TOP 11: Best media players for TV in 2021

VLC Media Player for Samsung Smart TV is a wonderful program that allows you to work with media files of different extensions. More often it is used to display videos on a PC. In this article we will tell you how to download and install this player to watch videos on a Samsung Smart TV.

What is a media player and why is it needed?

A media player is a device for playing content (movies, photos, network streaming) on TVs without a Smart TV function or with a player with truncated functionality.

Mostly content is played from traditional storage media: DVDs or CDs, flash drives, external hard drives, and so on. However, you can play movies, TV series, music videos on your TV, as well as open files using an inexpensive media player. Modern models support an Internet connection, including the Wi-Fi wireless protocol.

Connecting a media player to a TV allows you to transform it into a Smart TV. The user will be able to watch TV series and films online. Equipment of this type supports maximum resolution and modern formats. Therefore, high-quality image transmission is guaranteed.

Now you know what a media player is for. Previously, only a few companies were involved in the production of such equipment. However, today the range has expanded significantly; new brands have appeared in this area, creating equipment for both the budget and premium segments. Choosing the right player for your TV will guarantee practical operation.

Some models are equipped with a built-in multimedia player, but its functionality is significantly inferior to independent players. Therefore, it is more advisable to purchase a separate device.

ESPADA DMP-4

A budget HD box with all standard connectors that outputs image or sound from USB devices, a smartphone, memory cards or 4 GB built-in storage.
Automatic playback is activated immediately after turning on the set-top box without a remote control. The presence of VGA and HDMI expands the list of connected devices. The possibility of wireless connections is completely absent, content is displayed only from third-party gadgets and ESPADA does not interact with the Internet. It is quite suitable for advertising purposes.

Pros:

AV cables included;
sharp image;
Full HD support;
small sizes.

Cons: No wireless connection.

What to look for when choosing a media player

It is extremely important to approach your media player purchase accordingly. However, the specifics and selection criteria will largely depend on financial capabilities, as well as the characteristics of the use of equipment.

For example, some users do not want to overpay for additional functions, based primarily on budget. This is not the best way to choose a media player. Excessively cheap devices have a limited service life.

Pay attention to the number of available interfaces.

Connecting a media player via HDMI is the best way. This connector provides simultaneous transmission of sound and picture without loss of quality. It is very important that the player supports high resolution, at least HD Ready.

The HDMI interface allows you to achieve maximum quality during image transmission. The connector will also greatly simplify the output of multi-channel audio, provided that appropriate acoustics are used.

The size of the device cannot be ignored. Modern players are compact. However, the dimensions also largely depend on the number of available interfaces and the type of hard drive. For example, models with HDD support are gradually losing relevance. In the near future, such hard drives will be completely phased out. Owners of such media players have to constantly connect to the PC, having first disconnected the hard drive. All this takes up too much free time. The optimal method for playing content is synchronization over a local network.

Network media players for TV are quite common. Mostly all budget models support this function. Content is transferred via an Ethernet cable or wireless Wi-Fi technology. The second option is considered more convenient. Connecting your device to your home wireless network will allow you to play content without unnecessary difficulties.

A media player for a TV with Internet access running the Android operating system is the optimal solution. Such devices support the installation of various applications: social network clients, instant messengers, and even video games. You also always need to consider what formats the device reads. Basic requirements for image output for a modern model:

Divx/Xvid;
H.264;
MPEG 1/2.

There are certain sound requirements. It is desirable that the player supports Dolby Digital or DTS technology.

Users who prefer to watch full-length videos face certain difficulties. It's extremely rare for 3D movies to have an ISO expansion. Therefore, you will have to choose a player with BD3D support. Special attention will have to be paid to navigating the film.

You can control media players in several ways: remote control, keyboard, mouse. Of course, the last two options require additional purchase of gadgets, since they are not included in the basic equipment package. To choose the right media player, consider the following criteria:

available video formats and sound standards;
hard drive type;
number of interfaces;
Internet connection support;
specifics of navigation through the main menu;
availability of Russian-language interface;
player dimensions;
budget.

The cooling system of the media player is another important point. Overheating of hardware modules will lead to premature failure of the equipment. An efficient cooling system also ensures high operating speed of the device.

DGMedia X88 PRO X3

A set-top box with Android 9.0 OS that plays 4K content.
HD cable and remote control included. You can connect a gamepad or other external devices via Bluetooth. The case has standard connectors: USB, Ethernet, HDMI, audio and video outputs, as well as a slot for memory cards. The display shows the connection status and time. The device with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal memory is complemented by microSD. Versions with changed memory capacity are also sold: 4/32 or 2/16 GB.

Pros:

budget cost;
clear Russian-language menu;
playback of all formats;
support for 3D content.

Minuses:

there is a plastic smell;
poor cooling.

Methods for connecting a media player to a TV

For users who prioritize practicality, the Full HD model will be the best option. As mentioned earlier, players mainly connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi, and synchronization with the TV is carried out using special connectors. How to connect a media player to a TV that is not equipped with HDMI? This mainly concerns outdated equipment. There are several time-tested methods:

composite connector - this interface has been used for quite a long time to output images and transmit stereo sound. This is an analog interface, so you shouldn't expect high quality;
component input - connection is made using a cable with several multi-colored plugs. This is a modification of the well-known “tulips”. Has higher picture quality than the previous version;
SCART – connector for transmitting RGB images. Modern technology is extremely rarely equipped with this interface;
S-Video – most often found on older computer video adapters. TV manufacturers also practically do not use this connector.

Users will be able to choose one of these options.

VONTAR X96S

This is a small Android TV stick that is sold with different memory capacities: 2/16 or 4/32 GB.
It connects to HDMI. On the case there is a port for an IR sensor, with which the included remote control works, a slot for memory cards, one USB and a socket for the power cable. You can carry the device with you; it even has a protective cap. The kit includes a small HDMI adapter, which makes it easy to connect the device if the TV is in an inconvenient location.

Pros:

clear menu;
mobility;
high image quality;
The most simple remote control.

Cons: few connectors.

Rating of the best media players

A wide range of media consoles can confuse the uninformed user, so it is better to rely on the list of the best video players, which was compiled by professionals based on real reviews.

Today, many companies are engaged in the production of equipment of this type: Apple, Xiaomi, Google, Dune and many others. A review of the most worthy models will help you decide which media player for your TV is best to buy.

Apple TV 4K

The device is from a popular American brand. It differs from its analogues in its discreet design. Presented in classic black. The edges of the player are rounded. The dimensions are very compact. 4K support has been implemented. This media player reads MOV, MP4. Apple TV 4K will be able to play almost all popular audio and video formats.

You can connect to your TV using the HDMI interface. The device supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and is also equipped with a LAN connector. If you already have an iPhone, iPad, iPod, then an additional advantage will be the ability to use proprietary AirPlay technology. It will significantly simplify synchronization of the player with other gadgets.

Advantages:

support for major video and audio formats, 4K;
passive type of cooling;
you can connect to the Internet via cable or Wi-Fi;
high build quality, product from a trusted brand;
universal design.

Flaws:

high price.

Google Chromecast

Sold in several configurations. The name indicates the year of manufacture. Connects to TV via HDMI. Wi-Fi support has been implemented. Runs under the Android operating system. Content is played via VLC player.

The power source is a USB connector, not a wall outlet. Quite a simple connection and setup process. Everything can be done in just a few minutes. It differs from analogues in its impressive technical characteristics, as well as an affordable price. The device takes up minimal free space.

Advantages:

dual-band Wi-Fi;
pre-installed VLC player;
affordable price;
The player is comparable in size to a matchbox;
Android operating system.

Flaws:

no 4K support;
no hard drive.

Dune HD Neo 4K T2 Plus

Support for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is implemented. A device with an external power supply and a passive cooling system. Dune HD supports 4K. You can connect the player to your TV via HDMI. It runs on the Android 6.0 operating system, but you can update it after connecting to the TV.

Can also be used as a digital tuner. This model supports cable and terrestrial television broadcasting standards (DVB-T and DVB-T2). There will be no problems during the setup process. The range of functionality will fully satisfy the needs of modern users.

Advantages:

price-quality ratio;
plays all major formats;
support for digital broadcasting;
excellent level of performance.

Flaws:

sound problems;
You cannot configure network access to the player library.

Rombica Smart Cast

Another simple adapter that can turn a regular TV into a Smart TV. However, the device is also capable of serving as a media player. Runs the Android 7.0 operating system. Supports connection to wireless Internet networks. Plays content in Full HD.

Easy connection to TV via HDMI. Support for popular wireless data transfer technologies is implemented: Miracast, DLNA, Airplay. Compact device that takes up minimal space. Stable signal when connecting to the Internet via Wi-Fi.

Advantages:

affordable price;
An HDMI extender is included in the basic package;
There are no compatibility problems with other gadgets.

Flaws:

does not support all modern files;
poor build quality.

Rombica Smart Box

The player supports all necessary formats. Plays content in 4K. Runs the Android operating system. You can install applications on the player that have been previously downloaded from Google Play. The list of preinstalled programs includes social network clients and popular online cinemas.

The device is equipped with three USB connectors. You can connect a keyboard or computer mouse to the media player. The appearance is standard. There are visual similarities with a regular router. The matte finish looks good. There are no fingerprints left on the case. The device is equipped with special feet, the use of which improves air circulation and prevents overheating of hardware components.

Advantages:

3D support;
does not overheat, the bottom panel of the case is perforated;
Additionally, you can insert a memory card;
powerful processor;
reads all formats.

Flaws:

inconvenient menu interface;
Poor Wi-Fi reception.

Xiaomi Mi Box 3S

The device runs on the Android operating system with proprietary firmware from the manufacturer. Owners of the set-top box will be able to download and install various applications without any problems. You just need to register an account on Google Play. You can connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi. The response is instant, it works quite quickly when compared with regular Smart TVs.

Problems may arise when connecting to older TVs that do not have an HDMI connector. The use of adapters causes the screen to literally “fill” with green. The owners of this device mostly speak positively about it.

Advantages:

voice search system;
budget version of Android TV;
high level of productivity;
simple and intuitive interface;
classic design and compact size.

Flaws:

You need to look for the international version, otherwise you will have to reflash the device yourself.

Invin KM9

A compact device that can be connected to a TV via HDMI. The basic package includes a convenient remote control. Runs the Android operating system. Supports playback of content in Full HD resolution. Plays almost all popular video formats.

In their reviews, player owners note a high level of performance, as well as stable signal reception when connected to the Internet wirelessly. Ideal for watching movies, TV series online, web surfing, and other simple tasks.

Advantages:

hardware package;
does not overheat during operation;
performance;
stable reception of Wi-Fi signal even at long distances;
ergonomic design.

Flaws:

native Chinese firmware;
Software updates are not released;
problems with installing applications;
There is no button to reboot the device.

Invin KM5

The set-top box supports the Play Market, so you can download and install various applications, including instant messengers, social network clients, and even video games. Runs the Android operating system. It is equipped with a second generation HDMI interface, through which it is, in fact, connected to the TV.

Almost all codecs are installed by default. Therefore, there are no problems with playing content. The list of pre-installed programs includes truly useful applications. There is no problem with the firmware. Updated regularly automatically.

Advantages:

affordable price;
software shell;
there are all the necessary codecs;
equipped with all connectors;
compact size and ergonomic design.

Flaws:

hardware package;
poor Wi-Fi reception;
constant delays;
There is no reset button.

A5X Max 4GB

Smart-box is equipped with a powerful quad-core processor. This set-top box has the Android 8.1 operating system installed. There is a small LED display on the front side. Powerful hardware ensures playback of content in the highest quality. Support for 4K Ultra HD has been implemented.

The set-top box is equipped with all the necessary interfaces: SPDIF, 4 USB connectors, HDMI second generation, LAN interface that supports Internet connection up to 100 Mbit/s. It is very convenient that the basic package includes everything you need to connect to a TV, including an HDMI cable.

Advantages:

powerful hardware package;
stable Wi-Fi signal reception;
full basic equipment;
operating system Android 8.1;
4K Ultra HD support.

Flaws:

costs more than analogues on the market.

H96 Max 4GB

Inexpensive media player with pre-installed Android 8.1 operating system. Allows you to configure over 500 channels to watch. You can download and install video games. Equipped with a quad-core central processor. The basic package of the device includes a remote control that supports a voice control system.

Advantages:

powerful central and graphic processor;
voice control system;
software shell;
complete set with HDMI cable;
there is access to all necessary interfaces.

Flaws:

no display.

Tanix TX6

This is a new model that went on sale late last year. Its main feature is support for 6K video playback. The media player is presented in the form of a small black box. There is a display on the front side. Runs the Android 7.1 operating system. Equipped with all necessary interfaces. It is possible to additionally connect a flash drive up to 128 GB.

Advantages:

hardware package;
price-quality ratio;
It is possible to connect a memory card;
6K playback support;
dual-band Wi-Fi.

Flaws:

heats up during operation.

EZCast Ultra 4K UltraHD

This model works with a smartphone and duplicates the contents of its screen onto the TV in the highest possible 4K quality.
The connection is made via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi works quickly, without delays. To get started, you need to insert the receiver into the HDMI connector and power the device from USB. The user can create playlists that are played when the media player is launched. When connecting external smart speakers, voice control is available.

Pros:

voice control;
access to cloud storage;
works with all operating systems;
stylish design.

Cons: control only from a smartphone, no remote control.

⇡#Reading files of various formats

To check compatibility, we used a test library consisting of 20 video files of various formats and codecs, declared for playback by the player in the official specification. Particular attention, as always, was paid to .mkv and .vob containers, some of which had several audio tracks and different options for plug-in subtitles. We did a similar procedure with audio files and photographs. The new product coped with the task assigned to it perfectly, its work did not raise any complaints at all. The only pity is that our media player does not read iso images, but this file format was not included in the stated technical characteristics, so there is no point in making a complaint. Rewinding video at high speeds is not smooth, but this is typical for most modern media players.

⇡#Remote control

The new product is equipped with a large 51-button remote control with a lacquered plastic body, the appearance of which ideally matches the stylish appearance of the media player itself. Despite its large dimensions, the remote control fits well in the hand due to its unique shape. Its body is not flat, but rounded, which allows you to tightly clasp the remote control with your palm. The only drawback of the remote control is that you can reach some buttons only by moving the body a little. But this only applies to some specialized buttons. It won’t take long to learn how to work with the menu, adjust the volume and control playback blindly.

Remote control

Moderately elastic buttons have a clear movement. Thanks to different sizes, shapes and colors, as well as carefully thought-out placement on the body, this device is very convenient to use. Since the OpenHD Media Box is not an ordinary media player, there is no IR signal receiver installed on its motherboard. This role is performed by a removable USB receiver, which can be placed in any place convenient for the user.

⇡#Conclusions

The company's new OpenHD is a fresh, bold look at the home media player market, which has recently seen some stagnation. Most manufacturers have stopped surprising the user with new functions, and their latest models differ mainly only in improved appearance.

The OpenHD Media Box media player is a fundamentally new device in which both the hardware and software have been revised. As our testing has shown, the nettop is ideal for the role of a home media player, although it requires specialized software to implement this function. However, OpenHD Media Box has no problems with this. The programmers equipped the device with a lot of different settings, realizing almost one hundred percent of the potential of the hardware. In addition, the new product can rightfully be called omnivorous, that is, the user will not have problems playing certain files.

In this case, only one thing can deter you from purchasing it: the high cost of the device. The manufacturer recommends selling (and buying) OpenHD Media Box for almost 15 thousand rubles. The price is rather high, but if you consider that it already includes the cost of a 500 GB hard drive, then everything falls into place. Some top models of media players from other manufacturers are more expensive. So OpenHD Media Box can be safely recommended for purchase as a very successful and in many ways even revolutionary model on the market.

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.