How to choose the right smart set-top box for your TV

Looking at a new smart TV but can't get over the fact that you're burning a hole in your wallet? A budget alternative is the opportunity to purchase a TV BOX Android TV for a regular TV.

Before you buy an Android Smart Box TV, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the functionality of the devices and study the TOP of the most popular models at the end of 2021-beginning of 2022.

TV BOX Android TV x96

About Smart TV technology

Smart TV is a platform that allows you to turn your TV into a multimedia center. The Smart TV set-top box is equipped with a wireless protocol, USB ports, interfaces for a wired network, audio and video outputs, and peripheral devices. A set-top box that supports DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) technology provides access to all the possibilities of the Internet.

Management in the Smart TV platform is carried out using special widgets.

In addition to control using the remote control, there are three original control methods:

Voice control. A special voice recognition system allows you to change applications, switch channels, and control sound;
Gesture control. By moving your hand, you can move the cursor around the screen; by squeezing your palm, you can select an icon or the corresponding item in the menu;
Additional remote control Magic Remote , which involves selecting with a cursor, using gestures, scrolling a wheel or voice commands.

The main functions of TV set-top boxes include:

latest information - access to news, weather forecasts, various events;
ordering goods and services - for example, you can order food and medicine;
Internet television - you can watch movies, TV series and TV shows online in high quality;
music - the ability to connect to radio stations around the world is provided;
social networks - support is provided for VKontakte, Odnoklassniki, Twitter, Facebook and other social networks;
Google services - opens access to various services: Google Play Music, Google Play Movies, Google Play Games, YouTube;
Skype - modern media players make it possible to use all the possibilities of communication in Skype.

The quality of the image and sound depends both on the signal and on the screen resolution and the functions of the built-in audio systems. Therefore, it is advisable to connect the set-top box to modern TVs.

Equipment capabilities

An Android TV set-top box is not just a media player, but a multifunctional device. It is often used to expand the capabilities of a regular TV. For those moments when you want to try Smart technology, but don’t want to buy a new TV. In this situation, the set-top box will cost less.

The main features of Android TV include:

A media player with which you can watch videos in any format via the Internet or from a memory card. You can also view photos, videos, and audio content. You can connect IP TV through a special application from Google.
Wide selection of games. The console runs on Android OS, so you can download and open various games through it, playing them on the big screen. Moreover, you shouldn’t think that among Android games you won’t find something more interesting than balls. In fact, there are many games designed specifically for Smart TV with complex graphics and storylines.
Video calling support. You can use the media player to communicate with friends and family via a webcam. To do this, you just need to attach it to your TV or in a convenient place and install Skype, Viber, ISQ on your TV.
Internet connection stability. Through a smart set-top box, it is easy to access the global network, check the status of your mail, find the desired video, play flash games, and surf social networks.

In terms of functionality, the Android TV set-top box works like a real Smart TV. Through it you can access the Internet, use social networks, watch videos and play various games.

Make your TV smart

From an ordinary TV, even the simplest one, you can make a cool replacement for an expensive digital TV.

There are several ways to do this:

Via set-top box
Via tablet or smartphone
Smart box TV
Via PC
Via Android TV.

The advantage of smart set-top boxes is their powerful components, which give the device great speed, as well as a low price. The downside will be the lack of updates in some devices and the “clumsy” interface of some copies. Another advantage is the compactness of the devices, some of them look like flash cards

Content:

1 Equipment capabilities
2 Technical parameters of Android set-top boxes
3 How to connect and configure equipment 3.1 Setting up the set-top box via Wi-Fi

4 Criteria for selecting a set-top box

4.1 Best Android console, according to consumers

Android TV Box is a new line of set-top boxes for LCD and CRT TV series. This is not an ordinary multimedia player, but a complete software for Smart TV. In simple words, with its help you can turn a regular modern TV into a Smart version.

What can be connected via a smart set-top box?

You can easily connect any equipment to the console - a webcam, gadgets - a keyboard, virtual reality glasses, headphones, joysticks, a mouse, etc. since the device has connectors.

Their main types are:

HDMI
AV
USB inputs
MicroSD
Expansion card inputs

Control devices can also be connected via Bluetooth and infrared.

How to connect and configure equipment

The Android set-top box is connected to the TV via HDMI or AV input (tulips). To get higher quality videos and movies, you should choose the first option – HDMI version 2.0 and higher.

Important! The set-top box has a USB connector, but it is not intended for connection. Through it you can only play various files, connect peripheral devices and flash cards.

When you connect the set-top box via the AV input, the picture will be the same as on a regular CRT TV. This connection option does not support modern resolutions and formats.

The connection and configuration diagram for the Android TV set-top box is as follows:

Plug in the equipment. Connect a computer mouse to the USB connector.
Connect the Internet cable via the LAN port or Wi-Fi to the set-top box.
Connect the HDMI cable to the corresponding connector on the TV.
Press the Power button on both the set-top box and the TV.
Take the TV remote control. Go to the menu. Select HDMI or AV as the signal source, depending on the connected connector.
The screen will display the familiar Android screensaver with basic applications.

All subsequent control is carried out through the console. The TV remote control is only useful for turning equipment on and off. Less often to adjust the volume.

Setting up a set-top box via Wi-Fi

Since the Android TV Box is, in fact, a replacement for Smart TV, it can be configured via a Wi-Fi router without connecting a cable. To do this you need:

Connect the set-top box via HDMI or AV cable to the TV.
Wait for the Android menu to display.
Find settings, select network type and turn on Wi-Fi.
Enter the internal network parameter and password. Wait for connection.

After settings in this way, the TV will “turn” into a large wide-screen tablet with all its capabilities, including Internet access and communication through social networks.

Hardware component

It determines how efficiently the device can run games and applications.

Please pay attention to:

CPU. Modern set-top boxes can support quad-core or eight-core processors. The most popular are Amlogic and Rockchip multi-core processors. A good processor ensures proper device performance;
RAM. The minimum volume is 1-2 GB. A high amount of RAM is extremely important for a smart set-top box. With a low volume, the efficiency of the device decreases, “braking” will appear when loading and other troubles;
Built-in memory (hard drive). The minimum volume is usually 8 GB. A high amount of built-in memory is necessary for working with large applications, games, etc. However, even if the amount of built-in memory is small, it can be expanded using special MicroSD cards.

Technical parameters of Android set-top boxes

Despite the whole line of Android TV boxes, they are all similar in technical parameters. They are powered by dual or quad-core Rockchip series processors with Cotrex A9 series architecture. Graphic accelerator for fast playback of pictures – Mail 400. The difference between the models is mainly only in the processor clock frequency.

Other main characteristics of Android TV box include:

RAM capacity from 2 to 4 GB DDR3 series.
Availability of built-in flash memory of 8-16 GB.
There is a slot for memory expansion using a flash card.
Built-in wireless connection interfaces via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth.
The presence of a remote control pointer (optional), which makes it easier to control the TV.
High performance, affecting the speed and quality of content viewing.
Fast playback of Full HD video from the Internet.

To check the quality and functionality of the purchased set-top box, you can upload several heavy video files to a flash drive and play them through a media player.

Internet connection

This can be done in two main ways:

Wi-Fi adapter. Recommended if you have Wi-Fi access. It is advisable to place the router close to the signal source, since the wireless adapter usually has limited power;
Via RJ45 internet cable. This is a wired connection and usually includes an Ethernet port. If this port is missing, the connection is made using a LAN-USB adapter.

The main advantages of Android OS over Smart TV

Among the main advantages of the operating system over Smart TV, it is worth highlighting:

Possibility of use on a large number of devices. The platform can be installed on a smartphone, tablet, or TV. Mastering such an OS is not difficult.
Providing access to selected applications through a personal account. The user just needs to log in to his account in order to use this or that program, enjoy his favorite game or watch a video. Avid gamers should connect a joystick to the device.
Wide range of applications in the store. Android is considered the most popular platform. That is why the online store is updated daily with a huge number of interesting and useful applications.

Important! Unfortunately, Android TV was not equipped with a wireless pointer. You can only use a mouse or keyboard to navigate.

Each user decides for himself what is better than Android TV or Smart TV and which model is worth choosing. If the main purpose of using the platform is to watch your favorite videos and talk shows, or search for information on the Internet, then both options may be suitable.

Advanced PC users will love Android Box, which opens up great opportunities. This software solution is actively being developed. Which platform option to choose is up to each individual to decide.

Equipment

Which Smart TV set-top box to choose for your TV? Increased attention should be paid to the features of its configuration.

Smart TV set-top boxes can be equipped with additional equipment that increases their ease of use:

keyboard for comfortable work with a variety of applications and documents;
remote control (RC) to perform the necessary settings of the set-top box;
webcam with microphone for organizing video calls in Skype.

The webcam may be built-in, but its resolution is limited. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase it separately, which will ensure high-quality eye contact.

Criteria for selecting a console

Choose Android TV Box based on technical specifications. And for the same reasons as when choosing a tablet or smartphone with this operating system. The main criteria include:

The more cores in the processor and the higher its frequency, the faster data processing takes place.
The power of the graphics accelerator affects the speed and quality of content playback.
RAM must be more than 1 GB. The smaller option is not suitable for TVs.
Availability of ports and connectors for connecting peripheral devices, keyboard, mouse, flash drive. And also the presence of an input for a network cable and preferably an HDMI port.
Built-in Wi-Fi and B modules
Support remote control. It makes it more convenient to configure and switch files.

Important! Smart TV requires an operating system higher than version 4.2. Otherwise, nothing useful will come of connecting the set-top box.

It is convenient to buy a set-top box for owners of smartphones with the Android operating system. Synchronization between such devices will take place quickly. And you can use your smartphone as a remote control.

The best Android console, according to consumers

The Android TV Box - Nvidia Shield was recognized as one of the best in 2022. It is considered specialized for games, but it has enough functionality to quickly play all the necessary files. It also features good hardware and constantly updated and correctly working firmware.

The cost of such equipment is from 19 to 21 thousand rubles. The advantages include:

The best hardware of all Android console options.
Stable Wi-Fi connection.
Fully functional Android TV.
Good, glitch-free firmware with reliable support from the manufacturer.
There is a connection via LA

The only disadvantages include the cost.

Second and third place can be given to set-top boxes, Xiaomi Mi Box S, Ugoos X2 Cube. The first option does not have such a wide range of options; it is difficult for it to support games, but the cost is several times cheaper than the Nvidia console.

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Choosing an Android TV box for your TV: what is better to buy if you have $100

The most common questions that I get asked in the comments always sound about the same. Which is better: one model or another? What is better to buy if you have such and such an amount? Unfortunately, I don’t have an exact answer, because it will be different for each user. Some people buy a box to stream torrents on it in 4K quality, while others are content with pirated cinemas with mediocre content quality, and for some it is critical that licensed Netflix works. There are a lot of nuances: auto frame rate, HDR, support for multi-channel audio, and I’m only talking about the multimedia component. But there are also such important things as: cooling, quality of Internet reception via WiFi, available interfaces for connection, type of installed system, and much, much more. To help at least a little to users who are seriously concerned about finding a good set-top box, I have prepared today’s selection. In it I included the most interesting, functional and problem-free set-top boxes that exist at the end of 2022 in the “up to 100” price segment. I deliberately omit models that are too cheap, because they have a lot of problems and are suitable only for very undemanding users. Well, everything that’s more than $100 is for enthusiasts. In my opinion, the vast majority of users choose models from $50 to $100.

UGOOS X4 PRO

Find out the price

First of all, I certainly recommend paying attention to UGOOS X4 PRO. In my opinion, this is the best TV BOX that came out in 2022. It can be safely called popular, because users have already fallen in love with the console for its wide capabilities. It is based on the modern Amlogic S905X4, which has hardware support for the new generation AV1 codec. The set-top box runs Android 11, and perhaps everyone knows about the UGOOS firmware: extensive resource monitoring capabilities, flexible settings, enabling root rights with literally the click of a button, full support for autoframe rates (including fractional frequencies), support for Dloby and DTS multi-channel audio, correct work with HDR, HDR10 and HDR10+. This is also the first set-top box in which the system interfaces are drawn in 4K resolution, which makes the image clearer and more detailed on modern TVs. Of course, voice search is supported, but you need to separately buy a remote control that supports it. In terms of hardware, everything is decent: 4 GB of fast DDR4L RAM, there is support for WiFi 802.11 ac, which provides Internet speeds over the air up to 400 mbps. Well, if you want to connect the Internet by wire, then a gigabit LAN is provided. To top it all off, the box has adequate cooling, so there is no risk of reboots while watching IPTV or heavy torrents. Again. In my opinion, this is the best box that you can buy now (if you don't need Netflix).

TOX 1

Find out the price

An equally interesting set-top box is called TOX 1. It is based on the previous generation Amlogic S905X3 chipset and runs on Android 9, but it costs significantly less. On sales, the price tag drops below $50 and for this money the console simply has no competitors. The firmware here is fire, no worse than that of Ugoos. And in terms of functionality, it is not inferior at all: there is root rights, the autoframe rate is full, there are no problems with multi-channel sound. The set-top box easily plays 4K video in HDR both from the drive and online, easily copes with IPTV even in Ultra HD quality and spins 80 GB torrents. Visually there are also distinctive features. An external antenna is used for more reliable WiFi reception and of course there is support for operation in the 5 GHz band. The perforated housing is used for more efficient passive cooling. There is also an information screen on which you can display various information (configurable in the system). If you are interested in more detailed information, then read the full review.

Mecool KM6 Deluxe

Find out the price

Another worthy box is the Mecool KM6 in the Deluxe version, which is based on the Amlogic S905X4. The firmware here is less functional than that of previous models, but it is much easier to manage and more suitable for quickly searching for content. Yes, it has a certified Android TV10 with voice search and support for Widevine l1, which makes it possible to watch HDR 4K content in legal online cinemas. Like previous models, KM6 Deluxe can work correctly with HDR and supports Dolby and DTS multi-channel audio. There must be a full autoframe rate with support for fractional frequencies. Also, this model was equipped with a modern WiFi module with a Broadcom chip, which supports the new WiFi 6 standard. And of course, a gigabit LAN port. The Deluxe version has 4GB of RAM and 32 GB for installing applications. I also tested the box; a detailed review is here.

TiVo Stream 4K

Find out the price

This set-top box is a little more difficult to buy, because it is sold not on Aliexpress, but on the American Amazon. But I couldn’t help but include it in my selection, because this is a real top for your money and even more. Even from the name it is not difficult to guess that the set-top box is designed for playing streaming services, and first of all, this is Netflix. TiVo has a license, so among other programs, you will find Netflix, where you can watch legal video in quality up to 4K, and with support for Dolby Vision. And this is the second advantage, because this progressive HDR standard also requires a separate license and the set-top box has one. In addition to DV, there is support for HDR, HDR10 and HLG. Don’t think that it’s only suitable for online cinemas. Playing torren, IPTV, Youtube - all this is within its capabilities in maximum 4K quality, including with HDR. The sound is also good, there is full support for Dolby and Dts. And TiVo runs on licensed Google Android TV 9 and is equipped with a cool Bluetooth remote control with voice search. Read the review and testing here.

Mecool KM2

Find out the price

Another box that specializes in Netflix is Mecool KM2. This streaming service has its own certification and sets certain requirements for box manufacturers. KM2 received this certificate, which means you can watch 4K video with HDR support. The console has Widewine L1, which means other official cinemas, such as KinopoiskHD or IVI, will also be available in maximum quality. There is support for HDR, HDR10 and HLG. For multi-channel audio there is support for Dolby Audio. The set-top box runs licensed Android TV 10 and has a built-in chromecast for broadcasting content on the TV screen from your smartphone or laptop. There are also advantages to a cool bluetooth remote control with voice search.

VONTAR X3

Find out the price

Well, if you need an inexpensive box, then you can look at the VONTAR X3. It is based on the previous generation of Amlogic S905X3 chipsets and does not have hardware support for AV1, but it can easily handle H264, HEVC and VP9 even in 4K resolution. At the same time, there is an optical SPDIF output for sound and support for DTS, DTS HD, Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus. The set-top box has all the necessary interfaces for organizing a high-speed Internet connection: dual-band WiFi with support for the 802.11 ac standard and a gigabit Ethernet port for a wired connection. Autoframe works using the AFRD application, so there is no judder effect. A pretty good box that easily streams YouTube in 4K\60fps without drops, can stream torrents and IPTV. It has been on sale for quite a long time, so 4pda has a huge number of firmwares, including ATV and mods from UGOOS, which significantly expand the functionality.

As you can see, there is plenty to choose from. But if I took it for myself, I would reason like this. If I need the most functional and hassle-free box, then this is definitely the UGOOS X4 PRO. If you wish, you can install an ATV module on it and generally configure it as your heart desires. The same thing, but without AV1 and much cheaper, it’s TOX 1. If you definitely need Netflix, then definitely TiVo Stream 4K. If you need Netflix, but are afraid to buy from Amazone, then Mecool KM2 (although it is in many ways inferior to TiVo). If you need a box on a licensed ATV with Widewine L1 to support maximum quality in online cinemas, then you can take Mecool KM6 Deluxe. Well, if you need a cheap box for the kitchen or nursery, for simple tasks, then you can take the VONTAR X3. Again, it all depends on the prices. For example, if you snatch a TiVo Stream 4K on sale, you can pay pennies for it. Right now it costs only $28.50 + shipping and for that money it has no competitors. In general, to summarize, I probably recommend paying attention to UGOOS X4 PRO and TiVo Stream 4K first. And then look at the prices (especially since the 11.11 sale is coming up) and according to your needs.