Summary created by Smart Answers AI
In summary:
- PCWorld addresses whether external streaming devices are necessary when modern TVs include built-in smart platforms like Roku or Fire TV.
- Streaming sticks like Roku Streaming Stick 4K and Apple TV 4K offer faster performance, cleaner ad-free interfaces, and broader app selection than many smart TV processors.
- External devices provide exclusive features like dialogue boost, ensure continued updates for older TVs, and simplify 4K HDR compatibility issues.
Buying a new TV and a new streaming device used to be separate decisions, as televisions didn’t always come with adequate smart TV software.
These days, though, it’s virtually impossible to buy a television that isn’t a smart TV, with Roku, Fire TV, or other streaming platforms built in. So whenever I write about the latest streaming devices—like Amazon’s new Fire TV Stick or Walmart’s latest Onn players—inevitably some folks will ask me what’s the point. Why bother using an external streaming box or stick when your TV already supports the same apps?
Naturally I have answers to that question, but that doesn’t mean everyone should abandon their smart TV software in favor of a separate streaming device. Let’s walk through the merits of both.
The case for smart TVs
Roku
For those who don’t already own a streaming device that they prefer, my advice is always to give your smart TV a try first. If it has all of the apps that you want, and you’re satisfied with its performance, there’s really no need to buy anything extra.
Smart TVs also have a few distinct advantages over separate streaming players:
- One remote: With a smart TV, you don’t have to juggle a separate remote for streaming. While most streaming remotes can also control your TV via HDMI-CEC, in my experience this can sometimes get finicky, plus you’ll still need the TV remote for things like picture settings.
- Streaming format…