When it comes to streaming your favorite shows and movies, the choice between a smart TV and a streaming stick can be a daunting one. While smart TVs come with built-in streaming capabilities, there are several compelling reasons why opting for a streaming stick might be the better decision.
Streaming Sticks Offer Much Faster Performance
One of the most significant advantages of using a streaming stick is the sheer speed and responsiveness it offers. Unlike many smart TVs, which can be slow and laggy, especially in budget and mid-range models, streaming devices like the Apple TV 4K, Google TV Streamer, or Amazon Fire TV Stick are optimized for speed. These devices boot up faster, and switching between apps feels almost instantaneous. This difference in performance is particularly noticeable if you’re accustomed to using devices that respond quickly to your inputs.
Why Smart TVs Lag
Smart TVs often have underpowered processors compared to dedicated streaming devices. This is because TV manufacturers focus more on display and sound quality rather than processing power. As a result, smart TV interfaces can be clunky and slow, making the overall viewing experience less enjoyable[5].
You Get More Frequent Software Updates
Another key benefit of using a streaming stick is the regularity and reliability of software updates. Smart TVs are at the mercy of the manufacturer’s update cycle, which can be slow and inconsistent. In contrast, streaming devices receive updates simultaneously across all models, ensuring you get new features and performance improvements regularly. For example, Apple TVs receive updates at the same time, and Google and Amazon follow a similar approach with their streaming sticks[3].
The Update Gap
The update gap between smart TVs and streaming sticks can be significant. I’ve had smart TVs that went over a year without a meaningful update, while my streaming stick was updated several times during the same period. This ensures that your streaming device remains current and free from bugs and performance issues.
It’s Way Easier to Upgrade Over Time
Smart TVs are often kept for years, but their software can become outdated and slow over time. Unlike smartphones, which are typically upgraded every year or two, smart TVs remain in use for much longer. Using a streaming device eliminates the need to upgrade your entire TV just because the software feels outdated. When your streaming stick starts to feel sluggish, you can simply replace it with a newer model at a fraction of the cost of a new smart TV[3].
Cost-Effective Upgrades
Replacing a smart TV can be expensive, especially if you’re looking for one with fast and reliable software. In contrast, streaming devices are relatively inexpensive. For example, you can get a Google Chromecast with Google TV or an Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K for under $50, which is a much more cost-effective solution than buying a new smart TV.
You Can Carry It Anywhere With You
Portability is another significant advantage of streaming sticks. Unlike TVs, which are stationary, you can take your streaming stick anywhere. Whether you’re at a hotel or visiting a friend’s home, simply plug the device into an HDMI port, and you’ll have access to all your apps, preferences, and streaming services without needing to re-enter your credentials or deal with someone else’s setup[5].
Convenience On-The-Go
The portability of streaming sticks makes them incredibly convenient for travel or temporary setups. You don’t need to rely on the streaming capabilities of the TV you’re using; you bring your entire streaming ecosystem with you.
Streaming Devices Support More Apps and Services
Streaming devices generally offer access to a much wider range of apps compared to smart TVs. While smart TVs come with a few popular apps preinstalled, they often lack support for many niche or newer streaming services. Devices like the Chromecast, Roku, and Fire TV Stick provide better performance and access to a broader range of apps, often getting new apps before smart TVs do[3].
App Availability
For instance, if you’re looking for specialized apps or newer services that haven’t yet made it to smart TV platforms, a streaming stick is likely to have them. This ensures you have a richer viewing experience with more content options at your fingertips.
It’s a Much More Cost-Effective Setup
Getting both great performance and high-quality visuals in a smart TV can be expensive. However, if you’re happy with your current TV’s display and sound, adding a streaming device is a much more cost-effective option. Devices like the Chromecast with Google TV or Fire TV Stick 4K deliver faster performance, more reliable updates, and better app support than most built-in smart TV platforms, all for under $50[5].
Budget-Friendly Solution
For those who don’t want to spend a fortune on a high-end smart TV but still want the best streaming experience, a streaming stick is the way to go. You get all the benefits of fast software and a wide range of apps without the hefty price tag of a new smart TV.
In conclusion, while smart TVs have their conveniences, the benefits of using a streaming stick—faster performance, frequent software updates, ease of upgrades, portability, broader app support, and cost-effectiveness—make it a superior choice for many users. If you’re considering how to enhance your streaming experience, a streaming stick is definitely worth considering.