The best WiFi TV set-top boxes: how to choose, connect and configure

Many users have heard about the capabilities of smart TVs, but cannot use them because they recently purchased a model without Internet access. It’s too early to replace it with a new one, so set-top boxes with Wi-Fi for digital television will be an option to correct the situation. By purchasing such a device, the user gets the opportunity to watch digital broadcasting, access the Internet and other useful functions.

Advantages of models with Wi-Fi

A good TV set-top box for digital television with Wi - Fi is more expensive than models without wireless Internet support, but it also has more useful features . Modern digital set-top boxes with Wi-Fi have the following advantages.

1. The DVB-T2 tuner provides access to digital TV if the TV does not have a built-in feature.
2. Connecting to wireless Internet makes it possible to access online Cinemas.
3. You can install applications on the set-top box.
4. Various connectors on the tuner allow you to connect peripheral devices through it.
5. The built-in media player allows you to watch content from external drives.
6. You can connect a mouse and keyboard through the console, making using the Internet more convenient.
7. With a built-in browser, the user gets full access to the Internet, just like on a PC.

Important! It should be understood that not every set-top box with Wi-Fi has the full range of the above functions. Depending on the model, they may be limited to one or another number of possibilities.

Device selection rules

Above we discussed the main parameters of Wi-Fi adapters, which are important to pay attention to when choosing. There are also some other points that deserve detailed consideration to fully understand the topic of the article.

Wi-Fi transmitter for old-style TV

The TV and adapter must be the same brand. This way, the user will not have problems with the compatibility of the device and its operation. In addition, the same brand will avoid the following problems:

• driver installation;
• nuances regarding the frequency of work;
• maximum possible operating power;
• maximum signal reception radius.

Thus, when choosing a Wi-Fi adapter of the same brand as the TV, the user will save himself from possible failures and errors after connection, and the transmitter itself will fully reveal its potential, as planned by the manufacturer.

For everyday use, you should not buy a Wi-Fi adapter for a TV set-top box with a large set of functions unnecessary for the user in order to save money.

Principle of operation

A digital receiver with Wi-Fi for a TV has two main functions, they work according to the following principle.

1. The built-in DVB-T2 tuner converts the analog signal and provides access to free digital TV.
2. The built-in Wi-Fi adapter receives the signal from the router and provides Internet access. Moreover, depending on the model, the user may either have limited functionality - built-in access to cinema halls and several pre-installed services, or the set-top box has an operating system (mainly Android), which opens up broader functions. If the OS is installed, the TV becomes a full-fledged analogue of Smart TV.

Why do you need a SMART TV set-top box with WiFi for your TV?

Nowadays, almost every home has at least one TV. Some families have several of these devices installed in different rooms. TV has become one of the most common household appliances. The development of progress even allows you to watch movies in 3D.

However, for those who, for certain reasons, cannot afford to purchase a “smart” TV, an alternative has been created - a SMART-TV set-top box. This small device allows you to enjoy the same features and bonuses that even the most expensive TV offers.

Most channels are currently broadcasting in digital broadcast format, which allows for maximum clarity and image quality. Online broadcasts of satellite channels have pause and rewind functions, there is no need to rush to watch your favorite series or movie at a certain time.

Note! Connection to SMART TV can be carried out by a specific operator that provides services, or by the user independently using the Internet. To do this, it is enough to have a router to which the SMART-TV tuner is connected via Wi-Fi.

The domestic consumer electronics market offers a wide range of “smart” equipment for TVs. These devices are suitable for almost any model or modification of the TV, regardless of the country of manufacture and year of manufacture. Using this technique, you can get rid of many problems with connecting to a cable operator. It is enough to have an Internet connection.

The development of the TV set-top box market is due to the fact that the functionality of a regular TV has not changed much over the past 10-20 years. It is possible to catch various channels with excellent image quality, you can configure them yourself, some models allow you to listen to radio stations. That's all. The revolution in this direction was “organized” by intellectual additions to the most important “table decoration for the holiday” - the TV.

Most of these consoles operate using a common operating system called Android. Made in the form of a small plastic block. The size of equipment is constantly decreasing; now there are devices the size of a regular flash drive. However, the most interesting thing is hidden inside, since a huge digital world of information and a variety of entertainment opens up for the user.

Note! A huge advantage of a digital set-top box is that it can be used to turn an ordinary old TV into a fairly modern device. At the same time, the costs of such television are minimal.

The history of “smart” set-top boxes began with the era of the development of the Internet and related technologies. They became widespread about 15 years ago. The fact is that with the advent of affordable network connections, the need to buy a TV for most users simply disappeared. In this regard, various devices were invented that allow you to connect the Internet to a “blue screen”.

In turn, TV manufacturers went their own way, as a result of which they came up with “smart” devices that can connect to the network without intermediaries in the form of set-top boxes and tuners.

Important! The image quality when using a set-top box depends most on the TV.

Definitely, a modern screen can provide a much better image than any other one released at least 5 years ago. However, the difference in price will be very noticeable.

How to choose a console

Choosing the right receiver is the key to the fact that it will perform its functions efficiently, and the user will be able to enjoy not only watching TV, but also quickly surfing the Internet.

Important! TV sets and set-top boxes are usually produced by different companies. Therefore, looking for information about the compatibility of one device and another is a pointless exercise.

You can also find recommendations that a tuner should be selected based on the power of its existing Wi-Fi receiver. This is the second misconception, which if adopted by the user will waste time and nerves, because he simply will not find such information, and not a single seller in the store will provide it. The parameters to consider when purchasing are as follows.

1. Processor clock speed and amount of RAM. In most cases, set-top boxes are equipped with quad-core processors with different clock speeds - the higher it is, the better. The principle of choosing RAM is similar.
2. Supported television standards. A set-top box for receiving digital television must have support for DVB-T2 and, if possible, DVB-C (cable television).
3. Supported Wi-Fi standards. Such information is not always written on the box or instructions. If it is not there, then the set-top box with a Wi-Fi receiver operates at a frequency of 2.4 GHz. If the receiver is more advanced, then it will be able to operate on a less congested 5 GHz channel, that is, access to the Internet will be faster. The manufacturer will definitely make a note about this, as this is a serious advantage.
4. Availability of an operating system. Many models with Wi-Fi do not have operating systems, and their Internet functions are represented by a pre-installed set of software - support for popular cinemas, the ability to broadcast content from mobile devices through the set-top box, weather. If the tuner runs on an operating system (mainly Android), then it will provide full access to the Internet and the application store, which will allow you to install any programs - from browsers and players to games.
5. A DVB-T2 receiver with Wi-Fi can output a signal from external memory or record information to it. In this case, you should check which media are supported on the receiver. This depends on the USB interface (they may not provide power), which are designed for either memory up to 500 GB or larger hard drives. You also need to find out what file systems the tuner can work with. Ideally, there should be support for NTFS, otherwise files larger than 4 GB will not be able to be loaded onto a flash drive.
6. Image resolution. To watch content in high quality, the device must support FHD.
7. Antenna type. When receiving a signal via Wi-Fi, its quality will largely depend not on the built-in adapter of the set-top box, but on the power of the router. However, some tuner models are equipped with remote antennas, which means a more powerful receiver. If you purchase a TV tuner that is located far from the router, and you have no desire to change the latter, then you should buy a model with an external rather than a built-in antenna. Some DVB-T2 receivers with Wi-Fi can act as a repeater, that is, they not only receive the wireless network, but also broadcast it further.
8. Built-in memory. Its presence allows you to install applications and record content directly to the set-top box.
9. Outputs on the body. To connect to a TV, it is best to use an HDMI connector, as it produces the best image quality. It is also recommended to choose models with multiple USB outputs, which makes it possible to connect not only an external drive, but also a mouse for better navigation.

Basic Operations

The main settings include the main tabs in the menu:

• Program Manager.
• Image.
• Search for TV channels.
• Time.
• System parameters.
• USB.

Program Manager

This section includes:

• Channel editor.
• TV guide.
• Sorting.
• Automatic numbering.
• Updating the channel list.

The channel editor includes several settings. When logging in, the system may ask for a password, then enter six zeros. The option allows you to block, skip, create a favorites list or delete TV channels. Instructions for use:

1. To add to your favorites list, mark the channel name with a red asterisk. Use the "OK" button. To exit a tab, press “EXIT” on the remote control.
2. To remove from favorites, select a specific broadcast in the list and click “FAV”.
3. To remove a channel from broadcasting, press the blue button on the remote control after selecting the broadcast you don’t want.
4. To skip a TV channel, press the green button.
5. The red button will allow you to move a specific channel to another position, which must be determined using the keys. After moving, click OK.
6. To lock, use the yellow button. In the password field, enter six zeros.

The TV guide is a TV program guide. Users can view information about all channels, for example, the current broadcast, as well as the upcoming broadcast schedule.

The “Sorting” tab allows you to arrange channels by:

• Name.
• Identification number.
• Network identifier – ONID.
• By logical numbering.

Image Settings

The next section is image settings. In the menu it is located as the second tab. Here you can change:

Screen format. This parameter should be selected for the TV model:

1. 4:3.
2. 4:3 full screen.
3. 16:9.
4. 16:9 Wide.
5. 16:9 Panoramic.

Not sure about the right choice? Set the option to "AUTO".

1. Permission. Use the arrows to select - 480i/480p for NTSC, 576i/576p for PAL or 720p/1080i/1080p, suitable for any television system.
2. Volume. Adjust the volume on a specific TV channel or all.
3. OSD parameter. Determines the percentage of transparency of the receiver menu.
4. Set up LED display. Allows you to change the brightness, enable the visibility of the TV channel number or activate the time display when watching TV shows.

Search channels

The presented section includes:

• Auto search. Click "OK" to start.
• Manual search. To adjust the frequency, use the keys.
• Selecting your country of residence.
• Antenna power supply. When using an active antenna together with power supply to the amplifier via cable, activate the option.

Setting the time

In this section you can:

• Set the time.
• Change region.
• Specify time zone.
• Activate the device's automatic shutdown feature.
• Set a timer.

Setting options

There is no need to configure options; all built-in functions do not require additional settings. The only thing you can do is change the language settings.

System Settings

Available in system parameters:

• Parental control. To log in you will need to enter a password consisting of six zeros.
• Setting a password for installed or standard applications.
• Reset settings to factory settings.
• Information about installed software, model data.
• Software Update.

Receiver setup

Wi - Fi receiver connects to your TV in a slightly different way than a regular digital set-top box. The antenna cable is connected to the set-top box itself. If the user plans to watch only over-the-air broadcasts, then communication with the TV can be done through the same antenna cable. If the user’s tasks include using the Internet and viewing content from flash drives, then you will need to use an HDMI connection or tulips (adapter from AV to tulips).

After this, you need to switch to displaying from the selected connector on the TV and configure the receiver. To do this, you will need to use its remote control and follow the instructions that appear on the screen. Most receivers require you to specify the date and time, as well as the region. After the initial setup, the device will offer to find channels (you should select automatic search) and connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi. All available networks will be displayed. Having selected the desired one, the user will be required to enter a password for it.

Important! The setup procedure may differ slightly, so you should look for more detailed recommendations in the instructions for the receiver.

Installing a wireless set-top box

The device connects to the Internet via a Wi-Fi connection without any wires or adapters. Contact with the TV is established using the HDMI port, and if it is missing, using the HDMI2AV adapter.

Technical operating conditions:

• Internet speed - at least 3 megabits per second;
• Mains voltage: 220 V.

To use the console conveniently, you will need additional accessories:

• multimedia remote control (usually included);
• mouse (preferably wireless);
• camera (for video dates in instant messengers);
• gamepad and joystick compatible with the console (for gaming sessions).

Top 3 digital set-top boxes with Wi-Fi

For those looking for proven models of digital receivers with Wi-Fi, below are the best representatives on the market.

Digifors SMART 200

The Digifors SMART 200 TV tuner is an excellent model with built-in Wi-Fi and the Android 4.4 operating system. The device received a quad-core Amlogic S905D processor with a frequency of 2 GHz and 2 GB of RAM. Own storage – 1 GB, support for hard drives up to 2 TB with FAT16/32 and NTFS file systems. Internet access via Wi-Fi 802.11 g/n (2.4 GHz) or cable connection via an Ethernet connector 10/100 Mbit/s. Maximum video resolution is FHD.

There are built-in services YouTube, IVI and others. The model supports popular cloud services, can work with torrent files, and supports installing APK applications (directly from a flash drive) or from the Play Market. The device understands all modern video and audio formats and codecs, subtitle files and graphic formats.

The set-top box has a familiar interface, like that of Android smartphones, so it’s very easy to understand . In addition, the gadget can record broadcasts, they can be paused or rewinded, and there is a built-in program guide. The model supports Mircast and AirPlay. Connectors – 2 USB, HDMI, antenna input and output, AV, audio, LAN. In addition to the set-top box, the kit includes a control panel, an HDMI cable, an AV cable, and a power supply. A mouse and keyboard are optionally available. The price of the model is from 3,800 rubles.

LUMAX DV-3206HD

TV tuner LUMAX DV-3206HD is a model with Wi-Fi support from a Russian manufacturer. The device received a reliable GX3235S processor and a powerful digital receiver RT850. The device is made in a metal case. The front panel has control buttons, a USB output and a display. On the reverse side there are antenna input and output, HDMI, audio output and tulips. You can use a 3G modem to access the Internet. The set includes a remote control with batteries, a set-top box, and an RCA cable.

Important! The gadget supports MeeCast technology – displaying images from mobile devices.

The device is not equipped with an OS, so Internet access is provided through the proposed services - YouTube, Gmail, Weather, Megogo, LUMAX cinema (100 films available). On-air functions are represented by a pause in the show, an electronic program guide and the ability to record video on a flash drive (support for no more than 500 GB). Video resolution is FHD, there is a functional media player with support for modern codecs. Price from 1,300 rubles.

Jinga JT2-2703

The Jinga JT2-2703 TV tuner is an inexpensive DVB-T/T2/C receiver with a removable Wi-Fi antenna. The model does not have its own operating system, access to the Internet through services - YouTube, Megogo, NEWS&WEATHER, Stalker IP TV.

The device supports the functions TimeShift (pause in the broadcast), PVR (recording to a flash drive), EPG (electronic program guide). Processor - National GX3235S, RAM - 4 MB, main memory - 64 MB. Maximum video resolution is FHD. There is a functional media player for listening to audio and watching video. Interfaces – 2 USB 2.0, antenna input, RCA, HDMI. Includes set-top box, RCA cable, power supply, remote control, Wi-Fi antenna. There is a display on the front panel. Cost from 1,300 rubles.

The advantage of a SMART set-top box over the built-in SMART-TV function

Note! To the question of what is better to choose in this case, there is a clear answer - a modern “smart” TV.

Why does the Xiaomi Mi Box 3 TV set-top box not see the wireless network?

The thing is that it has the same set of functions and capabilities as the most sophisticated set-top box. In this case, there is no need to use “intermediaries” in the form of a tuner or box. Even from the visual side, it is better to choose a TV just hanging on the wall, rather than a similar device with connected cables and a tuner, which spoil the entire appearance. In addition, you need to use as many as two remote controls, one for the TV, and the second for the set-top box, which also causes a lot of inconvenience.

Despite this, the SMART set-top box has undoubted advantages that can tip the scales when choosing in your favor. Among them are the following:

• Any modern TV loses greatly in price comparison even with the most expensive set-top box.
• The SMART set-top box has many more functions and capabilities for updating programs and applications. Even the most expensive and advanced TV at the moment will become obsolete in a few years. This does not happen with SMART boxes, which have more upgrade options.

Note! The ability to connect SMART set-top boxes for TV is provided by almost all domestic operators.

Rostelecom is also the most popular.

operating system

Each operating system has different functionality. A common feature that unites all set-top boxes is that the systems are similar to those installed on smartphones.

There are several types of operating systems:

• Android TV (TCL, Zidoo, Sharp, Sony). The simplest system allows you to download and use well-known games and applications. Allows you to use your TV as a media center. The latest models have the ability to control the set-top box with your voice and watch broadcasts in 4K resolution. You can install a special application on your smartphone and use it as a remote control.
• Tizen (Samsung). The manufacturer widely uses a Linux-based system in all devices with Smart technology, including television receivers. The system has a user-friendly interface, large internal memory and allows you to install a wide variety of programs.

• webOS (LG). One of the newest systems. Allows you to enlarge the image without losing quality. It differs from its competitors in its higher operating speed.

• Roku TV (TCL, Sharp, Hisense, Invina, Ikonbit). Allows you to use programs on the Windows platform for Android and IOS, and view them both on TV and on a smartphone.

Software

You can significantly expand the functionality of the Smart set-top box if you have such a need. There are several programs for this. We'll talk about them briefly below.

Parom TV

This is a fairly popular application that allows you to watch programs in good quality. Like any program it has pros and cons.

Pros:

• Large selection of channels and the ability to sort them by language and category;
• No advertising or paid subscriptions;
• Clear and convenient interface;
• There is a broadcast schedule;
• Signal amplification;
• Ability to increase or decrease text.

Minuses:

• The picture is unclear on some channels.

LimeHD TV

This application allows you to watch programs both paid and free. Subscription is issued for a month, the average cost is approximately 70 rubles.

Features of this software:

• Paid subscription to rating channels;
• Availability of announcements and schedules;
• Archiving of recordings of programs with free viewing;
• No advertising.

Torrent TV

This software is one of the best. It works in the same way as regular torrents: the more people are currently watching a certain channel, the better. At this moment, the viewers’ computers are sources of data transmission, which works as a signal amplifier.

Installing and running the application is very simple. The procedure is as follows:

• First register on the official Torrent-TV portal. This is required to gain full access;
• Go to the “Help” section;
• Select the sub-item “Watch on Android”;
• Download and install the file on the receiver;
• Run the program;
• Enjoy.

One of the main advantages of Torrent TV is that the work does not depend on the Internet speed, the signal is distributed uninterruptedly. There are no glitches or freezes during broadcasting, the image is bright and clear.

Among other things, this software works on any model of set-top box for free.

lol tv

This software is completely free and does not use ads. That's why it became so popular among viewers. In the application, you can sort channels by categories and genres, and you can also watch videos in 4K format.

In addition, in the settings you can change the signal transmission speed, icons and password.

Lol TV has a number of disadvantages:

• small number of channels;
• no broadcast schedule;
• For correct operation, installation of the additional Ace Stream Media application is required.

Developers are constantly improving something in the program, making it more user-friendly. So don’t dismiss Lol TV right away, but take a closer look.

Slynet iptv

This program is completely free. With its help you can watch different programs and listen to the radio. In addition, the user can use archived recordings and playlists. The application is completely ad-free: no pop-ups or paid subscriptions.

For the application to work correctly, you will need to install additional XMTVplayer software.

Lazy iptv

Another completely free software with great functionality. You can export and import user data, set parental controls, and adjust images (color, brightness, contrast).

Pros:

• flexible programming system;
• unhindered access to the Internet;
• player;
• a large number of available channels;
• watching programs from the Internet;
• powerful signal;
• access to radio;
• does not require installation of additional applications;
• interaction with third party devices.

Minuses:

• frequent pop-up advertisements;
• works unstably;
• playlists are rarely updated;
• Poor picture quality of some channels.