Smart TV or media streamer-

Smart TV or media streamer?
If you do have a 4K TV, you will have to use your TV's built-in Netflix app (above) to see 4K content from them. Remember, just because your TV's Info button says "1080p" doesn't mean that's what the signal is from Netflix, that's just what your TV is receiving from the media box.Check outWhat is upconverting? and Ultra HD 4K TV Cheat Sheet for more info.Cost Tie, sort of (again) Generally speaking, a smart TV costs about $100, or around £80, more than a "dumb" TV. The better media streamers cost about the same. So technically it's a wash.It's not that simple, however. If you want to get a good, top-of-the-line TV, it's going to have smart features built in, whether you want them or not. So if you want to add a media streamer, you're going to be paying for the same apps (mostly, as mentioned above) twice.Bottom line That last part is the kicker. Most people are going to be faced with adding a media streamer to a TV that already has most of the streaming services. Looking at it that way, this becomes more complex than a simple tally of ties, wins, and losses. The question really is whether a media streamer is worth $100, or £80, when you already have a smart TV? Personally, I'd say yes, and I hate recommending people spend more money than they need to. It comes down to Amazon and iTunes. Being able to watch just about any show or movie whenever you want is huge, and most smart TVs just don't offer that ability. Many also have clunky, annoying interfaces, and they're not updated frequently. Sure there are some exceptions, but having a good media streamer means you can ignore a smart TV's apps, both when you're shopping, and when you've got it home. That's worth $100 to me, easily. Got a question for Geoff? First, check out all the other articles he's written on topics like why all HDMI cables are the same, LED LCD vs. plasma, active versus passive 3D, and more. Still have a question? Send him an email! He won't tell you what TV to buy, but he might use your letter in a future article. You can also send him a message on Twitter @TechWriterGeoff or Google+.