The 20 Best TV Boxes of 2020

This digital TV tuner has the best price in the category, but this fact does not mean that its characteristics are not worthy of attention. Broadcasting in DVB-T2 format to a TV can be broadcast via a composite or HDMI interface. A significant advantage of the model is the function of semi-automatic adjustment - the owner just needs to connect the connectors to the TV, the antenna and start the mode from the set-top box menu. Besides, Selenga HD950D successfully works with cable TV (DVB-С).

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

The most affordable TV tuner can be a good solution for economical connoisseurs of digital television. The model is quite basic and is not overloaded with any frills, which means that it has only the most important properties. Even a child can handle 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 a digital signal well both in the city and beyond. Therefore, many users consider the device to be the best option for giving, combining a normal connection to many channels, a decent set of basic features and a favorable price. It is noteworthy that, unlike most analogues, D-Color successfully connects not only to the latest flat-screen TV, but also to the good old "box" if it has HDMI or a component input.

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

A miniature Chinese TV set-top box, about the size of an average smartphone, is surprisingly sensitive and easily picks up any channel, for which it was awarded the second line in the ranking. Despite the quite reasonable cost, BBK is not inferior to most analogues either in functionality or in the quality of image and sound transmission. Users often call it one of the best TV boxes at a nice price, as well as support for many popular file formats, including MKV and AVI, and the ability to adjust the aspect ratio.

Although, like most modern tuners, BBK does not have its own hard drive, it reads data from any size media without limitation. In particular, the set-top box does a good job of playing heavy movies from a USB-drive for a couple of terabytes.In general, the device works stably and quickly, but it can slow down a little when flipping through the movie file.

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 963 lies in its easy setup and convenience in everyday use. The set-top box is easily connected 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 aluminum case, resistant to scratches. On the front panel there are buttons for turning on and switching channels, which will be useful to a domestic buyer if the remote control is lost. In addition to all interfaces, there is a USB port through which you can connect an external hard drive and a regular USB flash drive to the media set-top box to read video files or record streaming video. When a flash drive is connected, a delayed pause mode is available, which allows you to pause the transmission and put the broadcast on a short pause. Of the minuses of the set-top box, only a small squeak during operation stands out, which can interfere with the sleep of the “musical” owners of the TV tuner.

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

Nevertheless, a “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, MKV video container and other popular formats (reads almost all video files) makes the XDS 16 digital smart set-top box competitive in its segment. It also supports 5.1 home theater with surround sound.

Assembled on the basis of the Amlogic S905W microprocessor, the smart TV set-top box has a built-in flash drive with a capacity of 16 GB. System speed is provided by 2 GB of RAM and Android 7.1 OS. 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, miniaturization of the device and the reliability of the assembly are noted by the owners as another 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, which provides better dynamics on a wide screen when playing online games. Access to the popular Play market portal allows you to install any game or application. The set-top box 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 control. It can also be used when talking in instant messengers, which is very convenient, because. there is no need to connect a headset.

The undisputed leader of the "smart" set-top boxes for the TV was the smart Apple TV 4K with the best amount of RAM - 3072 MB, which is three times more than most, including more expensive gadgets. The modification under consideration 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 set-top box also pleases with compatibility with many audio and video data formats. It even recognizes images with a large TIFF color depth. But the most important advantage of the smart tuner was the best data transfer rate over the Ethernet interface, reaching a record 1000 Mbps. In many ways, it was this feature that made the model many times more popular than its predecessor. Also, everyone praises the minimalistic remote control. The Touchpad and Siri voice control make it very easy to control.

Elgato Game Capture HD60 S allows you to get the best quality of 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 a YouTube channel, as well as streaming. The video transmission format (1080 P, frame rate 60 fps) allows us to talk about this set-top box as one of the best for video capture. The transfer of processed data via USB-C is almost instantaneous.

A special advantage of the Elgato Game Capture HD60 S model is the absence of the need to install any programs - just set up pairing and you can immediately get a high-quality picture. A modern graphics processor processes the digital signal without delay or distortion. A webcam connected to the set-top box makes it possible to broadcast or record online. The flashback function will not allow you to miss important moments, and with the help of Live Commentary you can make the video more interesting.

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

But the main thing that LGP Lite has lost is autonomy. The lack of an SD slot does not allow you to record video without a computer, as a result of which you will not be able to stream gameplay from PS3 without a PC. For many console owners, this fact will be fundamental when choosing a video capture device.

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

The set-top box supports video recording in HD and Full HD formats, as well as SD memory cards.However, when buying, make sure that the purchased card has the inscription Class 10, because flash drives below the "tenth class" are not supported. The presence of the record button on the body only facilitates the video capture process, but in fact it is useless when recording 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 that includes a set of various cables, a polypropylene case and a subscription to the XSplit streaming service.

The Mecool KIII PRO 3/16 prefix runs on Android 7.1 TV OS and easily turns an ordinary TV into a smart one.The connection to the network is carried out both via a wired Ethernet channel and via a fairly powerful Wi-Fi. If there is a heavy load on wireless distribution in the house, then for the full use of online broadcasting (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 gamepads to use the smart set-top box as a game console. Graphics chip
ARM Mali-T820MP3 with performance up to 750 MHz provides support for 3D games and videos.

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

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

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

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

The set-top box with a distinctive futuristic design supports almost all existing file types, as well as HDR, 10-bit color and 2020.B, equipped with DVB T, DVB T2 and DVB C tuners. There will be no problems with connection, thanks to HDMI, composite and even optical inputs. At the same time, Dune received two USB connectors and a slot for memory cards. The miracle gadget is controlled by both a remote control and a smartphone on Android or iOS.

The smart set-top box supports most video playback formats and is quite fast. Connecting to the network via a wireless Wi-Fi channel with support for the Miracast standard provides playback of digital IPTV signal transmission without delays and freezes. An Ethernet cable connection is also possible. In many ways, Galaxy Innovations Lunn 28 is in no way inferior to more expensive counterparts - 2 GB of RAM and a modern Amlogic S905W processor. The internal storage is small (8 GB), but will allow you to record the desired program.

The processor also supports 4K UHD quality, which is just an excellent parameter for its price. Running on Android 7.1, Galaxy Innovations Lunn 28 gives you access to Google Play, YouTube, StalkerTV and more. The set-top box can be connected via a composite or HDMI 2.0 interface, which allows it to be used even on some broadcasters of the last century. The convenient remote has programmable buttons for controlling the main modes of the TV - with its help, the owner will be able to control both devices.

Oddly enough, it was the world famous brand Google that became the creator of the most profitable Smart TV set-top box. At the lowest cost for this category, the gadget received an adequate set of useful features, 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 surely delight music lovers.

The set-top box is also suitable for playing high-definition video files encoded according to the VC-1 standard. In addition, it is compact and, according to customers, is very convenient to use. The Android operating system, successful work with YouTube, the Google Play market and other prominent services have brought the base model into the ranks of the most sought-after and simply the best add-ons for the 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 a remote control.

A slender model in a classic case with slightly rounded edges is the best solution for those who are looking for an inexpensive set-top box for a 4K TV. Designed by a well-known Chinese brand, this Smart TV device can handle high-definition movies successfully. Also, buyers note that they were pleasantly surprised by the quality sound and "omnivorousness". 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 boasts not only Bluetooth and DLNA, but also "apple" features that are available mainly only to expensive Apple developments: AirPlay and a remote control with voice search. At the same time, the tuner, like devices twice as expensive, received 2048 MB of RAM and 8192 MB of Flash memory.

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

The kit comes with a game 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. With 3 GB of RAM and a powerful NVIDIA Tegra X1 2.01 GHz quad-core processor, you can enjoy serious games (in terms of hardware requirements) without freezes and glitches. The built-in memory at the same time allows you to download up to 10 GB of various content. Connecting to a TV is possible only via HDMI 2.0, so the set-top box is not suitable for too old TVs.The media player works great with IPTV, Youtube and other online services, supporting the highest quality 4K UHD playback.

With high technical parameters of the equipment, the T9 set-top box is an attractive solution to turn an ordinary TV into a multimedia combiner with almost unlimited possibilities. Adapted for use in smart TV, the Android 8.1 system guarantees stable operation under heavy loads. Hardware-demanding games do not crash and freeze, which is also largely facilitated by the 5-core graphics accelerator.

In addition, playback of online broadcasts through various services is supported, possibly in Full HD quality. The set-top box also has a maximum resolution of 4K UltraHD. True, the frame rate is only 30 fps, which affected the position of the T9 in our rating. Bluetooth 4.0 will allow the use of wireless gamepads, headphones, keyboards and other equipment. Also worth noting is a dual-channel Wi-Fi receiver with excellent bandwidth, which allows you to watch IPTV broadcasts without delay.

The modern Android 8.1 OS, on which the X88 Max+ smart set-top box runs, greatly expands the functionality of this device. A powerful processor, coupled with a five-core Mali-450 graphics engine, provides comfortable viewing of movies in Full HD 1080p and 4K UltraHD quality and high realism of the gameplay. 4 GB of RAM can handle a lot of modern games, which makes the X88 Max+ one of the most attractive TV boxes for fans of interactive entertainment.

Connecting to a TV is possible only through the HDMI port. There is also a USB interface (2 connectors), which allows you to connect manipulators or external drives. At the same time, the internal memory with a capacity of 64 GB is enough to store your favorite content. The prefix allows you to watch in HD quality online broadcasts without any distortion. Internet services such as IPTV, KODI and others function quite confidently. A reliable connection to the network, regardless of the load, provides a dual-channel Wi-Fi receiver.

More games and enhanced multimedia content will be available to owners of H96 Max plus smart set-top boxes. This is a merit not only of the hardware hardware, but also of the more modern Android 8.1 system, the stable operation of which many owners of this TV box were able to verify. The Mali-450 video accelerator and the Rockchip RK3328 quad-core processor with a clock frequency of 1.5GHz provide excellent playback of online broadcasts through popular services, supporting the DLNA digital media content transmission specification.RAM also plays an important role in this - 4 GB DDR3 is installed in the H96 Max plus.

Among the standard set of interface set-top boxes of this level, it should be noted the presence of an AV port that allows you to use the device with TVs of previous generations. To store any files in the device, a flash drive with a capacity of up to 64 GB is provided. Online video playback in 4K Utra HD (10 bit, 60 fps) and support for HDR image enhancement technology are a strong advantage of this model. It should also be noted the bright colors of the set-top box, which emphasizes the use of progressive solutions in electronics and is designed for a youth audience.