Smart TV or Streaming Device: Which Is Better?

Smart TV vs. streaming devices is slowly becoming a heated debate within the average household. While both promise endless entertainment, price, availability, and options can be a bit confusing.

So, which one truly reigns supreme?

This guide clears up all the confusion, exploring the pros and cons of each option so you can pick the best option for your home theater setup.

Smart TV or Streaming Device  – Pros and Cons

Smart TV vs. Streaming Device – The Ultimate Face-Off

Which is better? Objectively, there is no concrete answer to this question. Most users prefer a streaming device while others prefer a smart TV.

In my opinion, I would pick a streaming device over a smart TV any day. The only problem is that most brands only manufacture and sell smart TVs, so attaching a streaming device to a smart TV might not make any sense.

In the era of cord-cutting, this opinion might sound a little controversial, but let me explain this.

The smart TV comes equipped with built-in apps and an operating system that lets the user enjoy content via their favorite streaming service right away. Alternatively, a streaming device is a small external device that is plugged into a TV that offers the same features.

Now, if you are a minimalist who hates clutter and extra remotes, you’d pick a smart TV. There is no doubt that smart TV seems like an obvious choice here; however, when you consider other variables like internet quality, app compatibility, and difficult upgrades, you might want to lean more toward a streaming device.

If you are still confused, here are my top three favorite reasons for picking a streaming device:

Unified User Interface

For big families with multiple TVs yet different models and software, streaming devices offer a unified user interface that eliminates confusion and makes the user experience seamless.

Future Proofing

The smart TV comes fitted with software to run apps. As new apps and better technology keep coming, there is no way to update the software than to just get the latest model. In short, it is expensive and there is no way to future-proof your device.

Versatility and Portability

Streaming devices are smaller in size, which means you can take it off and plug it anywhere. Even on vacations, when you are not sure about the entertainment option, taking a streaming device along is a good option.

This leaves us with a dangling question, so is smart TV out of the question?

Well, the answer is No.

Some people prefer smart TVs mainly because that’s what is available, so adding a streaming device that does the same job (adding extra features, accessing streaming apps, etc.) is a waste. On top of that, buying a streaming device costs a price and most streaming services might have an ad-supported option. 

A good way to make a decision is simply by weighing your options. Try to rate both streaming devices and smart TVs based on factors like price, availability, portability, ease, etc.

Smart TV vs. Streaming Device - Quick Comparison

Here is a quick evaluation based on these factors

User Friendliness

Technically, using a smart TV is easy. You just switch it on and use the remote to navigate everything; you don’t need any second device - worry about app installation or cable compatibility.

Compactness

Carry a smart TV around? Never heard of it, right? Well, a streaming device is compact and portable. You can carry it around wherever you go, which makes it an ideal entertainment partner during vacations and weekend gateways with friends.

Upgrading

Smart TV is manufactured with an in-built software as per the requirement of the time. As the technology evolves, smart TV needs to be upgraded. However, most companies do not offer this option; instead, the user is forced to buy the new model.

On the other hand, upgrades by TV streaming devices happen on a regular, making it an affordable and user-friendly option.

Interface

A simple user interface makes any device suitable for the masses. While most TV brands keep this in mind, others try to appear tech-savvy, and so the user interface gets complicated. On the contrary, streaming devices make the interface easier and each device has a different interface. In case you don’t like the interface, the device is affordable, so you can upgrade or exchange it anytime.

App Availability

Most smart TV brands and streaming device options cover the basics, so you will get Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, etc., regardless of the option you choose. However, for some advanced app options, the smart device is a better pick. Moreover, app availability on smart TVs depends on multiple factors like operating system, region, and the app's compatibility.

Pricing

The price debate is a little controversial mainly because smart TVs are more expensive than streaming devices. However, when you add the cost of streaming setup i.e., cables, streaming device, and TV, it might surpass the cost of smart TV. So, it all boils down to individual needs and long-term investment.

Best Smart TV for Streaming

Best Streaming Devices

Simply put, if you are seeking an all in one solution with no clutter, smart TV is the best option for you. However, if you already have a conventional TV and you do not want to invest in a smart TV, streaming device is a perfect choice.

FAQ’s

Do I need a streaming device if I have a smart TV?

No, there is no need to invest in a streaming device if you already have a smart TV.

Do I need a streaming device for every TV in my home?

Yes, if you have multiple TV devices at home and want to watch content simultaneously, you will need individual streaming devices for each TV. However, if you want to watch content on just one TV at a time, just one streaming device is enough.

What is a smart streaming device?

A streaming device can be either a small box or a USB that picks content from the Internet and plays it on regular TV.