Choosing Android TV. Category Archives: Android TV set-top boxes. The best TV set-top boxes, DVB-T2 standard

Want to get the most out of your TV? To do this, you need an Android TV set-top box - a small smart box that allows you to watch movies online directly from the Internet, install various Android applications, download torrents, browse web pages on TV and even play games.

A good smart TV set-top box for a TV costs relatively little money, but searching for a decent model among a bunch of consumer goods can take a lot of effort and time. So, if you don’t know which Android set-top box to choose, read our rating, which contains the best Smart TV set-top boxes. Let's consider all price categories and choose the highest quality options for different budgets and tasks.

TV boxes on Android TV and pure Android - what's the difference?

First of all, let's clarify the materiel. TV boxes on the market can be divided into two main categories. All of them run Android OS, but some of them have a pure version of the operating system - AOSP, while others come with the Android TV shell. What's the difference?

The functionality of both types of set-top boxes can be called comparable, key difference is appearance system that you will interact with on your TV screen. Android TV is a platform optimized for remote control and convenient consumption of media content. It offers a concise menu with various recommendations on the main screen (new movies, popular TV series, etc.). You will be able to choose from which applications they will be displayed: these can be either licensed services or various “pirated” cinemas with free content, which will have to be installed separately.

Android TV interface

The key advantage of Android TV set-top boxes is support for voice search. If you have the appropriate remote control, you just need to dictate the name of the movie so that the system finds it in all installed applications and offered browsing directly from the search menu. On pure Android there is no such convenience, there voice search leads directly to Google.

Smart TV set-top boxes on pure Android may look completely different (it all depends on the installed launcher), but their interface usually resembles the desktop of tablets. It has a similar notification shade, multitasking menu, and allows you to add widgets to the home screen. In general, the possibility of customization is much wider here, but the ease of control from the remote control is less, which pushes owners to use air mice. Also, manufacturers of AOSP boxes usually do not certify their products with Google, which is why they may not support legal streaming services like Netflix.

Standard interface consoles on pure Android

The list of supported software on the platforms is the same, but there is a small nuance. In the application store on Android TV, only programs optimized for remote control are available, while on pure Android there is a full-fledged PlayMarket with absolutely everything existing applications and games. On Android TV, this issue can be resolved by installing the necessary apk files from a flash drive through any file manager.

Thus, it is impossible to say unequivocally which Smart TV set-top box is better. Everyone must choose for themselves, depending on which use case is closer to them. If you prefer to have everything work out of the box and want ease of use, Android TV is definitely worth going for. Do you like to flash, customize and want to get the widest possible functionality? Take a closer look at TV Boxes on pure Android.

The best Android TV set-top boxes

First, let's talk about how to choose a Smart TV set-top box with official certification from Google. The following is a similar top 5 devices on AOSP.

No. 5 – Mecool KM3

Price: from 6,400 rubles in Russia, 4,500 rubles on Aliexpress (link to a verified seller)

Mecool's assortment includes several models that are similar to each other: KM3, KM9 and KM9 Pro Classic. These are almost identical devices with the same Amlogic S905X2 processor, differing in the amount of memory (KM9 Pro does not have 5 GHz Wi-Fi, so it is better not to take it). As the best option, we recommend Mecool KM3 in the 4/64 GB version - this is a good certified TV Box on the latest Android 9 that supports Google Chrome cast (broadcasting the smartphone screen to a TV) and makes it possible to comfortably watch 4K content online.

The main advantages of KM3 are the absence of heating during operation, for which we should thank the effective cooling based on a metal plate, fast wifi Mimo 2×2 and the ability to broadcast 5.1 sound to a connected receiver. In general, the set-top box is quite fast, it will last for several years to come, but you will have to put up with the lack of auto-fremrate. Auto frame rate is a feature that synchronizes the refresh rate of the TV screen with the frame rate of the video, resulting in a smoother picture. It is usually received by more expensive boxes. Important nuance: Despite having official Google certification, KM3 does not have a Netflix license and cannot work with this streaming service.

#4 - Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K

Price: 5,990 rubles in Russia, $35 on Amazon

Fire TV is an excellent Internet set-top box for a TV in a miniature stick format. This tiny gadget makes it possible to watch YouTube and torrents in 4K, has an auto-frame rate, is certified in all current services, including NetFlix, supports 5.1 sound, HDR and Dolby Vision - in general, in terms of functionality it is not much inferior to its full-size counterparts. Despite the modest hardware (MTK processor and 1.5 GB of RAM), all the declared functions on Fire TV work absolutely correctly, it even plays games.

The device also impresses with its convenient remote control, but there is a serious drawback - the interface and voice search are only on English language. If you are willing to work a little with a file and Russify the stick using instructions from the Internet, it can be one of the best options for your money. But keep in mind that due to the lack of a wired connection, you need to pair it with Fire TV good wifi router

No. 3 – Xiaomi Mi Box S

Price: from 4,490 rubles in Russia, 3,700 rubles on Aliexpress

Mi Box S is a very popular TV box powered by the Amlogic S905X processor, which has all the advantages of a certified product. Compared to most Chinese no-name competitors, Xiaomi's product stands out for its better stability and support from the manufacturer (the gadget has already begun to update to Android TV 9). Mi Box S works perfectly with all resolutions up to 4K/60fps, supports all current codecs and has an S/PDIF digital audio output, so owners of high-quality acoustics will definitely like it.

Many consider the Mi Box S to be the most balanced model in its segment, but it has one important drawback - weak 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, which can cause stuttering in the interface and when playing heavy movies online. The problem is solved by purchasing a router operating in the 5 Hz range, since the device does not have an Ethernet port.

No. 2 - Nvidia Shield TV 2019

Price: from 13,990 rubles in Russia, $150 on Amazon

The rating of Android consoles continues with Shield TV 2019 - a new product from Nvidia that has absolutely everything modern technologies. We will not list a bunch of supported formats, we will only note the presence of the correct auto-frame rate and the intelligent scaling technology, which is absent from competitors, which converts low-resolution content into 4K. Due to this, Shield TV outperforms more affordable analogues in terms of picture quality, and the presence of a Gigabit Ethernet port will allow you not to spend money on an expensive router.

In terms of overall quality, the new Shield TV is head and shoulders above the previously reviewed models, but, unfortunately, Nvidia has limited the device in two important ways. There are no USB connectors, which means you won't be able to watch movies from hard drive, there is only a slot for MicroSD memory cards (up to 512 GB). The set-top box also runs 32-bit Android versions, which may prevent it from supporting some applications. However, even with these disadvantages, if you do not trust Chinese manufacturers, you can safely take Shield TV 2019 - all functions on it work like a clock.

#1 - Nvidia Shield TV 2019 Pro

Price: from 17,590 rubles in Russia, $199 on Amazon

Not all people have yet managed to switch to modern multifunctional TVs with convenient digital media player, access to the Internet, as well as other innovative technologies. Many people today still have televisions of fairly good quality, but they do not support Smart TV technology and do not have the necessary software and hardware.

If you don't want to change your TV to a more new model and spend a lot of money or buy a modern TV for you this moment you can’t afford it, but you still want to try Smart TV, then you need to turn your attention to Android TV Box. This device is a special television set-top box with great performance. By connecting it to your TV, you will discover a large number of new features that were previously unavailable.

Many people call Android TV a media player, but this is not entirely true. It is rather a multifunctional player with more features than a regular media player. On the modern market you can find several manufacturing companies whose products are very similar to each other and work on Android. Today we will look at what a Smart TV Box is, what advantages it has and how to choose it correctly.

Features of the Smart TV set-top box

Let's look at the main features of the Android TV set-top box:

• Media player. And with using Android TV Box you can watch videos in absolutely any format and quality, both via the Internet and from a memory card. In addition, you can view photos, presentations, or simply listen to your favorite music and other media. You can also access IPTV, but for this you will need to download a special application from Google Play.
• Large selection of games. Thanks to this console, you can install any game for Android and enjoy it on big screen. Don't think that Android games are just entertaining toys with simple graphics designed for phones or tablets. There are also a large number of games created specifically for Smart TV. You can also connect a gamepad to this console and enjoy the game to the fullest.

• Video communication. With the media player, you can communicate with your friends and family using a webcam. To do this, you will need to purchase a camera and attach it to your TV or any other place convenient for you. You will also need to download and install on Smart TV free program for communication, for example, Skype, ISQ or Viber.
• Internet. With Android TV you can go online to check your email, listen to online music, videos, play flash games or surf on a social network. You won't have to fight for your computer anymore. The Android TV Box will turn your TV into it.

Android TV Specifications

All Smart TV set-top boxes existing today have their own technical parameters very similar to each other. All of them have a dual or quad-core Rockchip processor with Cortex A9 architecture, as well as a Mail 400 graphics accelerator. Only the clock speed of the processor differs in one model or another.

Also, the Android Smart TV set-top box has 2-4 gigabytes of DDR3 RAM, as well as built-in flash memory of 8-16 gigabytes. Its volume depends on the cost of the device and the class of the set-top box. If desired, it can be increased using a memory card. In addition, the Android Smart TV set-top box has a built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapter, thanks to which you can connect to wireless network TV.

Some Android Box consoles also come with a wireless “pointer” remote control, which makes it much easier to use all the functions. Smart TV Box has good performance, so the video will not freeze even when viewed in high quality. True, when watching videos from the Internet in Full HD format, some stutters were still observed.

Also, when choosing a device of this kind, you should pay attention to the build quality and test as many functions as possible. It is best to pre-record some heavy videos and applications onto the memory card. This will allow you to find out which ones are weak sides at the media player. However, this is not the only thing you need to pay attention to when choosing a Smart TV set-top box.

How to choose Android TV

When choosing a set-top box for a TV, you need to start from the same thing as when choosing a smartphone. Android TV Box should be universal and have good performance. To do this, it must meet the following parameters:

• The more cores a processor has and the higher its frequency, the faster data is processed.
• The same applies to the graphics accelerator of the media player.
• RAM should be at least 1 gigabyte, or better yet, more. A modern TV will not have enough volume.
• It is also advisable to have more built-in memory for media player programs.
• Android TV must have ports and slots for connecting flash drives, keyboards, mice, SD cards, tulip-type connectors, HDMI, as well as a network connector for connecting an Internet cable.
• Availability of built-in Wi-Fi adapter and Bluetooth.
• Remote control support.
• The operating system is no older than Android 4.2.

It is also better to choose TV Box models that support the use of special additional control panels, or you can install applications on your smartphone and control the set-top box with it.

Using a device such as a Smart TV set-top box for a TV, you can increase the functionality of almost any television receiver, including conventional models released many years ago.

Purchasing a suitable gadget allows its owner to watch programs and movies online, record video information and even communicate on social networks.

To do this, you don’t have to buy a new “smart TV”, but in order to choose the right set-top box, you need to know certain criteria.

Choosing the best Smart TV set-top box

The main characteristics of devices designed to improve the functionality of the TV include:

• interface for connecting to a television receiver and the Internet;
• hardware requirements, including processor and memory;
• operating system;
• supported file formats;
• shape and dimensions of the body.

Both the configuration of the console and the ease of use are of a certain importance.

The method of powering the device is also taken into account - from TV or mains.

Many users are also interested in the price category of the gadget - especially since the cost different models may differ several times.

Connection interface

Before buying a set-top box, you should make sure that it is compatible with your existing TV (it’s hardly worth buying a device at the same time as a TV receiver - it’s easier to buy a model with already built-in smart functions):

• the owner of a more or less modern and “flat” TV should make sure that the equipment has an HDMI port;
• if available only VGA connectors or AV, you should pay attention to the compatibility of the set-top box itself with these formats;
• To connect old TVs, you can use signal adapters.

Should know: Latest TV models with cathode ray tubes, produced in the 2000s, may have a built-in HDMI input. For other outdated television receivers, it is best to choose a set-top box with tulip or VGA connectors - when using an adapter, the signal quality may decrease.

Hardware requirements

The main task set-top box is to improve the capabilities of the TV, and for this it must have modern hardware - a processor and RAM, the performance of which is enough to play FullHD and 4K video.

The minimum requirements for such a device are a CPU with 2 cores, 1 GB of RAM and 4–8 GB of internal storage, the recommended parameters are twice that.

On the electronics market you can find models with fairly large RAM and ROM.

They will cost more, but will provide the user with more options.

Some gadgets can even replace a console, while other devices are, in fact, full-fledged computers.

Supported File Formats

Most expensive set-top boxes are capable of playing any files.

Even if some format is not supported, the issue can be resolved by updating the firmware.

Before purchasing budget devices price category It is worth paying attention to the possibility of launching files with different extensions.

The most common formats are . mp4. mkv, .wma and .mpeg. You can find out about their support for the set-top box in the documents for the set-top box and on the websites of online stores where the equipment is selected.

However, movies from the Internet will be played in any case - problems arise only when trying to play an already downloaded video in an unsupported format.

Internet connection method

Smart set-top boxes for TV receivers are almost always connected to the Internet - otherwise there is no point in buying them.

The range of modern set-top box manufacturers includes: find models with 3 connection options:

• using RJ45 cable;
• via Wi-Fi network;
• with both possibilities.

A wired connection is chosen only in one case - when there is a short distance from the TV (next to which the set-top box will be located) to the router or Internet cable.

A wireless connection is the best option, although such a set-top box will cost more.

An even more convenient option– set-top boxes with a built-in Wi-Fi module and a cable connector.

Shape selection

The form factor and dimensions of smart set-top boxes are selected depending on the available space and required functionality.

Models in the form of a small box usually have a larger number of connectors, more powerful processors and decent storage capacity - it is in such models that you can find ROMs of 32, 64 or more gigabytes.

Set-top boxes in the form of a flash drive take up minimal space - they are simply connected to the TV receiver, like a regular USB drive.

Some mid-sized devices are almost indistinguishable from a compact computer and even work with older LCD TVs and monitors.

In addition, a box-shaped set-top box is easier to reflash, although it is inconvenient to move to a new location.

Other Features

The set that can be found in the same box with the TV set-top box usually depends on its cost.

Premium models are equipped with a full set of cords and adapters, and even a multifunctional remote control keyboard.

More affordable options have a minimum number of accessories - sometimes just one cord, network adapter and a standard remote control.

When choosing a console, you should also pay attention to the way it is powered.

Although all models in the USB flash drive form factor are powered by the TV, and you only have to choose an option by buying the box-shaped version.

The best Smart-TV set-top boxes

Table 1. Comparative parameters of popular models

Nvidia Shield TV

The high cost of the device is completely justified - it is also suitable for gamers who use such set-top boxes to broadcast games on big screens, and for those who are going to turn a regular TV into a “smart” one.

The set-top box supports 4K resolution at up to 60 frames per second – an indicator that not every TV receives.

To connect peripheral devices The model is equipped with two USB 3.0 connectors and an HDMI port.

• decent performance corresponding to an average computer with a video card (not all PC models released before 2010-2012 support 4K format);
• stable operation of the device itself and the Wi-Fi network;
• stereo sound output and support for 24/192 audio format;
• the ability to play torrents, support for streaming from a computer and game console;
• convenient setup and support for 4K format.

• lack of support for HDR technology in the YouTube service.
• The device does not support 3D format and does not have separate button nutrition.
• in addition, it has a fairly high cost, almost comparable to the price of a whole TV.

Oleg I.: It is very convenient that the remote control is combined with a gamepad - by connecting the game console to the TV using such a device, you can use it to play. The gamepad itself costs about $30, so it's understandable why the Nvidia Shield itself is so expensive. I didn’t notice any drawbacks - all the functions I needed were there and they worked great.

Iconbit XDS94K

The IconBIT XDS94K TV set-top box has a good processor, but too little RAM and permanent memory.

Although this hardware is enough to play video in 4K format.

Features of the model, in addition to connecting to the Network and Internet TV, include a functional remote control and the ability to record TV shows.

• a large number of functions;
• good light and image transmission;
• equipped with an HDMI 2.0 port and good hardware.

Negative:

• small amount of memory that comes with the device.
• Because of this, the set-top box sometimes takes too long to launch videos in FullHD and 4K formats.
• on the other hand, after starting the video plays normally, without freezing.

Mikhail N.: I have been using the console for more than a year. I’m pleased with the fast-working processor, which is enough for most tasks - problems arise only when playing 4K video, but I still don’t watch that. I can name only two disadvantages - the lack of HDMI cables included and USB port 2.0 (I would like a more modern 3.0 or 3.1).

Nexon MXQ 4K

Modern device with powerful processor and support for 4K video playback.

The TV set-top box has little memory, but it has the ability to connect external devices - from a flash drive to HDD and SSD.

Peripherals are connected using 4 USB ports, and the modern Android 7.1 platform is installed as the operating system.

• the ability to use not only the remote control, but also wireless keyboard or mice;
• connection to hundreds of channels digital television and watching a huge number of films online;
• affordable price;
• support for using Skype, launching games and free applications for Android OS;
• playback of videos in 4K format.

Negative:

• a small amount of RAM and permanent memory, due to which 4K video starts too slowly.
• The body of the set-top box gets quite hot when playing such formats.

Anatoly L.: Convenient device, I don’t regret the purchase. However, if the set-top box works for a long time, playing video in at least FullHD format, sometimes the signal on the TV begins to disappear. Perhaps it's due to overheating. I didn’t notice any other problems, everything works quickly, there are a lot of possibilities - after purchasing the MXQ 4K I even started using the computer less often.

Xiaomi Mi Box 4K

Model from popular Chinese brand Xiaomi can be called the best option in terms of price and functionality.

The set-top box copes with 4K video playback at a frequency of up to 60 frames per second, has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules, connectors for connecting peripheral devices and a remote control with voice control.

The gadget also supports Google Cast technology, which allows broadcasting sound and video from other devices.

• convenient voice control;
• support Android technologies TV and HDR;
• playback of videos in 4K format and H.265 codec;
• affordable price.

• lack of a sufficient number of Android applications.
• Some users consider the lack of a wired connection to be a disadvantage, although this disadvantage is fully compensated by Wi-Fi support.

Vladimir K.: High-quality and affordable set-top box. I liked it – the appearance, functionality, convenient controls and 4K support. I didn’t really like the orientation, mainly towards the Chinese market, which is why all the instructions are in Chinese.

Apple TV Gen 4 32GB

The TV Gen 4 32GB model is the best version TV set-top boxes from Apple - the 64 GB version from the same series is more functional.

The capabilities of the technology are enough to create a full-fledged multimedia center, capable of not only playing video, but also recording it for later viewing.

• compatibility with any of the media services Apple and most services of third-party brands (including Google);
• availability of Bluetooth;
• support for most media capabilities of the Network;
• decent speed and support for most formats.

• The maximum resolution can be attributed to FullHD.
• For a set-top box with this price, the manufacturer could provide 4K format playback.
• In addition, you can get full functionality only by registering and creating an account on the Apple website.

Maxim R.: When buying the console, I doubted whether I needed it? But already on the second day of operation I discovered a lot useful functions. With its help, you can not only connect to various online cinemas, but also use Photos services, and even play simple games using the included remote control. Thanks to Apple TV, my old TV almost as good as modern “smart” models.

MINIX NEO Z64A

The MINIX NEO Z64A device should be called not a TV set-top box, but a mini-computer - that’s how it was sold from the very beginning.

The console is supplied Intel processor Bay Trail with integrated graphics, 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB of ROM - parameters comparable to inexpensive nettops.

Despite this hardware, the maximum supported resolution is only FullHD.

• decent functionality that allows you to practically replace a computer with such a purchase;
• support for a large number of formats;
• 32 GB storage;
• clear image, regardless of whether the Network or external media is used;
• support for most applications from the Play Market.

• quite high price of the device
• Outdated version of Android without the ability to update.
• Because of this, the console supports fewer apps compared to more modern versions.

Victor M.: I chose the TV set-top box because it is equipped with an Intel processor. I am very pleased with the purchase - the processor, RAM, and ROM - all the characteristics are impressive. It's a pity that the 4K format is not played - but, in my opinion, this is not the case serious problem. Moreover, the Philips TV, to which I connected the set-top box, also does not support this resolution.

AmiBox X96 mini

The X96 mini media player is a more compact version of another set-top box with similar functionality.

The gadget is equipped with a 4-core Amlogic S905W 64-bit processor, 1 GB of RAM and 8 GB of ROM.

The hardware is not enough to play 4K video, but it copes well with FullHD resolution (as well as with watching videos on YouTube and in online cinemas), and for convenient control you can connect almost any wired and wireless manipulators and controllers to the set-top box.

• affordable cost;
• launch capabilities are visible in FullHD format (not bad for such a price);
• minimum level of heating and throttling;
• Compact size and weight, thanks to which the device can be easily attached, for example, to a TV.

Negative:

• "raw" software device.
• this deficiency can be corrected by flashing the firmware.
• The disadvantage could be called the lack of support for the 4K format, but other models in this price category do not have this option.

Alexander P.: The set-top box fully met my expectations - it is the cheapest opportunity to update your TV, give it smart functions and gain access to the Internet. I would like to separately note the ability to easily remove pre-installed applications. I didn’t notice any downsides - except for a small amount of ROM, which I almost never use.

AmiBox X96

The capabilities of the X96 smart set-top box allow it to compete on equal terms with most more expensive models.

A model whose operation is ensured by a 4-core processor, productive graphic system and Android 6.0.1 platform, plays FullHD video.

And built-in utilities allow you to control the operation of the equipment and easily configure the necessary parameters.

• good performance for such a price;
• support for most video formats;
• convenient interface.

Negative:

• low quality Wi-Fi module. When installing the set-top box in another room with the router, the signal may be too weak. The problem can be solved by using a wired connection or moving closer wireless router to the TV.

Sergey P.: For the money, the gadget is very decent and convenient. There are many already installed programs that can be easily removed. The set-top box copes with its functions very well - I have no complaints. The only thing that bothers me is that the case is flimsy-looking and is unlikely to withstand a fall. The mini model looks more solid.

AmiBox X92

The parameters of the processor, RAM and ROM of the X92 set-top box are among the best among all modern models, although it only plays video in up to FullHD format.

Connection of peripheral devices is provided by 4 USB ports, audio and video outputs, connection to the Internet is carried out using a wire and a wireless network.

The SPDIF optical interface allows you to connect 5.1 speakers.

• stylish appearance, including the presence of a clock on the case;
• a decent amount of memory, both RAM and permanent memory;
• availability of 4 USB ports at once;
• fast Wi-Fi;
• ability to connect external hard drives.

• Lack of 4K video support.
• The hardware performance (one of the best among the rating consoles) could provide such an opportunity.
• The downside is that the case heats up when using the device for a long time at full power.

Andrey O.: The capabilities of the X92 are impressive. On a five-point scale I would give it 5+, especially for the price. Signal reception is good, the picture is clear, clickable wireless mouse reacts quickly. Couldn't find any noticeable flaws - for me it's the best option TV set-top boxes.

Tanix TX2

The TX2 smart set-top box easily turns even an outdated TV into a full-fledged Multimedia center.

If necessary, the device's 16 GB ROM can be expanded by another 32–128 GB using a microSD card, and external devices connect via USB ports and HDMI.

The device runs Android 6.0.1 and a 4-core CPU, supports FullHD video and can connect to the Internet via cable or Wi-Fi.

• high image quality and support for most online services and video formats;
• connection external media– from USB flash drives to HDD or SSD;
• support for installing applications and games.

Negative:

• The set-top box does not have a very powerful processor and may not work too fast. There are no problems when playing FullHD video.

Konstantin S.: I've been using the console for about a month. There were no problems surfing the Internet or watching movies. The only serious drawback is that some videos in FullHD format freeze, possibly due to a weak CPU. Although for my TV with a diagonal of 40 inches and the usual distance to it of about 2 m, this problem is not critical - but I do not recommend the set-top box for owners of a TV of 43 inches or more.

conclusions

When considering the possibility of purchasing a set-top box that can increase the functionality of any TV (except perhaps models released more than 20–25 years ago), you should pay attention to Nvidia Shield TV and Xiaomi Mi Box 4K devices.

Fans of the Apple brand will be pleased with its capabilities Apple TV set-top box TV Gen 4 32GB.

Those for whom budget purchase is more important than power will like the AmiBox X96 mini model.

I keep an eye on articles on the site that are somehow related to Smart TVs TV, and I understand that the topic is more popular than ever. Convenient: turn on the TV - and here is a browser for visiting sites, online videos, games, social networks. It’s unlikely that anyone will argue that Smart TVs have a future. They, of course, will not replace a computer, but they are excellent as an entertainment device.

The ability to watch online videos, play games and visit websites is available in modern Smart TVs. But, if you have already used Smart TV, no matter which manufacturer: LG, Samsung, Sony, or others, then you will agree that the technology is still crude. Something freezes all the time, disconnects from the Internet, online videos do not play, etc. You can use it, but not everything is as smooth as it seems at first glance, and as they might tell you in the store.

Another thing is the functionality of the Android mobile operating system. It would be nice if the Smart TV functionality was made on this system. Is it true? For example, the number of Android programs and games that can be installed from Google Play will never compare with the store that LG Smart TV has. Well, anyone who has an Android phone or tablet understands what I mean.

It didn't make sense to think that all the features of Android couldn't be used on TVs. The companies that develop digital technology probably thought the same thing and created Smart TV set-top boxes. In this article, we will look at one of these consoles from Defender. It's called Defender Smart Android HD2. The article should be of interest primarily to those who have TVs without Smart TV. Or, who is not satisfied with the capabilities and functionality of Smart TV. But you really want to watch a movie on the Internet or from a flash drive, go to social networks, play games - and all this on the TV screen.

What is a Smart TV set-top box on Android?

As a rule, this is a small device that connects to the HDMI connector of the TV and works on the operating system. Android system. The set-top box is powered either from an adapter that can be plugged into a power outlet, or from the USB connector of the TV. The console itself, like, for example, a tablet, has a processor installed, RAM, built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc. This is quite a tablet, only without a screen. The screen is a TV.

The console can be controlled using a regular keyboard and mouse. You can connect wireless devices, which is much more convenient, or via Bluetooth. For example, I connected wireless headset. I can say that to manage such Android set-top box One mouse is enough. There are also special Air-Mouse remote controls.

There are even models with built-in cameras and microphones for communicating via Skype. For example, Defender Smart Call HD2. By the way, Smart Call HD2 can connect to older TVs that do not have HDMI. And it connects via the so-called “tulip” (composite AV output). The Air-Mouse remote control is included.

What will you need to connect a Smart TV set-top box to your TV?

• The console itself. You can’t go anywhere without her :)
• TV with HDMI connector
• Regular PC mouse, and/or keyboard for Android control prefix (if the kit does not include a remote control).

Review of Defender Smart Android HD2

Let's take a closer look at everything using the Defender Smart Android HD2 as an example.

You can buy the set-top box in the official Defender online store at the link http://www.defender.ru/products/multimedia/smarttvaccessory/smart-android-hd2/. Defender Smart Android HD2 is sold in such a small and beautiful box:

Therefore, set the date and time correctly. Set your time zone. And since these parameters, as far as I understand, are reset after completely disconnecting the power from the set-top box, it is better to set automatic setup from the network.

In the settings, on the tab Screen, you can select the screen resolution and refresh rate. The rest of the settings are almost the same as on other Android devices.

Let's look at the other 5 sections that you can select from the main screen.

Media

In this section you will find programs with which you can watch movies from the device’s memory, memory card or flash drive, watch photos or listen to music from the Internet.

You can watch the video using the already installed MX Player. I believe this best player for Android. I used it on my phone all the time. As soon as you connect a flash drive or memory card that has video on it, it will immediately appear in MX Player. No need to search for it in folders.

The films are going great.

TV

If you open the TV folder on the main screen, you will already see installed programs to watch online videos, YouTube and Zoomby, where you will find many movies and TV series.

YouTube looks like this:

Go ahead.

Browsers

Here there are programs with which you can access the Internet, surf social networks, download files, etc.

Of course we go to the site :)

If you don't like it standard browser, then in the section Apps there is Google Chrome. For social networks you can install official applications from Play Store. VKontakte, Twitter, Facebook, it’s all there. Apps

Well, in the last section you will find many installed useful programs, among which there is ES Explorer and Explorer for managing files, as well as programs for working with mail, maps, calendar, Play Store, etc.

Of course, don't forget about the hundreds of thousands of apps and games you can install from the Play Store.

You also need to pay attention to the notification center in the lower right corner. It displays the clock, Wi-Fi connection status and other notifications. For example, about connecting a USB flash drive.

And in the left corner you can see a panel on which there are buttons “back”, “home”, “view running applications”, “volume control”, “turn off the set-top box” (go to standby mode), and a button that allows you to collapse this panel.

As far as I understand, it is impossible to completely turn off Defender Smart Android HD2. Press the power button and put the set-top box into standby mode. It will “wake up” as soon as you move your mouse.

If the set-top box is powered by USB TV, then it will turn off and on also with the TV. If it's plugged in, I think it's ok to leave it plugged in.

For example, you are using Defender Smart Android HD2 and want to watch TV: just switch to TV mode by selecting the desired video input on the TV. When you want to switch to the set-top box again, select the desired HDMI.

Afterword

I really liked the Defender Smart Android HD2 console itself. In general, the very opportunity to get all the functionality of Android on a TV is very cool. I can say with confidence that no Smart TV, from any manufacturer, can compare with the capabilities of the Defender Smart Android HD2.

If you want my opinion: it's better to buy good TV without Smart TV and do not overpay for the technology itself, built-in Wi-Fi and other functions, and in addition buy an Android set-top box. Believe me, this way you will get much more opportunities for entertainment and even work. Perhaps something will change over time, and TV manufacturers will improve Smart TV, more applications will appear in their stores, but at the moment, buying a device like Defender Smart Android HD2 seems to me the best option.