TOP 7 best Android TVs: pros and cons, reviews

Any technology has long ceased to perform only one function. In addition to standard broadcasting, televisions can access the Internet, allow you to play games and watch content online. All this became possible thanks to the presence of Smart TV. In 2021, three operating systems are common - WebOS, Tyzen and Android. The latter OS is more common and is used by many manufacturers of TVs and smart set-top boxes. The benefits of Android TVs are discussed below.

What is Android TV

The Android operating system is created by Google. Initially, it was used in mobile technology, but the appearance of the first smart TVs (LG) forced the software giant to think about a new market, because TV sales are always high, and there is no serious competition among software developers for them. Thus, the familiar mobile Android has been adapted for use in television technology. The first company to install it in their devices, and does so today, is Sony .

Important! Android TVs are actually a big smartphone. Of course, there are a number of limitations here, and it is impossible to equate the mobile source with the television adaptation, but they are still similar in many ways.

Often, buyers do not understand whether there is a difference between Smart TV and Android TV. In fact, there is none. Smart TV is literally a smart device, Android is the means to make it smart. But if you compare all three OSs - Tyzen from Samsung, WebOS from LG and Android from Google, the differences are serious. The last two operating systems offer less software. However, when installing a program from a Samsung or LG store, you can rest assured that it will work correctly. In addition, both Koreans are ready to work out of the box - just register an account. Android TV can also be used in its factory state, but, as practice shows, the process will become more comfortable if you “customize” the device for yourself - at a minimum, you need to install the most convenient applications.

How many options are there?

Unfortunately, the list of TV manufacturers selling Android TVs is small. It includes Xiaomi, Philips, Sharp and Sony, as well as several smaller players. Most TVs run a company's own operating system, such as Samsung's Tizen platform, while others work with third-party providers such as TCL and its partnership with Roku.

So the list of Android TVs is quite short, and in most parts of the world it is dominated by Philips and Sony. However, if you don't find anything you like on this list, you can head over to the official website to see all the global partners. This should give you additional options that we may have missed.

Features of Android OS on TV

For most people, the Android TV interface on the TV is familiar to mobile devices, which means it’s easier to use. This is an open OS with a lot of software. Already at the time of transfer from mobile phones to TV there were many applications. All that was required from the developers was to adapt them to large screens and control using a remote control, mouse or keyboard.

Due to the fact that Android from Google is more widespread, many developers write programs directly for this system, while Tyzen and WebOS are sometimes left out, or the program is adapted for them later. New software appears here more often and faster.

Google has many of its own services. They all have a single account. By purchasing a TV with Android inside, users will be able to use their existing account with purchased applications and synchronized data.

From here the pros and cons of Android TVs logically follow:

• convenient and familiar interface;
• a large amount of software;
• single account for different devices;
• If the TV does not initially have Android installed and there is no access to the network, then the problem can be solved by purchasing a smart set-top box with this OS and similar functionality.

Flaws:

1. For inexperienced users, finding a working browser or player can be problematic, since there are dozens of applications, but only a few are truly successful. Due to the openness of the system, not all software is truly useful and workable.
2. Presence of viruses. Android is just as susceptible to viruses as Windows, and the number of failures here is higher, because the system has to be adapted to the brands of dozens of manufacturers, and not always everything works out correctly in one update.

Novex NWX-43F149MSG

Price: 14,990 rub.

This TV beats the previous 2 models in price, but does not lose in quality. "How so?" – you ask in surprise. If you are not a demanding user, you will be pleased with the Novex NWX-43F149MSG 43″ TV, since it combines all modern characteristics.

According to users, for the money the TV more than lives up to expectations: the settings are minimal (but after purchase you will have to tinker with them), a beautiful picture and initially high-quality sound. The speakers do not crackle even when turned on at maximum. Since the TV is very lightweight, it can be carried from room to room.

Interesting fact: Novex is a Russian brand of electronic equipment. The brand was launched in 2006. The production of equipment is carried out at highly productive enterprises equipped with all modern technologies.

Android Features

The possibilities of the Android OS are almost limitless. You can do everything on a TV that you can do on a smartphone, but it’s unlikely that all the functions will actually be needed here. The most popular applications include the following.

1. Browsers – Opera, Chrome, Yandex.browser.
2. Cinemas – IVI, Amediateka, Netflix, Megogo.
3. Games – Asphalt 8, Dead Trigger, Badland.
4. Media players – VLC, MX Player, SPB TV.

Important! In addition, users can download torrent clients, social networks, instant messengers, widgets (weather, news) and much more.

In fact, all applications from the Play Market can work on TV, but you need to take into account two nuances.

1. Not all applications are well adapted - they may not support wide screens or have not very convenient controls.
2. Modern TVs have a rather limited set of internal memory. The maximum is 16 GB, but even this memory is not enough for a large number of programs. Experts do not advise installing everything, and it is best to immediately remove unnecessary software.

Vityaz 43LU1204

Price: RUR 17,490

Finding a decent budget TV is not an easy task, but we did it! The Knight 43LU1204 43″ with 4K support shows excellent performance without any HDR. There are few settings in this model, but there is no need for them.

The speed of surfing the Internet is amazing (which will definitely be appreciated by those who like to monitor news and view content). Frameless TV will not waste your time, since connecting to Smart TV is fast. Wi-fi works great in it, and the sound is so loud that even 1 bar is enough. Anyone who doesn’t want to overpay for a brand should definitely take a closer look at this TV.

Android TV or set-top box – which is better?

When buying a TV, users sometimes wonder whether to choose a smart TV right away or buy a simple device and buy a smart set-top box separately. Sometimes the second option is cheaper in terms of price, but how convenient is it? It is definitely difficult to answer this question, since there are advantages in both cases.

The main advantage of an Android TV set-top box is that it has its own chipset, RAM and permanent memory . High-quality set-top boxes can provide a smoother and faster experience than an inexpensive smart TV. It was mentioned above that the capabilities of TVs are often limited by the built-in storage; this nuance can be taken into account when choosing a set-top box.

The disadvantages of the set-top box are that it is connected separately; of course, there are compact options slightly larger than a flash drive, but productive Smart Boxes are usually connected by wire and require space for installation. Using a set-top box, you have to put up with a not always user-friendly interface, complex settings, and the need to use two remote controls.

Important! Sometimes you can find comments on the Internet that smart set-top boxes are worse in terms of the content displayed. This is a misconception: modern smart boxes, like TVs, can support video in resolutions from HD to UHD. It all depends on the price.

Thus, it is worth buying a set-top box if the TV is not initially equipped with smart functions, or they work mediocrely. At the same time, you should not buy the cheapest models on the market - it is worth studying the reviews to understand how well the Smart Box works and whether it is convenient to set up and use.

Tips for choosing

A high-quality TV will show you many interesting films, TV series and videos. You'll have a great time watching your favorite content if you choose your purchase carefully. Here are the main criteria for choosing smart TVs:

• Choose dimensions such that the viewing distance from the TV is 3 times the height of the screen for HD and only 1.5 times greater for 4K UltraHD.
• Select the HD Ready resolution format in accordance with the ratio 20-27 inches - distance from the TV 1.5-2.1; 37-40 - 2.8-3.0 m; 42-47 - 3.2-3.6 m; 52 - 4.0 m.
• Look for the Full HD resolution format with the following ratios: 20-27 inches - 1.1-1.5 m; 37-40 - 2.0-3.0 m; 42-47 - 2.3-2.5 m; 52-2.8 m.
• Give preference to a resolution of at least HDTV (1920x1080) or 4K UHD (3840x2160).
• The scanning frequency must be no worse than 60 times per second or 60 Hz.
• Choose the matrix type from LED-LCD and OLED.

Look for a TV that suits you. Take a multifunctional one if this is important to you, save money if your financial situation requires it. Have a nice watching!

Best Android TVs

To summarize, below is a brief overview of the three best Android TVs. All models were released in 2019. They collected the best ratings and reviews from owners.

Polarline 43PU11TC-SM

Polarine appeared on the Russian market in 2021 and immediately attracted interest. Inexpensive and functional TVs with high-quality smart functions and pleasant appearance. The device has a diagonal of 43 inches and UHD resolution.

Important! HDR is used to improve picture quality. Users note wide viewing angles and high-quality color reproduction.

The model runs on Android 7 and has a convenient and fast interface. Built-in storage – 8 GB. The device has a built-in DVB-T2 and C tuner, and has a CI+ slot for smart cards. Two 8 W speakers are responsible for the sound, there is AVL auto-leveling and a Dolby Digital decoder, which creates a volume effect.

The built-in media player supports any content, including 4K, thanks to the H.265 codec. If you wish, you can install your own player from the Play Market. Connectors include 3 HDMI, VGA, 2 USB, RGB, component, coaxial, 3.5 audio for headphones. Price: 15,800 rubles.

Advantages:

• fast smart;
• reliable Wi-Fi reception;
• there is enough filling to play UHD content;
• high-quality matrix;
• good volume sound.

Flaws:

• highlights at the bottom of the screen on a dark background;
• Sound quality is average;
• The remote control is not very convenient.

Hyundai H-LED55U701BS2S

The 55-inch 2021 model received UHD resolution with HDR10 and a 60 Hz matrix. Users note excellent quality when playing 4K video , as well as smooth pictures when connecting game consoles . The operating system is Android 8, unlike some Android TVs, this device has a full-fledged smart device with a lot of applications in the company store.

The device is equipped with all the necessary DVB tuners and a CI+ slot. Connectors include 3 HDMI, RGB, 2 USB, optical output. The built-in media player reads all formats. Sound – 20 W with Dolby Digital. The model has a stylish design with thin frames, and the remote has dedicated Google Play and YouTube buttons for quick access to these services. Price: 46,000 rubles.

Advantages:

• excellent image and HDR performance;
• fast smart with a large number of applications;
• convenient remote control;
• availability of all DVB tuners;
• good sound.

Flaws:

• a modest number of connectors;
• Some users have highlights on a dark background.

Comparison table of characteristics

One table contains the main indicators of the best Android TVs.

Panasonic TX-55HXR700

Price: 32,061 rub.

For that kind of money, according to those who acquired a brand new TV Panasonic TX-55HXR700 55″ , it’s difficult to find something similar on the market. The TV has no dead pixels, the brightness is more than enough, and the colors can be customized to suit your needs. The TV controls are very convenient, but you need to get used to it.

The TV was created using the latest technologies in the world of technology, thanks to which it has a wide range of functions:

• VR-Audio True Surround technology (responsible for surround sound);
• voice assistant;
• voice prompts;
• TV guide.

The built-in Firefox browser provides access to web browsing. Connection to the Network is carried out using a built-in wireless network module.

TCL 50C717

Price: 44,990 rub.

Once you take the TCL 50C717 50″ out of the box, you won’t have to waste time on settings as the factory settings are quite satisfactory. Android works smoothly, and the number of applications is simply amazing!

Third-party applications can be easily installed through the file manager or application manager. It is possible to install a TV browser. The user is offered a wide range of settings - if he wants to bring the image to perfection, he will succeed. Together with the TCL 50C717 50″ you will immerse yourself in the wonderful world of the cinematic universe!

For reference: the QLED matrix, which is included in the TV assembly, will be your guarantee of low power consumption.

Sharp 55BL2EA

Price: 45,990 rub.

Since the Sharp 55BL2EA 55″ has an equalizer, you can customize it to suit your personal preferences or content. For home use, if you do not have excessive requirements, the TV is perfect.

Sharp 55BL2EA 55″ with a large screen will unite all family members every day while watching TV. Thanks to built-in Wi-Fi and Smart-TV support, any content from the Internet will be at your disposal! The device can be placed either on a horizontal surface or hung on a wall.

For reference: the TV is equipped with all the necessary connectors for connecting other equipment.