Top 15 best TV set-top boxes for TV

The life of our contemporaries without the Internet, social networks, and applications that make life easier is simply impossible. However, what to do if there is no computer nearby, the size of the smartphone display does not suit you, there is only one thing left to do, buy a Smart set-top box for your TV. Of course, you can buy a smart TV, but this is not always the best solution for a variety of reasons. Therefore, the editors of the YaNashla website bring to your attention a review of the best TV smart consoles for 2021.

The best premium SMART TV set-top boxes

In this section you can find TV boxes on different operating systems. It is important to note here that Windows models have higher hardware requirements, but can boast a full-fledged BIOS. Such set-top boxes are clearly better for office work; they support many relevant applications from Microsoft. Android models are less demanding, have more applications, convenient search and a simpler interface. They are better suited for gaming and are more affordable. You can also find models from Apple on IOS with excellent optimization and stable operation.

DUNE HD RealBox 4K

Our top 10 set-top box for TV opens with the DUNE HD RealBox 4K model, which supports HDR technology. The new generation of TV boxes received not only VP9, but also an improved codec format - VP9 profile 2, which is used by YouTube to play content with support for HDR10+ extended range technology. Consequently, the brightness range while viewing content changes automatically depending on the requirements of the frame, which ensures maximum image detail. But that’s not all about the advantages of the device. The new product received support for content in 3D format with Full HD resolution. Automatic frame rate switching is implemented, and this is accompanied by no flicker. The vast majority of analogues based on Realtek processors are not able to boast such performance and stability when working with heavy content.

Pros:

3D support;
codec VP9 profile 2;
HDR10+ support.

Minuses:

few options.

Apple TV Gen 4

If you are looking for a good 4K TV set-top box, you should consider one of Apple's top products with excellent controls, functionality and stabilization. This model supports HDR content, allows you to play interactive games, enjoy Netflix, Red Bull and a number of other popular applications that the corporation interacts with. The picture is really clear, any dynamic programs, including sporting events, look really bright. The collection of pre-installed applications deserves special attention, including Amediateka (more than 150 free TV series), IVI, MEGOGO, Qello Concerts (the largest collection of concerts, music in HD). The functionality is controlled using the Apple TV Remote or using Touch technology (touch switching). The A10X Fusion chip guarantees high query processing speed. There is a branded App Store.

Pros:

A10X Fusion processor;
RAM capacity 4 gigabytes;
built-in applications;
compact body.

Minuses:

1080p support.

Zidoo Z9S

We are talking about a functional media player with 4K support, a review of which can be found on many reputable portals. The secret to the popularity of this model is its luxurious equipment. Indeed, many digital interfaces have been implemented, including DLNA, AirPlay, Ethernet, Miracast, e-SATA. Of course, it is possible to play content using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. At the same time, the stylish unibody aluminum body looks small. The ergonomic design is supported by a stylish design and good build quality. This particular model is powered by a single-chip processor of the Realtek RTD1296 series, and is complemented by 2 gigabytes of RAM. Of course, this is not an ideal indicator, but for such a price it’s decent. The amount of permanent memory is 16 gigabytes, and it can be increased via a microSD slot. The model supports the BitTorrent client and many video services. You can play content that supports HDR10.

Pros:

communication skills;
modest size;
durable body;
appearance;
affordable price.

Minuses:

some RAM.

Apple TV 4K

In a review of TV set-top boxes that attract with good functionality and power, we simply cannot ignore the Apple TV 4K model. The device supports HDR technology and Dolby Atmos sound. The main difference between the new product and its predecessor is support for 4K UHD. As for services and functionality, things are similarly good here: there is IVI, Amediateka, Apple TV and also exclusive content from the company - these are Originals. It is worth noting that the manufacturers took into account the wishes of users and added a user switch - an excellent solution for use by the whole family, because everyone has their own preferences in terms of choosing content. The proprietary processor is responsible for the power. There are several configurations available to choose from. The best version will be the one with 64 gigabytes of internal memory.

Pros:

high power;
convenient control;
appearance;
branded services;
Memory.

Minuses:

high price.

NVIDIA SHIELD

The best TV set-top box of 2021 in the premium segment is not new, but still relevant NVIDIA SHIELD, which is great not only for working with content, but also for using games. Actually, the fact that this is the most functional media player can be understood both from the image and the cost. At the same time, the number of supported resources deserves special attention: from NVIDIA Games to Netflix. The powerful TV box copes excellently with HDR10, Dolby Vision, and has a powerful -Fi 802.11ac Mimo 2×2. Moreover, the manufacturer took care of the ability to play Blu-Ray discs. Simple control is due to support for voice commands and the presence of a high-quality web browser. However, the quality of the remote control also meets the most demanding expectations of buyers. The manufacturer guarantees a powerful NVIDIA Tegra X1. The model operates on Android 9.0 OS.

Pros:

equipment;
power;
design;
scope of application;
number of services.

Minuses:

The best Android TV set-top boxes for price and quality

First, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the most popular media players, costing up to 5,000 rubles, which run on the Android operating system. According to the editors, the stated price represents the optimal price-quality ratio with decent technical characteristics and functionality, of course. Are there cheaper TV set-top boxes? Of course yes. But we do not recommend trying to save money on these gadgets, since in most cases this negatively affects the functionality, stability of operation, and ease of use of the equipment. Android OS consoles are attractive because they have the most applications and games available for them.

ZTE ZXV10 B866

The ZTE ZXV10 B866 model, which is a multifunctional device for both video playback and games, completes the rating of TV set-top boxes. Good performance is provided by the ARM Mali-450 series chip, the power of which is easily enough for light applications and watching videos in 2160p resolution. Speed in performing assigned tasks is also guaranteed by 2 gigabytes of RAM. The ROM is only 8 gigabytes, and this is clearly not an ideal figure. I am pleased with the number of ports to unlock the full potential of the technology. Uses HDMI connector, 2 USB ports. Among the wireless modules, it should be noted Wi-Fi, information transmission via Bluetooth, and Ethernet. At the same time, the device with a reasonable price tag supports voice control and access to Google Play resources.

Pros:

number of ports;
not a bad picture;
compact sizes.

Minuses:

average power.

Vontar X96 Max+

Undoubtedly, and rightfully, the Vontar X96 MAX+ model is considered a good SMART set-top box on Android today. We previously had the classic version of this box on our list, but now we want to highlight the merits of the premium configuration, which also works with support for 4K UHD resolution. This version also uses an advanced Mali graphics accelerator with OpenGL support. However, the improved version has more memory: 4 gigabytes of RAM and 32 GB of ROM. Let us remind you that the usual variation has only 2 gigabytes of LPDDR4 RAM. The browser in this gadget is the recognizable and secure Google Chrome. Supports a wide range of ports, including USB 3.0 Type A, as well as Ethernet.

Pros:

good power;
many applications;
Open GL support;
build quality.

Minuses:

Memory.

Ugoos X3 Plus

If you are looking for an inexpensive but good TV set-top box for Android 9.0, we recommend paying attention to the improved version of the X3 Plus from Ugoos with a 4-core Quad Core processor. This is a fairly powerful chip, whose performance will not be enough to play demanding content and even games. Mail-G31 is used as a graphics accelerator. At the same time, the manufacturer equipped the device with 4 gigabytes of DDR4 RAM. The volume of built-in memory is 32 GB. There is built-in HDMI, remote IR port, Ethernet, tulips. The design is quite durable, but in terms of design it is inferior to a number of competitors. However, this is an aesthetic issue. In terms of technical parameters, this is definitely a top media player.

Pros:

good power;
Memory;
many ports;
connected services.

Minuses:

design for everyone.

Rombica Smart Box v007

If you still haven’t decided which TV set-top box to choose on Android, you should definitely pay attention to Rombica Smart Box v007.
I am pleased with the number of built-in Internet resources, including Netflix, Megogo, of course YouTube, and others. However, if something is missing from the collection, you can easily increase the number of applications using the built-in Google Play Store or APK. If there is not enough built-in memory, you can increase it using a memory card. Performance is ensured by a medium-power chip with 4 cores and a clock frequency of 1 GHz. I am pleased with the quality of the implementation of the software shell from the Rombica company. The system is well adapted to be controlled using a remote control. Pros:

branded shell;
quality of construction;
many Internet services;
neat appearance;
small sizes.

Minuses:

not high power.

Xiaomi Mi Box International Version

The best Android TV set-top box in 2021 in terms of price/quality ratio is the Xiaomi Mi Box International Version series model. The regular Mi Box S, as you understand, is less cost-effective for our region, which can be seen in terms of control and settings. Moreover, each of the configurations boasts really good hardware characteristics. It is worth noting that this model supports video in the format 3840 by 2160 pixels. The processor is Amlogic, powered by Cortex-A53 Quad-Core paired with 2 gigabytes of RAM. The volume of permanent memory is 8 gigabytes. We are pleased with the variety of interfaces, including HDMI, USB and audio output. For ease of control there is Google Assistant, as well as SmartCast.

maximum resolution;
powerful processor;
global version;
many ports;
smart assistants.

Minuses:

no for that amount.

Xiaomi Mi Box S

Bestseller in the world from Xiaomi , fast, cool, high-quality and functional firmware. Supports Google Assistant voice control and certified online services in 4K HDR with Dolby and DTS sound. Android TV system .

Operating system: Android 8.1
SoC Quad Core 64 Bit
GPU: ARM G31 MP2 GPU
SDRAM: 2GB RAM + 8GB ROM
Network: IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n 2.4 GHz/5.0 GHz, LAN port - none

Aliexpress store link

Link to Mvideo store

Rating of TV tuners for TVs

T2 set-top boxes are the most budget option for organizing television broadcasting at home. Such tuners can display images on a monitor or TV in different formats. In fact, such gadgets are the predecessors of DVB-T, a standard that is already implemented in all modern televisions. In this collection we will look at the simplest solutions for TV.

LUMAX DV-1115HD

Let's start our review of budget TV tuners with the previous generation model LUMAX DV-1115HD series, which has a simple but compact body. Despite its extreme simplicity in terms of style, we are talking about a reliable device that supports most of the available open-air and even cable TV channels. Moreover, it catches them even in automatic mode. It is worth noting that this receiver supports Dolby Digital and can play content in different formats. The advantages of the device include the input for a 3G modem for accessing the Internet. Accordingly, you can use network applications such as YouTube hosting. It is important to emphasize that the device is produced on different processors - pay attention to the packaging. The firmware depends on this.

Pros:

modem output;
stable work;
support for different formats;
good manual channel search.

Minuses:

comes out on different chipsets.

D-COLOR DC1501HD

Another inexpensive digital tuner with autonomous connection and external location of the unit. The D-COLOR DC1501HD model supports three picture formats: from 720p to 1080p, therefore, which is quite enough for old TVs. The output picture format can have two aspect ratios: 4 by 3 or 16 by 9. There are several outputs, including audio, HDMI and standard composite. In addition, the manufacturer has taken care of the possibility of connecting external storage devices via USB 2.0 Type A. The kit includes a regular remote control. Among the functions, we note a timer, teletext, and delayed viewing.

Pros:

Dolby Digital support;
there is teletext;
deferred viewing;
aspect ratio;
USB 2.0 Type A port.

Minuses:

for old TVs.

Cadena CDT-1753SB

The Cadena CDT-1753SB model with support for DVB-T and DVB-T2 is considered a good solution for over-the-air connection of channels. The gadget supports an antenna input for television and is equipped with a modest screen. Control is carried out using an intuitive and ergonomic remote control. There is a good hardware component inside, which determines the stable operation of the equipment. In addition, the chipset is effectively cooled by a passive cooling system. In terms of functions, everything here is extremely modest, but the stability and number of ports are attractive. There is an HDMI input, AV output, and a USB 2.0 interface.

Pros:

number of ports;
stable work;
convenient remote control;
build quality.

Minuses:

few options.

LUMAX DV-1120HD

Another model from LUMAX, but of a more modern design, which can be understood by the scope of supported options. At the same time, the DVB-T2/C digital receiver operates on the basis of a new chipset. Unlike the previous line, this gadget attracts with a higher frequency of picture and sound. At the same time, support for a wide range of formats is implemented: from PNG to MP3. The same simple manual search is available as in the previous line, but several options have been added. In particular, support for pausing during television broadcasts has been implemented, and a connection to WI-FI is provided for accessing the Internet. There are also a few default movie theaters that you can subscribe to if you want.

Pros:

convenient remote control;
interesting interface;
many options;
picture quality;
support for different formats.

Minuses:

not found.

World Vision T624A

The best TV set-top box of 2021 for receiving digital signals is the entry-class model of the World Vision T624A series, which allows you to enjoy not only over-the-air TV channels, but also organize a modest multimedia center near your TV. In particular, this gadget can play multimedia files using flash drives and other external storage devices. Moreover, it is possible to record content to a hard drive, including live broadcasts. Among the useful functions, we note a TV guide, access to email services and news feeds. On the back of the device you can find a wide range of connectors: from USB to HDMI.

Pros:

many connectors;
channel recording;
Internet access;
there is a TV guide;
simple interface.

Minuses:

not found.

Watch IPTV or television for $1 per month

As a rule, a set-top box is bought for two main things: watching movies (we discussed this topic at the very beginning, talking about Kodi and HD Videobox) and for watching regular television. There are several services on the network that allow you to watch over-the-air channels in SD and HD quality packages for prices starting from $1 per month or with charging only for viewing time - for those who watch television from time to time. Let's look at them in more detail.

First, to watch IPTV, I like to use the Perfect Player application. Its controls are tailored to work with the TV screen and remote control, and it has an auto-frame rate that makes the picture smooth on good TVs.

Second: price. Usually IPTV is purchased when

want to save on paying for a regular cable package (usually it costs 250 rubles);
get more channels (including adults) for less money;
do not have cable at all (for example, at the dacha);
watch TV very rarely and do not want to pay the subscriber for sometimes provided services;
live abroad and want to receive Russian/Ukrainian and other local channels.

In the first two cases, the Edem.TV service is perfect, where the cost of a subscription to two hundred-odd channels is $1 per month. Typically, Eden is the pay TV service that IPTV users start with.

Then, if you need more stability, there are services with a higher price and a larger set of channels. As a rule, OttClub is most often mentioned here. The service is quite high-quality and stable, and by default it redirects you to the best and closest server, from which the content is delivered the fastest.

However, OttClub is expensive: from $4.5 to $10 per month for different sets of channels. However, this service has an excellent feature for those who watch television from time to time - an on-demand tariff. Its cost:

SDTV - $0.0228/hour;
HDTV - $0.04568/hour
FullHDTV — 0.0912$/hour

Those. you can throw in 5 bucks and watch TV only when you need it. I consider this an important advantage of the service.

On the forums you can find a frequent opinion that the picture from OttClub much better than many services, for example EdemTV. However, in fact this is not entirely true. As one of the forum members aptly noted, if the OttClub picture is taken as 100% quality, then Edem will correspond to it by about 90%. Below is a comparison of two frames of HD broadcast of the first channel in different services (when clicked, the picture will open in the original resolution).

As you can see, the difference is not particularly noticeable and on other channels the situation is close. Therefore, if you need quality and stability, OttClub is your choice (including the option of living abroad). If price is important, Edem is your choice.

Another interesting point - during testing on a poor Internet channel, the picture from OttClub came back normal in a greater number of cases than from EdemTV. This happens thanks to a large number of servers that allow you to optimize the channel. IPTV does not end with these services alone, and on this forum you can choose a provider to suit your taste. However, again, Edem and OttClub are the best in their categories.

How to choose the right SMART TV set-top box?

Having decided on the manufacturer, operating system and functions, it remains to pay due attention to key parameters directly related to performance and equipment. If you don’t know how to choose a good TV set-top box, we recommend taking into account the characteristics:

Central processor . We are talking about one of the most important parts of the hardware basis of a TV box. He is responsible for the speed of the equipment and the level of productivity. It is worth saying that Apple has its own processors, which have higher performance than analogues of the Amlogic S922X-H series based on Cortex-A73 and Cortex-A53 cores. But the last option is quite enough, and it will remain relevant for a long time. However, there are also less powerful solutions, but do not forget that the requirements for content are growing, as are the requirements for modern applications, so it is better to focus on the latest versions of chips.
Graphics adapter . This is more relevant for Android models that allow you to use games. The Mali G-52 is still considered a good graphics accelerator today, with which you can easily use a 4K image at frame rates from 60 to 120 FPS with other decent characteristics.
Memory . We are talking about RAM (responsible for speed, multitasking) and ROM (the amount of data that can be stored inside the device). Of course, it depends on your goals, but the more, the better. If you plan to play games, you will need from 64 to 128 gigabytes of permanent memory and at least 4 GB of RAM.
Wi - Fi module . The speed of downloading and playing content over the Internet depends on the version. The more modern the better.
Connectors. Different ports are responsible for different connection purposes (data storage devices, the Internet, other options for displaying information). You definitely need HDMI (for a TV), AV (if an old TV), LAN (wired Internet), TF (to increase memory via MicroSD), USB (peripheral gadgets).

Actual set-top box tests

All other things being equal, often actual measurements of the performance and speed of TV boxes differ. Therefore, in addition to reviews, it is necessary to take into account data from resources that conduct the following studies:

Extreme test - shows what maximum temperature the device can withstand and to what point the device heats up when using its full power potential;
Wi-Fi test – displays the actual speed for receiving/transmitting information;
Tests in games - if you are interested in Android TV Box for games, you should pay attention to the frame rate in different applications (FPS).

As a rule, in the reviews of all premium solutions you can see the actual indicators.

Tips for choosing a media player

What is the minimum power a TV set-top box must have? If you are on a limited budget, then it will be useful to know that the minimum for comfortable viewing of videos in good quality is the use of a 4-core chip with a frequency of 1.3 to 1.5 GHz with 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of ROM. For 4K on a limited budget, the X96 Max is considered a worthy solution.
On which operating system should I choose a media player? As a rule, Windows-based models are purchased to obtain an alternative to a PC, that is, for solving office tasks (including). If you are interested in a media player for entertainment, then Android TV BOX is definitely the best option due to the wide abundance of applications. An alternative is more optimized Apple products on iOS. But their list of software is lower, and the cost is higher.
Does the price of a TV set-top box depend on its appearance? The cost of a media player depends on many parameters: from the hardware to the manufacturer. Appearance is not an important parameter when determining cost. However, if you are interested in a compact solution, then pay attention to the actual performance in throttling tests, which indicates the service life of the equipment.

Selecting a TV box configuration

The vast majority of TV boxes have a standard set of accessories, including documentation, HDMI cable, charger and remote control. Premium solutions may have many more additional components:

Antennas – significantly improve the speed of data reception via the Wi-Fi module;
Technological remote controls - more advanced components, equipped with voice input, a gyroscope for cursor control, etc.;
Infrared signal receiver - useful if you are going to hide the box behind the TV, for example;
Game controllers - gamepads are usually included in expensive Android boxes that support fairly demanding 3D applications.

The list is not final. Much depends specifically on the purpose of the model and brand.

Which TV set-top box is best to buy in 2021?

We hope it has become clear that the choice of such technology requires an understanding of the main tasks that modern boxes can cope with. If you haven’t decided which TV set-top box to buy, consider the capabilities of different OSes, processors and functionality. If you are interested in our opinion, then the conclusion is this:

The best TV set-top box for iOS is Apple TV 4K.
A good media player for the price and quality – NVIDIA SHIELD;
Balanced model on Android – Vontar X96 MAX+;
The best TV box on Android – Xiaomi Mi Box International Version;
Inexpensive set-top box for digital TV – World Vision T624A.

Friends, if you think that this list is missing any media player, be sure to share the name and your reasons in the comments, and thank you for your attention.

Air mouse with microphone G21 Pro

G21 Pro air mouse with microphone is the best choice for those who want to make it easier to control their TV set-top box. According to numerous user reviews, the G21 Pro is the best budget Chinese remote control for TV boxes.

Aliexpress store link

Link to Rozetka store