A modern set-top box can easily turn an ordinary TV into an advanced multifunctional device. From now on, viewing various content, as well as access to the World Wide Web, even from an old TV set, will become a reality. What is the best Android TV box for 2018? What tasks will this device help to solve, is it worth buying, which model should I give preference to?
Outwardly, the TV set-top box on the android resembles a regular router. The so-called TV boxes belong to the group of stationary installations to which various devices are connected. You can also find TV sticks on the market today. This option resembles large flash cards in appearance, differs in mobility, usually has no more than two USB-outputs.
The presence of Internet access on the TV is always an additional plus. If there is no such function, it is best to use a smart device. To enjoy watching news programs, music programs, movies, you just need to connect this miniature device to the TV. The device will also allow you to view various content without prior download (online). Games with an Android console will delight any gamer.
The device can easily replace a personal computer, laptop or tablet, it will cope well not only with playing various files, but also with entering the necessary text. The last action is performed using a virtual, plug-in wired or wireless keyboard.
Last year was remembered for all the real excitement around the Android operating system. It is ideal for all kinds of equipment, and TV set-top boxes are no exception. This OS boasts openness, less demand for various resources, a convenient and intuitive interface.
In order not to be mistaken in the choice, we offer an overview of the best models of android set-top boxes for TV in 2018, as well as several recommendations regarding the purchase.
What nuances should be considered when choosing:
- the presence of an HDMI connector in the TV is preferable to analog ones, since the latter somewhat distort the picture;
- a multi-core processor guarantees high speed and good performance, so it is better to give preference to such models;
- connection to the TV should be fast and as convenient as possible;
- type of internet connection;
- Memory;
- the ability to read various formats;
- complete set, availability of additional accessories that make it easier to work with the attachment;
- the choice of the form depends on the personal preferences of the buyer, and does not at all affect the efficiency of the device.
The best models of 2018
The presented model is a full-fledged smart TV set-top box for android for a TV, costing about $ 100 with fairly wide functionality (Android OS 5.1.1, 4-core processor). The device is made in the form of a small compact box, the side edges of which are treated with black varnish, the upper part is covered with an aluminum plate, the bottom is trimmed with a special elastic soft-touch material.
The set-top box is compatible with almost all TV sets. Connection to modern technology is carried out using HDMI, outdated - AV-connector. Internet access - wired and wireless, the device is controlled by a remote control. The set-top box works great with many resources, reproduces information from a memory card and a flash drive. A sufficient set of connectors allows you to connect a mouse, keyboard, webcam, headphones, etc.
This model is a miniature computer. It perfectly copes with the assigned functions; it will easily turn any TV into a real multimedia station. Thanks to the 8-core processor, the set-top box has a high operating speed. In addition, this device guarantees high quality viewing of any video format.
The amount of RAM (2 GB) is enough to accommodate a sufficient number of programs. The shared storage is just over 16 GB. If there is not enough memory, you can use external drives that are easily connected via USB connectors. The connection to the TV is via HDMI, Internet networks - Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, LAN. The cost of this console in 2018 is about $ 95. This is a pretty decent price for a good device.
This model, due to its good technical characteristics and compact size, deserved to be connected even to a TV with a large diagonal, and the quite affordable price only added to its popularity in 2018. FullHD and UltraHD support ensures you watch movies, music, sports and more in superb quality. Gamers can take advantage of this TV box to install a range of undemanding games. The speed of the device is guaranteed by a 4-core processor, the lack of RAM and built-in memory is compensated by connecting an external hard drive. On the case there is a set of connectors necessary for this category of equipment.
This budget version of the set-top box on Android 5.1 OS connects not only to new television equipment, but also to outdated TV models through special analog ports. For only $ 50-60, the buyer will receive a modern functional device, the speed of which is provided by a 64-bit 4-core processor. The amount of RAM and shared memory is modest, no different from previous models. However, the set-top box has four USB ports, which will simplify the connection of external drives.
A TV box from a Chinese manufacturer comes complete with a power supply, an adapter for euro sockets, an HDMI cable, and a remote control that fits comfortably in the hand. I would like to pay special attention to the appearance of the console. The device has a square shape, the absence of clearly defined corners makes it more interesting and original. The case is treated with a special silver lacquer, which distinguishes this model from others.
The set-top box has a 4-core processor and uses Android 5.1 OS. A small amount of RAM and shared memory (1GB and 8GB respectively) is enough to store the most necessary applications and content, if you wish, you can always connect an external drive. The set of connectors is standard, no different from previous consoles. Smart TV box from the ZIDOO campaign is a harmonious combination of attractive appearance, good characteristics and an affordable price.
This option can be attributed to the group "the best android set-top box for TV in 2018". Although the price of this device is rather big (over $ 140), the gadget has a number of advantages: nice appearance, two operating systems (Android and RTD OS 4.5), support for high resolution and almost all codecs (video and audio), the ability to view 3D video, the presence of a built-in sound amplifier, a set of necessary connectors. A feature of this model is the ability to connect a computer hard disk or a laptop hard drive, which is somewhat cheaper than buying external drives.
Choosing a quality set-top box requires a serious approach. When buying such equipment, it is worth considering not only the manufacturer and technical characteristics, but also for what purposes this gadget is purchased. A quick overview of the popular models of 2018 is just a little additional information needed to simplify the selection.
| title | |||||
| HD support | 4K UHD | 4K UHD | 1080p (Full HD) | 4K UHD | 4K UHD |
| Interfaces | Wi-Fi 802.11n, Bluetooth, USB 2.0 Type A x4, Ethernet | Wi-Fi 802.11n, Bluetooth, USB 2.0 Type A, Ethernet | Wi-Fi 802.11n, Bluetooth, USB 2.0 Type A, Ethernet | Wi-Fi 802.11n, USB 2.0 Type A, Ethernet | |
| Outputs | audio stereo, audio optical, video composite, HDMI 2.0 | audio stereo, audio optical, video composite, HDMI | audio stereo, audio optical, video composite, HDMI 1.4b | ||
| Additional Information | Quad-core Cortex-A53 2GHz, dual-band Wi-Fi, external Wi-Fi antenna, universal remote with learning function, OC Android 5.1.1; remote control, instruction | Amlogic S905 quad core (ARM Cortex A53) 2.0GHz, HDMI cable, remote control, power adapter, user manual | Quad-core ARM Cortex A9r4 2.0GHz, dual-band Wi-Fi; HDMI cable, instruction manual, IR remote control, power supply | eight-core processor Amlogic S912 (ARM Cortex-A53) 2GHz, two external Wi-Fi antennas, dual-band Wi-Fi; HDMI cable, instruction manual, IR remote control, power supply | Quad-core ARM Cortex A53 2.0GHz, IR input, external Wi-Fi antenna, dual-band Wi-Fi; HDMI cable, instruction manual, IR remote control, power supply |
| price | from 9600 rub. | from 2500 rub. | from 5800 rub. | from 5100 rub. | from 4350 rub. |
| where can I buy |
Popular online store GearBest identified the five most popular TV boxes at the moment. The list includes both novelties of the market and long-established models of consoles.
2. (Official International Version) Xiaomi Mi
The second place was taken by an excellent TV box, notable for the fact that it works under the control of the system Android TV 6.0, which means a user-friendly interface and high-quality voice control. Quad-core processor Cortex-A53 2.0GHz and the Mali 450 750MHz video chip will allow the set-top box to play 4K 60fps video without any problems. The set-top box does not have an Ethernet port, but for that it has the best WiFi 2.4GHz / 5GHz reception of all set-top boxes. There is 2GB of RAM and 8GB of internal memory, Bluetooth 4.0 / 3.0.
In third place is the budget model of the SCISHION V88 set-top box powered by a quad-core processor Rockchip 3229 with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of eMMC storage for applications. Despite the modest price, the set-top box supports many modern functions, including playback 4K H.265 video.
Order SCISHION V88 with free shipping.
On the fourth position is the most popular TV box running on a quad-core processor with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of internal memory. This set-top box has been on sale for a long time and has won a good reputation for its problem-free operation. There is a 64-bit system Android 6.0, WiFi 2.4GHz and Bluetooth 4.0.
And the top five of the leaders is closed by the super popular set-top box, which was one of the first to enter the market with an eight-core processor. Amlogic S912... The set-top box works under OS control Android 6.0, has 2GB of RAM and 16 or 32GB of internal memory, Gigabit LAN, WiFi 2.4G + 5.8G, Bluetooth 4.0. In operation, the console is not much different from its older model. GT1 Ultimate so it is still a great choice.
See also the latest top 10:
/ top-10-tv-box-2018 /
It is very convenient when your TV, in addition to broadcasting channels, can provide other equally interesting entertainment, such as games, social networks and other online delights. Computers, of course, will not replace computers, but as a tool for more or less full-fledged leisure they will do quite well.
Such functionality is available in modern TV models with the Smart prefix, but no matter which manufacturer you take, whether it is Sony, LG, Samsung or another brand - usability, and the technology itself is still damp. Very often, many owners complain about some kind of freezes, disconnections, format conflicts and other unpleasant moments. Naturally, you can use it, but the residue remains unpleasant anyway.
It's another matter when all these miracles work on the Android platform. in this case, it significantly expands the capabilities and eliminates many of the problems that are inherent in the original branded firmware. Here you can work with Google Play, where the number of programs is simply amazing, in comparison with the same LG World and Game World, and solving problems with format conflicts, and much more.
That is, it turns out that a smart set-top box on Android for a TV is not just some kind of addition to the main functionality, but a full-fledged entertainment platform with many possibilities. Sometimes there is simply no need to buy an expensive smart device, but limit yourself to an ordinary TV that will work perfectly in tandem with such a set-top box. This nuance, perhaps, will not affect premium models, where everything is taken into account and included, but for TV gadgets of the middle class it is quite relevant.
What is an "Android" TV set-top box?
The review should start with the fact that equipment of this kind differs little from similar counterparts on other platforms in terms of ease of use. That is, there is no need to be afraid of migration from one device to another. There are no tricky requirements here, or something that the average average consumer cannot cope with.
An "Android" set-top box for a TV is a small "box" that connects to your device, usually via an HDMI interface. Power is supplied either through the usual 220 W network, or from the TV itself, it all depends on the specific model. An "Android" for a TV set (set-top box), by analogy with tablets and smartphones, has a processor, some amount of RAM, modules of wireless protocols "bluetooth" or "Wi-Fi", etc. That is, in essence, this is the same tablet, but only without a screen.
Features of use
You can control the set-top box using a mouse and / or keyboard. If the set-top box on Android for the TV is equipped with the aforementioned modules, then the wireless peripherals are at your service. In addition, special manipulators are provided for such devices, such as Air-Mouse or similar. So there are plenty of options to choose from.
It is also worth noting separately that on store shelves you can find more expensive models of such devices, that is, it will be significantly expanded in terms of functionality "Android" TV set-top box. Reviews for such models are mixed, but the benefits are obvious. Here you will find a camera with a microphone for communicating via Skype, and the possibility of synergy with other household appliances in your home, etc. Some people like this versatility, but someone prefers to buy their own gadget for each case, believing that one device cannot take on everything, and this qualitatively affects the result.
Let's designate the list of models, which includes sensible devices, distinguished by high-quality assembly, good functionality and having a concept of versatility.
MXQ Pro TV Box
This "Android" for TV (set-top box) runs on the 5.1 platform and has a good set of characteristics, as well as an attractive price tag. The model runs on the well-proven Amlogic S905 chipset (64 bit) with a 4-core Cortex A53 processor at 2 GHz.
There is not much RAM - only 1 GB, but this is quite enough for comfortable viewing of videos in ultra-high resolution (Ultra-HD) and for not particularly “heavy” games. The internal memory will obviously not be enough for users - 8 GB. Fortunately, there are interfaces for connecting external hard drives and third-party SD cards. So there shouldn't be any problems with data storage.
Features of the device
In addition, there is a LAN port so that a TV set-top box (Internet up to 1000 Mbps) has full access to the World Wide Web. The Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules are responsible for the operation of wireless protocols. The gadget supports working with files via an HTPS channel and digital broadcasting of the IPTV class. The connection to the TV is via 2.0.
iconBIT XDS1003DW
This model is not just some ordinary "Android" for a TV set (set-top box), but a real media center. The device is worth, respectively, but the money spent on it pays off with interest. One of the main features of the device is the ability to work with 3D content. Moreover, the model supports such standards as Dolby Digital and DTS, that is, the system easily copes with 5.1 channel sound.
"Android" for the TV set (set-top box) of the iconBIT brand has its own distinctive feature - these are two operating systems. That is, on the one hand, we see the shell from Realtek of the RTD 4.5 series, familiar to such gadgets, and on the other, the Android platform. Therefore, the device can be called utterly universal. Although some believe that such a set of operating systems is not entirely successful, they point to some conflicts in the main protocols. But an ordinary user is unlikely to notice any critical flaws, because this tandem works quite tolerably and does not "swear" over trifles.
Distinctive features of the device
In addition, the model supports work with external 3.5-inch drives, which is also pleasing. The user just needs to lift the lid, snap the hard drive into the SATA interface and work calmly. If there is such a need, then you can connect non-standard media, such as 2.5-inch drives, which are usually installed on laptops. Also, the set-top box has access to the Internet via a LAN port, at a speed of no more than 1000 Mbps.
Enybox EKB368
This model has a very fast and high-performance set of chipsets. The set-top box can be called a kind of mini-computer that will turn your TV into a very good semblance of a multimedia station. The gadget works on the fresh version of "Android" 5.1. This version has very good user ratings and is multifunctional, intuitive and user-friendly.
Responsible for the speed is the powerful Rockchip RK3368 processor, operating on eight Cortex-A53 series cores of 1.5 GHz each. The characteristics of the chip allow you to safely watch videos in ultra-high resolution, which will certainly be appreciated by owners of large screens, as well as to play "heavy" games. RAM for this kind of equipment is quite enough - 2 GB, so there are no problems with friezes, brakes and other lags.
The built-in 16 GB drive is not particularly impressive, but most owners do not use it, because the device is capable of accepting a couple of hard drives and any SD card. There are wireless modules "Wi-Fi" and "bluetooth", as well as an Internet port of the LAN type with a flow limit of 1000 Mbps. The device is connected using an HDMI interface, so there will be no problems with adaptation either.
ZIDOO X5
This is an interesting representative of its segment, originally from the Middle Kingdom. The device has a memorable and very attractive appearance, as well as a good filling. The system works on the Android 5.1 platform.
One of the most attractive features of the set-top box is the ability to work with ultra-high resolution 4K format. Not every gadget in this price range can boast of such a distinctive feature.
Responsible for the performance is a relatively nimble Amlogic S905 processor running on four Cortex A53 architecture cores with a frequency of 2 GHz per core. The amount of RAM is not enough to run powerful applications (1 GB), so you will have to be content with average toys and undemanding software.
Features of the model
The internal storage also has a modest performance - only 8 GB, but you can significantly expand the volume if you connect an external device via the USB port. On board there are modules of wireless protocols "Wi-Fi" and "bluetooth", there is also the ability to access the network through a LAN port with a speed limit of 1000 Mbps. In general, this is a quite solid set-top box that will please undemanding users, especially since the price tag for the model is very democratic.
17 July 2015, 14:39HiSilicon HI3798CV200 processor (4 cores, 64 bit) + GPU Mali T720 video accelerator.
Premium models with a variety of innovations and improvements. This processor is optimized specifically for devices working with media playback on TV screens and has better quality and more advanced capabilities. Support for Ultra HD 4K, Full HD 1080p, 3D video, etc., support for modern H.265 HEVC compression formats. High quality audio support. Supports HDR (High Dynamic Color Range) technology.
An excellent choice for creating an entertainment center on your TV. Internet surfing, online cinemas, online streaming video, android games, online TV, media playback from external media and network storage and much more. High performance. Android 5.1.
Models:
Realtek RTD1295 processor (4 cores, 64 bit) + Mali-T820 MP3 video accelerator.
Premium TV set-top boxes for viewing almost any media file format. Supports modern video formats up to Ultra HD 4K. Supports H.265 HEVC compression format. TV boxes for just about anything. For online streaming video, watching content from cinemas, playing home collection media files, for android games, for online TV, for creating an entertainment center on your home TV and much more. Excellent performance. Operating system Android 6.0.
Models:
Amlogic S912 processor (8 cores, 64bit) + Mali-T820MP3 video accelerator.
The most recent version of Amlogic octa-core processor. Excellent TV set-top boxes for online streaming video, online TV, watching videos from Internet cinemas, for android games, Internet surfing, viewing media files from external media and network storages. The latest operating system Android 6.0 is installed on these TV box models. According to tests, Antutu gains an average of 38,000 points.
Supports Ultra HD 4K, Full HD 1080p, and more. Supports H.265 HEVC compression format. HDR (High Dynamic Range) support.
Models:
Amlogic S905X processor (4 cores, 64bit) + Mali450 video accelerator.
An updated version of the proven Amlogic S905. Now TV set-top box models with this filling are supplied with the Android 6.0 operating system. Supports video resolution Ultra HD 4K, Full HD 1080p, etc. Supports modern compression format H.265 HEVC. New: support for HDR (high dynamic range image). According to the Antutu Benchmark tests, it is gaining an average of 36,000 points.
Models:
Amlogic S905 processor (4 cores, 64bit) + Mali450 video accelerator.
Popular and productive system. Supports Ultra HD 4K video resolution, H.265 HEVC compression format. In tests, the anttu scores an average of 34,000 points. Operating system Android 5.1. Excellent models for online surfing, watching streaming videos from youtube, online cinemas, for online TV, etc.
Popular models with this filling:
Rockchip RK3368 processor (8 cores) + Power VR6110 video accelerator.
System with octa-core processor and Android 5.1 Lollipop operating system. At the time of this writing, TV set-top boxes with this filling have just gone on sale and have not yet had time to appear in reviews, but according to the assurances of manufacturers and experts, this is one of the most advanced modern systems for Internet TV set-top boxes.
Android 5.1 and up.
Performance according to Antutu tests an average of 36,000 points.
Models:
Allwinner A80 processor (8 cores) + PowerVR G6230 video accelerator.
Sometimes, in pursuit of excellence, the Chinese mind creates amazing and powerful things ahead of their time. This filling has an enviable power and potential. According to Antutu tests, an average of 50,000 points. Supports all video formats suggested by Antutu video test, including 4K Ultra HD formats and H.265 HEVC compression format. Works great with online cinemas, streaming video, Internet TV, torrent TV, IPTV, there are modern demanding android games.
Android 4.4 and up.
TV box models:
Intel Z3736 processor (4 cores) + Intel HD Graphics video accelerator.
Basically, such insides are found on TV set-top boxes with a dual operating system Windows 8.1 + Android 4.4 or with one Windows 8.1 system. The devices support Full HD 1080p video output, the modern H.265 HEVC compression format. According to Antutu tests, they gain an average of 32,000 points. Such devices are interesting in that the Windows system capabilities are also added to the main capabilities of TV set-top boxes: working with documents, office applications, printing, scanning, working with external devices, etc. Excellent for online cinemas, watching videos, TV broadcasts, android games , as an office and home PC, etc.
Windows 8.1 and higher.
Android 4.4 and up.
Popular models:
Rockchip RK3288 processor (4 cores) + Mali T764 video accelerator.
One of the first and most popular Internet TV set-top boxes that supports 4K Ultra HD video and H.265 compression format (hardware decoding). Antutu performance averaged 40,000 points. This performance is achieved thanks to the powerful version of the video accelerator. After all, the clock frequency of the processor itself is up to a maximum of 1.8 GHz. Internet TV set-top boxes with such innards are capable of a lot. Ideal for internet streaming video, cinemas, watching heavy video formats, online TV, for modern android games demanding on resources and much more.
Android 4.4 and up.
Popular models:
Amlogic S812 processor (4 cores) + Mali450 video accelerator.
The filling comes in response to the inability of the previous generation of Amlogic S802 processors to fully cope with all 4K Ultra HD video formats. Internet TV set-top boxes on such a system now cope with almost all 4K video formats and have hardware decoding of the H.265 HEVC compression format.
Android 4.4 and up.
The clock speed of the processor is 2.0 GHz.
Performance according to Antutu tests in the regions of 28000 - 42000 points, depending on the model and firmware.
New advanced models can boast of such insides:
