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Today’s best TVs will almost always come with Internet connectivity so users can watch content on-demand and access an array of streaming services. In addition, smart TVs come with options to connect to the Internet via WiFi or ethernet cable. There are advantages and disadvantages to both, so below, we’ll get into the details of a smart TV with an ethernet port vs WiFi and clarify which setup is best for you. Also, there are valuable sources regarding Smart TVs vs streaming devices for those in the market debating between the various ways to connect and stream content.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
What separates these two options isn’t complex; both conquer the same goal, but one is a wired connection, and the other connects over a WiFi network. The quality and speed of wireless and ethernet connections depend on things like the WiFi router’s internet service provider, location, or the ethernet cord’s quality.
The advantage of Ethernet over a wireless connection is the consistency in the Internet connection. Reliable consistency makes using Ethernet an appealing choice for streaming content or gaming.
Additionally, there is also typically a higher bandwidth with a wired connection. Higher bandwidth means quicker connections and no interrupting frequencies from other smart devices. Anyone looking for the most stable connection should consider using an Ethernet cable.
Wireless networks are subject to poor network connections and disturbances from other wireless and mobile devices. If you know you have a solid and consistent wireless connection speed, using a wireless network for your smart TV shouldn’t be a big issue. However, if it’s far away or one to connection problems, you might want to consider the cord.
Insider Tip
There are many ways to conceal an ethernet cable, including floorboard concealers, wall mounts, and floor covers.
There is one considerable advantage to using WiFi over a wired network. That advantage, of course, is the absence of a long, stubborn, and obnoxious cord stretching across your living room floor. Unfortunately, Ethernet setups can be aggravating and require much work trying to figure out how to banish the cable from eyesight properly.
For this reason, many choose to risk connectivity issues and carry on using their WiFi network. Anyone considering connection quality should also look into the differences between TVs with SmartCast vs smart TVs
Warning
While security risks are much lower with ethernet, connections are never 100% secure.
Finally, Ethernet chords are much more secure than a WiFi network. Using a cord makes it harder to have your connection intercepted or hacked.
And although there is risk associated with any method, those worried about security may want to lean toward the cord, especially if you’re connecting different devices to your TV once you learn how to connect a phone to a smart TV, for example.
STAT: It’s unlikely you’ll experience faster speeds than Ethernet with WiFi 6. (source)
F.A.Q.S
Do streaming devices come with Ethernet ports?
This spec varies by brand, so be sure to check your choice of streaming device before purchasing.
Do regular TVs come with Ethernet ports?
Ethernet ports are not built-in because there is no feature on a regular TV that uses internet connectivity.
Is any type of ethernet cable compatible with a smart TV?
Any type of Ethernet cord is acceptable, but many say that using the same kind of cable and port leads to accelerated speeds.
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