Top 20 TV set-top boxes

The old TV will be able to receive a digital broadcasting signal, turn into a Smart-TV and a modern multimedia household appliance - all you need to do is connect a TV set-top box to it. With its help, a whole range of current opportunities in the field of digital television will be realized.

The review presents models with different functionality, which have the best consumer qualities. The rating position is based on the technical capabilities of the device, ease of management and practical operating experience of a large number of owners who have chosen one of the models presented here for their purposes.

Best TV set-top boxes (tuners) for digital television (DVB-T2 standard)

Gadgets, devices, smartphones - all these words came into our life with the beginning of the millennium, but the population of Russia learned about TV set-top boxes only seven years ago when they decided to introduce the digital broadcasting standard DVB-T2 at the state level. The second generation of "digital" in addition to the transmission of high-definition signals HDTV / UHDTV allows you to provide additional digital services and services, be it video on demand or digital radio.

But given the fact that cheap TV models are not equipped with tuners that support DVB-T2, users have certain problems. Fortunately, there are enough compact TV set-top boxes on the market that allow receiving a signal and “transmitting” it to a TV via a traditional AV cable, SCART or HDMI interface.

4 Selenga HD950D

This digital TV tuner has the best price in the category, but this fact does not mean that its characteristics do not deserve attention. DVB-T2 broadcasting to TV can be broadcast via composite or HDMI interface. A weighty advantage of the model is the function of semi-automatic tuning - the owner simply needs to connect the connectors to the TV, the antenna and start the mode from the set-top box menu. In addition, Selenga HD950D successfully works with cable television (DVB-C).

The presence of USB connectors on the front and rear panels allows you to use flash drives and external hard drives to play most digital video and audio formats, as well as record the desired broadcast. In addition, when connected to the connector of the Wi-Fi adapter (there is a jack for a network cable), the set-top box almost turns into a smart one and allows even old TVs to watch not only IPTV or Youtube, but also surf the net. With all the positive qualities of this console, it has one drawback - a rather careless assembly of the case.Nevertheless, the reliability of work does not suffer from this at all, and the price is more than compensating for the uneven display of the channels and the downward buttons.

3 D-COLOR DC1002HD

The most affordable TV tuner can be a good solution for the budget conscious of digital television. The model is quite basic and not overloaded with any excesses, and therefore, has only the most important properties. Even a child will cope with it, because the interface of the console is extremely simple. At the same time an inexpensive TV tuner decently copes with all its functions.

Playing movies from flash drives and recording TV programs on a timer, the state employee also catches the digital signal well both in the city and beyond. Therefore, many users consider the device the best option to give, combining a normal connection to multiple channels, a decent set of basic properties and a bargain price. It is noteworthy that, unlike most analogs, the D-Color successfully connects not only to the newest flat-screen TV, but also to the good old “box” if it has an HDMI or component input.

2 BBK SMP145HDT2

BBK SMP123HDT2 is a cheap TV tuner with support for DVB-T2 and the second place in the rating of the best TV set-top boxes. Given the low cost

The miniature Chinese TV set-top box is about the same size as an average smartphone is surprisingly sensitive and easily catches any channel, for which it was awarded the second line in the rating. Despite the quite acceptable cost, BBK is not inferior to most analogs neither in functionality nor in the quality of image and sound transmission. Users often call it one of the best set-top boxes at a nice price, and also note support for many popular file formats, including MKV and AVI, and the ability to customize the aspect ratio.

Although, like most modern tuners, BBK does not have its own hard disk, it reads data from a carrier of any size without restriction. In particular, the prefix well copes with the reproduction of weighty films from a USB-carrier on a couple of terabytes. In general, the device works stably and quickly, but it can slow down a little when flipping through the movie files.

1 Oriel 963 (DVB-T2)

Oriel 963 (DVB-T2) is one of the best-selling TV tuners on the Russian market and the first place in our rating. The main advantage of the 963rd lies in its simple setup and convenience for everyday use. The set-top box easily connects to the TV, both using the HDMI interface and through the “ancient” connectors - SCART and composite RCA input.

All Oriel 963 stuffing is enclosed in a compact, scratch-resistant aluminum case. On the front panel there are buttons for switching on and switching channels, which will be useful for a domestic buyer if the remote is lost. In addition to all interfaces, there is a USB port through which an external hard disk and a regular USB flash drive can be connected to the Extender to read video files or record streaming video. When a flash drive is connected, a delayed pause mode is available, allowing you to pause the broadcast and put the air on for a short pause. Of the minuses of the console, there is only a small squeak when working, which can interfere with the sleep of the "music" owners of the TV tuner.

The best Smart TV consoles with 3D support

A powerful processor allows such smart consoles to process 3D video, which easily turns an ordinary TV into a modern multimedia processor, which makes it possible not only to watch more realistic movies, but also to enjoy the gameplay.

3 iconBIT XDS 16

For its characteristics, iconBIT XDS 16 has a rather attractive price, which makes this smart device worthy of choice.The operating system Android 6.0 allows you to implement a huge number of multimedia applications and games from Google Play on the screen of the old TV. When watching IPTV, it is better to connect the set-top box to the network via cable, since the Wi-Fi channel in this case may not be able to cope with the digital signal volume.

Nevertheless, the “weak” wireless channel is not a reason to refuse iconBIT XDS 16, especially since the price for its hardware characteristics is quite interesting. There are 2 USB inputs - you can connect a wireless keyboard / mouse and use a USB flash drive or use an external hard drive. Support for 3D, video container MKV and other popular formats (reads almost all video files) makes the digital smart set-top box XDS 16 competitive in its segment. In addition, it supports 5.1 surround sound home theater.

2 Invin W6 2Gb / 16Gb

Assembled on the basis of the Amlogic S905W microprocessor, the smart set-top box for the TV has a built-in flash drive with a capacity of 16 GB. The system performance provides 2 GB of RAM and OS Android 7.1. Support for 18 popular formats and a dozen of the most common codecs allows you to view digital video, audio files on any TV that has a composite or HDMI input. The elegant design, miniature device and the reliability of the assembly is noted by the owners, as one of the advantages of this model.

The playback quality of the set-top box is the highest - 4K UHD. In addition to all the advantages of smart devices, Invin W6 2Gb / 16Gb has a 3D graphics hardware accelerator that provides the best dynamics on a widescreen screen when playing online games. Access to the popular portal Play market allows you to install any game or application. The console already has a browser and many useful programs, such as Facebook, Youtube, Skype, etc. In addition, the model has voice control through a microphone built into the remote. It can also be used when talking in messengers, which is very convenient, because no need to connect a headset.

1 Apple TV 4K 32GB

The undisputed leader of smart TVs has become the intelligent Apple TV 4K with the best amount of RAM - 3072 MB, which is three times more than most, including more expensive gadgets. This modification received 32 GB of flash memory, but the model is also found with more memory.

In addition to supporting Internet radio, Bluetooth, AirPlay technology for wireless data exchange with iPod, iPhone, and iPad, the Smart TV prefix is ​​also pleased with compatibility with many formats of audio and video data. It even recognizes images with a great depth of color TIFF. But the most important advantage of the smart tuner is the best data transfer rate over the Ethernet interface, reaching a record 1000 Mbps. In many ways, this particular feature has made the model many times more popular than its predecessor. Also, all praise the minimalist remote control. Touchpad and voice control Siri simplify management greatly.

The best external video capture devices

Our rating of the best TV set-top boxes would be incomplete without such devices as “tuners with video capture function”. In fact, with the reception of a digital or IP signal, they have nothing in common. Makes them only that, as well as those, and others are connected to TVs. However, the purpose of video capture devices is completely different.

The times of VCRs with VHS cassettes have sunk into oblivion, but each of us had a pair of cassettes with birthdays and holidays. To digitize such information, devices are required that capture an analog video signal and process it into computer-readable material.

3 Elgato Game Capture HD60 S

Elgato Game Capture HD60 S allows you to get the best quality of the captured video for further broadcast on the network or create your own video collection. This is a great solution for capturing gameplay or recording videos on YouTube channel, as well as streaming. The video transmission format (1080 P, frame rate 60 fps) makes it possible to speak of this device as one of the best for video capture. Transferring the processed data via USB-C channel is almost instantaneous.

A special advantage of the model Elgato Game Capture HD60 S is the absence of the need to install any programs - just pair up and you can immediately get a high quality picture. Modern graphics processor processes digital signal without delay and distortion. Connected to the console webcam allows you to conduct online broadcasting or recording. The function of flashbacks will not allow you to miss important points, and with the help of Live Commentary video can be made more interesting.

2 AVerMedia Technologies LGP Lite

AVerMedia Technologies LGP Lite – a video capture device that differs from the above device only in the delivery package and the lack of a record button on the case. For a slightly lower price, “Avermedia” cut the number of wires in the kit, “throwing” there only a mini-USB cable for connecting to a PC. In addition, the start / end button of the video has disappeared from the case. Well, finally, the absence of a two-month subscription to XSplit, which in the presence of Twitch is as useless as the PS3 cable for the computer owner, had an effect on reducing the cost of the console.

But the main thing that LGP Lite lost is autonomy. The absence of the SD-slot does not allow recording video without a computer, as a result of which the gameplay with the PS3 without a PC will not work. For many owners of consoles, this fact will be fundamental when choosing a video capture device.

1 AVerMedia Technologies Live Gamer Portable

AVerMedia Technologies Live Gamer Portable – The best stand-alone console for streaming games. The prefix is ​​an independent compact device that is connected using various cables to the devices. The device from AVerMedia allows you to capture the signal from a TV connected via HDMI or an AV cable, as well as from a Sony PS3 game console, which makes it possible to stream gameplay to console owners without a computer.

The console supports video recording in HD and Full HD formats, as well as SD memory cards. However, when making a purchase, make sure that Class 10 is inscribed on the card you are buying, since flash drives are not supported below the “tenth grade”. The presence of the record button on the case only facilitates the process of video capture, but in fact it is useless when writing video from a computer.

AVerMedia Technologies Live Gamer Portable is the top video capture device in its class. For a rather high price, the company offers gamers the convenience of streaming and an extensive package of delivery, including a set of various cables, a polypropylene case and a subscription to the XSplit streaming service.

Top Smart TV Consoles with Digital TV

The choice between supporting digital television and Smart TV can be very difficult, since both technologies are extremely attractive and provide a lot of opportunities. But is it worth being limited to one thing? It's so easy to get everything at once in one compact device.

Gadgets in this category are not too numerous yet, but, obviously, the future is behind them. TVs devoid of Smart TV, as a rule, are deprived of support for digital channels, which means that a two-in-one set-top box solves two tasks at once. At the same time, it costs no more than any middle class “smart” tuner. Therefore, the hybrid is not only more convenient, but also more profitable than two separate gadgets for the TV. Many of them are also practical in terms of interaction with formats and other devices, which makes them excellent all-purpose entertainment devices.

3 Mecool KIII PRO 3/16

The prefix Mecool KIII PRO 3/16 works on Android 7.1 TV OS and easily turns an ordinary TV into a smart one. Connection to the network is carried out both via a wired Ethernet channel and through a rather powerful Wi-Fi. If the wireless distribution in the house has a large load, then to fully use the online broadcast (IPTV, Youtube, Peers TV and others) it is better to connect via cable. The presence of Bluetooth and two USB 3.0 allows you to connect two universal gamepad to use a smart device as a gaming console. Graphics chip
ARM Mali-T820MP3 with a capacity of up to 750 MHz provides support for 3D games and video.

To connect to the TV is used composite or HDMI connectors, and the presence of a DVB-T2 receiver allows you to watch channels and digital broadcasts. The prefix handles most video formats, including MKV containers. For this functionality, the Mecool KIII PRO needed an eight-core Amlogic S912 processor, 3 GB of RAM and 16 GB of internal flash drive. In addition, the claimed hardware performance allows the smart set-top box to maintain 4K UHD image quality.

2 World Vision T62A

This TV set-top box for digital format allows you to watch the broadcast in analog broadcasting - the output interface is represented not only by the HDMI channel, but also a composite as well as a coaxial loopback connector that connects to the TV. On the front panel there is a USB 2.0 input for drives, and you can install a Wi-Fi antenna in the same port at the back and greatly expand the capabilities of a regular DVB-T2 tuner. In addition to digital broadcasting, World Vision T62A perfectly decodes a cable television signal.

With the antenna, the IPTV and Youtube functions embedded in the set-top box open, monitoring of news channels and much more. It should be borne in mind that not all Wi-Fi adapters are supported. The new models use a modern JX 3235 processor, thanks to which the console works in HD format and supports widescreen image output. The digital signal receiver has excellent noise protection and high sensitivity, which ensures reliable reception of broadcasting. The owners positively appreciate the presence of learning buttons on the remote that can control the TV (power on, volume and TV / AV switching).

1 Dune HD Neo 4K T2

Today, only this model can be recognized as the best prefix that gives access to both Smart TV and digital content. The developer, called by many experts the world leader in the field of digital media players, has equipped his brainchild with the latest technology. First of all, the new 2018 got two reliable operating systems: Android 6 and the unique Dune HD platform found only on devices of this brand. The default is Android, but the user is given a choice.

The prefix with a distinctive futuristic design supports almost all existing file types, as well as HDR, 10-bit color and 2020.B, equipped with tuners DVB T, DVB T2 and DVB C. There will be no problems with the connection, thanks to HDMI, composite and even optical entrances. In this case, Dune received two USB connectors and a slot for memory cards. It is controlled by a miracle gadget as a remote control, and a smartphone for Android or Ayios.

Best Smart TV Set-Top Boxes (IPTV)

The era of the Internet and the widespread introduction of "smart" technologies has led to the emergence of so-called Smart-TV TVs that can replace a person's computer and smartphone. With the help of “smart” TV, you can watch videos on video hosting sites, surf the Internet, communicate through VOIP telephony programs, play games, and, of course, enjoy all the delights of IPTV, new generation Internet TV.

4 Galaxy Innovations Lunn 28

The smart set-top box supports most video playback formats and is distinguished by quite quick work. Connecting to the network wirelessly via Wi-Fi with support for the Miracast standard provides digital IPTV signal playback without delays and freezes. Ethernet cable connection is also possible. In many ways, the Galaxy Innovations Lunn 28 is as good as the more expensive counterparts - 2 GB of RAM and the modern Amlogic S905W processor. The internal drive is small (8 GB), but will allow you to record the desired transfer.

Also, the processor maintains quality in 4K UHD format, which for its price is simply an excellent parameter. Working on Android 7.1, Galaxy Innovations Lunn 28 provides access to Google Play, YouTube, StalkerTV and other services. A set-top box can be connected via a composite or HDMI 2.0 interface, which makes it possible to use it even on some broadcasters of the last century. A convenient remote control has programmable buttons to control the main modes of the TV - with its help, the owner will be able to control both devices.

3 Google Chromecast 2015

Strangely enough, it was the world famous brand Google that became the creator of the most profitable Smart TV set-top box. With the minimum cost for this category, the gadget received an adequate set of useful properties, support for the most common formats and even more. The TV tuner provides access to hundreds of Internet radio stations via Wi-Fi, which will undoubtedly please music lovers.

The prefix is ​​also suitable for playing high-resolution video files encoded according to the VC-1 standard. In addition, it is compact and, according to buyers, very easy to use. The Android operating system, successful work with YouTube, the Google Play market and other prominent services brought the basic model into the ranks of the popular and simply the best add-ons for TV. However, the manufacturer still saved on some things. The size of RAM reaches only 512 MB, and flash - 256 MB. Also, the console is devoid of the remote control.

2 Xiaomi Mi Box International Version

An elegant model in a classic package with slightly rounded edges is the best solution for those who are looking for an inexpensive TV box with 4K resolution. This representative of Smart TV devices, developed by a famous Chinese brand, successfully copes with high-resolution movies. Also, buyers note that they were pleasantly surprised by the quality sound and "omnivorous." Unlike cheaper devices, Xiaomi reads without problems not only such common formats as MKV, AVI, WMV and MPEG4, but also high-quality FLAC, APE files, as well as a number of rare standards.

Despite the Android operating system, the set-top box can boast not only Bluetooth and DLNA, but also the “apple” features, which are mostly available only to Apple’s expensive developments: AirPlay and a voice search remote. At the same time, the tuner, like devices twice as expensive, received 2048 MB of RAM and 8192 MB of flash memory.

1 NVIDIA SHIELD

The premium digital console works on the Android 7.0 TV system. This OS is somewhat different from the usual OSes, because it has some adaptation, which completely turns an ordinary TV into a real smart. There is no navigation bar, status bar, home screen is fixed, and only apps for Android TV are available in the Google Play Store. In addition, the interface adjusts to the TV screen, and menu navigation with a very convenient remote (there is a touch volume control and microphone for voice control) does not require additional manipulators.

The set comes with a gaming console (one), but the range of its IR transmitter is only a couple of meters. But it is possible to connect other gamepads via Bluetooth.The 3 GB RAM and the powerful NVIDIA Tegra X1 2.0.01 GHz quad-core processor make it possible to enjoy serious games (in terms of hardware requirements) without lags and glitches. The built-in memory allows you to download up to 10 GB of various content. Connecting to a TV is possible only via HDMI 2.0 interface, therefore the set-top box is not suitable for too old TV. The media player works great with IPTV, Youtube and other online services, maintaining the highest quality 4K UHD playback.

Best Smart TV Consoles on Android OS 8.1

The most recent and high-tech smart set-top boxes are in this category. The devices use a more advanced version of the operating system Android 8.1. The parameters of the models are above average, while many users find their cost more than fair.

3 T9

Having high technical parameters of the equipment, T9 is an attractive solution to turn an ordinary TV into a multimedia processor with practically unlimited possibilities. Adapted for use in smart TV, the Android 8.1 system ensures stable operation under severe loads. Demanding hardware games do not fail and freeze, which is also largely due to the 5-core graphics accelerator.

In addition, it supports the playback of online broadcasts through different services possible as Full HD. The set-top box also has a maximum resolution of 4K UltraHD. True, the frame rate at the same time is only 30 fps, which influenced the position of T9 in our rating. Bluetooth 4.0 will allow you to use wireless gamepads, headphones, keyboard and other equipment. Also worth noting is a two-channel Wi-Fi receiver with excellent bandwidth, allowing you to watch IPTV broadcast without delay.

2 X88 Max +

The modern OS Android 8.1, on which the X88 Max + smart prefix works, greatly expands the functionality of this device. The powerful processor, coupled with the five-core graphics processor Mali-450, provides comfortable viewing of movies in Full HD 1080p and 4K UltraHD quality and high realistic gameplay. The 4 GB RAM will “pull” a lot of modern games, which makes X88 Max + one of the most attractive set-top boxes for interactive entertainment lovers.

Connecting to a TV is only possible through the HDMI port. There is also a USB interface (2 slots), which allows you to connect manipulators or external drives. In this case, the internal memory with a capacity of 64 GB is enough to store the selected content. The prefix allows you to watch in HD as an online broadcast without any distortion. Internet services such as IPTV, KODI and others function fairly confidently. Reliable connection to the network, regardless of the load, provides a dual-channel Wi-Fi receiver.

1 H96 Max plus

More games and advanced multimedia content will be available to owners of smart consoles H96 Max plus. This is a merit of not only hardware "hardware", but also a more modern system Android 8.1, in the stable operation of which many owners of this TV box could see. The Mali-450 video accelerator and the Rockchip RK3328 quad-core processor with a clock frequency of 1.5GHz provide excellent reproduction of online broadcasts through popular services, supporting the specification of DLNA digital media content. The RAM plays a significant role in this - 4 GB DDR3 are installed in the H96 Max plus.

Among the standard set of interface of set-top boxes of this level, the presence of an AV port should be noted, which allows using the device with previous generation TVs. To store any files in the device provides a flash drive with a capacity of up to 64 GB. Playing online video as 4K Utra HD (10 bit, 60 frames / sec) and support for HDR image enhancement technology is a strong advantage of this model.It should also be noted the bright colors of the console, which emphasizes the use of progressive solutions in electronics and is designed for young people.

TV set selection criteria

When choosing a digital multimedia device for a TV, the following parameters should be considered:

• Powerful hardware. The processing speed and stability of the TV set-top box depends on the performance of the processor and the amount of memory. These indicators largely determine the practicality and relevance of the apparatus.
• The presence of a wireless interface and its characteristics. If the plans are to turn the old TV into a smart one, a Wi-Fi connection will be more preferable - no need to run a cable to the router. In this case, an important role is played by the quality of signal reception. It is better to test before buying a confident reception at a distance of your router and TV.
• The type of operating system. There are devices running various operating systems, but the most popular is Android. When choosing, consider the firmware version - in any case, it should not be too outdated.
• Simple control. The presence of a remote control (some models allow you to use the owner's smartphone for this purpose), a clear menu and interface will facilitate everyday operation, so this aspect also requires attention.
• Additional features. Support for memory cards or connecting a hard disk, voice control and many other "chips" can significantly expand the functionality of the device.
• The final selection criterion is the cost of the instrument. It must be balanced with the technical characteristics and quality of the set-top box. If the choice is made solely on the basis of price, there is a high probability that the purchase will not be able to fully realize the desired opportunities.

Popular vote - who is the best manufacturer of TV set-top boxes?
We vote!

Oriel

BBK

MDI

Xiaomi

iconBIT

MXQ

Apple

Defender

D-COLOR

Dune

Google

Selenga

Invin

Galaxy

Nvidia

Elgato

World vision

Mecool

Max plus

T9

Total voted: 276

Vote results