In today’s world, where technology is developing at a staggering speed, the TV is not left behind. Smart set-top boxes for TV open new opportunities, turning an ordinary TV into a real multimedia center. But how to choose the ideal smart set-top box, among the variety of models and price offers? Our review of the best smart set-top boxes for TV will help you choose!
Selection criteria for smart TV set-top boxes
Before we start reviewing specific models of smart set-top boxes, it is important to identify the criteria that are most important to you.
- Operating system. Android TV, Tizen OS, webOS, Apple TV OS, Fire TV OS.
- Processor. The performance of the chip directly affects the speed of the smart set-top box and its capabilities.
- RAM. From 2GB for basic tasks, 4GB or more for demanding users.
- Built-in memory. For storing applications, games, and multimedia files.
- Supports video codecs. Provides smooth video playback in various video formats.
- Supports HDR. For viewing content with extended dynamic range.
- Internet connectivity. Wi-Fi, Ethernet.
- Connectors. HDMI, USB, optical output.
- Remote control. Ease of use, availability of voice search.
- Cost. Price to quality ratio.
The best set-top boxes in our opinion
Comparative table of characteristics of the best set-top boxes in our opinion:
| Characteristics | Beelink GT King 2022 | Mecool KM6 Deluxe | Xiaomi Mi Box S 4K 2nd Gen New | H96 MAX RK3528 | Ugoos AM6B Plus | X96 MAX Plus Ultra | Geotex GTX-R2i | VONTAR HAKO Pro | Ugoos X4 Plus | Zidoo Z9X |
| Processor | Amlogic A95K Mini | Amlogic S905X4 | – | Rockchip RK3528 | Amlogic A311D | Amlogic A311D | Amlogic S922X | Amlogic S905X4 | Amlogic A311D | Realtek RTD1619HK |
| RAM | 4 ГБ | 4 ГБ | 4 ГБ | 4 ГБ | 4 ГБ | 4 ГБ | 4 ГБ | 4 ГБ | 4 ГБ | 8 ГБ |
| Built-in memory | 32 GB | 32 GB | 32 GB | 32 ГБ/64 GB | 32 ГБ/64 GB | 32 ГБ/64 GB | 64 ГБ | 32 GB | 32 ГБ/64 GB | 128 ГБ/256 ГБ/512 GB |
| Supports video codecs and HDR formats | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
| Number of HDMI 2.0 ports. | 2 | 2 | 2 | |||||||
| Number of HDMI 2.1 ports. | 2 | 1 | – | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | – | – | 2 |
| Number of USB 3.0 ports. | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| Operating System | Android TV 11 | Android TV 11 | Android TV 10 | Android TV 11 | Android TV 11 | Android TV 11 | Android TV 11 | Android TV 11 | Android TV 11 | Android TV 11 |
| Optical output | yes | yes | yes | – | – | yes | – | – | – | – |
| Gigabit Ethernet port | – | – | – | – | – | – | yes | yes | yes | yes |
| Remote control with voice search support. | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | yes | yes | no | yes | yes |
| Price range, $ | 120 – 150 | 70 – 100 | 60 – 80 | 40 – 60 | 150 – 180 | 30 – 50 | 120 – 150 | 50 – 80 | 100 – 130 | 170 – 250 |
Smart TV Beelink GT King 2022
Smart set-top box Beelink GT King 2022 – is a flagship smart set-top box from a well-known Chinese manufacturer, which rightfully occupies a leading position among the devices of its class. Andideal for those looking for high performance and multifunctionality. With an Amlogic S922X-H processor and 4GB of RAM, this set-top box is great at playing 4K content and supports Dolby Atmos. For gamers, this set-top box can be a great choice due to its high power and support for a variety of games. It also supports a wide range of applications, making it a great solution for users who want to use their TV as a media center.
Pros:
- High performance thanks to the Amlogic S922X-H processor.
- 4GB of RAM for smooth content playback.
- 4K and Dolby Atmos support.
- Flexible features for gamers and media center.
Cons:
- Cost is above average.
- Can be difficult to set up for inexperienced users.
- Some users report problems with overheating.
Mecool KM6 Deluxe Smart TV
The Mecool KM6 Deluxe is another popular smart TV set-top box that is suitable for a wide range of tasks. It features an Amlogic S905X4 processor that delivers fast and smooth performance. With 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal memory, you’ll have plenty of storage space for your apps and media files. This set-top box supports 4K playback, as well as Dolby Vision and HDR10+ technology, making it a great choice for lovers of quality video. Thanks to the built-in Chromecast module, you can easily stream content from your mobile devices.
Pros:
- Affordable price with good performance.
- 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage.
- Supports 4K, Dolby Vision and HDR10+.
- Built-in Chromecast for easy streaming.
Cons:
- Lack of some advanced features such as voice control.
- The interface is not as intuitive as some competitors.
- Possible problems with firmware.
Smart TV Xiaomi Mi Box S 4K 2nd Gen New
Xiaomi Mi Box S 4K 2nd Gen New is an updated version of the popular smart TV set-top box from Xiaomi. It is suitable for users who want a reliable and affordable set-top box with a wide range of features. This set-top box supports 4K playback, has 2GB of RAM and 8GB of internal memory, which is suitable for everyday use. It does a great job with streaming services like Netflix and YouTube, and also supports voice control via Google Assistant. Thanks to its compact design, the set-top box is easy to set up and use.
Pros:
- Affordable price.
- Compact and stylish design.
- Supports 4K and Google Assistant.
- Easy to install and easy to use.
Cons:
- Limited storage capacity (2GB RAM, 8GB internal).
- Limited functionality compared to more expensive models.
- No built-in Ethernet port.
Smart TV H96 MAX RK3528
The H96 MAX RK3528 is a smart TV set-top box that stands out for its versatility. With a Rockchip RK3528 processor and 4GB of RAM, this set-top box is capable of playing 4K content and providing a smooth application experience. It’s great for those who want to use their TV for streaming, gaming and web browsing. With Android TV support, you’ll be able to install a wide range of apps and customize the set-top box to suit your needs.
Pros:
- Versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks.
- Rockchip RK3528 processor provides good performance.
- 4GB of RAM and 4K support.
- Affordable price.
Cons:
- Build quality may be lower than more expensive models.
- Some users note instability of Wi-Fi connection.
- Fewer firmware updates compared to other brands.
Smart TV Ugoos AM6B Plus
The Ugoos AM6B Plus is a smart TV set-top box designed for advanced users looking for maximum performance and flexibility. With an Amlogic S922X processor and 4GB of RAM, this set-top box does a great job whether it’s gaming, streaming or media center. What sets it apart is the ability to install different operating systems, allowing you to use the set-top box for a wide range of tasks. Support for 4K and Dolby Atmos makes it a great choice for movie lovers.
Pros:
- High performance thanks to the Amlogic S922X processor.
- Support for 4K and Dolby Atmos.
- Ability to install various operating systems.
- Good for advanced users and gamers.
Cons:
- Higher cost.
- Difficult to set up for inexperienced users.
- Possible overheating problems with intensive use.
X96 MAX Plus Ultra Smart TV
The X96 MAX Plus Ultra is a smart TV set-top box that is suitable for users who want an affordable and functional set-top box. With an Amlogic S905X3 processor and 4GB of RAM, it supports 4K playback and provides a smooth application experience. This set-top box is suitable for streaming services, gaming and web browsing. With its compact design and Wi-Fi support, it’s easy to install and use.
Pros:
- Affordable price and good functionality.
- Amlogic S905X3 processor provides sufficient performance.
- Supports 4K and a wide range of applications.
- Compact design and easy to install.
Cons:
- Build quality is lower than more expensive models.
- Limited number of firmware updates.
- Possible overheating problems with prolonged use.
Smart TV Geotex GTX-R2i
The Geotex GTX-R2i is a smart TV set-top box designed for those looking for a powerful device with advanced features. With an Amlogic S922X processor and 4GB of RAM, this set-top box supports 4K content playback and provides a wide range of features. It can also be used as a media center and supports popular streaming services. Geotex GTX-R2i is a great choice for those who want maximum performance and flexibility.
Pros:
- High performance with Amlogic S922X processor.
- Supports 4K and Dolby Atmos.
- Can be used as a media center.
- Flexible customization and good compatibility with various applications.
Cons:
- Cost is above average.
- Can be difficult to set up for inexperienced users.
- Possible overheating problems with prolonged use.
Smart TV VONTAR HAKO Pro
The VONTAR HAKO Pro is a smart TV set-top box that is suitable for users looking for a reliable and affordable device. With an Amlogic S905X4 processor and 4GB of RAM, it is capable of playing 4K content and supports a variety of apps and games. It can be used for streaming, web browsing and as a media center. VONTAR HAKO Pro is easy to use and suitable for everyday use.
Pros:
- Affordable price and good functionality.
- Amlogic S905X4 processor provides sufficient performance.
- Supports 4K and a wide range of applications.
- Easy to install and easy to use.
Cons:
- Limited memory (4GB RAM, 32GB internal).
- Possible problems with Wi-Fi connection.
- Some users note instability of the firmware.
Smart TV Ugoos X4 Plus
Ugoos X4 Plus is an advanced smart TV set-top box that is suitable for those looking for high performance and advanced features. With an Amlogic S905X4 processor and 4GB of RAM, it provides smooth 4K playback and supports a variety of applications. With the ability to install various operating systems, the set-top box is suitable for professional use. The Ugoos X4 Plus is a great choice for gamers and users who want flexibility in customization.
Pros:
- High performance thanks to the Amlogic S905X4 processor.
- Support for 4K and Dolby Atmos.
- Flexible customization with the ability to install different operating systems.
- Good for gamers and media center.
Cons:
- Higher cost.
- Possible overheating problems.
- Can be difficult to set up for inexperienced users.
Zidoo Z9X Smart TV
The Zidoo Z9X is a smart TV set-top box that is suitable for users looking for a device that supports Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio. With a Realtek RTD161919DR processor and 4GB of RAM, it does a great job of playing high quality content and supports streaming services and apps. The Zidoo Z9X is the perfect choice for movie and music lovers who want the ultimate in sound and picture quality.
Pros:
- Support for 4K, Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio.
- High performance with Realtek RTD161919DR processor.
- Supports a variety of streaming services and applications.
- Ideal for movie and music lovers.
Cons:
- Higher than average cost.
- Difficult to configure for inexperienced users.
- Some users note problems with firmware updates.
Conclusion
In today’s world, smart set-top boxes for TVs are becoming an integral part of home multimedia systems. They open up new horizons for entertainment and allow you to fully enjoy the benefits of digital technology. Among the many models available on the market, choosing the really best set-top box can be a daunting task.
However, there is one solution that stands out from the rest and deserves special attention – it is the Duna HD TV-102 set-top box from IMB Plus. This innovative model combines high quality picture and sound with extensive multimedia capabilities and ease of use.
Duna HD supports Full HD 1080p resolution, delivering stunning picture clarity and brightness. Thanks to a powerful processor and optimized software, the set-top box runs quickly and smoothly, without lags or freezes. The intuitive interface makes operation easy and convenient for users of any skill level.
In addition to watching TV channels, Duna HD allows you to play various multimedia files from external media such as flash drives and hard disks. The availability of USB and HDMI ports opens up the possibility of connecting additional devices and image outputs.
If you are looking for a versatile and modern solution for home multimedia entertainment, the Duna HD TV-102 set-top box from IMB Plus is the perfect choice.
