Choose an Android smart TV box for any budget! DVB-T2, IPTV, 4K online torrents and heavy games

Digital television has long been joined by modern Internet technologies. This significantly expanded the capabilities and functionality of televisions. Most of them are equipped with a Smart TV platform, and outdated receivers can be connected to set-top boxes, also known as TV boxes. In both cases, the opportunity to use popular services opens up. Next, we’ll look at the best smart TV set-top boxes and TV boxes for TVs.

Criterias of choice

For the rating, we studied 37 models that are in demand and selected the 15 best with a large number of positive reviews. The categories were divided according to the main criteria:

• availability of DVB-T2 support,
• models with Android OS,
• smart TV set-top boxes.

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The most popular set-top boxes are models with DVB-T2 support. This is the most affordable option that allows you to switch your TV to receive a digital signal. Users who want to get the Smart TV function are interested in more expensive models with Android OS. Set-top boxes may have additional functions: Internet radio, IPTV support, control from a smartphone.

Best DVB T2 TV set-top boxes 2021

5th place LEXAND LTV 100 4th place HARPER HDT2-5010 3rd place Cadena CDT-1651SB 2nd place Digifors HD 100 Premium 1st place D-COLOR DC961HD

The best Android TV boxes 2021

5th place Tanix TX3 Mini 2/16Gb 4th place Ugoos AM3 3rd place ZIDOO Z9S 2nd place Vontar X3 4/128 Gb 1st place Xiaomi Mi Box S

The best smart TV set-top boxes for TV 2021

5th place MECOOL KM9 Pro Classic1 4th place Ugoos X3 PLUS 3rd place Google Chromecast Ultra 2nd place Tanix TX9S 2/8 Gb 1st place Apple TV 4K 32GB

The best Smart TV set-top boxes

Regular tuners continue to borrow features from Smart TVs. With their participation, the TV turns into a media center for listening to music, viewing photos and videos from external USB drives. And the installed software allows you to connect to the Internet and use popular on-line services (online cinema, weather, mail, Youtube). We present the best Smart TV set-top boxes, which, in essence, are a full-fledged computer optimized for the TV screen.

CTVISON

Work with different formats and operating systems Price on AliExpress: from 1,200 rubles.
Rating (2020): 4.5 A standard smart set-top box, as a rule, runs on a pre-installed operating system. Most often this is an android, and not always the latest worship. In this case, you are not limited to one OS, since by default there are three systems at once: Android, iOS and even Linux. If you are used to Apple brand technology, you should not give up your usual controls. The set-top box can also work under the control of this system.

In addition, the model supports several file players at once. With it you are not limited to standard DVD. There is even VLC, which easily plays MKV files, which not all Android consoles can handle. This review allows us to conclude that we have the best set-top box in terms of functionality, and at the most attractive price. In principle, it could have been placed in first place in the rating, if not for the extremely complex control menu. They write a lot about this in reviews under the product on AliExpress. It is very difficult to understand all the options, especially without knowledge of the structure of various operating systems.

Reyfoon

The best connectivity options Price on AliExpress: from RUB 2,000.
Rating (2021): 4.6 A TV set-top box is not only digital television, but also games, music, social networks and much more. A full-fledged Android, but not on a computer or smartphone, but directly on the TV. It is difficult to control smart models, especially from the remote control. Limited number of keys, extremely inconvenient pointer movement. In this model you can connect any device: keyboard, gamepad, wireless data transfer module, headphones, speaker system. No more searching for the appropriate input on the back of your TV. Everything is on the console itself, and this is the best solution for those who like to use all the functionality of the equipment to the fullest.

Android installed in the 10th generation model. On board there are 4 gigabytes of RAM and 64 gigabytes of built-in storage. If necessary, you can also connect a removable drive, which will make it possible to view third-party DVD files.

VIEW ON ALIEXPRESS

DQiDianZ

Attractive design Price on AliExpress: from 1,700 rubles.
Rating (2021): 4.7 This is probably the best TV set-top box in terms of design. Yes, manufacturers represented on AliExpress like to experiment with non-standard shapes, but in this case they managed to achieve the most ideal balance. The form factor is round, reminiscent of a hockey puck. On the front panel there is a laconic display showing the clock or channel numbering.

The design of the remote control is also excellent. Nothing superfluous, but at the same time convenient and technologically advanced. There is even a microphone that allows you to control the Android OS using your voice. All connectors are located at the back of the console. There is an HDMI input, as well as several USB ports for connecting high-tech gamepads or flash cards for watching DVD files. In general, a standard model, where the main advantage lies in the appearance of the device. It’s not a shame to put such a console in a prominent place in your home, and it’s quite affordable. At least by AliExpress standards.

VIEW ON ALIEXPRESS

Best DVB T2 TV set-top boxes 2021

5th place LEXAND LTV 100

RUB 1,200

Tuner in a black plastic case with remote control. It accepts C2 and T2 signals and supports video resolutions up to 1080p (Full HD).

Included: remote control, receiver, power supply, AV cable, instructions.

Specifications:

• video format 4:3, 16:9;
• digital standards: DVB-T2;
• outputs: audio, HDMI, composite;
• additional functions: timer, teletext, delayed viewing mode.

Easy setup

Packaging and equipment

The TV set-top box is supplied in a glossy cardboard box, on which its main characteristics are indicated in the form of pictograms.

Package Included:

• hybrid TV set-top box Mecool M8S Plus DVB;
• remote control;
• power unit;
• HDMI cable;
• user manual.

In addition to the Android part control buttons, the remote control has additional buttons for direct control of the DVB-T2 tuner functions. The buttons are made of rubber and are pressed softly. The remote control is powered by two AAA batteries.

The power supply is marked YZDZ15-050200. The following characteristics are declared: voltage 5V, current 2A. Made well for a budget TV box. The board contains input and output filters and a fuse. Low ESR capacitors are installed at the output. Cord length is about 1 m.

The HDMI cord is the same as most Chinese TV boxes. The length of the cord is about 80cm.

Operating instructions in English.

LEXAND LTV 100

low price;
easy setup;

ability to connect to IPTV with an additional Wi-Fi adapter.

small range of the remote control;

no display.

4th place HARPER HDT2-5010

RUB 1,500

Tuner with display and remote control. Receives T and T2 signals. It is possible to connect both an indoor and an external antenna. Signal transmission from the set-top box to the TV is possible via a composite connector or HDMI.

Included: remote control, batteries, instructions, RCA cable, power adapter, instructions.

Specifications:

• video format 4:3, 16:9;
• digital standards: DVB-T, DVB-T2;
• outputs: audio, HDMI, composite;
• additional functions: timer, teletext, delayed viewing mode.

Rich equipment

DRM

DRM is an abbreviation that stands for “digital restrictions management,” that is, digital restriction management. Copyright supporters usually decipher this abbreviation as digital rights management.

In Russian, DRM is called Technical means of copyright protection. Mecool M8S Plus DVB has support for Google Widevine DRM Level 1.

Playing test videos

Mecool M8S Plus DVB plays 4K videos 3840×2160 60fps without any difficulties.

I tested the playback of the following videos:

• Ducks.Take.Off.720p.QHD.CRF24.x264-CtrlHD.mkv - MPEG4 Video (H264) 1280×720 29.97fps
• Ducks.Take.Off.1080p.QHD.CRF25.x264-CtrlHD.mkv - MPEG4 Video (H264) 1920×1080 29.97fps
• Ducks.Take.Off.2160p.QHD.CRF25.x264-CtrlHD.mkv - MPEG4 Video (H264) 3840×2160 29.97fps
• Sony Camp 4K Demo.mp4 – HVC1 3840×2160 59.94fps 78941kbps
• Philips Surf 4K Demo.mp4 o - HVC1 3840×2160 24fps 38013kbps
• LG Cymatic Jazz 4K Demo.ts – Video: HEVC 3840×2160 59.94fps

All videos were played without any problems using MX Player (HW+).

YouTube, HD Mediabox, LazyIPTV, Perfect Player

The pre-installed YouTube client has a maximum video resolution of 2160p.

There are no issues with playback, everything is smooth, with sound.

Online videos can be conveniently viewed using the HD Videobox program in conjunction with MX Player (HW+). With good transmission from the providers' servers, videos are played back flawlessly, smoothly, with sound.

To watch IPTV and torrent TV I use the combination AceStream + LazyIPTV or Perfect Player. If you have a fresh IPTV playlist, there are no problems with playback. But free playlists are unstable, I subscribed to IPTV channels from Edem TV. The cost is inexpensive - $1 per month, the quality is acceptable.

Temperature

The following temperatures were observed during testing:

• idle 63°C;
• viewing T2 channels 64 - 67°C;
• YouTube in 2160p 71 - 75°C;
• viewing 4K video from media 73 - 77°C
• watching online TV, IPTV 63 - 73°C.

The Cpu Throttling Test application did not detect throttling after a standard 15-minute test. During the test, the temperature did not rise above 78°C.

HARPER HDT2-5010

the display shows the channel number;
easy setup;

stylish design;

rich equipment.

The time is displayed too brightly.

3rd place Cadena CDT-1651SB

890 RUR

Tuner in a gray case with a display and remote control. When connected to USB, you can record broadcast channels onto it.

Included: remote control, RCA cable, instructions.

Specifications:

• video format 4:3, 16:9;
• digital standards: DVB-T2;
• outputs: audio, HDMI, composite;
• additional functions: timer, teletext, delayed viewing mode.

Low price

Terrestrial television standard DVB-C/T/T2

In my region, of the supported digital TV standards, only DVB-T2 is available. Watching terrestrial television is available using the DTV application. The translation of the application again leaves much to be desired. After launch, the application offers to search for digital TV channels. As a result of the scan, all 32 Ukrainian digital channels were discovered. Channel numbers are assigned automatically, using logical numbers (LCN). Next, the set-top box switches to the broadcast mode of the channel with the first logical number.

The included remote control conveniently controls the functions inherent in T2 receivers:

EPG (Electronic Program Guide) - “electronic television program”. Which presents an on-screen menu displaying the TV program schedule.

You can display the EPG menu on the screen using the button of the same name on the remote control. Several subsequent TV programs are also displayed on the screen when you change channels or press the "Info" button.

Using the “Task” button, you can add a task to record a program from the selected channel at the selected time. Multiple running jobs are supported. You can set the task to repeat: once, daily, weekly. Control in the task list is performed using the “colored” buttons of the standard remote control. Recording is carried out on an external USB drive. Recorded videos are available in the PVR menu.

Timeshift (delayed viewing). A function with which you can pause the TV program you are watching. And after some time, return to watching it. During a pause, recording is also carried out on an external USB drive.

When you press the “Menu” button on the remote control, you go to the interactive functions screen.

Here you can quickly navigate to the following menus:

• Settings menu;
• Channel Manager;
• EPG;
• Program settings.

The operation of DVB-T2 does not raise any questions. The image is high quality, channel switching occurs with a delay of less than a second. I was amused by the window with the question “Do you want to quit smoking?” when you turn off the program.

Cadena CDT-1651SB

low price;
easy setup;

quickly switches channels.

Does not support all file formats.

2nd place Digifors HD 100 Premium

RUR 2,100

Tuner in a black metal case with display and remote control. The panel has control buttons that will help you turn on and configure the receiver if the batteries in the remote control are low.

Included: remote control, HDMI-HDMI cable, RCA cable, batteries, instructions.

Specifications:

• video format 4:3, 16:9;
• digital standards: DVB-T, DVB-T2;
• outputs: audio, HDMI, composite;
• additional functions: timer, teletext, delayed viewing mode.

Reads any formats

Digifors HD 100 Premium

reads any formats from USB;
reliable shock-resistant housing;

good equipment.

low quality HDMI cable;

The menu image is of poor quality.

1 place D-COLOR DC961HD

RUB 1,300

Tuner in a black case with display and remote control. The panel has control buttons that allow you to configure channels without using the remote control.

Included: remote control, batteries, AV cable, instructions.

Specifications:

• video format 4:3, 16:9;
• digital standards: DVB-C, DVB-T, DVB-T2;
• outputs: audio, HDMI, composite;
• additional functions: recording timer, delayed viewing mode.

Affordable price

Conclusion

Mecool M8S Plus DVB is a typical representative of OEM products. They released the model and forgot about it. It is unlikely that the Mecool brand will support this model with new firmware. But the good news is that the set-top box has root access, so you can make a backup copy of the factory firmware and then customize it at your own discretion. Despite its modest characteristics, the Mecool M8S Plus DVB copes well with the functions of a home media center. Using the built-in DVB-C/T/T2 tuner, you can view digital terrestrial television channels; using the Android functionality, you can easily view popular online media content, including in 4K. The reviewed model is the most inexpensive in this class of devices. It can be considered for purchase if you have a limited budget and need to purchase such a device. On the negative side, I would like to note that I could not connect an external 1TB HDD to the set-top box; the set-top box worked correctly with flash drives. During the week of testing, there was a freeze once under excessive load (simultaneous viewing of HD IPTV channels, monitoring the temperature and trying to take a screenshot). The small amount of RAM affects this. Only reconnecting the power helped. That’s actually all I wanted to talk about in my review. Good luck to everyone! Thank you for your attention.

By following the link https://www.gearbest.com/tv-box/pp_009920079212.html?lkid=15944346 and using the coupon IT$CNM8P the cost of the reviewed set-top box will decrease by $13

Starting October 13, there is a sale at the link above, the cost of the set-top box is $39.99

The best Android TV boxes 2021

5th place Tanix TX3 Mini 2/16Gb

RUR 2,600

A set-top box in a black square case with Android 7.1 OS and a maximum resolution of 4K UHD. It connects to TV, computer and smartphone.

Included: remote control, batteries, HDMI cable, instructions.

Specifications:

• RAM 2 GB;
• internal built-in memory 16 GB;
• outputs: Ethernet 10/100, stereo audio, optical audio, composite video, HDMI, USB 2.0 Type A x 2I;
• additional functions: Internet services, Internet radio, support for microSD, microSDHC memory cards.

Works fast

Testing

According to test results, Mecool M8S Plus DVB is slightly ahead of budget TV boxes based on Amlogic S905W. The results are under the spoiler.

hidden text↓ Antutu 6.2.7 Geekbench 4 Antutu Videotester

Playing partially supported formats on the hardware level is solved by installing a third-party player, for example MX Player.

The A1SD Bench program showed low speed of the built-in Flash memory. RAM speed is average. There is a suspicion that A1SD Bench does not work correctly in Android 7. The box played 4K videos from internal memory perfectly, which indicates a speed greater than that shown by A1SD Bench.

Ugoos AM3

easy to install;
works quickly;

supports installation of memory cards;

many connectors.

not all functions are described in the instructions;

outdated OS.

3rd place ZIDOO Z9S

RUB 12,000

A set-top box in a gray case with Android 7.1 OS and a maximum resolution of 4K UHD. Can be controlled from a smartphone. The set-top box works with any subtitles; it can search for and enable suitable subtitles online.

Includes: remote control, batteries, cable, instructions.

Specifications:

• RAM 2 GB;
• internal built-in memory 16 GB;
• outputs: Ethernet 10/100/1000, RS-232, stereo audio output, optical audio output, composite, HDMI, USB 2.0 Type A x 2, USB 3.0 Type A x 2;
• additional functions: Internet services, support for microSD, microSDHC memory cards.

Lots of connectors

GTMedia GTC

A modern Smart TV set-top box running Android 6.0, which includes built-in tuners for digital, satellite and cable television (DVB-T2, DVB-S2, DVB-C, ISDB-T). An all-in-one device to create an entertainment center on your home TV. All the features of an Android media player + viewing digital television.

Characteristics:

Buy GTMedia GTC

ZIDOO Z9S

can be controlled from a smartphone;
supports installation of memory cards;

many connectors.

high price;

does not always read the AVI format.

2nd place Vontar X3 4/128 Gb

RUB 5,700

A set-top box in a black and orange case with Android 9.0 OS and a maximum resolution of 4K UHD. Supports different subtitle formats. Supports 4K and 8K decoding.

Includes: remote control, batteries, cable, instructions.

Specifications:

• RAM 4 GB;
• internal built-in memory 128 GB;
• outputs: USB 2.0 Type A, USB 3.0 Type A, Ethernet 10/100/1000, audio optical, composite, HDMI;
• additional functions: Internet services, Internet radio, support for microSD, microSDHC memory cards.

Large memory capacity

Vontar X3 4/128 Gb

large amount of memory;
stylish design;

supports installation of memory cards;

affordable price.

The remote control has little functionality.

1st place Xiaomi Mi Box S

RUR 5,800

The console has a black square case with Android 8.0 OS and a maximum resolution of 4K UHD. Support for Google Play Internet services. Works in the Smart Home system.

Included: remote control, batteries, instructions. The remote control is Bluetooth powered and has buttons for calling video services Netflix, Live TV and others.

Specifications:

• RAM 2 GB;
• internal built-in memory 8 GB;
• outputs: USB 2.0 Type A, stereo audio output, HDMI output;
• additional functions: IPTV support, Internet radio, IPhone support.

Affordable price

How to choose a TV tuner

If you are still undecided on the choice of a specific model, then appreciate a few more useful features that these devices may have.

Time Shift function

Allows you to pause the live broadcast. Of course, we are not talking about a literal pause, as is the case with video playback. This feature is achieved through buffering (recording a TV broadcast to an external drive). After resuming viewing, the tuner will play back the data from the buffer and then delete the temporary files.

As a rule, sufficiently fast drives are required for this function to work.

Video recording

Often Time Shift is limited in time (creating a buffer for 3–5 minutes, sometimes up to several tens of minutes). If the user wants to watch the program in full and much later, then it can be recorded on a flash drive. In this case, the duration is practically unlimited, provided that the drive is able to accommodate the entire content being recorded.

Availability of display

The screen in modern TV tuners often serves a purely decorative function. It usually displays the current time. But in some cases, the display also displays information about menu navigation, TV channel number and other useful information.

IPTV support

The presence of this option means that the tuner can work with television broadcasts from the Internet. It has a lot of advantages over traditional solutions: an extensive library, high quality, ease of creating a channel for network broadcasts, etc.

To operate IPTV (and for other network functions), you need to purchase additional Wi-Fi adapters.

YouTube, MEGOGO, RSS

These and other features can only be accessed when connected to the Internet. Some models initially have a LAN port or Wi-Fi module for this purpose. For others, you can purchase the appropriate adapter. But keep in mind that a specific receiver with Internet access may not support all popular Internet services.

The best smart TV set-top boxes for TV 2021

5th place MECOOL KM9 Pro Classic

RUR 4,500

Model in a black square case with Android 9.0 OS.

Included: remote control, batteries, HDMI cable, power supply, instructions. The remote control works via Bluetooth, has a voice function and supports the Google Assistant application.

Specifications:

• RAM 2 GB;
• internal built-in memory 16 GB;
• outputs: USB 2.0 Type A, USB 3.0 Type A, Ethernet 10/100, stereo audio, composite video, HDMI;
• additional functions: Internet services, Internet radio, support for HTTP download manager, microSD, microSDHC memory cards.

Easy setup

MECOOL KM9 Pro Classic

easy setup;
convenient remote control;

remote control with voice function;

many outputs on the panel.

sometimes freezes;

weak wireless connection.

Models in the line:

• MECOOL KM9 Pro Honor is a media player.

4th place Ugoos X3 PLUS

RUB 8,000

The model in a black rectangular case with a bright logo has Android 9.0 OS.

Includes: remote control, batteries, HDMI cable, power supply, instructions, removable antenna.

Specifications:

• RAM 4 GB;
• internal built-in memory 64 GB;
• outputs: USB 2.0 Type A, USB 3.0 Type A, Ethernet 10/100/1000, stereo audio, optical audio, composite video, HDMI;
• additional functions: Internet service, Internet radio, support for microSD, microSDHC memory cards.

Easy setup

Choose an Android smart TV box for any budget! DVB-T2, IPTV, 4K online torrents and heavy games

Hi all! Do you want to watch IPTV, 4K torrents online, play heavy games and don’t want to overpay? Then this selection is for you! In this article I will tell you about the most powerful Chinese Android TV boxes and the cheapest. Models will be presented on both Android 9.0 and Android TV (ATV).

How to get a $10 coupon can be found on my telegram channel, and video reviews are available on the YouTube channel

Promo codes for newcomers Aliexpress $4 discount when purchasing over $5 nfc45 Ukraine Europe USA nfc26 Ukraine Europe USA HD039 Russia, Belarus, CIS

A sale starts on Aliexpress on March 27, so I have collected coupons and promotional codes for you.

We get coupons for individual products here

promotional codes in the cart on March 27th:

bday10 -10$ from 100$ bday15 -15$ from 150$

Smart TV box Beelink GT King Pro

Buy TV box

Android TV box Beelink Gt King Pro is suitable for any modern tasks. Easily handles heavy games at maximum graphics settings. For example, World of tanks runs at 60fps at maximum speed. DTS and Dolby Audio license available. 4K torrents online and IPTV are great and don’t get hot, thanks to efficient cooling and a metal case. It runs on an Amlogic S922X-H processor, and is supported by 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal memory. This TV box is available both on pure Android 9.0 and with Android TV firmware. I have a text review on my profile and a video review below.

Best TV box 2021 with free normal remote control

Buy Ugoos AM6 Plus

The best Android TV box of 2021 is the Ugoos Am6 Plus. The TV box has 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal memory. The powerful Amlogic S922X-O processor, which operates at a frequency of 2.2 GHz, is responsible for the performance. Ugoos AM6 Plus will allow you to play all modern heavy games, watch 4K torrents online weighing up to 100GB, IPTV, and at the same time it does not heat up at all. Thanks to the dual-band MIMO wi-fi module and two external antennas, content is loaded instantly, the main thing is the speed of your channel. There is support for Dolby Atmos and DTS X. Dolby Vision has finally been fixed. Ugoos usually put remote controls in their TV boxes without an air mouse and voice search. How to get a normal remote control for free? Just stock up on the special coupons from the beginning of the article, the seller accepts 8/150. Place the TV box in your cart, select a remote control with voice search and G20S air mouse from among the seller’s products, and in the cart the price will automatically change to $8 - the remote control is free.

The cheapest Android TV box on the powerful S922X

Buy X88 King

This is the best option in terms of price/quality ratio if you want a TV box with the most powerful Amlogic S922X processor. On board there are 4GB of RAM and 128GB of internal memory. Bluetooth module version 5.0 installed. The first negative reviews about the X88 King were related to the crude firmware and my review is no exception. I personally used firmware from the experienced custom creator Sasvlad, and recently several Android TV firmwares from other authors have appeared. I definitely recommend buying it, because for this price you can get the most out of the S905 X3. The best price is only on March 27th. The video review is below, but it does not take into account Android TV firmware.

Android TV box with DVB-T2

Buy a smart console

Very often they ask which TV box to buy for Android with DVB-T2? To this I have a standard answer - KIII Pro. This Android TV box supports DVB-S2/DVB-T2/DVB-C. The firmware runs on Android 7.1. The time-tested Amlogic S912 processor is responsible for performance. Inside there is 3GB of RAM and 16GB of internal memory. Out of the box there is an application for watching TV/Satellite, and there is also cardsharing. Thanks to the spacious housing, if necessary, you can additionally install a fan inside.

TV box X3 Cube

Buy TV box

X3/X2 Cube, Ugoos X3/X2 are very similar consoles. X2/X3 differ in the processor version. The X3 has the more recent Amlogic S905X3. On my own behalf, against the backdrop of the promotional price for the X88 King, I would recommend the maximum X3 Cube with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of internal memory, because the manufacturer makes really cool firmware for its boxes. This Android TV box is not suitable for heavy games at 60fps, but it copes well with watching 4K torrents online, IPTV and YouTube.

Budget Andoid TV box Tanix TX9S

Buy TV box

An excellent model in terms of price/quality ratio. Powered by Amlogic S912 processor. Perfect for watching IPTV, YouTube and 4K online. You can play on medium settings. Uses 2GB of RAM and 8GB of internal memory. There is a Lan port for gigabit and only wi-fi 2.4 GHz. The sound supports True HD and DTS HD. Auto frame rate is set without problems. Great budget option!

We buy subscriptions to online cinemas from Aliexpress

Buy a subscription

I was surprised to discover that you can buy a subscription to online cinemas on Aliexpress. Of course, no one forbids watching torrents on Android TV boxes. Cinemas such as Okko and Amediateka are available. Purchasing on Aliexpress is attractive because you can always use coupons, for example, when registering a new account.

Android TV box Vontar X3

Buy Android TV box

This Android TV box Vontar X3 has literally burst into the niche of budget solutions for watching 4K torrents online, YouTube and IPTV thanks to its excellent hardware and low price. The Amlogic S905 X3 processor is responsible for the performance of the set-top box. Available in several versions of built-in memory: 32, 64, 128GB. And RAM 4GB. The smart set-top box is controlled by firmware based on Android 9.0. To quickly download content, a gigabit Lan port and a dual-band wi-fi module are used. A nice bonus is the presence of a clock on the front panel.

Remote control with backlight, air mouse and voice search

Buy a remote control for a TV box

As you can see from the article above, many Android TV boxes come with very simple control panels that do not have voice search or an air mouse. Just recently, an updated model was released, which is now called G10 Pro. Compared to the previous model, a soft white backlight has appeared, but the price remains affordable.

The next Aliexpress sale starts on March 27th. To get maximum discounts, get special coupons, subscribe to stores (sometimes they offer a better price after that), use coupons from the seller, Aliexpress itself and promotional codes. In my opinion, the X88 King has the coolest price of all the listed Andoid TV boxes. Visit my telegram channel if you want to quickly receive information about cool Aliexpress coupons.

Ugoos X3 PLUS

easy setup;
works smoothly, does not freeze;

large amount of memory;

many outputs on the panel.

inconvenient remote control;

the body heats up.

3rd place Google Chromecast Ultra

RUB 6,900

The set-top box can be controlled from a smartphone; it has three built-in Wi-Fi antennas. The model has a round gray case and supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision.

Includes: remote control, batteries, cable, instructions.

Specifications:

• outputs: USB 2.0 Type B, HDMI output;
• additional features: support for iPhone, support for Internet services Netflix, YouTube, Hulu Plus, Google Play Movies, Chrome.

Original design

Google Chromecast Ultra

quickly transmits information;
Can be controlled via smartphone;

original design.

does not work with some applications;

Heats up even in sleep mode.

Models in the line:

• Google Chromecast 13 as a flash drive without 4K UHD
• Google Chromecast 15 without 4K UHD and without USB 2.0 Type B output.

2nd place Tanix TX9S 2/8 Gb

RUB 3,000

Set-top box in a black square case with Android 9.0 OS. Connects only via Wi-Fi. The model supports the applications HDVideobox, GetSee, KinoTrend, Out of Season, Megogo and their analogues.

Included: remote control, batteries, HDMI cable, power supply, instructions.

Specifications:

• RAM 2 GB;
• internal built-in memory 8 GB;
• outputs: Ethernet 10/100, HDMI output, USB 2.0 Type Ax2;
• additional functions: support for IPTV, Internet radio, http download manager, supports installation of microSD, microSDHC memory cards.

Compact model

Tanix TX9S 2/8 Gb

many additional functions;
low price;

compact sizes.

complex setup;

the signal is unstable;

inconvenient remote control.

1 place Apple TV 4K 32GB

RUB 16,500

Set-top box in a black square case with tvOS OS. Supports Dolby Vision and HDR10, can be controlled via the Siri voice assistant. Works in the Smart Home system.

Included: remote control, batteries, Lightning cable, instructions. The model supports iTunes, Apple Music, Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Showtime applications.

Specifications:

• RAM 3 GB;
• internal built-in memory 32 GB;
• outputs: Ethernet 10/100/1000, HDMI;
• additional functions: IPTV support, Internet radio, IPhone support.

Large memory capacity

How to choose a digital set-top box for your TV

Using a Smart TV set-top box turns an ordinary television receiver into a full-fledged entertainment center with many functions of a personal computer. In order for everything to work properly, the equipment must meet certain technical specifications.

At its core, a smart TV set-top box is an advanced media player capable of processing Internet services. The performance of the most advanced models can be compared to small computers. In addition to passively viewing and listening to content, visiting interesting sites, you can use educational and work programs, launch games, and perform many other useful actions.

A digital set-top box for a TV is selected according to the following criteria:

• Type of processor and video chip . The performance of the console depends on them. Many receivers integrate the graphics core into the CPU. The most advanced models use 6 and 8-core CPUs.
• Graphics capabilities . Determined by the resolution of the broadcast images. The quality of films and television shows depends entirely on this indicator. Since 2021, many set-top boxes work with Ultra HD 4K resolution. The refresh rate is 60-120 frames per second.
• Memory . Most TV boxes are equipped with RAM blocks and internal memory. Its volume is directly related to the performance and functionality of the set-top box. Some receivers can connect external drives.
• Ports and connectors . The capabilities of the device depend on their number. Connecting external devices expands the functionality and provides many additional actions.
• Operating system . Most of the models work with the Android OS; some devices operate on operating systems from their manufacturer. For example, Apple TV set-top boxes run their own operating system.
• File formats . Standard video files supported are AVI, FLV, MKV, MP4, MPG and audio files MP3, WAV, AAC, WMA, FLAC.

Since a TV set-top box is considered a multifunctional device, many of them are equipped with additional options. Among them, the most popular include:

• Control from a smartphone via a special application.
• Function Ability to pause broadcast channels.
• Interface with smart home systems.
• Parental controls, teletext, built-in browser and others.

Most TV set-top boxes are quite compact and do not require separate installation locations. However, there are models whose sizes are larger than generally accepted ones, and this factor must be taken into account when choosing and purchasing.