What Smart TVs Offer
- Built-in streaming apps: Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, Prime Video, etc.
- Voice control: Search and control with voice commands
- Screen mirroring: Cast from your phone (AirPlay, Chromecast built-in)
- Smart home integration: Connect with Alexa, Google Home, or HomeKit
- Automatic updates: New features and apps added over time
Smart TV vs. Streaming Device
Use Your Smart TV's Built-In Apps If:
- You have a premium TV (LG, Samsung, Sony, TCL Roku) with a responsive interface
- All your streaming services are available on the TV's platform
- You prefer fewer remotes and devices
- The TV is less than 3-4 years old
Add a Streaming Device If:
- Your TV's interface is slow or clunky
- You want the latest features and fastest updates
- You're in the Apple ecosystem (Apple TV 4K)
- You want a consistent experience across multiple TVs
- Your TV is missing apps you need
Best Smart TV Platforms (2025)
- LG webOS: Fast, intuitive, excellent app support, Magic Remote is great
- Samsung Tizen: Good performance, widest app selection, Samsung TV Plus free channels
- Google TV: Best content discovery, deep Google integration, excellent voice search
- Roku TV: Simple interface, no account required, great for non-techies
- Amazon Fire TV: Good value, Alexa integration, some ads in interface
Recommended Streaming Devices
If your smart TV isn't cutting it:
- Roku Streaming Stick 4K ($39): Best overall value, simple and ad-free interface
- Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max ($55): Best for Alexa users, good gaming support
- Apple TV 4K ($129): Best for iPhone/iPad users, premium experience
- Chromecast with Google TV ($50): Best for Google/Android users
Privacy Considerations
Smart TVs collect viewing data and may display ads. If this concerns you:
- Disable ACR (Automatic Content Recognition) in settings
- Opt out of personalized advertising
- Consider using a streaming device instead (more privacy controls)
- Don't connect your TV to the internet at all (use a streaming device for apps)
The Bottom Line
Smart TV functionality comes standard in 2025—you can't avoid it, and you're not paying extra for it. For most people, built-in apps work fine, especially on premium TVs. If your TV is slow or missing features, a $30-50 streaming device is the solution rather than a new TV. Focus on picture quality when buying a TV; the "smart" part can always be upgraded cheaply.