Shopping for a new TV involves key considerations like picture quality, resolution, and size. OLED TVs from LG, Sony, and Panasonic dominate the market—compare their panels for the best fit. While smart OS choices like proprietary systems, Roku, or Android TV matter in theory, focus on core specs instead. Here's why ditching built-in smart features for a dedicated streaming device like Roku makes sense.
Worrying about a TV's smart capabilities is unnecessary. Prioritize resolution, size, and picture quality. For streaming access, opt for an external device like the Roku Express. Here are six expert-backed reasons why.
Roku Express - HD Streaming Player
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Manufacturers claim smart TVs eliminate the need for set-top boxes. Not true—update cycles prove otherwise.
Roku devices receive updates for about 30 months on average, while TVs last around 10 years for consumers.
Proprietary or Roku-based TVs get initial support, but eventually, updates stop to push new sales, or hardware can't keep up, rendering smart features unusable. You're then forced to replace a still-functional TV or add a Roku.
Roku Ultra - HD and 4K UHD Streaming Media Player with HDR, Enhanced Remote with Voice Search
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Update gaps wouldn't sting if TVs were cheap, but they're not. High-quality models cost thousands.
Non-smart TVs exist and are cheaper—manufacturers downplay them. The premium for smart features often exceeds $300, enough for a premium Roku.
Streaming sticks like Roku Express, Fire TV Stick, or Chromecast travel easily—even larger devices fit in luggage.
Plug into any TV at a hotel or friend's place for instant access to your subscriptions. Smart TVs lock you into local channels and reruns.
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Proprietary platforms like LG's webOS or Samsung's Tizen lag behind Roku, Android TV, or Apple TV in app support.
Basics like Netflix are there, but essentials for cord-cutters—HBO GO, Sling TV, Crunchyroll, PlayStation Vue—often miss. Roku boasts 4,500+ official apps and thousands of private channels.
Smart TVs skimp on hardware: mid-range models max at 2GB RAM, premium at 4GB. Storage is under 16GB, mostly OS-occupied.
Compare to streaming devices: New 4K Apple TV has 3GB RAM; Nvidia Shield Pro offers 500GB storage.
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Privacy concerns abound. Samsung's 2015 scandal revealed TVs eavesdropping. Vizio's default 'Smart Interactivity' tracks viewing habits, links to your IP, and targets ads across devices.
Samsung and LG have similar features (opt-out required). Roku shows ads but limits them to the device—disable ad tracking in Settings > System > Privacy > Limit Ad Tracking for full control.
A non-smart TV plus Roku saves money, boosts privacy, delivers better specs, and expands content. Replace your Roku every 2-3 years to keep streaming current without a full TV upgrade.
Do you agree? Or are smart TVs still the future? Share your thoughts in the comments.
