What Is the Difference Between a Smart TV and a Regular TV?

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Unlike regular televisions, smart TVs typically come with several applications that require the user to have Internet access. These applications and services provide more entertainment options for smart TV users without the need for other components.

The key difference between smart TVs and regular TVs is the ability to access the Internet. This feature allows the smart TV to operate similarly to a computer in addition to its more traditional functions. Smart TVs often connect to the Internet through Wi-Fi, which requires the user to have a modem that sends out a wireless signal.

Internet access lets the user enjoy streaming video services such as Netflix, Hulu and YouTube. A number of more traditional stations, such as ESPN and HBO, offer online components compatible with smart TVs. Users can also listen to music with applications such as Pandora or through a web browser, which gives them access to any music that they can find online.

However, these features aren’t exclusive to smart TVs. Regular TV users can take advantage of these same features, but they can only do so with a connection to an external component. The most commonly used method of enhancing a regular TV’s entertainment options is through the use of gaming consoles. These are typically capable of Internet access and often come with a number of applications similar to those that are standard on smart TVs.