Chromecast with Google TV or embedded Google TV on the TV?

by poor-man

Hi

I'm looking for a new TV and I really want Google TV on it. I was aiming for a Sony Bravia with embedded Google TV. But a friend told to go for another brand (cheaper but same the image quality), and buy the chromecast with Google TV.

He says that the experience is going to be the same. Same interface, apps, power for running those apps, better maintenance directly from Google (and no waiting for Sony to prepare the updates), etc, and save some extra bucks.

Any experiences on this? Thanks in advance.

pawdog

Your friend gives good advice.

JMTHEFOX

External devices all the way. Faster updates and better app support than built-in apps on the TV.

mocelet

I would stay away from smart TV systems and just get a external dongle/box to do the smart work.

Integrated systems usually receive less updates and the manufacturer forgets about it when the next model is released.

Just buy a TV for the inputs and screen quality, it will last years, the smart TV system won't.

PNWoutdoors

Buy the best TV you can - best screen - and use a device via HDMI. Your TV may last 10 years but whatever software it has won't be updated often. You can cheaply upgrade your streaming stick every two years if you need.

abeel_siddiqui

Follow your friend advice. TVs with built in Android TV get slow overtime and can become a pain to use. You could easily upgrade a external streaming device down the line.

m1ndwipe

The current CCWGTV is a mess because of lack of storage.

Also bear in mind that a box on HDMI 1 will never be as fluid as having a single remote for everything built in.

Drejan74

I have both and the Sony is a bit quicker. I don't watch TV very often, but I like that it is integrated in the Bravia.

garok89

I have a Sony with ATV built in as well as a CCwGTV. The chips used in most TVs are pretty slow compared to even budget standalone devices. It also means that if you ever want an upgrade but the panel is still good that it is easy enough just to buy a new standalone. Granted, you can always get the Sony and get a standalone device at a later date, but if you do that I would recommend disconnecting the build in ATV from your network

deviltrombone

Just bought a Sony A80J. It's as good or better than my CCwGTV WRT apps, including Kodi, which I use solely for local files. Advantages include the TV's comprehensive IP control and also its ability to receive IR commands, which allows me to use my universal remote instead of the craptastic CCwGTV remote. I need to test this, but I think the built-in apps might also switch between SDR and HDR faster than HDMI devices.

JohnCap523

Buy whatever tv you like and whatever streaming device you want. Don’t rely on integrated streaming.

mohamedmamdouhomran

Get the chrome cast with Google tv

ethardomas

Definitely go with your friend's idea. Recently bought a UHD HDR Non Smart TV from a Local brand and attached my Xiaomi TV Box S - Payed 700€ less that buying a Smart TV with ATV Embedded.

sid32

Does the chromecast have space for files. I like being able to put movies, roms and such directly on the tv.

WazWaz

I have experience with both.

With CCwGTV, you'll have no USB ports and no ethernet without spending another $100. How much are you actually saving?

I've just gotten a Bravia and today it's significantly more powerful than my CCwGTV (eg. Faster UI, faster playing games). If ever it needs "upgrading", then I can put it in dumb mode and use an external device.

Kantry123

If you don’t need the chromecast functionality then FTV 4K Max which is right now for 35$ is much more better than CCWGTV. Av1 codec support is also a plus