Have you seen televisions advertised as “Smart TVs” and wondered what makes them different from a normal television?
You’re not alone.
Many people replacing an older television are unsure whether they need a Smart TV or what the word “smart” actually means.
The good news is that Smart TVs are designed to make watching television easier, giving you access to streaming services, catch-up TV and online content all from one device.
In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll explain exactly what a Smart TV is, how it works and whether it’s right for you.
What Is a Smart TV?
A Smart TV is a television that can connect to the internet.
This allows it to do much more than simply display live television channels.
A Smart TV can:
✅ Watch Netflix
✅ Watch Amazon Prime Video
✅ Watch YouTube
✅ Access BBC iPlayer
✅ Use ITVX
✅ Browse catch-up TV services
✅ Stream films and TV programmes
Think of a Smart TV as a television and a computer combined into one device.
How Does a Smart TV Work?
A Smart TV connects to your home internet connection using:
- Wi-Fi
- Ethernet cable
Once connected, the television can access online services and apps.
Just like a smartphone has apps, a Smart TV has apps too.
Popular Smart TV apps include:
- Netflix
- YouTube
- BBC iPlayer
- ITVX
- Channel 4 Streaming
- My5
- Amazon Prime Video
You simply select an app using your remote control and start watching.
What Can You Watch on a Smart TV?
A Smart TV can usually display:
Live Television
Freeview channels such as:
- BBC One
- ITV1
- Channel 4
- Channel 5
Streaming Services
- Netflix
- Amazon Prime Video
- Disney+
- YouTube
Catch-Up TV
Programmes you’ve missed can often be watched later using:
- BBC iPlayer
- ITVX
- Channel 4 Streaming
- My5
Do I Need a Smart TV?
Not necessarily.
If you only watch:
- BBC
- ITV
- Channel 4
- Channel 5
through your aerial, a standard television may still be suitable.
However, a Smart TV is worth considering if you want:
✅ Netflix
✅ YouTube
✅ Catch-up TV
✅ Streaming films
✅ Access to online services
Most televisions sold today are Smart TVs.
Do Smart TVs Need the Internet?
For online features, yes.
You need an internet connection to use:
- Netflix
- YouTube
- Amazon Prime Video
- BBC iPlayer
- ITVX
However, many Smart TVs can still watch normal Freeview channels without the internet if connected to an aerial.
What Is the Difference Between a Smart TV and a Normal TV?
Normal TV
- Live television
- Usually requires aerial
- Limited features
Smart TV
- Live television
- Streaming apps
- Catch-up TV
- Internet connectivity
- Online services
The Smart TV offers significantly more flexibility.
Do Smart TVs Have Freeview?
Most Smart TVs sold in the UK include:
- Freeview
- Freeview HD
- Freeview Play
This means you can watch traditional television channels and online catch-up services from the same television.
What Is Freeview Play?
Freeview Play combines:
- Live TV
- BBC iPlayer
- ITVX
- Channel 4 Streaming
- My5
into one easy-to-use television guide.
Many newer Smart TVs include Freeview Play as standard.
Are Smart TVs Difficult to Use?
No.
Most Smart TVs are designed to be simple.
The remote control usually includes dedicated buttons for services such as:
- Netflix
- YouTube
- Prime Video
You simply press the button and the app opens automatically.
Many older adults find Smart TVs easier to use than expected.
Can I Turn My Existing TV Into a Smart TV?
Yes.
If your television works perfectly but isn’t smart, you can add a streaming device such as:
- Amazon Fire TV Stick
- Roku
- Apple TV
- Google TV Streamer
These devices plug into your television and provide many Smart TV features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Smart TV worth buying?
For most people, yes.
It provides access to streaming services, catch-up TV and online content in one place.
Can I watch Netflix on a Smart TV?
Yes.
Most Smart TVs include the Netflix app.
Do Smart TVs need a TV aerial?
Only if you want to watch Freeview channels.
Streaming services work through your internet connection.
Do Smart TVs have monthly fees?
No.
The television itself does not have a monthly fee.
However, some streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video require subscriptions.
Final Thoughts
A Smart TV is simply a television that connects to the internet and provides access to streaming services, catch-up TV and online apps.
For many people, a Smart TV replaces the need for additional boxes and makes it easier to watch programmes whenever they want.
If you’re buying a new television today, there’s a very good chance it will already be a Smart TV.
For beginners, they are often much easier to use than expected and open the door to services such as Netflix, YouTube and BBC iPlayer.
Related TV & Streaming Guides
- What Is Netflix and How Does It Work?
- What Is Freeview?
- What Is Freeview Play?
- What Is Amazon Prime Video?
- BBC iPlayer Explained
- ITVX Explained
- How to Watch YouTube on Your TV
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