Smart TV or Streaming Media Player: Which is Best?

Getting the content you want with just the push of a button is easier than ever. It's especially true with TV shows, movies and music. You can enjoy these on demand via your phone, laptop computer, tablet and TV thanks to smart TVs and streaming media players. Streaming sticks, or boxes, plug into your TV, allowing you to access what you want to watch or listen to through the internet. Smart TVs do the same thing without having to plug in a separate device. You may wonder about the pros and cons of smart TVs and streaming players, and which one works better for you. With this helpful guide, you can navigate the pros and cons of each option and pick the right streaming device for your home.

What's the difference between a smart TV and a streaming device?

Smart TVs and streaming devices both stream media, but there are major differences in how they work. Smart TVs come ready to accept media from a variety of sources, from streaming media subscriptions like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix and Hulu, to content viewable with an internet connection. Streaming sticks or boxes plug into any TV with a USB port and then turn a basic TV into a smart one. The stick connects to the internet and allows you to access media from specific streaming services. Examples of streaming sticks are the Amazon Fire TV Stick, Google Chromecast, or Roku Express. Smart TVs include Android TVs, Roku TVs and smart models from various manufacturers.

Smart TV pros

Smart TVs are ideal options for people who love to get their media on demand. They offer great connectivity and can hook up to the internet via your Wi-Fi network. That means you can place them in any room of your home. Since the smart components are internal, you don't have to find additional space for a streaming player. No extra USB ports get taken up for internet access or streaming service integration, which leaves them free for other purposes. Hook up your gaming consoles, Blu-ray or DVD players or other devices without feeling crowded for space. Most of all, smart TVs are ready to go as soon as you turn them on without needing to find the right input or port.

Smart TV cons

The biggest consideration is cost. In comparison, smart TVs cost much more than streaming sticks. When you buy a smart TV, you have to dispose of your old television as well. While smart TVs offer a wide range of services, they may not support some content providers or streaming services. You won't have access to them automatically and may need to get a specialized streaming stick to compensate.

Should your TV break, you can't replace a small part like a streaming stick, which means expensive repairs or replacing the TV. When you navigate the controls of a smart TV, you may notice it's slower than a streaming stick because smart TVs have more complex hardware. So, with all this in mind, you may find a streaming device is a better option for your needs.

Streaming media player pros

Whether a streaming stick or box is right for you depends on your space and media needs, but both options have plenty of positives. Streaming sticks are incredibly portable. They can fit into a pocket or purse, so you can take them to a friend's house or on vacation. Plus, streaming devices are far more affordable than smart TVs, which means you can replace them without breaking the bank if something goes wrong. Certain models offer specialized streaming services not available on smart TVs, so you can get precisely what you want. Streaming sticks work with most modern TVs, so you shouldn't need tons of new equipment or a complete reconfiguring of your home theater system to enjoy them. Some boxes and sticks work with smart home systems and mobile devices through an app. That way, you can control them with your voice or smartphone, along with the remote that comes with the device.

Streaming media player cons

The visual performance that streaming sticks provide depends on your TV, so the content only looks as good as your TV allows. Even with a 4K streaming device, you won't get superior image quality unless you have a 4K TV. Some streaming players have limited services or don't have the gaming, sports and music options that smart TVs may offer. You'll have to get extra devices and streaming media player accessories if you want all the media options smart TVs offer. When you do set up your streaming stick, you may have trouble getting your TV to recognize it. Less tech-savvy people may find having to change the input every time they want to switch from cable or satellite to streaming frustrating and not very user-friendly.

Overall, it comes down to preference and how you watch or listen to media in your home. First, consider all the pros and cons then look at your own needs before you make a purchase. You may want to buy both a smart TV and a streaming stick to get all your desired features. Once you set up your new smart TV or streaming media player, you can enjoy your favorite movies and shows with ease.