Firestick vs Smart TV — Do You Still Need One?
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EXPRESS VPN
$2.79/month
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Blazing Fast
3,000+
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Step by Step Instructions
Step 01
Open the Amazon App Store
From your Firestick home screen, navigate to the “Find” or search icon and open the Amazon App Store.
Step 02
Search for ExpressVPN
Type “ExpressVPN” in the search bar using your remote. Select the official ExpressVPN app from the results.
Step 03
Download & Install the App
Click on the “Download” or “Get” button to install the app on your Firestick. Wait for the installation to complete.
Step 04
Sign In & Connect
Open the app, sign in with your ExpressVPN account, and tap the power button to connect to a server.
Firestick vs Smart TV: Do You Still Need One?
Here is how to decide whether a Firestick is worth adding to your setup
Step 01
Check If Your Smart TV Is Keeping Up
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Smart TVs have built in apps but their processors are often slower and less optimised for streaming
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Firestick has a more powerful processor built specifically for streaming
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If your Smart TV feels sluggish or crashes often, Firestick will feel noticeably faster
Step 02
Consider What Apps You Are Missing
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Not all streaming apps are available on every Smart TV platform
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Firestick gives access to a wider app library and supports sideloading
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If your Smart TV is missing apps you want, Firestick fills that gap instantly
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Step 03
Think About Voice Control and Updates
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Most Smart TVs have basic voice control but Firestick comes with Alexa built in
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Firestick receives regular software updates keeping your experience current
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Older Smart TVs often stop receiving updates while Firestick stays up to date
Step 04
Decide If Firestick Makes Sense for You
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If your Smart TV runs well and has all the apps you need, you may not need one
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If you want faster performance, more apps, or Alexa voice control, Firestick is worth it
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Firestick also turns any older non smart TV into a full streaming device instantly
Quick Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of top Fire Stick VPNs
| VPN | Price | Servers | Speed | Devices | Rating | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
EXPRESS VPN
|
$2.79/mo | 3,000+ | Blazing Fast | 8 | 5 | Get Deal |
Proton VPN
|
$3.99/mo | 14,999+ | Blazing Fast | 7 | 4.8 | Get Deal |
NordVPN
|
$4.39/mo | 6,998+ | Blazing Fast | 8 | 4.8 | Get Deal |
|
|
$1.88/mo | 3,200+ | Blazing Fast | 8 | 4.7 | Get Deal |
IPVanish
|
$2.49/mo | 3,100+ | Blazing Fast | 6 | 4 | Get Deal |
Pure VPN
|
$3.55/mo | — | Blazing Fast | 6 | 4 | Get Deal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a Firestick make my Smart TV faster?
Yes, plugging a Firestick into your Smart TV bypasses the TV's built in software entirely and uses Firestick's own faster processor. Most users notice an immediate improvement in speed and responsiveness.
In an Amazon Fire TV Stick vs Smart TV comparison, which is easier to set up?
Amazon Fire TV Stick is very easy to set up with the entire process guided through the remote. Smart TV setup varies by brand but both are generally straightforward out of the box for most users.
Is Firestick better than a Smart TV for streaming?
Firestick is generally faster and more optimised for streaming than most built in Smart TV platforms. Its processor is specifically designed for streaming which results in quicker app launches and smoother navigation.
Does Amazon Fire TV Stick work better than a Smart TV for older televisions?
Yes, Amazon Fire TV Stick is an excellent upgrade for older TVs that have limited or no smart features. It turns any HDMI compatible television into a fully capable streaming device without needing to buy a new TV.
Is Alexa on Firestick better than the voice control on a Smart TV?
Yes, Alexa on Firestick is significantly more capable than the voice assistants built into most Smart TVs. With Alexa you can search across all apps, control smart home devices, set reminders, and navigate the interface completely hands free.
In a Fire Stick vs Smart TV comparison, which has better app support?
Fire Stick wins this comparison for app support as it covers a wider range of streaming services and supports sideloading. Smart TVs are limited to their manufacturer's app store which varies significantly by brand and model.
Is it worth buying a Firestick if my Smart TV already works fine?
If your Smart TV runs smoothly and has all the apps you need, a Firestick is not essential. However if you want Alexa voice control, faster performance, or access to apps your TV does not support, it is a worthwhile addition.