Android TV: Is It Worth It? - LifeHack (2024)

The big technology to look at these days is the many different kinds of TV streaming services available to you, and it can be tough to figure out which one is the best. Android TV is a popular form of getting more channels and entertainment options in your home, and there’s plenty of reasons why. I’m going to talk about what Android TV offers, as well as why you should consider making use of it. Personally, I have it in my home – I couldn’t be happier with the sheer amount of options I have when it comes to watching TV. It’s not for everybody, though! That’s why I felt it was necessary to write this piece.

What Is It?

If you have an Android phone, picture a cable box that is running on the exact same operating system. Android does a great job of providing the user with stellar performance, but that’s not all a potential consumer is looking at; the selection of movies and shows is important as well. Android TV was introduced to the world in 2014, allowing you to interact with your television in a way you never thought possible. It can be built into TV’s, but there’s also an external box format that many people use as well. An Android TV box allows you to implement the Google Play Store to download apps and other services (like Netflix or Hulu) – it even goes as far as allowing you to download games on your television.

Voice search is also implemented, allowing you to look up any sort of video you’d like without raising a finger. This is perfect for not only people who are disabled, but it’s also ideal for those that are just plain lazy (and there’s nothing wrong with that). If you love Netflix and wouldn’t mind having it seamlessly implemented into your television routine, Android TV is the best device to be using.

Is It Expensive?

This is the best part: as compared to many other cable/FiOS providers, it’s relatively cheap. Expenses can build up when you’re using a satellite or cable provider, especially when it comes to watching pay-per-views and shows of that nature. With Android TV, you can pretty much stream with ease from your phone; whether it’s YouTube or the internet, you’ll be able to watch whatever you like. When you take into account that there are so many different apps and other services to use alongside Android TV (and in many cases, free of charge), it’s a deal and a half!

I haven’t had a large cable bill to complain about in months, and I have Android TV to thank for that. If financial stability is something you’re keen on, as it should be for just about all of us, Android TV can cut your current entertainment bill right in half. I mean, that’s not a promise; but it could happen!

Joining the Movement

A lot of people have an Android TV box these days so that just goes to show how convenient it can be for everyday use. Why would so many people use it in their homes if the entertainment value wasn’t there? I was skeptical at first, much like you might be; but after using it for myself, I realized the potential was there. Ever since then, I’ve been using Android TV seamlessly. It seems like regardless of what I want to watch, I can do exactly that with this nifty little invention. Joining the movement could very well be the best thing you’ve ever done!

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Android TV: Is It Worth It? - LifeHack (2024)

FAQs

Do I really need Android TV? ›

The choice between Android and Smart TV ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Android TVs offer extensive app support through the Google Play Store, regular updates, and features like Google Assistant integration and Chromecast built-in, making them a robust option for tech-savvy users.

What is the disadvantage of Android TV? ›

What are the disadvantages of an Android TV? One of the disadvantages of an Android TV is that it can be slow in comparison to Smart TVs. Additionally, there can be difficulty in connecting to WiFi, which can be due to the distance between your TV and WiFi, a broken WiFi adapter, and other reasons.

Is an Android TV box worth buying? ›

Investing in an Android TV Box often proves more cost-effective than traditional cable or satellite TV services. With a one-time purchase and access to a plethora of free and subscription-based content, users can enjoy a wide range of entertainment options without monthly subscription fees.

Is Android TV any good? ›

That is to say, it falls under the wider category of a smart TV. The difference is, an Android TV comes with some extra capabilities and functions provided by the Android operating system. If you' are a dedicated Android user or use a lot of Google tech, an Android TV might be a better option.

What is the point of an Android TV? ›

Voice control. Android TV supports voice input commands allowing a user to search and discover content available through various apps and services as well as to control content playback using built-in Google Assistant. With Google assistant, users can also control their Smart Home devices.

Can I watch regular TV on Android TV? ›

Android TV comes with live TV channels at no charge and with no app installation, sign-up, or subscription needed. You can browse these channels in the Live tab, your recommendations, or the Android TV channel player.

Is it better to buy Android or smart TV? ›

As mentioned earlier, Android TV is essentially a smart TV, though it has more choices in some auxiliary functions and application libraries. Smart TV providing a user-friendly and straightforward interface usually performs better and runs faster than Android TV because there are fewer applications to launch.

Which brand is best for Android TV? ›

Top 3 features of the best Android TVs for you
Best Android TVsDisplay size
OnePlus 163 cm (65 inches) Q Series 4K Ultra HD QLED Smart TV163 cm (65 inches)
OnePlus 163.8 cm (65 inches) U Series 4K LED Smart Android TV163.8 cm (65 inches)
Panasonic 164 cm (65 inches) 4K Ultra HD Smart LED Google TV164 cm (65 inches)
7 more rows
May 8, 2024

Which one is better, Google TV or Android TV? ›

All in all, Google TV is smarter and more advanced than Android TV. This 65-inch 4K Redmi Smart TV with Dolby Vision is one of the most popular Android TVs. It has a LED display technology. It comes with a refresh rate of 60 Hz.

Which is better a Firestick or android box? ›

Is Fire OS better than Android TV? Fire OS can make a better fit if you own an Alexa voice assistant and other Amazon devices. Other than that, there aren't many significant differences between the Fire and Android TV operating systems, and it's a matter of personal preference.

Which is better Samsung or Android TV? ›

Which is better, Samsung Tizen TV or Android TV? It depends on personal preference and specific needs. Samsung Tizen TV has a simpler and more streamlined interface, making it easier to use, while Android TV has more features and customization options.

Which is better Roku or Android box? ›

The decision between Android TV and Roku depends on your preferences. If you favor Google services and customization, Android TV is ideal. Alternatively, if you prefer simplicity and a vast channel variety, Roku is a better fit. Your choice should align with your specific needs and ecosystem preferences.

Do I want an Android TV? ›

It's Play-time. Aside from all those shows, movies, and boxsets, Android TV has the might of Google Play built-in, giving you a wealth of apps available to download to your TV. While you won't find all the same apps you might find on your smartphone, there are plenty to get stuck into – not least, Google Play games.

Can an Android TV work without internet? ›

Yes, it's possible to use the basic TV functions without having an Internet connection. However, to get the most out of your Sony Android TV, we recommend you connect your TV to the Internet.

Can I watch Netflix on Android TV? ›

You can watch Netflix on any supported smart TV, phone, tablet, streaming player, or game console that connects to the internet and offers the Netflix app, or at netflix.com using a computer.

Is a smart TV better than an Android TV? ›

As mentioned earlier, Android TV is essentially a smart TV, though it has more choices in some auxiliary functions and application libraries. Smart TV providing a user-friendly and straightforward interface usually performs better and runs faster than Android TV because there are fewer applications to launch.

What's the difference between Google TV and Android TV? ›

Google TV and Android TV offer different interface and user experience compared to each other. Android TV offers a simple and clear UI that emphasizes ease of navigation. Google TV goes a step further, incorporating content suggestions directly into the UI, resulting in a more interactive and engaging user experience.

What do I need to use Android TV? ›

If your TV doesn't have Android TV built in, you'll need:
  1. An external device with Android TV.
  2. One TV or monitor that has HDMI ports and supports HDCP.
  3. One HDMI cable.

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