features, security patches, and app compatibility. On the other hand, Smart TVs receive software updates depending on their OS and brand, which can be inconsistent and end after a certain period.
Thus, the frequency and longevity of updates can vary between brands and models, while Android TVs typically receive frequent updates, owing to Google’s control over the Android platform.
Application program
All Smart TVs come with the manufacturer’s app store and sometimes offer a limited selection of apps based on the TV’s OS. However, Android TVs have access to the Google Play Store, which hosts a diverse range of applications. This includes OTT platforms, social media, games, and services specifically optimised for TVs. Thus, Android TV users have a wider, more up-to-date selection, thanks to the TV’s integration with the Google ecosystem.
Gaming support
All Smart TVs available today offer basic gaming capabilities via native app stores. However, the selection and performance differ based on the TV’s hardware and OS. Android TVs have access to the Google Play Store and offer a wider range of games. Moreover, Android TVs typically support gaming consoles and cloud gaming platforms like Google Stadia. Thanks to regular updates, TVs running on Android OS are also better equipped to handle gaming apps.
While other Smart TVs can also run games, Android TVs generally offer an enhanced gaming experience thanks to a broader app ecosystem.
Android TV and Smart TV comparison table
Feature |
Smart TV |
Operating System (OS) |
Varies (for example, webOS, Tizen OS, proprietary systems) |
App store |
Specific to the brand or OS |
Services |
Changes according to the manufacturer/brand |
Interface |
Changes according to the brand |
App availability |
What the specific OS offers |
Integration |
It may or may not integrate with smart home systems |
Updates |
Depends on the manufacturer or the OS |
Android TV or Smart TV - Which one is better?
If you are thinking of buying a TV, you must find a model that offers an enhanced user experience. The Smart TV vs. Android TV comparison highlights the main differences between TVs with different Operating Systems. Operating under the Google ecosystem, Android TVs offer several benefits, such as a wide range of apps, regular updates, and enhanced gaming support. However, if you prefer brand-specific features (such as those offered by LG and Samsung TVs), you can buy a Smart TV these brands provide.
You can choose your preferred model and buy it on No Cost EMI using the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card. The Insta EMI Card lets you pay for the new TV in interest-free EMIs over your preferred tenure, ranging from 1 to 60 months. Select models also come with a zero down payment offer, which removes any upfront payment requirement. Thus, you can bring home the new TV and pay for it in convenient bite-sized instalments.
