A smart set-top box is an effective, relatively inexpensive replacement for the coveted but expensive Smart TV of the latest model. It can significantly expand the capabilities of an old LCD TV to the functionality of the latest “intelligent” smart models. Thanks to its presence, the following opportunities appear:

• online viewing of films and TV shows without recording to external media;
• a wide selection of various Internet TV channels;
• using video hosting resources;
• communication on social networks.

These and other services can be available if you choose the right smart set-top box for your TV. In order not to make a mistake when choosing, and not to waste significant budget funds, you need to pay attention to the following parameters of a future purchase:

• TV connection interface,
• hardware requirements,
• operating system,
• file formats,
• Internet connection,
• form factor,
• equipment,
• power supply method.

Before purchasing, it would be correct to clarify the type of connector provided on the television receiver. Most modern TVs are equipped with an HDMI port. It provides connection to a smart box and stable transmission of a good quality signal. The absence of such a port on older TVs means that the connection is made via VGA or AV. Therefore, the smart device you purchase must have the appropriate “sockets”.

Hardware requirements or processor, memory, hard drive

“Hardware” has a direct impact on the signal transmission speed and image quality on TV. The higher the parameters of the processor, memory and hard drive, the more comfortable the perception of information. Until recently, the following were considered optimal:

• dual core processor,
• 2 GB RAM,
• 8 GB hard drive (“hard drive”).

But in today's times, this may not be enough. Additional hardware capabilities will be required by Windows OS, which is beginning to compete with the Android OS familiar on these devices. Their increased parameters will be necessary for gamers who are passionate about “heavy” (demanding) video games. A variety of models provides a wide choice if the budget allows:

• 4, 8 core processors;
• large RAM;
• increased physical volumes of the hard drive.

Operating system: choose Android or Windows

It is up to the buyer to decide which system to choose. But most Smart devices are equipped with the Android operating system. However, Windows OS increasingly competes with it. Both options are acceptable, but a huge number of convenient applications and constantly updated games have already been created for the Android OS, so its use is preferable. Another advantage is that the Android system is less demanding on hardware, which means higher data processing speed with equal hardware characteristics.

For greater speed of OS Windows, you will need a more advanced processor, more RAM, and therefore more purchasing costs. Among the advantages is expanded functionality due to the office suite, which allows you to replace a regular PC with some exceptions.

File formats or what you can watch

There are many formats for storing and transmitting data that a smart set-top box must read if necessary. These can be MP4, WMV, MKV, WMA, DivX. Manufacturers usually provide this feature; most smart set-top boxes reproduce them. But when purchasing, you should make sure that such formats are available for playback via TV using the attached documents.

Internet connection or how to connect to the network

There are two ways to connect to the Internet: via Wi-Fi or an RJ45 Internet cable. If you have a wireless connection to a router in your home, it is better to choose a smart set-top box with a built-in Wi-Fi adapter and place it closer to the signal source, since its receiver capabilities are limited. Smart set-top boxes with Wi-Fi pick up the signal better if they have an external antenna. Cable connection to the network requires the presence of an Ethernet port to which the corresponding cable is connected. If there is none, you will need a LAN-USB adapter that connects to USB, and an RJ45 cable to it.

Form factor: choose box or flash

Smart TV set-top boxes can have two forms - a flash drive or a box (box). In terms of characteristics, they are generally comparable, but there are nuances. Flash set-top boxes are more compact, connect to TV via USB, are equipped with a Wi-Fi adapter, have fewer additional connectors, and work mainly with modern TV receivers. The boxes, in addition to the adapter for wireless connection, are equipped with a LAN connector, can connect to a TV via HDMI, VGA, AV, and have additional USB connectors. Due to their larger size, they are often provided with better hardware properties and heat up less. Can be recommended for owners of old TVs.

Complete set or peripherals for ease of use

Set-top boxes can be equipped with additional equipment - peripherals that expand its functions and provide comfort of use. Their peripheral equipment may include:

• keyboard for working with office and other applications via TV,
• remote switch,
• web cameras for organizing video communication.

The latter is built-in and has a low resolution. Therefore, if you need high-quality visual contact using a wide TV screen, it is better to choose a webcam separately.

Power supply method

In most cases, smart set-top boxes are equipped with a power supply for connecting to a 220V network. There are analogues that receive power from the TV device via a USB connection. The latter option is preferable because it does not require a separate outlet for a large number of consumers.

A digital TV set-top box is a kind of computer that can be easily connected to most modern TV models. The functionality of the latter is significantly expanded, and access to the Internet appears. This device runs on the Android platform, which allows you to use any available applications for...

A digital TV set-top box is a kind of computer that can be easily connected to most modern TV models. The functionality of the latter is significantly expanded, and access to the Internet appears. This device runs on the Android platform, which allows you to use any available applications for this operating system.

Key Features

If you want to buy a TV set-top box for digital television at home, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the range of products in our online store. The site widely presents popular models of devices and related accessories. Everyone will probably be able to choose and buy a smart TV set-top box for their TV, based on the requirements for functionality and the cost of the product.

Conventionally, all types of set-top boxes can be divided into two groups: stationary and portable. Devices from the first group are more powerful, made in the form of a small box. If you need a TV set-top box the size of a regular flash drive, choose the portable version. It all depends on personal wishes and the operating characteristics of the device. You can also buy a home projector on our website.

How to choose

Before buying a smart TV set-top box, it is recommended to carefully study the presented range and determine the technical characteristics that the product must meet. When choosing a device, you need to be guided by the following criteria:

• Availability of necessary communication ports;
• Internet connection options;
• What file formats are supported;
• Operating system version;
• Hardware filling;
• Features of power supply;

The price of a smart TV set-top box for a TV largely depends on these characteristics. The site also presents modern models of wireless mini-keyboards for more convenient operation of the device.

Conclusion

If you don’t know where to buy a TV set-top box in Moscow that meets modern technological requirements, we will be happy to help solve your problem. Before going on sale, all TV set-top boxes presented on the website are carefully tested by our employees to ensure compliance with the technical specifications declared by the manufacturer.

The assortment of our online store is regularly updated with new products. If you have any difficulties making a choice, contact our consultants for help. Experienced employees of our company will help you select and buy a TV set-top box for your TV that will meet all your requirements.

A smart TV set-top box - this device will make your TV much smarter than other representatives of the TV industry, will allow you to use the Internet to watch online cinemas, follow the latest news and weather on various Internet resources, play games and have fun at home in general. It is perfect for both LED TVs, LCD TVs, and old lamp devices.

The main advantage of such set-top boxes is that their functions are many points ahead of smart TVs. The latter have standard boards in their arsenal, limited only to basic functions. While a smart TV set-top box is a small PC. It can be upgraded by updating the software (we'll talk about this a little later), and finally change it to a newer version. This is a cheaper and more practical option than purchasing a new smart TV every year or 2.

A smart TV set-top box is essentially a portable computer that fits into a small designer “box”. The device operates with a processor based on the Android, Windows, TvOS or iOS operating system, which makes it possible to fully use your TV as a smart one.

The device is connected very simply via an HDMI cable. TV models that cannot be called particularly smart do not have ports for such a connection. Therefore, the developers found a solution in the form of an HDMI-AV adapter. On one side it has a plug of the cable of the same name, and on the other - an adapter for tulips. It is also possible to use a converter to switch from hdmi to av, as in the picture.

A smart TV set-top box uses an Internet connection using WI-FI from your modem or by connecting an Ethernet cable directly. Access to the global Internet from your TV will now allow you to call it smart. You will be able to use all kinds of social networks, such as YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, VK, Twitter, Odnoklassniki, etc., translator and Google maps, communicate on Skype, work with Microsoft Word documentation, download games and applications in the Android Play service Market. This means the task of the smart set-top box is completed, the client is satisfied. He no longer needs to burden himself with the thought of buying an expensive smart TV, he already has one.

The first time you turn on a smart TV set-top box, it tells you that you need to update the software. This procedure is important for household appliances and gadgets that have Internet access. It is designed to quickly search for new firmware versions and install it. This takes, on average, no more than 5-10 minutes. Subsequently, you will receive some additional functions of the basic programs, extensions, widgets, a modified interface, etc.

To view information about previously installed software, you need to go to the “settings” menu on your desktop and go to the “about phone/tablet” tab. There you will see what firmware was provided by the developers and the availability of new software versions for the smart console.

Standard equipment and prices

This point is one of the most important. It depends on how your TV will behave when you connect a smart set-top box to it, and whether they will be compatible. Therefore, you need to treat this issue properly. First, it’s worth understanding what types of smart consoles manufacturers offer and in what form they are presented:

• sticker;
• boxing;
• usb drive (flash drive);
• with or without antenna (to strengthen the WI-FI signal).

The price of such devices can be very varied, it all depends on the greed of the manufacturer. The only factor influencing the pricing policy of smart set-top boxes for TVs is the internal “filling”.

80% of all gadgets are powered by the Rockchip chipset. And from this the further cost is calculated. It includes operating memory, internal memory of the device, the presence of a video adapter, Bluetooth and WI-FI and other additional functions.

Review of the most popular smart TV set-top boxes

Let's take a closer look at the most popular smart set-top boxes for TVs:

• MXQ PRO
• Smart TV Box CS918 4K
• X98 PRO

MXQ Pro TV

This is a highly functional smart TV set-top box that runs on Android 5.1 (in the future it is possible to upgrade to Android 6). Its luggage includes a powerful 4-core 64-bit Amlogic S905 processor with a core frequency of 2 GHz, a graphics adapter with an operating frequency of 600 MHz.

The set-top box is equipped with 1 GB of RAM, which is enough to watch movies and videos in the highest quality Full HD and Ultra HD.
Regarding the internal memory of the smart console, it has 8 GB of free space for movies, music, games and applications that will decorate your TV and spend time. There are 4 USB ports on the back and sides, with which you can connect large-capacity external drives and an SD card slot for viewing and playing files from your mobile phone or tablet.

Connecting a smart TV set-top box to the Internet is carried out in two ways:

And most importantly, you can connect the set-top box to your TV using an HDMI cable, which we already talked about earlier. This will make it possible to watch digital IPTV television.

Smart TV Box CS918 4K

The next type of smart set-top box also runs on Android 5.1, but is already equipped with a powerful 8-core Rockchip RK3368 processor with a core frequency of 1.5 GHz and an improved model of the PowerVR G6110 graphics accelerator with a frequency of up to 750 MHz.

The volume of new generation DDR3 RAM has been increased to 2 GB, which doubles the functionality and multitasking of the smart set-top box. The internal memory capacity remains at 8 GB, but 2 USB ports will allow you to increase it up to 64 GB. This will be quite enough to download and view multimedia files of the highest quality. But the most important thing is that with the help of a new generation video adapter you can view videos and films in BlueRay and 4K quality, and this is already a big advantage.

There is also a function for viewing IPTV TV channels from your Internet provider in Full HD quality with a screen resolution of 1920 x 1280 pixels.
There are two ways to connect a smart TV set-top box to the Internet:

• directly through the LAN port to which you need to connect an Internet cable;
• using a WI-FI antenna that will catch the signal from your router/modem.

The smart set-top box comes with a special remote control and an HDMI cable for quick connection and convenient use.

Smart set-top box for TVs with wi-fi in the highest price category. Its price is an order of magnitude higher than that of other representatives. This is due to the ultra-powerful 8-core Amlogic S912 processor with a core frequency of up to 2 GHz and an 8-core Mali T820 graphics adapter, the frequency of which reaches 750 MHz. Together with 3 GB DDR3 generation RAM, this gives incredible performance figures based on AnTuTu results of 40 thousand points (parrots).

The smart console itself is equipped with the Android 6.0 operating system.
As for the internal memory of the smart set-top box, it has been slightly increased. Now its volume is 16 GB (expandable up to 64 GB using an external USB drive or SD card).

You can still connect your device to the Internet in two ways:

• directly through the LAN port to which you need to connect an Internet cable;
• using a WI-FI antenna that will catch the signal from your router/modem.

There is also an AV output, which will allow you to connect a smart set-top box to old tube TVs, and jacks for a mouse and keyboard for more convenient use. The latter can be connected wirelessly, this will be a big plus for those who like to control the world while sitting on the couch.

X98 PRO

This is one of the top smart set-top boxes for LCD and LED TVs. It is equipped with a new generation 8-core Amlogic S912 processor with an ARM Cortex A53 core. The processor frequency reaches 2 GHz. The Mali T820 video adapter with a clock frequency of up to 750 MHz makes it possible to support 3D graphics: these can be either 3D movies or various games and applications that can be found on the Play Market.

The amount of RAM increased to 3 GB (still the same DDR 3rd generation) will expand the functionality of the smart set-top box and allow you to perform even more tasks, load even more complex programs without any jambs. The amount of internal memory of the device is limited to 32 GB.

In addition to standard USB, HDMI, LAN connectors, this model has an S/PDIF port, which allows you to connect digital audio/video equipment: stereo systems, disc players, stereo systems, home theaters, cameras, cameras, etc.

You can connect your TV to the Internet via a smart set-top box in the same two ways:

• directly through the LAN port to which you need to connect an Internet cable
• using a WI-FI antenna that will catch the signal from your router/modem.

Video reviews

Video review on the topic - Comparison of SMART TV set-top boxes

Digital television, which not so long ago was the prerogative of only a certain group of people, is now available to everyone. But with the advent of open access to digital channels, many questions have arisen. As a rule, they all relate to the problem of correctly choosing its connection and configuration.

Whatever one may say, the cost of receivers is still quite high, and many buyers do not want to simply waste their family budget. In order to choose the most optimal option the first time, you need to study all the nuances.

Types of digital television

The main disadvantage of analog television is the loss of signal quality during broadcasting. In digital transmission, audio and video information is encoded in binary code, due to which all data losses are reduced to zero. But in order to “perceive” encoded signals, the TV must be able to “decipher” them.

Unfortunately, this feature is only built into modern models. That is why it is necessary to purchase a digital set-top box for the TV, which will serve as a decoder in old TVs.

Currently, digital television is divided into 4 types depending on broadcast technology:

• terrestrial, DVB-T or DVB-T2 standard - broadcast by television towers;
• satellite, DVB-S format - transmitted, respectively, by satellites;
• cable, DVB-C or DVB-C2 technologies - signals arrive via lines;
• Internet television, IPTV - access to the channels requires access to the global network.

The first thing you need to do before buying a set-top box for receiving digital television is to carefully examine your TV. Some models already support several digital broadcast formats simultaneously.

Receivers for terrestrial television

Terrestrial digital television is the most budget option, since to watch channels you need a regular indoor or outdoor antenna and the set-top box itself. In some cases, an amplifier will not be superfluous, but this depends on the distance from the TV tower. When purchasing a set-top box for terrestrial TV, it is important to ensure that it supports the DVB-T2 format.

The disadvantages of choosing such a set-top box for a TV include the dependence of image quality on signal strength - the more interference, the worse the “picture”. Another disadvantage is the relatively small number of channels - there are only 32 of them. In addition, you will not be able to watch programs in HD quality, because the signal is broadcast in a regular format.

The main advantage of a set-top box for terrestrial television is its price. Models cost 1-2 thousand rubles, and have a large set of built-in functions. A typical representative is the Oriel TV set-top box. The next advantage is mobility. You can connect another TV to the set-top box at any time.

Satellite TV receivers

To watch satellite TV programs, in addition to the receiver itself, you will need a satellite dish, as well as a signal amplifier. It is not recommended to assemble such a set of equipment yourself - there is a high risk that the receiver will not fit the amplifier. This leads to the main disadvantage - the high cost of the finished kit.

When choosing a satellite receiver, make sure that it supports the DVB-S format. As part of your TV set-top box, you may also need a CI slot for installing a conditional access card. With it, for a fee, you can watch blocked paid channels.

By the way, about channels. Any satellite TV operator provides its customers with about 1000 programs. But for this you will have to subscribe for a monthly fee. Without it, the number of gears will drop to 30-50. But in any case, all TV channels will be broadcast in HD quality.

Cable Boxes

There are not many options when choosing a cable TV receiver. More precisely, there is only one way - contact the cable television operator. Unfortunately, cable set-top boxes for receiving digital television are designed in such a way that they only receive a signal from one provider. If you choose another service company, you will have to purchase the receiver again.

The advantage of such television is the high quality of the image, which does not depend on local conditions. So, if a satellite dish can go astray from a strong wind, as well as a street antenna, then it is almost impossible to create interference in the cable. Another advantage is that you only pay for the channels you want to watch.

Internet television

To watch Internet channels you will need a smart TV set-top box, as well as a router and high-speed Internet. The principle of broadcasting programs is as simple as possible - a receiver purchased from a television operator connects to the wired Internet, goes online and shows the channels to which you are subscribed.

In fact, this feature can be implemented on a regular PC, but the image quality, as well as the number of channels and many other factors will largely depend on the site owner. IPTV gives you access to more than 100 channels, all of them in HD quality.

In addition to watching your favorite programs, a smart TV set-top box will give you the opportunity to access the Internet directly from the TV, as well as view the channel program, “rewind” time, pause a movie, and much more. A significant drawback of such consoles is their price. In some cases, it can reach 25 thousand rubles. The cheapest options are at the level of 6-7 thousand.

Connection features

The answer to the question “how to connect a set-top box to a TV” depends on the device model you choose. If you purchased a receiver for terrestrial television, then you will need an antenna coaxial cable to connect. You can purchase it or make it yourself by screwing f-connectors onto the ends.

There are several options for connecting. It all depends on the functionality of your device. As a rule, there are several connectors on the back wall. These can be Scart, RCA slots, output for coaxial or composite cable and other ports. The easiest way to connect is through “tulips”.

There will be no problems connecting a cable receiver, since when you choose this option, the provider company will do everything for you. Also, don’t think about how to connect the set-top box to your TV when choosing Internet TV. Most often the problem is solved using an HDMI cable. But you can also use Scart, RCA - it all depends on the functionality of the equipment.

Equipment setup

After combining the set-top box and TV, you need to switch to the appropriate playback mode. If you used a coaxial cable, then you don't need to do anything. If Scart, RCA, then use the remote control to switch the TV to AV input mode. When using an HDMI cable, you accordingly need to select the item of the same name in the menu.

After that, start searching for channels. If, when deciding how to choose a set-top box for your TV, you preferred IPTV or cable television, then no additional manipulations are required - everything is already configured for you. Enjoy watching!

A Smart TV set-top box is a completely effective and relatively inexpensive alternative to a desirable, but for many too financially unaffordable device with the same functionality. Such a gadget can significantly expand the capabilities of an old TV, bringing them closer to the functionality of modern smart models.

The Smart TV set-top box allows the user to watch movies and TV shows online, without recording to third-party media, gives access to a variety of Internet channels, the ability to use the resources of various video hosting sites and communicate on social networks. That is, in essence, this gadget is a kind of adapter that turns your ordinary device into something like a personal computer.

Difficulty of choice

These and some other services will be available if you know how to choose a Smart TV set-top box for your TV and do it correctly. To ensure that your money is not wasted, you need to pay special attention to the individual characteristics of the smart gadget you like.

Important parameters of Smart TV set-top boxes:

• TV connection type;
• hardware requirements;
• working platform of the gadget (Windows/Android);
• connection to the Network;
• dimensions (form factor);
• equipment;
• energy consumption and power sources.

This list will help you determine the initial characteristics of the gadget and significantly narrow the range for a more thoughtful and correct choice. Let's look at each point in more detail.

TV connection

Before purchasing, be sure to check the type of interface on your TV to connect such equipment. A good half of modern TVs have a universal HDMI port, which is characterized by stable signal transmission in the best quality. If your TV does not have one, then there will probably be a regular VGA or AV output there.

Some models are easily connected via an RCA connector, or in common parlance “tulips”. Pay special attention to this point before connecting the Smart TV set-top box to the TV. Judging by user reviews and expert assessments, the HDMI interface has the best transmission quality and “omnivorousness,” so it’s better to give preference to it.

Hardware requirements

The chipset of a smart device directly affects the transmission speed and signal quality. The better the processor and the more RAM, the more confident and comfortable the information received through the Smart TV set-top box is perceived.

Basic hardware requirements:

• processor with two cores;
• 2 GB RAM;
• 8 GB internal storage.

For some users, these requirements will clearly not be enough. For example, this is often talked about by gamers who are into demanding and “heavy” games. In addition, the Windows operating system requires more hardware capabilities than a similar set-top box for a Smart TV on Android.

Optimal requirements:

• processor with two or eight cores;
• 4-8 GB RAM;
• from 16 GB hard drive capacity.

Such characteristics, judging by the reviews of experts, will be able to easily “digest” the Windows platform and will allow them to work perfectly with the Smart TV set-top box on Android.

Platform

Which operating system to choose depends on the preferences of the individual user. If you are used to Windows, you have familiar windows and familiar menu branches at your disposal. If you like Android, you will get a variety of desktops and your favorite services. As for the prices of Smart TV set-top boxes for a TV on a particular platform, the former are slightly more expensive (from 6 thousand rubles), and the latter have the largest range of prices - from ultra-budget to premium models (from 2.5 thousand . rubles).

It is also worth clarifying that the Android platform is less demanding on the set of chipsets, which means that, with equal hardware characteristics, it has a noticeably higher speed of interface operation and data processing in general. In addition, you can find a huge number of applications and games on this OS, which are constantly updated, supplemented and improved in every possible way. Let’s add here the quite affordable prices of Smart TV set-top boxes for Android TVs and we’ll get an optimal and universal solution.

Net

The gadget can be connected to the Network in two ways: using an RJ-45 cable or using a wireless Wi-Fi module. If you already have a router in your home, then the best option would be a Smart TV set-top box with WiFi for your TV, that is, with a built-in adapter.

In another case, you need an Ethernet interface to connect to the Network. If there is none, you will have to purchase a special LAN-USB format adapter to connect an RJ-45 cable.

Form factor

Before choosing a Smart TV set-top box for your TV, it is important to know that they come in two form factors: box (box) or flash. As such, the characteristics in both cases can be called comparable, but there are still some nuances.

Flash devices are more compact and connect to the TV via a USB port. They also have a built-in Wi-Fi wireless adapter and are not burdened with any additional connectors or interfaces. Such gadgets work mainly in tandem with modern TV receivers.

The boxes, in addition to the Wi-Fi module, are additionally equipped with an RJ-45 port for connecting to the Internet. In addition, this form factor implies the presence of numerous interfaces, such as HDMI, VGA, RCA (“tulips”), regular AV and some related USB ports. Due to their noticeably larger dimensions, boxes, as a rule, have better hardware components and are less susceptible to overheating due to cooling systems. Reviews note that this form factor has proven to work well in tandem with old TVs, which have many limitations on synergy with modern technology.

Optional equipment

Many middle-class set-top boxes can be additionally equipped with some useful equipment, that is, peripherals that significantly expand the usability of the device and add comfort to the user.

Such things include:

• keyboards and mice;
• remote controls and similar instruments;
• webcams.

The latter is sometimes built-in and usually has mediocre characteristics - an inexpensive matrix and modest pixelation. Therefore, in most cases, it is better to look at some gadget from the outside that has a more acceptable technical component.

Nutrition

One part of the smart set-top boxes has a regular power supply for connecting to a standard 220 V network, while the other works via a USB interface. If the place where your TV is installed is loaded with some kind of equipment (music centers, stereo systems, etc.), then it is better to go with the latest option with USB, because it does not require a separate outlet, and there are no voltage drops compared to such an alternative not as scary as in the case of a regular network.