Which DVB-T2 set-top box to choose in 2021 - ranking of the best

Last updated April 25, 2021

A digital set-top box is a television device for receiving a digital television signal, followed by decoding and converting it into an analog signal. The devices in question began to appear from the time when broadcasting began to switch to a new standard. Thus, analogue smoothly switched to digital format.

It is worth noting that set-top boxes are an indispensable element for old-style TVs. Below is a ranking of the best digital television set-top boxes that you can buy in 2021.

How to choose the best DVB-T2 set-top box

DVB-T2 is a European standard for terrestrial digital television, belonging to the second generation. This is now the most common broadcast format.

Almost any digital set-top box supports the DVB-T2 format. Therefore, the question arises: which device is better to buy?

To choose the model that is right for you, you should pay attention to the technical specifications.

What criteria should be followed?

• See what information encoding methods your chosen device supports. Everything is simple here - in the best case, the receiver should support the maximum number of video and audio compression formats.

Note! The set-top box must support MPEG-4 signal encoding.

• What is the screen resolution of your TV?

The peculiarity of receivers is that they can only support HD and higher. And the broadcast standard for too old TV models is SDTV.

Important! If your TV is outdated, the picture quality will not change after installing the device.

• Connector type.

TVs may have different types of connectors. More often it is (RCA) “tulip” or SCART, for more modern HDMI models. However, there is always the opportunity to purchase an adapter if the selected set-top box does not fit only the type of connector.

Important! The presence of an HDMI connector allows the picture quality to improve significantly.

• Sensitivity parameter.

This criterion determines how high quality the image on your screen will be. In the characteristics of the model, this item is designated as “input signal level”.

• What media formats are supported.

The set-top box can be used to view photos, audio and video files. To do this, it must support the appropriate formats:

Video – MKV, AVI, AVC/H.264, DivX, MPEG4

Audio – MP3, WMA, AAC, AC3

Photo – JPEG, JPG, RAW

These parameters can be seen in the model characteristics.

• Cartographer.

It happens that the standard set of channels, of which there are more than 30, is not enough for the user. In this case, it is worth paying attention to the presence of a card reader in the device. This thing allows you to catch additional channels.

• Availability of additional features.

Using the receiver, you can watch not only TV programs in real time. The great functionality of modern devices allows you to surf Internet sites, connect external media and record broadcasts.

When studying the characteristics, you should pay attention to the TimeShift function and the number of USB connectors.

To ensure you are completely satisfied with your purchase, think about what exactly you want from a DVB-T2 set-top box.

Which receiver is better to buy and choose for digital television?

To solve the question of how to buy a good digital set-top box, you need to decide on the set of functions that you want to get from the device. There is no point in overpaying for extra ones, but if you don’t have something you need, it will cause discomfort.

The following functions are most in demand:

• video recording (you need to check the availability of a USB port);
• HD (high definition video) support;
• the ability to switch channels from the remote control and from the device itself (needed if the remote control is lost or the battery is dead);
• availability of a standard set of interfaces.

In addition to those listed, each model may have a highlight that is worth paying extra for. For example, the ability to connect cable TV. But when choosing a receiver, you need to focus on its main function - high-quality reception of free digital broadcasting channels.

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What is the difference between receivers of different price categories?

There is quite a large selection of digital set-top boxes on the market. All of them can be divided into groups according to price category. The functionality and additional features depend on the price. The more expensive the device, the more functions it has.

The price of receivers starts from about 700 rubles and up to 17,000. The cost of an auto tuner is influenced by certain characteristics:

1. Possibility of Internet connection
2. Number of connectors
3. Country in which the device was manufactured. The cheapest models are made in China.
4. Ability to control the set-top box using buttons on the display
5. The ability to record your favorite TV show or series to watch it at any convenient time

All the devices that the market offers us can be divided into four categories.

• Budget series

The peculiarity of budget options is their limited functionality. They can only be used for watching TV. Such models cope well with basic tasks, but they do not have any additional functions. Budget segment devices will be a good option, for example, for a TV in the country.

• Economy options

Economy class is located a little higher. Such set-top boxes have the ability to expand the number of channels. This is done using a special card reader. Another nice feature is that receivers of this class have the ability to record various documents on external media.

• Average price category

The best option for active use. Their main advantage over cheaper models is particularly high-quality sound and video transmission. In addition, they have all the additional features listed above. A good option for those who want to purchase a quality device without spending a lot of money.

• Premium class

These are the most advanced devices on the market. Set-top boxes of this class have a powerful operating system. Because of this, the functionality improves. Their main advantage is a wide range of additional capabilities. These models are equipped with an Internet browser. This allows you to view any pages from your TV, listen to music and watch videos from the World Wide Web through the YouTube and Megogo applications.

Attention! If you are sure that you only need a set-top box for watching TV programs, you can safely go for budget or economy options.

FAQ

If you connect a TV tuner to your TV with an HDMI cable, will there be sound or not? An HDMI cable makes it possible to transmit multi-channel audio and HD files at high speed, so when connecting a TV tuner in this way, there must be sound. If it is missing, then there is some kind of technical defect. This can be eliminated by additionally connecting the analog audio output of the tuner to the Audio PC IN input of the TV, or contact a specialist.

Which TV tuner with remote control is suitable for a VGA monitor? If the TV tuner has a corresponding connector, it is easy to connect it to a VGA monitor. Otherwise, you will need appropriate HDMI adapters. In this case, sound reproduction will be provided by the TV tuner itself, which means you will also need to purchase an audio system.

What is the best TV tuner for a computer? Inexpensive, but normal. Tell me, please... Any TV tuner is suitable for use with a computer. We indicated the best and inexpensive models in our review. Choose according to your taste.

Comparative table of characteristics of digital set-top boxes

To make it easier for customers to choose a DVB-T2 set-top box, a special table has been compiled. Below is a list of popular devices and their characteristics. Here you can clearly see the difference between the models. The main difference lies in the installed processors and the number of USB connectors. Experts advise giving preference to those devices that best suit your needs. The average price indicated in the table will allow you to understand which models fit into your budget.

Why do you need such a remote control?

First of all, such remote controls are intended for set-top boxes or Smart-TV. If the gadget definitely doesn’t have any problems working on the Android operating system, then if you want to connect the device to a smart TV with its own OS, difficulties may arise.

You need to carefully study the specifications of the TV and make sure that it supports connecting third-party remote controls with a separate receiver or supports full IR control.

In addition, the remote control can control any computer running Windows or macOS. In normal use scenarios, it is unlikely to be useful to anyone, but when using the “system unit” as a set-top box, it is a real must-have.

A similar remote control can replace the standard remote control for most TV set-top boxes sold today.

TV tuner rating for 2021

The best TV tuner among all World Vision Foros Combo T2/S2

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Why we liked it: A modern tuner that supports reception of T2-MI transponders and Wi-Fi adapters for access to an IPTV player and other additional functions. The set-top box works quickly and is easy to configure, as is its character display. Editor's Rating:

Equipment, build quality and remote control

The tuner comes in original packaging with a brief list of characteristics in four languages. Inside the box there is a Jack 3.5 - RCA cable, a remote control with a standard set of buttons and a power supply.

The TV tuner housing is entirely made of plastic. Its quality is good, we did not notice any backlashes or squeaks. The front panel is glossy, and the rest of the device is matte.

On the bottom wall of Foros Combo there are ventilation holes, as well as a wall mount. On the front there is a USB 2.0 connector. Another USB is soldered at the back. There are also AV and HDMI outputs, antenna inputs, and power.

Capabilities and operating features

The tuner from World Vision is a universal solution, suitable for digital, cable and satellite broadcasting. Supports 720p, 1080i and 1080p scanning, as well as 4:3 and 16:9 picture formats. Unlike many competitors, the Foros Combo tuner can accept T2-MI. This format allows digital packets to be transmitted from T2 gateways using a satellite signal. This functionality will be useful in regions where terrestrial digital reception is not possible.

In addition to the USB port and controls, there is an LED display on the front panel of the set-top box. In the tuner settings, you can set it to one of three brightness modes, enable or disable the time display in standby mode, and also specify what information will be displayed after turning it on (channel, time or quality).

Also, the Foros Combo T2/S2 set-top box allows you to change parental controls, channel list, and other parameters. Among them, we highlight network settings.

For this function to work, the user will need a Wi-Fi adapter - it will have to be purchased separately. After connecting this module to the tuner, the capabilities of the device expand. For example, you can load M3U playlists into the set-top box for watching IPTV. You can also view weather information directly from the tuner, play videos from YouTube, content from the MEGOGO service, etc. Of course, without an adapter you will have to play movies, TV series and music from external media.

pros

• high-quality assembly;
• support of all standards;
• work with YouTube and MEGOGO;
• convenient control panel.

Minuses

• Wi-Fi adapter must be purchased separately.

2. The best TV tuner in terms of price/quality ratio LUMAX DV-3215HD

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Why we liked it: a good tuner that allows you to watch digital and cable television. The device supports most modern audio and video formats, so it can easily play content from external drives. The receiver can also connect to the Network, and for this you do not have to spend money on a Wi-Fi adapter. Editor's Rating:

Equipment, build quality and remote control

Along with the receiver, the user will find in the box a convenient remote control and batteries for it, brief documentation, an AV cable, and a power supply. The console is medium in size and not the most modest in weight. But when installed on a TV, the antenna cable’s weight will not throw it down. The increased weight (compared to competitors) is explained by the thick metal of the case, which guarantees reliability.

Capabilities and operating features

Although many sources do not indicate this, the LUMAX set-top box supports Wi-Fi adapters and allows you to connect to the Internet. Moreover, it is not necessary to buy specialized modules as a receiver. This role can be played by a smartphone switched to modem mode. True, the network capabilities of the receiver are limited.

The tuner supports cable and digital broadcasting standards. Picture resolution can vary from 720p to 1080p, and the aspect ratio can be 4:3 or 16:9. The image quality of the LUMAX DV-3215HD is excellent both when watching television and when playing video from external drives. The set-top box supports major extensions and codecs for video files, as well as Dolby Digital sound.

The receiver has no serious problems, but some minor features are worth mentioning. So, the clock here often malfunctions, and it is impossible to display other information instead of time, as on Foros Combo. Also, it is impossible to understand from the symbol screen whether the receiver is currently working, but there is no other indication. Among the shortcomings, we highlight the poor Russification of the menu: you can understand the settings, but the items are often labeled very clumsily.

pros

• signal reception quality;
• Dolby Digital support;
• the ability to access the Internet;
• high-quality assembly.

Minuses

• quality of Russification;
• not a very useful screen.

3. Best budget TV tuner Cadena CDT-1651SB

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Why we liked it: The Cadena TV tuner is easy on the antenna and always delivers excellent picture quality. Despite the cheapness, the console is well assembled and has a stylish appearance. The device can also be praised for its convenient remote control. Editor's Rating:

Equipment, build quality and remote control

Since this is an inexpensive receiver, an HDMI cable was not included in the box, although there is a corresponding connector on the rear panel. But RCA is available initially, so the set-top box is immediately suitable for full-fledged operation. Also in the package, the buyer will find a power supply with a standard plug, a remote control and batteries.

The device body is monolithic, made of matte plastic. The front panel of the receiver is mirrored. There is a single USB connector and 3 buttons: power on and channel switching. Therefore, this model cannot be fully controlled without the included remote control.

As for the latter, it is quite convenient. It’s even surprising that such a budget device offers such a high-quality remote control. The batteries of the CDT-1651SB model are also good. Yes, they cannot compare with some Duracell, but the supplied batteries will provide several months of reliable operation.

Capabilities and operating features

The dimensions of the tuner are small. Devices of similar sizes often overheat after prolonged use. But we did not find this problem with the CDT-1651SB. Last but not least, this is achieved through proper perforation of the case.

On the front panel there is a character display, which is visible only when it is turned on. When the tuner is active, it displays the current channel, and when the device is in standby mode, the time is displayed on the screen.

The console is easy to set up. It works quite quickly, although there is still some delay when switching channels. The TV tuner can play video from external drives, but only reads a few popular formats.

pros

• stable work;
• signal reception quality;
• convenient control panel;
• affordable price.

Minuses

• reads very few formats;
• Changes channels slowly.

4.HARPER HDT2-5010

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Why we liked it: the model can be called a universal solution for regular TVs. It allows you to significantly expand the functionality of old equipment. Another argument in favor of the HARPER receiver is its affordable price. Editor's Rating:

Equipment, build quality and remote control

The receiver comes in a cardboard box with a typical HARPER design. The package includes a remote control, batteries, RCA cable, power adapter and documentation. The design of the device is discreet, most of the body is made of metal. There are ventilation holes on the top, bottom and sides to protect the tuner from overheating. The assembly is excellent, the parts fit perfectly, the metal of the case is durable.

The front panel is made of glossy plastic. It contains a single USB-A 2.0, three keys, an activity indicator above the power button and a character screen. The back of the receiver is occupied by antenna input and output, RCA, and an HDMI connector. For the latter, the cable will have to be purchased separately.

The control panel is exactly like the Eplutus tuner. If not for the brand name, they could be confused with each other. However, the versatility of such remote controls makes it easy to change them between each other. This is useful if the complete one breaks (although the user will definitely have to try hard for this).

Capabilities and operating features

Unlike LUMAX, HARPER took care of high-quality menu localization. The interface is clear, neat, there are no unnecessary symbols or clumsy words. Also pleasing is the menu breakdown into items - thanks to it, you can quickly find the required setting. Channels can be sorted, skipped, blocked, password protected. There are “pause” functions for live broadcasts and the ability to record TV shows.

The HDT2-5010 tuner supports Wi-Fi adapters. The manufacturer recommends MTK7601 from MediaTek, although the set-top box works great with other modules. Thanks to a wireless connection, you can watch IPTV, RSS and YouTube, and also get a weather forecast for a specified location. But MEGOGO and other services cannot be opened here. However, for such a price this is forgivable.

pros

• support for Wi-Fi modules;
• broadcast recording function;
• activity indicator;
• universal remote control;
• IPTV and YouTube support.

Minuses

• only one USB connector.

5. Perfeo MEDIUM

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Why we liked it: A receiver suitable for use with both old and modern TVs or monitors. The device supports teletext, subtitles, large-capacity external storage devices, as well as the popular MEGOGO streaming platform. Editor's Rating:

Equipment, build quality and remote control

The manufacturer decided not to be tricky with the delivery set, so the box with MEDIUM contains only the minimum sufficient set. It only takes a few minutes to connect the device to the TV. But to work with monitors you will need to buy an HDMI cable. The build quality of the receiver is average, but for the price it's ok.

The control panel from the Perfeo set-top box is almost like that of TELEFUNKEN. Its design and even the location of the buttons are almost identical to its competitor. But some keys have been reassigned here, and a couple of additional ones have appeared near the number pad. Otherwise, it's the same remote control, with the same pros and cons.

Capabilities and operating features

Despite the average price, the Perfeo tuner is not inferior in functionality to the more expensive models in our review. But the set-top box can offer not only support for digital and cable broadcasting, but also playback of most video and audio formats. Moreover, you can connect hard drives up to 1 TB to the receiver.

The Perfeo receiver is slightly larger than the TELEFUNKEN. But the functionality of this console is similar. This applies not only to watching free TV channels, teletext or parental controls, but also to the ability to work with Internet services. Like other set-top boxes, this MEDIUM will require an external Wi-Fi module. But there are no problems with stability here - we did not experience any YouTube crashes or problems accessing the MEGOGO service during testing.

pros

• support for high-capacity drives;
• you can connect a Wi-Fi module;
• several dozen free channels;
• reasoned cost.

Minuses

• Not everyone will like the control panel.

6. Eplutus DVB-125T

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Why we liked it: a good receiver for users who need to receive a digital DVB-T2 signal. And the presence of a USB input turns the device into a full-fledged player capable of playing movies, TV series, music and displaying photos. Editor's Rating:

Equipment, build quality and remote control

The control panel is standard. It is as similar as possible to those of Perfeo, TELEFUNKEN and dozens of other little-known manufacturers. This is largely due to the desire to reduce the cost of their own products. But ergonomics often suffer because of this approach. In this case, everything is not so bad, but there is nothing to particularly praise the Eplutus remote control for.

The assembly and configuration of the tuner also does not differ from similar models. But the dimensions of the DVB-125T are small, so the device looks neat on the table.

Capabilities and operating features

The functionality of the Eplutus receiver is as simple as possible. The device supports digital broadcasting and also allows you to play video and audio from external storage devices. For this purpose, there is a USB 2.0 port on the front panel. All other connectors are located at the back: RCA, HDMI, two antenna inputs and power. Considering the cost of the device, I would like to see more features.

pros

• affordable price;
• media player;
• compactness;
• availability of HDMI.

Minuses

• modest functionality.

7. TELEFUNKEN TF-DVBT251

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Why we liked it: a modern tuner for digital and cable television with a stylish design and compact size. It supports many video and audio formats, and can also work with wireless adapters that provide access to the Internet. Editor's Rating:

Equipment, build quality and remote control

The tuner offers a standard package. The device is assembled excellently. But the control panel is quite controversial. Some buyers note its convenience, while others do not like the shape and placement of the buttons. Therefore, before purchasing, you should personally evaluate the TV set-top box and its ergonomics.

The dimensions of the tuner from TELEFUNKEN are very modest. Its length is slightly more than 6 cm, and its length and height are 27 and 12 mm, respectively. The front panel contains 4 buttons, a character screen and one of two USB connectors available here. At the back there is a composite output, HDMI and a second USB Type-A.

Capabilities and operating features

Similar to the tuner from the World Vision brand, the TF-DVBT251 model supports Wi-Fi modules for connecting to the Internet via wireless networks. The user can purchase the TF-UW01 adapter manufactured by TELEFUNKEN itself or choose another compatible one. But some owners of the console complain about problems with the operation of YouTube and MEGOGO.

When connecting an external drive to the tuner, the user can activate recording of a TV show he is interested in or enable delayed viewing mode (Time Shift function), and also play video/audio. But for the TV tuner to work correctly, you need to download files with suitable codecs.

pros

• stable work;
• network adapter support;
• working with IPTV playlists;
• Great design and compactness.

Minuses

• There may be problems with MEGOGO.

8. Digifors HD 100 Premium

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Why we liked it: Easy-to-set up tuner. Excellent image, stable signal reception, convenient remote control. The price of domestic development is higher than that of many competitors, however, it is very affordable. Editor's Rating:

Equipment, build quality and remote control

The above models from World Vision and TELEFUNKEN are designed for various markets, including European ones. The domestic development of the Digifors brand is designed for use specifically in the Russian Federation. The beautiful black box that the tuner comes in contains everything you need to connect it, including HDMI and RCA cables.

HD 100 Premium comes with one of the most convenient control panels. Good assembly, nice design, clear division of buttons into clear zones are just some of the advantages of the branded remote control. The receiver itself is also of high quality. The top and bottom covers are made of metal, and the front panel is made of plastic. The power supply in this model is built-in, so the cable is not removable.

Batteries for the remote control, by the way, are also in the box. True, some buyers criticize them for their fragility, while others even note that the batteries did not work immediately after unpacking. Otherwise, owners do not note any shortcomings in the Digifors tuner. But on our own behalf, we would like to add that the set-top box is too big, and contains only one USB.

Capabilities and operating features

The device is equipped with an MSD7T00E processor. Flash and RAM are immediately connected to this chipset. It is impossible to install anything on the first one - it is needed to operate and update the device’s own operating system. The same applies to other tuners available for sale. The only exceptions are TV set-top boxes based on Android, but this is a completely different class of devices.

The device can play most popular video files, supports 5.1 AC3 sound, allows you to record your favorite TV shows to a flash drive, and also offers the Time Shift function. Among the broadcasting standards, as in the model from GoDigital, only digital DVB-T and DVB-T2 are supported.

pros

• signal reception quality;
• ease of use;
• cool control panel;
• good package.

Minuses

• only one USB connector;
• quickly dying batteries included in the kit.

9. Best TV tuner with learning remote control World Vision T62A LE

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Why we liked it: An affordable combo box for broadcast and cable TV. Thanks to the high-performance processor, the device works perfectly and also offers several interesting additional features. Editor's Rating:

Equipment, build quality and remote control

The compact receiver is equipped with a built-in power supply. The delivery set is minimally sufficient: a double-sided RCA cable, a control panel with batteries, and a short user manual.

The device body is predominantly made of metal. Plastic is used only for a few elements, including the front panel. It traditionally contains a USB port, a screen and a full set of controls, allowing you to configure all tuner parameters even without having a remote control at hand.

The remote control here is learnable. In other words, it is capable of working not only with the tuner, but also with other equipment. Universal remote controls can interact with 5 different devices simultaneously. As for ergonomics, the World Vision T62A LE has no problems with it. The remote control for the tuner is convenient and not overloaded with unnecessary buttons.

Capabilities and operating features

Like the older model, the T62A LE supports wireless Wi-Fi adapters. However, not all models are suitable for this tuner, but only a few devices with Ralink and MediaTek chips. After connecting the appropriate module, the user will have access to weather, RSS feed, YouTube, Gmail, MEGOGO services and IPTV viewing.

As for television, the tuner reliably receives digital and cable signals, for which two antenna inputs are provided on the rear panel. There are also HDMI, audio and composite outputs, an additional power connector and a second USB port. The picture quality when watching TV shows is good, and there are no problems with sound either.

pros

• support for Wi-Fi adapters;
• excellent performance;
• cable TV support;
• RSS reading capability;
• convenient control panel.

Minuses

• Not all Wi-Fi modules are supported.

The best TV tuner with antenna GoDigital STANDART AVC030

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Why we liked it: a digital television set that allows you to receive all-Russian channels. For a very affordable price, GoDigital offers everything you need for quick connection and full use of the receiver. Editor's Rating:

Equipment, build quality and remote control

The most expensive TV tuner in our rating. But its cost is justified by the excellent delivery package, which includes not only a set-top box, remote control and power supply, but also an HDMI cable and even an antenna with a bracket! This is enough to immediately start broadcasting free TV channels on any TV and even a regular monitor.

The dimensions of the receiver are slightly larger than those of competing models. But even the width of the device is 16 cm, which is not too much. The included cable is quite long, so you can connect and secure the TV tuner in any way suitable for the user. The console's remote control is standard and quite convenient to use.

Capabilities and operating features

The receiver has minimally sufficient functionality. It can work with DVB-T/T2 broadcasting standards and play content from flash drives. Wi-Fi cannot be connected to the tuner. By the way, there is only one USB port here, but this is enough for the capabilities of the STANDART AVC030. Connecting the receiver takes a minimum of time, after which the user has access to several dozen channels and radio stations. The quality of the image and sound is excellent, there are no delays, tearing or other problems in operation.

pros

• excellent equipment;
• ease of connection;
• high-quality image;
• convenient control panel.

Minuses

• Wi-Fi cannot be connected.