In this post, I will answer the popular question – Do I need a FireStick even if I have a Smart TV?
So, do you need a FireStick with a Smart TV? Many smart TV owners today ask this question when considering getting a streaming stick.
While some believe a FireStick is a needless expense, many still like using it with their Smart TV.
Eventually, it comes down to personal preferences. Many people feel that FireStick has a more user-friendly interface. Furthermore, FireStick is usually faster than most lower-end smart TVs.
We will explore why you may want to stick to your Smart TV or buy a FireStick.
If you have a smart TV with Google TV OS (or even Android TV OS), you may want to read our post – Google Chromecast vs. FireStick.
Attention: Read before you continue
Governments and ISPs across the world monitor your online activities. If found streaming copyrighted content on your device, you could get into serious trouble.
Currently, your IP is visible to everyone. I strongly recommend you get a trustworthy VPN and hide your identity so that your movie-viewing experience doesn’t take a bad turn.
I use ExpressVPN, the fastest and most secure VPN in the industry. It is very easy to install on any device, including Amazon Fire TV Stick, Smartphones, PC, macOS, iOS, and more.
It comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you don't like their service, you can always ask for a refund. ExpressVPN also has a special deal where you can get 3 months free and save 49% on the annual plan.
Read: How to install and use the best VPN for FireStick
Read: How to install and use a VPN on other streaming devices
Pros of Sticking with your Smart TV
Here are some of the benefits of sticking to your smart TV.
You Don’t Need to SpenDon’tra Money on FireStick
Sticking to your smart TV is great if you’re tight on buyou’reHere is the list of how much the FireSticks cost:
- The Amazon FireStick Lite costs around $30.
- The Amazon FireStick 4K is $49.99.
- The Amazon FireStick 4K Max is $59.99.
Please note that these are the standard prices. You may find these devices at discounted prices during a promotion.
No Need to Set Up & Maintain Two Devices
Some users find it challenging to set up and maintain two smart devices. A FireStick requires you to switch HDMI input. You may also need to juggle between two remotes if your TV doesn’t allow syncing the FireStick remote.
Moreover, you will have to keep both devices updated at all times. So, sticking to a single device will decrease the maintenance and setup hassle.
All Your Entertainment is Available Under One Hood
Modern-day smart TVs are well-equipped with everything you may need. It includes:
- A wide selection of entertainment apps like Netflix and Hulu
- Music streaming applications like Spotify
- A hassle-free way to switch to cable TV, etc.
Keeping a single smart device means you can access all your entertainment options under one hood.
Reasons to Purchase a FireStick for Smart TV
Skipping a FireStick and continuing with a Smart TV appears to be a reasonable option. However, there are still many reasons to buy a FireStick.
Easily Jailbreakable
Although you can jailbreak a smart TV, it comes with multiple caveats. However, you can easily jailbreak your FireStick to uncover a new world of third-party apps and Kodi addons.
By jailbreaking a FireStick, you can watch the following for free:
- Movies
- Shows
- Games
- Music
- News, and much more
User-friendly Interface
A FireStick is more user-friendly than a smart TV in almost every aspect. First, the FireStick remote is compact and simple. It has a limited number of buttons and is easier to handle than most remotes with many function buttons. Moreover, the FireStick home menu features a simple and beginner-friendly design. All the menu buttons are well-marked and easy to locate.
Industry-grade Specs for Better Performance
A FireStick typically has a better processor and RAM than a smart TV. Moreover, its operating system is optimized for streaming, offering a smoother and faster streaming experience than a smart TV.
Alexa Voice Control
If you prefer Alexa over other virtual assistants, FireStick is an easy choice. It comes integrated with all Fire TV devices.
The Alexa voice command feature allows you to navigate your streaming device remotely. The voice control button on the FireStick remote lets you perform various actions through voice commands. By hitting the dedicated button, you can adjust the volume, forward/ rewind content, change channels, etc..
Portable & Convenient
FireSticks are super portable devices. The streaming stick and the remote can easily fit into your handbag. Therefore, you can easily travel with a FireStick, which is not reasonably possible with a smart TV. Just plug the streaming stick into any compatible TV and enjoy your favorite content anywhere.
Extra Offers
FireSticks offers special discounts and free trials for various apps like Luna and Amazon Prime Video. Just download the relevant app on your streaming device and enjoy the added offers and benefits.
FAQ’s
Does a smart TV need a Fire Stick?
A smart TV is equipped with most features a user may need. Therefore, it’s not necessary to use a FireStick. But you can buy one to expand your entertainment options and enjoy content on the go.
What is the point of a Fire Stick when you have a smart TV?
A FireStick comes with added features and benefits for your smart TV. It includes more entertainment options, a user-friendly design, Alexa voice control, better support, and more.
Is Amazon Fire Stick really worth it?
Most users believe Amazon FireStick is worth it due to various features, like:
- Affordable price
- Performance
- User-friendly interface
- Jailbreaking ability
- Voice command and more
However, the final decision to get a FireStick depends on your needs and budget.
Does every TV need its own FireStick?
Again, although technically, every TV doesn’t need its odoesn’tStick, you can get one to expand your streaming options and enjoy industry-grade specifications for better performance.
Is Netflix free with Fire Stick?
No, Netflix is not free with FireStick. You will have to get a Netflix subscription to stream content via FireStick.
Final Words
So, the question still stands: does everyone need a FireStick for their smart TV? The answer to this question comes down to your personal preferences. Some smart TVs have everything that a FireStick can offer. However, if you prefer Alexa and the FireStick interface, you would like to buy a FireStick.
Related:
- FireStick Lite vs 4K vs 4K Max
- How to Fix FireStick Remote Not Working
- Google Chromecast vs FireStick
- How to Sideload Apps on FireStick
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