Top 15 best TV set-top boxes for TV

Want to get the most out of your TV? To do this, you need an Android TV set-top box - a small smart box that allows you to watch movies online directly from the Internet, install various Android applications, download torrents, view web pages on your TV and even play games.

A good smart TV set-top box for a TV costs relatively little money, but searching for a decent model among a bunch of consumer goods can take a lot of effort and time. So, if you don’t know which Android set-top box to choose, read our rating, which contains the best Smart TV set-top boxes. Let's consider all price categories and choose the highest quality options for different budgets and tasks.

The best premium SMART TV set-top boxes

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

DUNE HD RealBox 4K

Our No. 15 TV set-top box opens with the DUNE HD RealBox 4K model, which supports HDR technology. The new generation of TV boxes received not only VP9, but also an improved codec format - VP9 profile 2, which is used by YouTube to play content with support for HDR10+ extended range technology. Consequently, the brightness range while viewing content changes automatically depending on the requirements of the frame, which ensures maximum image detail. But that’s not all about the advantages of the device. The new product received support for content in 3D format with Full HD resolution. Automatic frame rate switching is implemented, and this is accompanied by no flicker. The vast majority of analogues based on Realtek processors are not able to boast such performance and stability when working with heavy content.

Pros:

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

Minuses:

few options.

Apple TV Gen 4

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

Pros:

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

Minuses:

1080p support.

Dune HD Pro Vision 4K Solo

We are talking about a functional media player with support for 4K and a powerful Realtek RTD1619DR processor. This chip provides the Dune HD Pro Vision 4K Solo model with stable operation and performance in performing assigned tasks. Using this device, you can safely include 4K content on YouTube with support for the HDR standard. Moreover, this gadget has 4 gigabytes of RAM, so it consistently performs various tasks. The player runs on the Android 9 system, which provides access to an abundance of various software. The features of this particular set-top box include recognition and playback of Blu-ray images and even video in 3D format.

Pros:

support for Blu-ray images;
there is Type-C;
voice control;
HDR support;
excellent functionality.

Minuses:

high price.

Apple TV 4K New

In the review of TV set-top boxes that attract with good functionality and power, it is simply impossible to ignore the updated model Apple TV 4K New, which, from now on, operates on the basis of the A12 Bionic chip. We are considering a configuration with 32 GB, but there is also a version with 64 GB of internal memory. This player differs from the previous generation (Apple TV 4K) not only in its technical component, but also in its remote control. One of the most reliable players based on the tvOS system operates. It is clear from reviews that this product confidently plays 4K video, even with support for high dynamic range, including HDR10 and Dolby Vision. Surround sound is provided, which is also due to support for the Dolby Atmos audio codec. Modern communications have been implemented, including Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0.

Pros:

control from iPhone;
surround sound;
tvOS system;
A12 Bionic chip.

Minuses:

not found.

NVIDIA SHIELD

The best TV set-top box of 2022 in the premium segment is not new, but still relevant NVIDIA SHIELD, which is great not only for working with content, but also for using games. Actually, the fact that this is the most functional media player can be understood both from the image and the cost. At the same time, the number of supported resources deserves special attention: from NVIDIA Games to Netflix. The powerful TV box copes excellently with HDR10, Dolby Vision, and has a powerful -Fi 802.11ac Mimo 2×2. Moreover, the manufacturer took care of the ability to play Blu-Ray discs. Simple control is due to support for voice commands and the presence of a high-quality web browser. However, the quality of the remote control also meets the most demanding expectations of buyers. The manufacturer guarantees a powerful NVIDIA Tegra X1. The model operates on Android 9.0 OS.

Pros:

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

Minuses:

Magicsee N5

Characteristics:

Operating system: Android 7.1 CPU: Amlogic S905X GPU: Mali-450 RAM: 2 GB Internal memory 16 WiFi support: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Connectors: USB 2.0 x 2, HDMI, microSD, LAN, AV, SPDIF

Review:

The Magicsee N5 smart TV set-top box is built on the Amlogic S905X chip. The chip itself is quite fast, but the graphics solution in it is still the same Mali-450. This time-tested combination shows good results based on Android 7.1.2. RAM 2 GB, built-in 16 GB.

This is not the most modern solution, but note that there is Bluetooth 4.1 and dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz + 5 GHz. This means you can connect your favorite headphones and even in the farthest room the set-top box will show the video smoothly and without freezing.

Peculiarities:

This is the only set-top box in our review that has Bluetooth 4.1 and dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz + 5 GHz.

Price: 2,150 rub.

Rating from Draim.ru:

Price	✩ ✩ ✩ ✩
Performance	✩ ✩ ✩
Functional	✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩

Buy Magicsee N5 for RUB 2,150.

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

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

ZTE ZXV10 B866

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

Pros:

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

Minuses:

average power.

World Vision T625A LAN

Undoubtedly, and rightfully, the World Vision T625A LAN model, introduced in 2021 in conjunction with support for the new generation processor GUOXIN GX6702H5, is considered a good SMART set-top box on Android today. The functional device supports modern broadcasting standards, including DVB-T and T2, as well as DVB-C cable TV. The advantages of this invention include support for the H.265 codec. The manufacturer suggests using a LAN port to connect to a network with a bandwidth of 100 Mbit/s. At the same time, the brand’s engineers have provided the ability to connect an external Wi-Fi adapter. By default, modern online resources are built into the OS shell, including the Megogo cinema.

Pros:

thoughtful design;
access to RSS feed;
H.265 support;
works on Android.

Minuses:

low productivity.

Mecool KM6 Deluxe

If you are looking for an inexpensive but good TV set-top box for Android, we recommend checking out the Mecool KM6 Deluxe line. This media player has 4 gigabytes of RAM, and a good processor that works in conjunction with the Android TV 10 system. A modern Wi-Fi 6 module is responsible for communications, and there is a gigabit LAN interface. The advantages also include Chromecast with voice search support. You can enjoy great content created in 4K at 60 frames per second. At the same time, HDR support is implemented. There are many online cinemas available. If necessary, you can stream content from a flash drive using the USB 3.2 gen1 port.

Pros:

support for quality content;
modern ports and modules;
excellent OS version;
good power.

Minuses:

design for everyone.

Rombica Smart Box v007

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

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

Minuses:

not high power.

Xiaomi Mi Box International Version

The best Android TV set-top box in 2022 in terms of price/quality ratio is the Xiaomi Mi Box International Version series model. The regular Mi Box S, as you understand, is less cost-effective for our region, which can be seen in terms of control and settings. Moreover, each of the configurations boasts really good hardware characteristics. It is worth noting that this model supports video in the format 3840 by 2160 pixels. The processor is Amlogic, powered by Cortex-A53 Quad-Core paired with 2 gigabytes of RAM. The volume of permanent memory is 8 gigabytes. We are pleased with the variety of interfaces, including HDMI, USB and audio output. For ease of control there is Google Assistant, as well as SmartCast.

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

Minuses:

no for that amount.

The best TV Sticks based on Android

1. TV set-top box Vontar X96S 4K Stick 4/32 Gb

If you need a compact, very inexpensive, but productive and functional console, you can take a closer look at this stick. It is very convenient that the device can simply be connected with a cable to the USB port of the TV and this will be enough; no adapter is required for full operation.

The gadget is slightly larger than a regular flash drive, but the manufacturer managed to place a USB 3.0 port, an HDMI plug, a TF slot for memory cards and IR in the case. Root rights are available right out of the box. It is better to immediately replace the standard shell theme, which looks very simple, with, for example, TV Launcher. By default, the Kodi media player is available. But since pure Android 9 is used as the OS, you can install any applications from the Play Store, including the VLC player beloved by many.

Almost all Russian streaming services are available. At the time of writing, problems were observed only with IVI. DRM is available only at the software level: foreign VoD services will only be available in 480p quality.

The lack of Ethernet is compensated by a dual-band Wi-Fi module, allowing you to view content over the network in high quality. Three types of settings are available: the console itself, Droid and operating system. The hardware is sufficient for 4K playback, but under test load in special benchmarks it shows a drop in performance of up to 50%, although the heating does not go beyond 60 ºC.

In general, the stick includes a gentlemanly set of characteristics for geeks and opens up a wide field for experimentation: you can find many custom unofficial firmwares for the Vontar X96S. You can try to squeeze maximum performance out of the device or create a convenient user interface that takes into account all the habits and needs of the owner.

pros

Compact size
Works quickly (powerful)
Powered by USB connector
4K video support
Doesn't heat up
Easy setup and user-friendly interface
Android
Wi-Fi 5 GHz

Minuses

Inconvenient remote control

Prices and customer reviews

TV adapter MECOOL KD1 TV Stick 2/16Gb

Those looking for balance and ease of use should take a closer look at this stick. Compactness, original design, certified Android 10 OS, good performance and an attractive price - here you have everything you need to watch 4K videos online.

The gadget is not suitable for Netflix lovers: the manufacturers did not take care of access to this service. Streaming video content from connected external media will also not work.

The most attractive side of the stick is revealed when you get acquainted with the hardware and playback capabilities: auto frame rate, HDR, very decent software optimization, a full set of codecs out of the box. Plus the absence of the judder effect and other disadvantages typical of inexpensive set-top boxes. And a fairly recent version of Bluetooth.

Tests in AnTuTu Benchmark and 3DMARK show 73,300 and 8,900 points, respectively. The numbers indicate not only good multimedia potential, but also the ability to run 3D games that are not demanding on the graphics subsystem. This inexpensive technology can handle even heavy AAA level Android projects, albeit on minimal settings.

Disadvantages include a small amount of internal storage and an obvious focus solely on working online. On the other hand, for users who do not want to create their own multimedia libraries, and there are more and more of them every year, this solution will be no different from more expensive set-top boxes with advanced data transfer interfaces.

pros

Compact size
Doesn't heat up well
Powered by USB connector
Bluetooth remote control
Easy to connect and configure
Voice search
4K video support
Bluetooth remote control
Wi-Fi 5 GHz
Certified Android TV

Minuses

No RJ45 network connector

Prices and customer reviews

TV adapter Xiaomi Mi TV Stick

The task of this set-top box is to turn old HD and Full HD TVs into Smart TVs, or to multiply the existing functionality.

The device's operating system, Android TV 9, makes available a huge number of free APK applications from the Play Market and other sources. And thanks to Google certification and support for Widevine L1, nothing prevents you from using services such as Youtube, Prime Video, Twitch, Netflix and others. Mi TV Stick also has a built-in Chromecast streaming platform, which allows you to display pictures and sound from any device on the TV screen in real time.

The set-top box periodically downloads and installs OTA updates with firmware improvements. Xiaomi works on its own software very conscientiously.

In addition to HDMI and USB, the interfaces include Wi-Fi in the 2.4 – 5 GHz range (which provides speeds of 48 Mbit/s and 135 Mbit/s, respectively) and Bluetooth. The latter is convenient to use to output an audio signal to external speakers, especially if the TV does not support Dolby Digital or DTS.

Compared to more advanced Xiaomi models, the stick does not work very well. However, the super-budget price and the presence of modern functions, such as voice search, CEC control, and auto-frame rate make this set-top box very practical and useful for owners of not very modern TVs.

pros

Compact size
Convenient HDMI extender
Powered by USB connector
Bluetooth remote control
Easy to connect and configure
Low price

Minuses

It's getting warm
There are complaints about breakdowns and freezes

Prices and customer reviews

TV adapter Google Chromecast 2018

This streaming media player cannot be confused with any other - thanks to the designers. A large round keychain with a cable ending in a micro-USB plug looks non-standard. The gadget is made of good plastic, is tightly assembled and looks expensive.

But the main value of the device is its absolute compatibility with most popular multimedia content streaming applications. This guarantees a quick and simple connection: the owner does not require any skills in handling the set-top box, everything is intuitive. As an example, using Chromecast it is easy to broadcast the display of an Android smartphone onto the TV screen: any actions from launching programs to playing movies are displayed.

The set-top box is intended exclusively for streaming and is devoid of any interface. So at a time when nothing is being transmitted, you can display the time, weather or photos. The gadget is configured through the Google Home program. Available options:

set video frequency;
rename the device;
add to a group, as an option, combining with smart speakers;
select an access point.

It’s hard to name something easier to use than Chromecast 2022. By launching an application, for example, Netflix and touching the broadcast button, you can immediately watch videos in good quality. The device is capable of stable playback of content in Full HD format at 60 FPS. Alas, this is not a 4K format, which is comparable to the version with the Ultra postfix in the name. On the other hand, nothing prevents you from paying extra and purchasing an older model.

pros

Fast and easy setup
Compact size
Wi-Fi 5 GHz
Powered by TV USB port
Convenient control via phone
Broadcast screen and sound from Android, Windows, Linux devices.

Minuses

Not all apps support Chromecast
Exclusively for streaming audio and video via phone or PC

Rating of TV tuners for TVs

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

LUMAX DV-1115HD

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

Pros:

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

Minuses:

comes out on different chipsets.

BBK SMP026HDT2

Another inexpensive digital tuner, produced by a fairly large manufacturer - the BBK company. The SMP026HDT2 series line has a 12 month warranty. Using this gadget, you can display images in several formats, including 16:9 and 4:3. The model supports modern TV standards, including DVB-T, as well as DVB-T2. The performance is not the highest, because the Ali 3821 chip is implemented, but it has a good set of functions. It is necessary to note support for HDTV. Also worth noting are the many connectors, including an antenna output, a USB port and an audio output. The model has an excellent design, attracts with its compact size and relatively low price.

Pros:

good assembly;
many ports;
different aspect ratio;
modest sizes.

Minuses:

weak processor.

Cadena CDT-1753SB

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

Pros:

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

Minuses:

few options.

LUMAX DV-1120HD

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

Pros:

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

Minuses:

not found.

World Vision T624A

The best TV set-top box in 2022 for receiving digital signals is the entry-class model of the World Vision T624A series, which allows you to enjoy not only over-the-air TV channels, but also organize a modest multimedia center near your TV. In particular, this gadget can play multimedia files using flash drives and other external storage devices. Moreover, it is possible to record content to a hard drive, including live broadcasts. Among the useful functions, we note a TV guide, access to email services and news feeds. On the back of the device you can find a wide range of connectors: from USB to HDMI.

Pros:

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

Minuses:

not found.

Mecool M8S PRO W

Characteristics:

Operating system: Android 7.1 CPU: Amlogic S905W GPU: Mali-450 RAM: 1 GB Internal memory: 8 GB WiFi support: 2.4 GHz Connectors: USB 2.0 x 2, HDMI, microSD, LAN, AV

Review:

The Mecool M8S PRO W smart TV set-top box is the most inexpensive in our review. This is not surprising; it runs on the simplest Amlogic S905W chip. This version of the chip operates at lower frequencies than the S905X. No Bluetooth. Wi-Fi is cut to 2.4 GHz. 1 GB of RAM and only 8 GB of internal memory. Operating system Android 7.1.

But for the price of 1,700 rubles, almost everything can be forgiven for this console. After all, it works and reproduces videos quite well! There are all the necessary connectors: 2 USB 2.0 connectors, HDMI, RJ45 LAN, and even AV output!

Price: 1,700 rub.

Rating from Draim.ru:

Price	✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩
Performance	✩ ✩
Functional	✩ ✩ ✩

Buy M8S PRO W for RUB 1,700.

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

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

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

Actual set-top box tests

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

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

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

Tips for choosing a media player

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

Selecting a TV box configuration

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

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

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

TOP TV set-top boxes under 50$ with Ali

TOX1

A little-known model that has all the necessary functionality and capabilities of a high-quality device.
Powered by a 4-core Amlogic S905X3, it features cross-ventilation and a removable antenna to enhance the Wi-Fi signal if necessary. There is HDMI, 2 USB, TF and Ethernet port. Despite the low price, it supports auto frame rate, 4K and all popular video formats.
It is controlled by the ninth Android with its own launcher, which visually lacks stars from the sky, but is quite simple and intuitive. One of the disadvantages is the lack of an S/PDIF connector for external speakers. Average price: RUB 3,821

TANIX TX9S

The first and only smart TV set-top box with an 8-core processor.
This is the Amlogic S912, which is quite outdated for 2022, but still shows good performance. The manufacturer has implemented high-quality cooling, so the box does not heat up. Other parameters of the TV box: 2 GB RAM and 8 GB ROM, HD sound, gigabit Ethernet. Two USB ports, but only 2.0, of course, HDMI, but there is no connector for connecting audio speakers.
But considering the above characteristics and the ridiculous price, TANIX TX9S is an excellent choice for those who have decided to buy their first multimedia set-top box or are looking for the most budget-friendly but successful solution. Average price: RUB 2,728

AX95DB

Model based on Amlogic S905X3-B processor running Android TV 9.0.
Available in different versions with built-in memory of 32, 64 and 128 GB. RAM in all variations is 4 GB. Owners note that the factory software is somewhat damp, but since there is support for over-the-air updates, this cannot be called a problem. The model has a standard set of interfaces, including an AV port for connecting to old TVs. In addition to common video formats, the manufacturer claims support for Dolby Blu-Ray BD MV ISO. This is true, but the set-top box only plays video files, but does not open the Blu-Ray menu. “Brakes” due to heating are possible, but under really significant loads.

Which TV set-top box is best to buy in 2022?

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.