For our brief review, we chose the most popular TV brands.
Samsung
TVs of this brand are based on the Tizen platform, which is part of the Linux family. In 2018, new models came out with the Tizen 4.0 operating system. The platform has proven to be stable and reliable.
Users note the logic and convenience of the interface and navigation in general, the proprietary Smart Hub technology is responsible for this. By the way, thanks to the powerful processor, which is equipped with the latest models, the smart TV from Samsung is particularly sharp.
It should be noted that most of the pre-installed programs are designed for streaming (online viewing) content from various video hosting sites and online movie theaters – Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, YouTube and so on. Many applications available for download fall into the category of streaming video and access to gaming resources.
Tizen allows you to instantly transfer an image from the TV screen to the smartphone and vice versa, and the phone can also be used as a game controller. Of course, these features are not available for all gadgets.
Almost all modern Samsung models have a built-in Wi-Fi receiver, so connecting and setting up access to the network will not take much time and effort. The TV will find the available connections, you only need to select the desired one and enter the network password. After that, you will need to activate Smart Hub mode in the “Support” menu – and you can proceed to active use.
The pluses of Samsung TVs with Smart TV technology include a clear shell interface – the developers are confidently going towards its simplification. However, there are also disadvantages, for example, most of the applications in the official store are paid.
LG
Since 2014, the manufacturer has been using the WebOS operating system for Smart TVs. Among the features of the latter:
arranging multiple running apps, such as terrestrial TV and Internet content, on the display at the same time;
TV can be used as an audio player even without turning on the screen.
The WebOS-based Smart TV interface is a taskbar at the bottom of the screen. It’s dynamic, which can be a little confusing at first. LG’s smart TV gives you access to apps like:
- video services;
- news and weather;
- games;
- training programs.
Most LG Smart TVs are equipped with built-in Wi-Fi, so there is no problem setting it up. However, to download and install new applications from the LG Store you will need to create a personal account in the proprietary service Smart World.
Advantages of LG TVs, undoubtedly, are a handy remote control with gyroscope, the possibility of voice control. But many users also note common shortcomings – the built-in browser Smart TV from LG does not support Adobe Flash Player, so not all the streaming features are disclosed. Also, many complain about the inconvenient location of ports.
Sony
The manufacturer has staked on one of the most popular operating systems – Android. And it was not mistaken. This platform has managed to prove itself perfectly. But do not think that Android for Smart TV from Sony is a clone of the familiar operating system. Android for TV is adapted to the large TV screen and, most importantly, the lack of touch controls.
The shell interface, unlike those of competitors, is a full-screen menu. The developers consider the large size of the icons to be the best option, because the TV is usually much further away than the computer or phone screen. Some models have a remote control with a built-in microphone. It is used to quickly search for content thanks to support for voice control. In addition, Chromecast technology allows you to enjoy your favorite movie on the big screen by transferring it from your smartphone or tablet at the touch of a button. Your Android or iOS smartphone can also take on all the functions of the remote control.
The app store is integrated with Google Play, so you can’t complain about the lack of apps. Of course, there are not as many as, say, for smartphones, but the choice is still great. Particular attention is paid to games – both regular, “mobile” and more serious, “full-blown”, for which you previously had to buy a game console.
