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Android TV is Google’s television operating system; Google TV is a personalized interface built on Android TV OS. You can get Google TV built into a new television or add it to a compatible existing TV with an HDMI streaming device. Choose a TV if you need a new screen; consider a box if your current screen still meets your needs.
Android TV and Google TV: what is the difference?
Android TV OS is the platform underneath. Google TV is an interface and viewing experience that runs on that platform. Some televisions and streaming devices use Android TV OS without the Google TV interface; Google calls those Android TV devices. The names are related, but they do not describe the same interface. Google’s platform FAQ explains the distinction.
Google says Google TV is built into supported televisions and streaming devices, rather than being a separate platform charge. You still need to pay for any streaming services you subscribe to. Google’s FAQ describes how the platform is provided.
Should you buy a TV with Google TV or add a box?
The choice mainly depends on whether you need a new display. Google lists both televisions with Google TV built in and external streaming devices, including its Google TV Streamer (4K). Google’s product directory shows the available product formats and brands.
#1 Best Overall
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
| Option | Makes sense when | What to evaluate |
|---|---|---|
| TV with Google TV built in | You need a new screen, and the television’s overall package suits you. | Panel and picture quality, size, sound, price, connections, software, and the services you use. |
| External Google TV streaming device | Your current display is worth keeping and has an available HDMI input. | Device and display compatibility, supported resolution, ports, setup, and the total cost of the setup. |
This is a buying framework based on the two product formats, not a claim that one route performs better. A streamer adds access to its software and services; it does not upgrade the television’s panel, built-in speakers, or physical connections beyond providing its own output.
Consider a built-in TV if the screen is part of the upgrade
If you want a larger display, different picture characteristics, or better built-in sound, compare complete televisions rather than choosing on the interface alone. Google TV models are listed from manufacturers including TCL, Hisense, Sony, and Philips, but model availability varies. Check Google’s directory and confirm the exact model and local listing before buying.
Rank #2
- 4K Ultra HD Resolution: Enjoy your TV in stunning resolution Ultra HD ers four times the resolution of Full HD for greater clarity and detail
- Android TV: With the Android TV operating system you will have access to the best content, download the infinity of applications available through the Google Play Store!
- Voice remote control: Just press the Google Assistant button and ask it to find, play and control content
- Chromecast Built-in: Easily cast movies, shows, and photos from your Android or iOS device to your Android TV
- Easy Setup: Access your Google account and configure the device, language and Wi-Fi network
Consider a box if your existing TV is still satisfactory
An external device can add Google TV without replacing a working screen. Google’s Google TV Streamer (4K) is one example; this is a product option, not a recommendation that it is best for every setup. Compare current local prices for the device and any required accessories. The platform itself is built into the hardware, while subscriptions to streaming services are separate.
Check HDMI, resolution, and setup requirements
Google says its Google TV Streamer works with a TV or display that has HDMI. For optimal performance, Google specifies an “Ultra High Speed” HDMI 2.1-certified cable, sold separately. Check the exact model’s requirements and the ports on your display before purchase. Google’s setup and compatibility guidance covers these requirements.
Rank #3
- 4K Ultra HD with Cinematic Visuals & Sound: Supports 4K resolution (3840 x 2160) at 60FPS, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+ for enhanced contrast, brightness, and color accuracy. Delivers immersive audio via Dolby Audio and DTS:X surround sound
- High-Performance Hardware: Equipped with a Quad-Core CPU (up to 2.5GHz) and ARM G310 V2 GPU for seamless navigation and multitasking. Includes 2GB RAM and 32GB internal storage (ROM) for ample app and content space
- Google TV Smart Platform: Runs the latest Google TV OS, offering personalized content recommendations, access to thousands of streaming apps (Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, etc.), and voice control via Google Assistant
- Advanced Connectivity & Decoding: Features dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Bluetooth 5.2, HDMI 2.1, and USB 2.0 ports. Supports decoding of 4K 60FPS video formats and Google Cast for screen mirroring
- Complete Setup Included: Comes with Xiaomi TV Box S (3rd Gen), voice remote control, power adapter, HDMI cable, and user manual. Compact design (95.25 x 95.25 x 16.7 mm) for discreet placement
Resolution is limited by the capabilities of the streaming device, display, and content. For example, a 1080p screen cannot show 4K simply because the streamer supports it. Google’s comparison page lists the Google TV Streamer (4K) with up to 4K output, 4 GB of RAM, and 32 GB of storage; those are published specifications for that model, not evidence of superior real-world performance over a particular TV or another device. See Google’s product information.
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Google TV and Android TV content comes from Google and third-party partners. Apps are offered through the Play Store, and partners or Google can remove content or apps. Live content and other features may depend on your country, device, and partner availability. Before choosing a TV or box, confirm that the services your household needs are available for the exact model and region. Google’s platform FAQ describes these availability factors.
Rank #4
- No More App-Switching. Forget learning to navigate a new screen with every app. TiVo Stream 4K enables one centralized place for searching, browsing, and creating watch lists across all your apps..DC Input Range 5V/1.0A. Power Consumption : Maximum 5 W
- Recommendations Across All of Your Apps: Get rid of the walls between what you watch. TiVo recommends your next favorite shows and movies based on what you love, not where they live.
- Say it and watch it. The power of voice control makes it easy to find shows. Integrated Google Assistant allows you to launch apps, dim the lights and more.
- One place for all your favorite streaming apps. TiVo Stream 4K includes Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Peacock plus many more, so you can get to your shows fast.
- TiVo Stream 4K is one of Time Magazine’s “2020 Best Inventions, Special Mention” and PCMag hails it as “an excellent media streamer for TV lovers.” Operating Temperature 0˚C - 40˚C
The home-screen recommendations may be influenced by your region and language, selected services, prior activity, popularity and relevance, editorial factors, device model, and contractual obligations. Google also says Google TV and Android TV sometimes show labeled advertisements for content. The interface and advertising experience may therefore differ across devices and regions; do not assume it will be ad-free. Google’s FAQ provides its explanation of recommendations and ads.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Ask to control your TV with your voice, and quickly cast your photos, videos, music and more from your phone, tablet, or PC to your TV with Chromecast built in
- Built-in Virtual Assistant – just press the mic button on the remote to get what you want
- Built-in content and entertainment including YouTube, Play Movies & TV, and more
- Support for thousands of Apps on the Play Store
- 2K resolution TV streaming
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
