Interactive whiteboards and SMARTboards are both tools designed to make lessons more interactive and engaging, but they are not exactly the same.
The difference between interactive whiteboard and SMARTboard lies in their features, functionalities, and applications—while an interactive whiteboard refers to any touch-sensitive display, a SMARTboard is a specific brand with proprietary software and unique collaboration tools.
Understanding the difference between these devices is important, as each offers distinct benefits and may be better suited to different educational or business needs.
Recognizing these interactive whiteboard vs SMARTboard differences helps educators make an informed decision when choosing the right technology for their classrooms.
What Is An Interactive Whiteboard?
Interactive whiteboards, also known as digital whiteboards, are large touchscreen displays that connect to a computer and a projector.
Users can interact with digital content—such as lessons, videos, and notes—using fingers or a stylus.
Teachers can write, draw, and move objects directly on the board, making lessons more dynamic and engaging.
Unlike traditional boards, interactive whiteboard technology doesn’t require you to use dry erase markers.
Instead, they use digital pens or touch input, with projected images visible to the entire class. Most models include built-in software for annotations, saving work, quizzes, and interactive activities.
Popular brands include Promethean, Epson, and ViewSonic. Options range from basic models to advanced boards with high-resolution displays, multi-touch capabilities, wireless connectivity, and screen sharing.
The user-friendly interface makes them accessible for both teachers and students, supporting collaborative learning and group work in modern classrooms.
What Is a SMARTBoard?
A SMARTBoard is often understood as a type of interactive whiteboard made by SMART Technologies. It combines a large touchscreen with computer software to allow users to write, draw, and interact with digital content directly on the board.
The SMARTBoard connects to a computer and projector. It displays images and lets teachers or students control apps, write notes, and move objects using touch or a special pen. This makes lessons more engaging and interactive.
SMART Boards come with their own software. This software includes tools like digital pens, stamps, and the ability to save notes or share lessons instantly. It supports various subjects with special features, such as equation editors for math.
Compared to basic interactive whiteboards, SMARTBoards offer additional features that enhance classroom and meeting experiences. When spelled in lowercase, smart board can be used interchangeably with interactive whiteboard.
In Malaysia, SMARTBoards are widely used in schools and offices. They offer modern technology with cloud access and support for multiple users at the same time, helping with teamwork and collaboration.
With strong software integration, SMART Boards connect seamlessly with other digital tools and platforms to improve productivity.
Unlike some other interactive whiteboards, SMART Boards often include built-in touch technology and high-resolution screens. This allows clearer images and smooth interaction. Their software also helps teachers plan lessons and access resources easily.
Similarities Between SMARTBoard and Interactive Whiteboard
Both SMARTBoards and interactive whiteboards provide a modern alternative to traditional chalkboards or dry-erase boards.
These tools are widely used in both education and business settings, enhancing interactive experiences in classrooms as well as in meetings and collaborative environments.
They allow teachers and students to interact directly with the content on the screen, making lessons more engaging.
Both devices support touchscreen functions. Users can write, draw, or move objects using their fingers, special pens, or other tools. This helps students better understand and participate in interactive lessons.
They connect to computers and the internet, enabling access to web pages, online videos, and other digital resources. This feature allows teachers to share varied and dynamic content with the whole class.
SMART Boards and interactive whiteboards also function as large displays, showing images, diagrams, and videos in full color. This visual support aids in teaching complex topics and helps students retain information.
Both types of boards save annotations and notes digitally. This means teachers can review previous lessons, print materials, or continue teaching without redoing work.
Differences Between Interactive Whiteboard vs SMARTBoard
SMARTBoards and interactive whiteboards both support learning and collaboration, but differ in display, performance, cost, interactivity, and integration.
Display Quality
SMARTBoards usually offer higher display quality than typical interactive whiteboards. They come with built-in high-resolution screens, often with full HD or 4K capabilities, providing clear, bright, and colorful images.
As an interactive display, a SMART Board delivers an engaging visual experience that enhances presentations and collaborative activities. This makes it easier to present detailed visuals such as graphs, videos, and diagrams.
Interactive whiteboards often rely on external projectors to display content. This can result in lower resolution and brightness, with potential issues from ambient light affecting clarity.
Because projectors are separate devices, the image quality may vary based on the projector’s capability.
Performance
Performance on smartboards is generally smoother because they are all-in-one devices with embedded touchscreens and software. Users experience less lag and can interact directly with the hardware.
As a powerful interactive whiteboard, a smartboard offers advanced performance features such as high-definition display, multi-touch, multi-user functionality, and seamless integration, enhancing collaboration and engagement in both educational and professional settings.
Interactive whiteboards depend on external devices like a computer or a projector, which can cause delays or connection problems. Performance varies based on the quality of these connected devices. They may also require more setup and calibration to work properly.
Cost
Interactive whiteboards and interactive touch solutions tend to be more budget-friendly. They usually have simpler hardware since they rely on existing projectors and computers. This makes them a popular choice for schools or offices with limited funds.
SMART Boards carry a higher upfront price because of the integrated touchscreen, display, and built-in software. However, the all-in-one design can reduce the need for extra equipment and maintenance over time.
Interactivity
Interactive whiteboards provide solid interactivity but may have less accuracy due to the dependence on external sensors or projectors.
Features like note-taking and annotation are available on both, but smartboards often include additional tools for collaboration. These collaborative features make smartboards an effective tool for enhancing educational engagement and improving learning outcomes.
Integration
SMARTBoards are designed with modern technology in mind. They typically include seamless cloud integration, allowing teachers or employees to upload, share, and access files directly from platforms like Google Drive, OneDrive, or educational software.
Some models support wireless connections and device sharing without extra setup.
Interactive whiteboards can connect to computers and other devices, but often lack built-in cloud services. They rely on the connected device for software and file management, which can limit ease of use and accessibility compared to smartboards.
Software Compatibility Considerations
When choosing an interactive whiteboard, software compatibility is a crucial factor that can impact the overall user experience.
Some interactive whiteboards come with proprietary software or specialized software that may only work with certain devices or operating systems.
To ensure a smooth teaching and learning experience, it’s important to verify that the interactive whiteboard you select is compatible with the software and devices you already use.
Many interactive whiteboards now offer seamless integration with popular educational tools and platforms, making it easier for teachers to incorporate technology into their lessons.
By considering software compatibility, educators can avoid technical issues and maximize the benefits of their interactive whiteboard investment.
REV Interactive Smart Board Pro
The Rev Interactive Smart Board Pro is a powerful, all-in-one solution designed for classrooms and conference rooms, offering a smart blend of advanced technology and intuitive design to enhance collaboration and productivity.
With a 48MP 4K AI camera and 8-array HD microphones, it delivers crystal-clear video and 360° sound pickup with AI noise cancellation—ideal for hybrid learning, video conferencing, and remote meetings.
Surround sound speakers expand the audio field, creating a more immersive communication experience.
Its highly accurate touchscreen supports up to 20 IR touchpoints, allowing multiple users to engage in collaborative activities at once.
Whether writing, drawing, or presenting, the board acts as an effective tool for both teaching and team discussions. The magnetic smart pen with 1mm high accuracy ensures natural, precise annotation.
One of the board’s unique features is its adaptability across many settings—from classrooms to corporate training environments.
It also includes added features like an optional wireless screen sharing dongle for plug-and-play connectivity.
Built for minimal maintenance, the board can be wall mounted, which saves space and fits seamlessly into any learning or work environment.
Whether used for one-on-one instruction or large group sessions, it helps educators and professionals make an informed decision when choosing the right solution for interactive display needs.
Compared to traditional interactive whiteboards and SMART Boards, the Rev Interactive Smart Board Pro combines smart software, integrated tools, and advanced hardware in one unified system. It’s built to meet the evolving demands of education, training, and modern business.
Check out REV Interactive for more next-generation digital assets like digital signage and other interactive touch solutions to take your projects and digital endeavours to new heights!