Today, I’d like to answer the popular question: Is a FireStick necessary even if I have a Smart TV? I have wondered the same before I bought a FireStick back in 2017.
I will compare the pros and cons of having Smart TV and having a FireStick with the Smart TV so you can decide for yourself. I will also share my preference at the end.
Smart TV Vs. FireStick
Should you consider a FireStick even with a Smart TV? Let’s take a look at the chart comparing the FireStick and smart TVs:
| Feature | Smart TV | FireStick |
|---|---|---|
| Device Type | All-in-one TV with built-in streaming | External streaming device |
| Ease of Use | Varies by brand and model | User-friendly interface |
| App Availability | Limited number of Apps | Extensive. Can install third-party apps too. |
| Voice Control | Some TVs have built-in assistants (e.g., Google Assistant) | Yes, with Alexa |
| Portability | Not portable | Highly portable |
| Software Updates | Varies; some brands provide regular updates | Regular updates from Amazon |
| Performance | Not so sast | Generally fast and responsive |
| Integration | Integrated with smart home devices | Works with any TV with an HDMI port |
| Additional Features | Built-in screen mirroring, web browsing | Can be used on multiple TVs, ideal for travel |
| Clutter | No extra devices needed | Requires an additional device and remote but it’s a tiny device |
| Customization | Varies; some allow customization | Customizable home screen, extensive settings |
| Cost | Higher initial cost, no separate purchase needed | Generally affordable, separate purchase |
Advantages of Having a Smart TV
Smart TVs come with several advantages, making them a popular choice. Here are some key pros of smart TVs:
1. Built-in Streaming Apps:
Most smart TVs come with popular streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube pre-installed. If you don’t want to use any third-party app or niche apps, a smart TV might be sufficient for you.
2. All-in-One Device:
With a smart TV, you don’t need additional devices to stream content. It reduces clutter and simplifies your setup.
3. Integrated Internet Browser:
Many smart TVs come with an integrated web browser, enabling you to browse the internet directly on your TV.
Advantages of Having a FireStick with Smart TV
While you don’t necessarily need a FireStick if you have a smart TV, there are several reasons you might still want to consider using one:
1. User Interface and Experience:
Some smart TV interfaces can be slow, cumbersome, or less intuitive compared to the FireStick’s interface. But the FireStick device is known for its ease of use.
2. App Availability:
The FireStick offers a wide range of apps and services that might not be available on your smart TV, including certain niche streaming services and games. Being able to sideload apps onto the FireStick is the cherry on on the cake.
3. Performance:
FireStick devices often provide faster performance and more frequent updates compared to the built-in software of many smart TVs.
4. Alexa Integration:
FireStick devices come with a remote that has Alexa built-in, allowing you to control your TV and other smart home devices using voice commands.
5. Portability:
A FireStick is portable, so you can easily take it with you when you travel and plug it into other TVs.
6. Regular Updates:
Amazon regularly updates the FireStick software, which can provide new features and improved performance over time.
Recap — Smart TV vs. FireStick: Should You Consider Both?
A smart TV and a FireStick both provide access to streaming services, but they offer different advantages. So, do Smart TVs need FireSticks for optimal streaming?
Smart TV:
This is an all-in-one device with built-in streaming capabilities. It reduces clutter by eliminating the need for extra devices and typically offers a unified interface for streaming apps. Smart TVs often include voice control, screen mirroring, and integration with other smart home devices.
FireStick:
This is an external streaming device that plugs into your TV’s HDMI port. It offers a user-friendly interface, extensive app availability, frequent software updates, and Alexa voice control. It’s portable, making it a good option for traveling or upgrading older TVs.
Choosing Between FireStick & Smart TV:
If your smart TV’s built-in features and app offerings meet your needs and you prefer fewer devices, you might not need a FireStick.
However, if you want enhanced performance, a broader app selection, better user experience, and portability, a FireStick is a good choice.
For the best of both worlds, you can use a FireStick with a smart TV.
Hi, I am Alyssa! I am a tech enthusiast and a blogger. I have been using Kodi and FireStick since 2016. I wanted to share my latest tech discoveries and knowledge with the World, which led me to start this blog in 2021. I post in-depth how-to guides for FireStick devices & Kodi in a way that is easy to understand for people of all ages. Thanks for stopping by!
