Apple TV vs. Smart TV – Find out how you can enjoy an immersive viewing experience

Technology has changed the way many people used to access content online. A few years back, one had to go to a theatre to watch movies. This has changed since people can now access all their favorite shows at home. You can achieve this by either choosing Apple TV or smart TV.

Apple TV and smart TV are both devices that receive a lot of attention from different people. You can use these devices to play games and watch movies. Though they have a similar purpose, they have many differences that you should understand before you make your purchase. Read through this guide to everything about them.

What are the differences between Apple TV and smart TV?

Apple TV vs. smart TV- How do they compare?

Manufacturer

Apple TV comes from a developer known as Apple. This company has been producing a lot of devices for years. Different companies, on the other hand, have come up with smart TV models. For instance, you can buy a smart TV from Toshiba, LG, Samsung, or Panasonic. Apple TV comes from a reputable and well-known company compared to some of the smart TV models.

Content and apps

Though both Apple TV and smart TV can give you access to services such as Netflix and Hulu, Apple TV is more equipped. This is because it features iTunes, which is hard to find in any smart TV models. Apple TV, therefore, excels in terms of the volume of content it can deliver.

Interface

You should also pay attention to the interface before investing in any streaming device. Most people choose Apple TV since its interface is easier to navigate. It also appears more elegant and polished. Some people who use specific smart TV models keep on complaining about a confusing interface. Apple TV is, therefore, more user-friendly than a smart TV.

Searching capability

When it comes to searching, both Apple TV and smart TV allow you to search for content using your voice. Most of the smart TV models work with Google Assistant and Alexa while Apple offers Siri Integration. Smart TV, therefore, has better searching capability compared to Apple TV.

Apple TV vs. smart tv – A comparison overview

Apple TV

If you have already invested in an Apple ecosystem, you need to consider getting an Apple TV. This digital media player can display different content from your iPad or iPhone wirelessly thanks to the inclusion of the Airplay feature. It comes as a small black box that contains the Apple logo. You should notice a few ports on Apple TV, such as the HDMI ports and Ethernet port. It also includes a port for digital audio and another one for lightning cable. Though this device looks nice, it does not have any microSD slot or USB port.

Apple devices always have a sense of style, and Apple TV does not disappoint. It comes with a pretty and easy to navigate interface. Once you set up this device, you can move straight to the apps. It gives you the liberty of customizing the placement of apps based on your preferences.

One of the features that make Apple TV different from other devices is the inclusion of iTunes. It allows you to access services such as Netflix, YouTube, Pandora, HBO, and Hulu. Before you even open the Netflix app, Apple TV will recommend some popular shows that you should consider watching. It also comes with a beginner-friendly remote. Since this remote works with Siri, it allows you to control content using your voice.

If you enjoy gaming, you should consider getting Apple TV since this device can accommodate both hardcore and casual gamers. It comes with a pleasantly curated game store to help you find different game titles easily.

Pros

• It gives you access to Apple Music and iTunes
• Siri integration
• Has the airplay feature that allows you to mirror content
• Displays content in high resolution
• Offers an excellent user experience
• Enhanced gaming capabilities

Cons

• It is expensive

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Apple TV specs

Smart TV

SAMSUNG 32-inch Class LED Smart FHD TV 720P (UN32M4500BFXZA)

• HD 720p: Enjoy a viewing experience with 2x the clarity and detail
• Smart TV: Access your favorite program choices, live TV, video on demand, apps and social media in one...

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Would you like to stream different TV shows and movies from the comfort of your home? If yes, you should consider investing in a smart TV. Since smart TV connects to the internet, it can enhance your viewing experience. It gives you access to numerous apps and different smart home functions. People are slowly replacing their regular TVs with smart ones.

Due to the high demand for these streaming boxes, we now have so many manufacturers that produce various smart TV models. Just like smart home devices, smart TV can offer internet connectivity. You can, therefore, use this device to stream video on platforms such as Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Netflix.

Some people also enjoy playing games through smart TVs while others use it to engage in social media or browse the internet. Some of the current smart TV models also include voice recognition tools such as Google Assistant and Alexa. This enables you to change channels and look for different programs easily. If you have other smart devices in your home, such as smart locks or smart lights, you can also get a smart TV that is compatible with such. You can even share videos or pictures from your smartphone onto the bigger screen.

A smart TV comes with a remote that features a built-in mic. This enables you to talk to the device when you want to make certain adjustments. As you look for a smart TV, you should understand that most of them are not made equally. Not every operating system of a smart TV can support the same features and apps. It is advisable to choose a smart TV from reputable companies such as Samsung, Sony, or LG.

Pros

• It can give you access to numerous apps
• Most models feature voice assistants
• You can play different games using a smart TV
• It allows you to mirror content

Cons

• The user interface of most smart TV is complicated.

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Smart TV specs

Conclusion

Rather than sticking to the regular ways of watching TV, many people are moving to streaming services. Both Apple TV and smart TV can help you stream different types of content quickly. Despite this, one of the devices is better than the other.

Verdict: So, which is better? Apple TV or smart TV

We took our time to compare Apple TV to different smart TV models and found out that Apple TV is a better performer than most of them. Though Apple TV may look like a small streaming media player, it supports most of the entertainment providers. We also liked the inclusion of iTunes, YouTube TV, Apple Music, and the Airplay feature. This device also gives us access to numerous games and has a polished interface. All this made us conclude that Apple TV is the clear winner.

FAQs

Which miscellaneous apps should I expect from Apple TV?

You can get additional apps such as photo sharing, media server, or shopping through the app store.

Can my smart TV crash?

Yes. A smart TV can crash or even hang for some time. This rarely happens to the latest smart TV models since they are equipped with powerful processors to manage TV functions well.f