Is it better to get a smart TV or a streaming device?
We look at the pros and cons of getting an inexpensive streaming device over a new smart TV
- (opens in new tab)
- (opens in new tab)
- (opens in new tab)
- Sign up to our newsletter Newsletter

With almost every TV on the market touting its smart capabilities, it can be somewhat confusing when shopping for the best option. The rise of streaming has made the choice much harder than it used to be, and those yet to make the jump to a smart TV face a deluge of options and conflicting advice.
Along with smart TVs, the best streaming devices can upgrade existing ones without the cost of getting something big, new, and shiny for the living room. While it's tempting to go for the best 85 inch TV you can get your hands on, a second TV in the bedroom or one you only purchased a couple of years ago may not need replacing just yet.
Below we outline some of the big questions you should ask yourself when considering whether to go for a smart TV or a streaming device.
Do you need to replace your current TV?
The first question you need to ask yourself is whether it's time for another TV, and the budget you're willing to dedicate to the new purchase. Many people with older sets want to upgrade their TV simply for the smart features that come with modern examples, but streaming devices can bridge that gap for a fraction of the cost.
If the reason you're considering a big investment is to get the latest tech into your living room, then it's true it might be time to upgrade. If you have a very old set that doesn't yet support 4K resolution, you want an OLED or QLED panel, or up to 8K resolution, then a new television is your best bet.
But if you just want to stream Netflix and Disney+ on the big screen rather than relying on your laptop, then a streaming device is a much more affordable way of doing this. The same is true for those who simply do not like the current user experience of their TV. Just pop in a streaming dongle, and you can completely change the way you navigate your entertainment.
How reliable is your internet connection?
If you're used to watching live or cable TV, switching to streaming can come with many potential problems. Modern shows and movies tend to offer outstanding sound and visuals - going up to 4K with Dolby Atmos and Vision, among other things - and this all eats up bandwidth.
As an example, in the UK, media giant Sky has recently added the Sky Stream, which fully relies on the home WiFi rather than the traditional satellite dish. This wouldn't have been possible a decade ago, and even now, those with patchy internet connections can have trouble watching their favorite shows and movies without constant buffering.
So before you make the switch, it's very important to ensure your internet connection is good enough. Netflix recommends speeds of 3Mbps for HD, 5Mbps for Full HD, and 15Mbps for 4K. You can check your speeds at speedtest.net (opens in new tab).
How often do you stream, and from which apps?
Similar to other points in this guide, choosing between a smart TV and a streaming device should be weighed depending on how often you watch via streaming apps versus live television or home media like DVDs. A streaming device won't allow you to record and often doesn't have a way to access live channels, but it is great for supplementing your set-up with easy access to services you subscribe to, like Prime Video and HBO Max.
However, if you are more interested in upgrading your TV's picture quality and sound, then you should definitely opt for a smart TV.
In both cases, you should always do your research and ensure that all of the streaming apps you regularly use (or plan to use in the future) are supported by your chosen device. Though companies have made a lot of effort to be as widely available as possible, there can be missing services on both streaming devices and smart TV platforms. If there's something specific you want, check before you buy.
Smart TV vs streaming device: Our verdict
Making the choice between a smart TV and a streaming device isn't always simple, but a few key elements are useful to consider when making that decision.
Get a streaming device if... you stream a most of your entertainment. Streaming dongles, sticks and boxes are designed to upgrade existing tech and bring older TVs into the modern streaming era. They can also be incredibly cheap, especially during sales events like Black Friday.
Get a smart TV if... you still rely on live TV, cable and/or physical media. To avoid endless switching between HDMI inputs, and a strain on less than ideal broadband speeds, smart TVs are a tidier way of bringing streaming into the home without sacrificing everything else you want to do with your TV.
Caroline is the smart home ecommerce editor for Livingetc, covering everything tech for the home, from smart speakers to air purifiers and everything in between. She is passionate about the role that technology and smart devices can play in daily life, enhancing the home without sacrificing personal style and carefully chosen interiors. In her spare time, she can be found tinkering with bulbs, soundbars, and video doorbells in an effort to automate every part of her small home. Previously, she lent her expertise to the likes of Expert Reviews, IT Pro, Coach, The Week, and more.
-
-
Design meets technology - lifestyle TVs are a trend that's only going to keep growing
Your TV doesn't have to detract from the style of your space, as the rise of lifestyle TVs proves
By Caroline Preece • Published
-
What colors will go best with my grey rug? Here's how to decorate around this timeless floor covering
What colors go with grey rugs? These color pairings will help your grey rug shine
By Oonagh Turner • Published
-
Design meets technology - lifestyle TVs are a trend that's only going to keep growing
Your TV doesn't have to detract from the style of your space, as the rise of lifestyle TVs proves
By Caroline Preece • Published
-
Apple TV vs Chromecast - which one comes out on top in the age of streaming?
What is the difference between Apple TV and Chromecast? Here are some factors you need to consider before picking one
By Caroline Preece • Published
-
Roku vs Apple TV: the two streaming devices go head to head
Comparing the two streaming devices, Roku and Apple TV both offer great features - but which one is ultimately the best choice for you?
By Caroline Preece • Published
-
We tried the Nebular Solar Portable Projector, and you're all invited to ours for movie night
We tested the Nebula Solar Portable to see if it could deliver on the promise of an instant Full HD cinematic experience from anywhere
By Caroline Preece • Published
-
The XGIMI Halo+ is a clever portable projector that's as good for indoor streaming sessions as it is for your next outdoor movie night
We test the XGIMI Halo+, which promises an enhanced experience compared to many battery-powered options
By Caroline Preece • Published
-
Best subwoofers: beef up the bass with our pick of home cinema subs
The best subwoofers to get the greatest audio power from your home theater system, creating cinematic thrills right there in your living room.
By Caroline Preece • Published
-
The BenQ GS50 is a clever green box with an entire outdoor cinema inside
We test the BenQ GS50, an outdoor projector that promises great audio and image quality for your backyard movie nights
By Caroline Preece • Published
-
ViewSonic M1+ review - a capable outdoor projector lacking in smarts
A great way to blow up those movies, shows and videos up on the big screen, we put the ViewSonic M1+ to the test
By Caroline Preece • Published