20 Best TV Boxes for TV 2021 [November]

The best set-top box manufacturers in 2021

Now the excitement in this market segment is gradually subsiding. Smart set-top boxes are in less and less demand, since more than 50% of TVs on the shelves are already equipped with smart functionality. And everyone bought budget devices for receiving DVB-T2 immediately after the analog signal was turned off.

If we talk about inexpensive set-top boxes for digital television, their range is very rich. Excellent solutions come out under Telefunken

,
Cadena
,
Starwind
and
Hyundai
.
Rombica
and
Harper
products are a little more expensive .
And the DNS trading network is actively promoting its own DEXP
. And this is not the entire list!

Smart devices are produced by fewer companies, as they are more expensive and narrowly targeted. Most often on store shelves you can find smart consoles from IconBIT

,
MECOOL
,
Xiaomi
and the already mentioned
Rombica
.
Google
also produces its own devices , but their functionality is strictly limited to solving the most common problems.

Sber released its own media player

- this happened immediately after the rebranding of the banking structure. The device operates on the basis of its own operating system, offering strictly limited functionality and a convenient remote control.

What is the difference between receivers of different price categories?

The most expensive models are smart set-top boxes, the system of which includes a large number of functionalities. The cost of receivers is in a fairly significant range - from 800 to approximately 16,000 rubles.

If we consider cheaper devices, we can say that they will differ in the number of interfaces, as well as signal transmission speed and image quality. Therefore, the user needs to choose the option that suits him.

The best models have video recording support. Correct use of this function requires the use of an additional hard drive or other external storage media. The recording feature allows users to re-watch matches or TV shows at a convenient time. Good models allow you to pause the program.

There are the following features, the presence of which affects the pricing of equipment:

• HD format support;
• alternative control and management system;
• network connection;
• country producing the console;
• set of interfaces.

It is necessary to consider some nuances to better understand them. HD support guarantees high-quality image support when watching movies or TV series, regardless of the year of release. It is recommended to use a device that can support Full HD or Quard HD.

An alternative control system is the presence of keys on the front of the console, as well as a remote control in the standard set of the kit. There are models that support a voice control system. Of course, such devices are more expensive. The preferred option is a device that is equipped with HDMI.

The next important point to consider is the country of origin. Chinese companies offer cheaper model options. It is recommended to purchase the device from more well-known brands as they guarantee the quality of the equipment and user support.

Criteria for selecting TV set-top boxes for our rating

To compile this top, we primarily focused on customer reviews

.
Even if a device belongs to the budget segment, if there are serious complaints about it, it will not be included in our rating. We also read many reviews
of similar devices.
This turned out to be especially important for Smart TV set-top boxes, because it was important to know their performance - no one wants to acquire a slow gadget. As a result, the best models, distinguished not only by adequate functionality and price
, but also
by a long service life
.

Top 4. BBK SMP251HDT2

Rating (2021): 4.13

116 reviews from resources were taken into account: Otzovik, Citylink, DNS

Optimal price-quality ratio Like all other products of the Chinese company BBK, this one is sold for very little money.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 1,220 rub.

• Country: China
• Television standards: DVB-T2
• Connectors: USB 2.0, composite, HDMI 1.4

The simplest device, released in 2021 and designed to solve only two problems. The first is to watch digital television of the DVB-T2 standard if the TV does not support it. Also, using the BBK set-top box, you can watch content previously saved on a USB flash drive. This could be photos, videos or music. But do not forget that the product is not capable of boasting any serious power, so it is not capable of high-resolution video. Problems can arise even if the bitrate is too high or a non-standard codec is used. Buyers also complain about the overly small buttons that the included remote control has. But the device does not hesitate when switching channels, as is the case with its competitors.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Adequate firmware operation
• Low cost
• Metal body

• The remote has small buttons
• Too small watch
• Doesn't understand cable TV standard

See also:

• 15 best TV set-top boxes from AliExpress

D-COLOR DC700-HD PLUS

This digital set-top box accepts signals in standards such as DVB-T2/C, MPEG-2/4 and radio. If you wish, you can connect a media player. The device is compact and does not take up much space. The device is capable of playing video in FullHD quality. You can connect a flash drive or hard drive.

You can configure the device to record broadcasts. The signal can be received using a conventional antenna.

Top 3. Lumax DV2117HD

Rating (2021): 4.15

583 reviews taken into account from resources: DNS, Yandex.Market

Possibility of expanding functionality In the future, you can slightly expand the functionality of the device by purchasing an additional Wi-Fi adapter - it was its absence that made the price tag not particularly high.

• Characteristics
  Read also:  Which digital tuner with Internet and DVB-T2 is better to choose for your TV

  Average price: 1,490 rub.

• Country: Hong Kong
• Television standards: DVB-T2, DVB-C
• Connectors: USB 2.0, composite, HDMI 2.0

An excellent TV set-top box with a pass-through antenna output. Unlike even cheaper models, it supports not only terrestrial digital TV, but also cable. The device is controlled either using four buttons on the front panel or using the included remote control. There is also a USB input on the case. If the list of recognized video standards seems insufficient to you, try updating the firmware - this option is present here. This model also supports the use of a Wi-Fi adapter, which allows you to access the LUMAX cinema hall. The only pity is that this accessory must be purchased separately.

Advantages and disadvantages

• It is possible to update the software
• DVB-C standard supported
• Two-year warranty period

• Wi-Fi adapter sold separately

Purpose and functions of set-top boxes-receivers

TV receivers perform a number of purposes that are necessary for the user. They are as follows:

• broadcast standard expansion;
• playback of information using USB, this will allow the user to view data from various media;
• digitization of incoming signals;
• recording data on flash drives and other media;
• pausing a live broadcast;
• a large number of inputs, which allows you to connect the set-top box to a specific type of TV;
• You can connect a mouse, keyboard and hard drive to the console.

Receivers also allow you to improve broadcast properties, allow you to spend time playing games and visiting Internet resources.

The principle of operation of the console is presented in two versions:

• program information is stored on the hard drive, so to use the application you will need to launch it;
• the necessary files are located in the cloud and you need the Internet to access them.

When files are located in the cloud, connecting to the Internet and transferring data to the screen is faster. On the other hand, there may come a time when the connection is not very good, and then the image transmission will suffer.

The functionality of the set-top box is as follows:

• the ability to view with delay, the transmission is stopped using the pause button, then you can return to viewing;
• record the video you like, and you can watch the program at any convenient time;
• support for various recording formats;
• receiving not only television signals, but also signals from radio stations;
• teletext function - a source of news about the latest changes in exchange rates, weather and other news;
• TV guide option - a service with which you can get acquainted with the program schedules for the next week.

You can control the set-top box either using the remote control or using the buttons located on the receiver itself. You can control your TV and set-top box with one remote control.

It is necessary to understand that the functionality and capabilities of the gadget depend on the modification of the device and the manufacturer of the model. Therefore, you need to carefully select the device and consult with sellers so that all the functions of the device suit the person.

Top 2. StarWind CT-100

Rating (2021): 4.37

78 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, Citylink, BigBunce, DNS

The most affordable set-top box with cable TV support For little money you will get a device capable of recognizing DVB-T2 and DVB-C signals.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 890 rub.

• Country: China
• Television standards: DVB-T2, DVB-C
• Connectors: 2xUSB 2.0, composite, HDMI 1.4

A very simple external TV set-top box. It is primarily used for viewing a television signal encoded in the DVB-T2 standard. However, it also supports DVB-C. But we recommend checking with your cable operator to see if the device will work with their equipment. For example, MTS requires set-top boxes equipped with a SIM card slot, which is not available here. But the product received two USB ports. They can be occupied by an external hard drive and a regular flash drive. Or buy a Wi-Fi adapter, which will make MEGOGO, YouTube and some other online services available.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Built-in two USB connectors
• Cable TV standard supported
• Possible installation of Wi-Fi adapter

• No clock display
• The first watch smells like cheap plastic

Google Chromecast

Price : RUR 2,557

Since the manufacturer is familiar to everyone, many rushed to become owners of the Google Chromecast as soon as it appeared on the technology market. The set-top box is equipped with all the options for broadcasting data from a tablet or phone to large screens.

The device interacts with mobile devices whose functionality is based on Android and iOS OS. YouTube works without problems on this device and transmits high-quality images. It is very convenient to operate from iOS or Android. Users are delighted with the purchase: it’s convenient to watch cartoons and films on the big screen, which is why most people buy the console.

Top 1. Telefunken TF-DVBT252

Rating (2021): 4.47

92 reviews taken into account from resources: DNS, Ozon, Citylink

TV set-top box with two USB ports The device allows you to connect up to two drives.

• Characteristics
  Read also:  Quickly check your balance with the NTV Plus operator: methods

  Average price: 1,290 rub.

• Country: China
• Television standards: DVB-T2, DVB-C
• Connectors: 2xUSB 2.0, composite, HDMI 1.4

This TV set-top box can become universal under certain conditions. For this purpose, it is equipped with a pair of USB connectors - you should look for them on the front and rear panels. The first is for connecting a drive from which videos will be played. Quite, it must be said, successfully - the product supports most of the currently common formats. The second socket can be used to connect a Wi-Fi adapter. But you will have to buy it separately. With it you can expand the functionality a little by starting, for example, watching YouTube. However, don’t expect much more - it uses limited firmware and a weak processor.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Wi-Fi adapter supported
• Decent number of connectors
• All-format video player

• Low TV tuner sensitivity
• Flimsy wires
• Does not support DVB-C standard

to the beginning of the rating

DV-2118HD with support for AC3 and playlists from LUMAX

This digital set-top box provides high quality pictures. You can connect it to the Internet and have access to the YouTube service.

The device supports ASZ and playlists.

It is not recommended to unplug the device while it is on, as you will have to configure everything all over again.

Top 3. Xiaomi Mi Box S

Rating (2021): 4.58

6823 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, DNS, iRecommend, Otzovik, Citylink

The most popular smart set-top box Like other devices from Xiaomi, this device is simply not capable of lying on the store counter.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 4,950 rub.

• Wireless modules: Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.2
• Operating system: Android 8.1
• Permanent and RAM: 8 and 2 GB
• Connectors: USB 2.0, optical output, HDMI 2.0a

An excellent TV set-top box that is definitely worth the money. At one time, this was the best option, coping with most existing problems. Now some buyers may make certain claims against it. For example, a budget device has only one USB connector. You may also have problems connecting the set-top box to a very old TV. But the device works without any problems, even despite the not the most powerful processor. You just need to connect it to a Wi-Fi 802.11ac network - in this case, even watching 4K video becomes available. The product also comes with a convenient remote control that supports voice input.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Not very high cost
• 4K resolution supported
• Convenient remote control

• Few connectors
• Insufficient memory

See also:

• 15 best 40-inch TVs

Connection interfaces

There are various connectors located on the back of the console body. You need to find out what they are for. Most models have the following connection interfaces:

• an antenna that is necessary to receive a satellite or terrestrial signal, while for digital TV from terrestrial transmitters a separate UHF antenna is needed, for cable television there is no need for such an antenna;
• connecting plugs and antenna cable are required to connect the UHF antenna;
• an RCA cable, also known as “bells”, is needed to transmit the signal from the set-top box directly to the input connectors of the television device, at the end of such a cable there are 3 plugs that are designed for video and audio channels, usually connected to older models of televisions;
• HDMI cable, intended for the same purposes as the RCA wire, but HDMI is used for newer modifications of set-top boxes and receivers, provides high-quality images and good signal transmission.

To connect the set-top box to the TV, you will need to connect the antenna, TV and receiver with cables. Devices have special connectors for cables, so you need to know what to connect and where.

Regardless of the modification, the set-top box has two required connectors:

• antenna input, labeled either RF IN or ANT IN, a plug from the antenna or from the cable TV distribution board is inserted into the connector;

• The connector for the power supply is called either DC-5V or DC-IN; the power supply wire is connected to it.

In addition to the required connectors, there are also those that are not found on all models, but on most of them. They are as follows:

• antenna output, marked as RF-OUT, RF-LOOP or LOOP-OUT, necessary for connecting another set-top box;
• RCA output, video and audio signals pass through it, intended for old television receivers, the picture is not of very high quality;
• HDMI, digital output for high definition playback, it is recommended to use this connector;
• A USB connector is required to connect external information storage devices; it can be used to record programs and watch audio and video files; you can connect Wi-Fi through the same connector.

In addition to the connectors presented above, there are rare connecting elements that a small number of devices have. These include:

• VGA connector, it was developed back in 1987 to connect a computer monitor to a video card, later it was used to connect DVD players, at the moment it is outdated and is being replaced by the HDMI connector;
• SCART, a standard connector for technical equipment, is used in the European market, found in both televisions and set-top boxes;
• S-Video, an old connector used to connect game consoles and video players, provides a high quality signal, but an adapter is required for its operation, and the connector does not transmit HD images.

For most users, standard connectors are enough; they provide good signal transmission and, accordingly, good picture resolution.

Top 2. Ugoos X3 PRO

Rating (2021): 4.66

270 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, Ozon, Rozetka

Gigabit LAN port It is a rare case when a smart set-top box is equipped with a LAN connector that supports a data transfer rate of 1000 Mbit/s.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 7,350 rub.

• Wireless modules: Wi-Fi 802.11n, Bluetooth 5.0
• Operating system: Android 9.0
• Permanent and RAM: 32 and 4 GB
• Connectors: USB 2.0, USB 3.0, composite, HDMI 2.0, Ethernet

The best choice for those who prefer a wired connection. The fact is that the device is slightly limited by the Wi-Fi 802.11n standard, the bandwidth of which is not enough for stable playback of online content in 4K resolution. In this case, a network cable comes to the rescue, which is connected to a gigabit LAN port. With this type of connection, you can forget about the brakes. But this, of course, is only relevant for those people who use the set-top box in conjunction with a TV with a 4K screen. As for Smart TV, this function is implemented based on the ninth version of Android. A very powerful processor and a decent amount of RAM contribute to the absence of slowdowns, which is good news.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Large number of connectors
• 4K resolution supported
• You can insert a memory card

• High price
• Not the best native remote control
• Video won't play in browser

Top 1. MECOOL KM9 Pro Classic

Rating (2021): 4.67

85 reviews from resources taken into account: Yandex.Market, Ozon, Rozetka

The most affordable smart set-top box The price for the device is not very high, but it offers a very wide range of functionality.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 3,880 rub.

• Wireless modules: Wi-Fi 802.11n, Bluetooth 4.0
• Operating system: Android 9.0
• Permanent and RAM: 16 and 2 GB
• Connectors: USB 2.0, USB 3.0, composite, HDMI 2.1, Ethernet

The best choice for a person who wants to save money. But be prepared to come to terms with certain restrictions. If you connect a set-top box to a 4K TV, you will have to pull a network cable from the router. This is due to the fact that the device uses the 802.11n Wi-Fi standard, and its bandwidth is usually not enough to watch videos with high bitrates and resolutions. But if your TV has a Full HD screen, then you won’t even notice this problem. They don’t complain about the number of connectors in the reviews either. It is optimal. Even the memory card slot is not forgotten here. There are no complaints about the remote control, which has a modest size and a minimum number of buttons. What confuses people is the regularly occurring brakes associated with a clearly insufficient volume of O3U.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Convenient remote control
• Large number of connectors
• There is a microSD card slot

• Low RAM
• Wi-Fi is limited to 802.11n

to the beginning of the rating

Beelink GT-King

Price : 10,490 rub.

Beelink GT-King is the real king of the world of TV boxes, combining 3 entertainment components: video, audio, games. For avid movie fans, the set-top box has Advanced Video Engine Gen10 technology, which decodes video with H265 and VP9 codecs with support for HLG, HDR, PRIME HDR, etc.

According to users, in this device they highlight a powerful processor, large RAM and a functional remote control. The digital set-top box does not heat up during operation. To work, you will need to install additional software.

For reference: users recommend the device for purchase, but advise upgrading the software to something more convenient.

Top 3. SBER SberBox

Rating (2021): 4.30

1940 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, M.Video, DNS, Ozon, Citylink

The most stable operation You won’t experience any slowdowns from this TV set-top box, as it is designed for strictly defined functionality.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 2,590 rub.

• Country: Russia (manufactured in China)
• Operating system: StarOS
• Permanent and RAM: 16 and 2 GB
• Connectors: HDMI 2.1, Ethernet
• Wireless modules: Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth

The most simplified TV set-top box, which usually hangs somewhere behind the TV. It has no additional connectors at its disposal. Therefore, it is usually bought by owners of those TVs who already have a Smart TV, but who want more. The point is that SberBox offers a smart assistant and a set of online services from the bank at a good price. In particular, this will appeal to those who do not have an antenna - the set-top box allows you to watch many TV channels via the Internet. Or you can use the Okko online cinema. There are no problems with watching videos on some conditional YouTube. What’s important is that the power of the Amlogic S905Y2 processor is more than enough to play 4K content. Buyers don’t say anything bad about the remote control in their reviews either. This is a rare case when an inexpensive set-top box comes with an accessory equipped with a microphone.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Almost complete absence of brakes
• 4K resolution supported
• Convenient remote control

• There is only an HDMI connector
• Minimum number of applications
• You need to link to Sberbank Online

Top 2. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K

Rating (2021): 4.55

17 reviews from resources taken into account: Yandex.Market, Rozetka

Better performance Using its own OS allowed Amazon to achieve instant transitions from one menu to another.

The smallest dimensions This TV set-top box is slightly larger than a regular USB flash drive.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 5,300 rub.

• Country: USA (manufactured in China)
• Operating system: Fire OS 6
• Permanent and RAM: 8 and 1 GB
• Connectors: USB 2.0 Type B, HDMI 1.4b
• Wireless modules: Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0

A superbly realized example. It is inserted into the HDMI connector of the TV, after which you forget about its existence. Since there is Bluetooth support, the remote control works using this standard. As befits such an expensive set-top box, it is capable of understanding voice commands. But only English speakers. As, in fact, there is no Russian language in the menu used here. Perhaps this is the main drawback of this model. But it’s quite possible to come to terms with it. Surely you have already memorized the interface of YouTube, Netflix and other similar applications? Another drawback is the HDMI standard. Its bandwidth is enough to transmit images in 4K resolution, but we do not recommend counting on a high frame rate.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Perfect firmware performance
• Comes with an excellent remote control
• Modest size

• Limited technical capabilities
• The interface is in English
• Inflated price tag