Best Android TVs: Smart Viewing Meets Advanced Features
The world of television has seen a dramatic shift over the past decade, with the introduction of Android TVs transforming the way we consume media. Gone are the days when televisions were mere boxes for viewing broadcast channels. Today, Android TVs have revolutionized home entertainment by integrating smart technology, offering access to thousands of apps, streaming platforms, and gaming features—all within a user-friendly interface.
In this article, we’ll explore the best Android TVs currently on the market, showcasing models that combine smart viewing with advanced features like voice control, high dynamic range (HDR), and superior connectivity. Whether you’re after the best in display technology or the smoothest streaming experience, we’ve got you covered.
1. What Makes Android TVs Stand Out?
A Smart Hub for All Your Entertainment Needs
Android TVs go beyond just streaming. These TVs are built on the Android operating system, which offers a wide variety of features, from accessing popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+, to Google Play Store apps, games, and even productivity tools. This integration allows users to tailor their TV to their entertainment preferences.
Seamless Google Integration
As part of the Google ecosystem, Android TVs come equipped with Google Assistant, enabling voice search, hands-free control, and seamless integration with other Google devices such as Chromecast, Google Nest, and more. You can use your voice to change channels, search for content, adjust volume, and even control smart home devices without picking up a remote.
Wide Range of Apps and Services
One of the most significant benefits of an Android TV is access to the Google Play Store, giving users the freedom to download thousands of apps. Whether you’re looking for streaming services, gaming apps, or fitness programs, Android TV can cater to your lifestyle.
2. Top Android TVs of 2024: Best Picks for Smart Viewing
Sony A80J OLED 4K UHD Android TV
Sony has long been a leader in the television industry, and their A80J OLED Android TV is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality. Featuring OLED technology, the A80J offers deep blacks, vibrant colors, and lifelike images, making it one of the best Android TVs for cinephiles.
- Display: 65” OLED 4K UHD with HDR10 and Dolby Vision
- Smart Features: Android TV with Google Assistant and built-in Chromecast
- Audio: Acoustic Surface Audio+ for immersive sound directly from the screen
- Why It’s Great: The Sony A80J is a premium option, offering unparalleled picture quality thanks to OLED technology, which creates perfect blacks and infinite contrast. With Google Assistant and Chromecast built-in, this TV blends advanced visuals with smart functionality.
TCL 6-Series 4K QLED Android TV
For those seeking a balance between performance and affordability, the TCL 6-Series is one of the top contenders. Equipped with QLED technology, this TV delivers outstanding brightness and contrast, perfect for vibrant visuals and smooth motion.
- Display: 55” 4K QLED with Dolby Vision and HDR10+
- Smart Features: Android TV platform with access to the Google Play Store and Google Assistant
- Audio: Dolby Atmos support for dynamic audio
- Why It’s Great: The TCL 6-Series offers excellent value for money, with a combination of QLED technology for high-end picture quality and Android TV for a seamless smart experience. It’s perfect for users who want premium visuals without breaking the bank.
Hisense U8H 4K ULED Android TV
If you’re looking for cutting-edge technology at an affordable price, the Hisense U8H is a top choice. Featuring ULED technology, this TV provides enhanced brightness, color accuracy, and smoother motion.
- Display: 55” ULED 4K UHD with Quantum Dot technology and Dolby Vision
- Smart Features: Android TV with built-in voice control
- Audio: Dolby Atmos audio for an immersive sound experience
- Why It’s Great: The Hisense U8H is packed with features typically found in more expensive models. Its Quantum Dot technology and ULED panel make it perfect for those who want bright, colorful visuals and superior motion handling, especially for sports and action content.
3. Android TV Features You Should Look For
Picture Quality and Display Technology
One of the primary factors to consider when choosing an Android TV is the display technology. The quality of the display will greatly affect your viewing experience, especially with 4K and HDR content. Key display technologies to look for include:
- OLED: Offers perfect blacks and infinite contrast due to self-emissive pixels, making it ideal for dark scenes and cinematic experiences.
- QLED: Quantum Dot technology enhances brightness and color vibrancy, providing excellent performance in well-lit rooms.
- ULED: Exclusive to Hisense, ULED enhances brightness, color accuracy, and motion clarity, delivering an experience comparable to OLED and QLED at a lower price point.
Voice Control and Hands-Free Experience
Google Assistant integration allows for hands-free control of your TV and connected smart devices. You can change channels, adjust volume, find content, or ask questions with just your voice. Some models also come with far-field microphones, allowing you to control the TV from anywhere in the room without a remote.
High Dynamic Range (HDR)
HDR enhances the color range, brightness, and contrast of your TV. Look for models that support HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision for the best HDR experience. Dolby Vision, in particular, adjusts brightness and color scene by scene for an optimized viewing experience.
4. Why Choose an Android TV?
Access to Thousands of Apps
The Google Play Store on Android TVs offers a wide variety of apps to choose from, including streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube, as well as apps for fitness, news, gaming, and even productivity. This extensive app library ensures you’ll never run out of entertainment options.
Built-in Google Assistant
Google Assistant on Android TV allows users to search for content, play music, and even control smart home devices using voice commands. Whether you want to find a specific show, control your lights, or check the weather, all you have to do is ask.
Smooth Integration with Other Google Devices
Android TVs are part of the broader Google ecosystem, which means they work seamlessly with other Google products. This includes Chromecast, which allows you to cast content from your phone or tablet directly to your TV. Android TVs also integrate smoothly with Google Nest devices for smart home automation.
5. Optimizing Your Android TV for the Best Performance
Ensure a Strong Internet Connection
To get the most out of your Android TV’s streaming capabilities, ensure you have a stable and fast internet connection. A Wi-Fi 6 router or direct Ethernet connection can significantly enhance streaming performance and reduce buffering during high-definition content.
Update Your TV’s Software
Keep your Android TV’s firmware up to date to ensure that you have access to the latest features, security patches, and performance improvements. Android TVs regularly receive updates that enhance performance and user experience, so enabling automatic updates is recommended.
Optimize Picture and Sound Settings
Most Android TVs come with preset modes like Cinema Mode, Game Mode, and Standard Mode to optimize picture settings for specific content. Adjusting these settings can improve your viewing experience based on what you’re watching. For audio, consider adding a soundbar for better sound quality, especially if your TV supports Dolby Atmos.
6. Conclusion
When it comes to Android TVs, the combination of smart features and advanced viewing technology makes them a standout choice for modern homes. Whether you’re looking for top-tier picture quality with OLED technology, excellent value with QLED, or an affordable ULED option, there’s an Android TV to suit every budget and requirement. With access to the Google Play Store, Google Assistant, and Chromecast, Android TVs bring together the best in smart viewing and seamless integration.
Choosing the right Android TV can elevate your home entertainment experience, providing not just exceptional visual quality, but also a smart, intuitive, and connected ecosystem. From streaming your favorite shows to controlling your smart home, these Android TVs are the future of television.