Xiaomi Android: Which is better in 2026? Comparison of all models

Choosing an Android console from Xiaomi is not an easy task, especially when you consider that the company offers several models with different features and price tags. Someone is looking for a compact device for watching YouTube and streaming services, others need a powerful console for games and games. 4K HDR-And some people want to save money without losing functionality. In this article, we will analyze all the current Xiaomi models - from the budget Mi. TV Stick to the flagship Mi Box 4K, — compare them on key parameters and help to determine which console is right for you.

It's important to understand that even within a single lineup, devices can be dramatically different in performance, such as the Mi Box S and Mi Box. 4K The first one does not support Dolby Vision, and the second one is able to play content in resolution up to the end of the day. 4K@60fps. We will analyze not only the technical characteristics, but also the real experience of use: how consoles cope with popular applications, how stable they work with different TVs and what pitfalls the user can expect.

If you’ve already decided on a budget or know what features are critical to you (such as support for Google Assistant or the ability to connect a gamepad), you can immediately go to the appropriate section. For those who are just starting to understand the topic, we have prepared a checklist of your choice and answers to the most common questions.

Topical models of Android-confixes Xiaomi in 2026

Xiaomi officially presents three main models of consoles that can be bought in Russia and CIS countries:

• 📺 Xiaomi Mi TV Stick 4K — compact console in the format of "flash drive" with support 4K Google TV.
• 🎮 Xiaomi Mi Box S (2nd Gen) – a classic console with remote control and support HDR10.
• 💎 Xiaomi Mi Box 4K — The flagship model with the Amlogic processor S905X4 Dolby Vision and.

You can also find outdated models like the Mi Box on the market. 3 or Mi TV Stick (1st Gen, but buy them in 2026 Not recommended for the year – they don’t get Android updates TV And they may not support modern applications. All current consoles are Android-based. TV 11/12 (depending on the model) and have a built-in Chromecast, which allows you to stream content from your phone or tablet.

Note: In some regions, Xiaomi sells consoles under the Redmi brand (for example, Redmi). TV Stick. These are essentially the same devices, but with a different logo and sometimes stripped down functionality. In this article, we will focus on the pure Xiaomi models, as they have better support and are updated more often.

Comparison of technical characteristics: table

To make it easier to navigate the capabilities of each model, we've put the key parameters into a single table. 4K, Dolby-technologies and OS type – these characteristics are most often decisive when choosing a new system.

The table shows that the Mi Box 4K It is a win for most of the parameters, but the difference in price with the Mi TV Stick 4K It's almost 2,000. ₽. Should you overpay? It depends on your tasks:

• 🎬 If you need a console solely for watching movies and TV series in the 4K, enough TV Stick 4K.
• 🎮 For games (for example, through Google Stadia or emulators), it is better to choose Mi Box. 4K — It has a more powerful processor and more memory.
• 💰 If you have a budget, the Mi Box S is still a good option, but keep in mind that its interface is less modern (no Google). TV).

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Mi Box 4K — The only model in the lineup with Dolby Vision support, which is critical for owners of TVs with this technology.

Mi TV Stick 4K: Compactness vs. productivity

Xiaomi Mi TV Stick 4K — the most compact console in the lineup that connects directly to HDMI-The TV port does not require any additional power supply (uses) USB-port TV). This makes it an ideal choice for those who appreciate minimalism and do not want to get confused in wires, but the compactness has to pay: the device warms up more than the classic boxes, and can brake under heavy load (for example, when you run multiple applications simultaneously).

The main advantages of the model:

• 🔌 Portability: Easy to take with you on a trip or reconnect to another TV.
• 🎤 Voice remote with support for Google Assistant (you can control smart devices Xiaomi).
• 📺 Google TV — user-friendly interface with personalized recommendations.

But there are downsides:

• ⚠️ No support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos (only) HDR10).
• ⚠️ Only 8 GB of memory, of which the user can access ~5 GB (when installing multiple applications, the place ends quickly).
• ⚠️ No Ethernet port – only Wi-Fi 5 (may be critical for streaming in the Internet) 4K low-signal).

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If you are planning to use the Mi TV Stick 4K TV-free USB-Port, buy quality USB-External powered hub – this will solve the problem of power shortage.

Who's the model that's going to work for?

• 🏠 Looking for a second console for the bedroom or kitchen.
• 💼 Often moves or takes the device with you.
• 🎥 Watch content in full HD or 4K without the requirements of Dolby technology.

⚠️ Attention: Mi TV Stick 4K It is not compatible with some of the older TVs that HDMI-ports are not supported HDCP 2.2.Please check your specifications before buying TV!

Mi Box S (2nd Gen: Gold standard or obsolete model?

The Xiaomi Mi Box S is one of the most popular consoles on the market, and for good reason. It offers balanced specs at an adequate price, and its box form factor provides better cooling than the sticks. S905X2, This allowed for improved performance in games and when working with heavy applications.

The main advantages of the Mi Box S are:

• 🎯 Stable operation even with prolonged use (does not overheat).
• 🔄 Support 4K@60fps and HDR10 (without the Dolby Vision).
• 🕹️ Possibility to connect gamepads via Bluetooth (for example, for emulators) PS2 or Nintendo 64).
• 🔌 Port availability USB 2.0 for connecting external drives.

However, there are also disadvantages:

• ❌ An outdated version of Android TV 9 (although the console still gets security updates).
• ❌ Remote without voice control (you will have to buy separately or use your phone).
• ❌ No Google. TV — The interface is less convenient than the new models.

Fun fact: Mi Box S is often bought for custom firmware installation (for example, CoreELEC), because its hardware is well supported by enthusiasts. If you plan to use the console as a media center with Kodi or Jellyfin, this model may be the best choice.

Who's the Mi Box S for?

• 🛠️ Those who like to “shoot” and install alternative firmware.
• 🎮 Gamers who need Bluetooth to connect joysticks.
• 💰 Buyers who want to save money but are not willing to sacrifice stability.

Mi Box 4K: The flagship supports Dolby Vision

Xiaomi Mi Box 4K — It's the top model in the lineup that covers most of the needs of even the most demanding users. It's equipped with an Amlogic processor. S905X4, rife 20-30% It is more powerful than the Mi Box S and supports all modern video standards, including Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, making it ideal for premium TV owners, LG OLED Samsung QLED).

Key features of the model:

• 🎥 Full support for Dolby Vision and HDR10+ — The picture looks as realistic as possible.
• 🔊 Decoders for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X (when connected to compatible acoustics).
• 📱 Google TV with personalized recommendations and easy content search.
• 🎮 Powerful processor for games and emulators (including Dreamcast and PSP).
• 🔌 Port port USB 3.0 for external hard drives (unlike the Mi Box S) USB 2.0).

The disadvantages include:

• ⚠️ Higher price (~5 800 ₽), Which is 40% more expensive than the Mi TV Stick 4K.
• ⚠️ Not all apps support Dolby Vision (for example, YouTube ignores it).
• ⚠️ There is no Ethernet cable (you will have to buy a USB-to-Ethernet adapter).

Important: Mi Box 4K — The only console in the Xiaomi lineup that is officially certified for playing content on Netflix and Disney+ permit 4K Dolby Vision-enabled models can limit resolution to Full. HD.

Who is the Mi Box for? 4K?

• 🎬 Filmmakers with TVs that support Dolby Vision.
• 🎮 For those who are planning to play cloud services (GeForce Now, Xbox Cloud Gaming).
• 💿 Users who store large media libraries on external drives (thanks to the USB 3.0).

✅ Compatibility of the TV with Dolby Vision (check in settings) TV)

✅ Port availability HDMI 2.1 for 4K@60fps

✅ Internet speed (for streaming) 4K You need a minimum of 25 Mbps)

✅ Free exercise USB-port for food (if not, you need a hub)

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Which Xiaomi console to choose: a step-by-step guide

In order not to get confused in the characteristics, we suggest to follow a simple algorithm:

1. Determine the budget: Up to 4,000 ₽ → Mi TV Stick 4K. 4 000–5 000 ₽ → Mi Box S. Over 5,000 ₽ → Mi Box 4K.
2. Check the support 4K and HDR your TV: If TV older than 2018 and does not support HDR10, overpay for the Mi Box 4K If you have a Dolby Vision, just take the Mi Box. 4K.
3. Decide if you need Google TV: Google interface TV (mi TV Stick 4K Mi Box 4K) more convenient than the classic Android TV (In Mi Box S).

Assess the needs of games and media:

• For games and external storages are needed USB 3.0 (only in the Mi Box) 4K).
• For emulators, the Mi Box S is also suitable, but with performance reservations.

If you are still in doubt, answer the questions:

• 🔹 You need a compact size or you’re willing to sacrifice portability for power?
• 🔹 Will you connect an external hard drive or gamepad?
• 🔹 Is it important to you voice search and management of a smart home?

For example, if you need a console for YouTube, Kinopoisk and Netflix in Full HD, Budget is limited, take the Mi. TV Stick 4K. If you're a Samsung. QLED Dolby Vision and you love playing GeForce Now, then Mi Box 4K It will be the best choice.

Frequent problems and how to avoid them

Even the most reliable Xiaomi consoles can be uncomfortable, except for some nuances. Here are the most common problems and ways to solve them:

• 🔌 The console does not turn on or constantly restarts: Check the power supply (especially relevant for Mi). TV Stick 4K, which may lack the power of USB-port TV). Reset the settings to factory (Settings) → The device → Reset).
• 📶 The video's slowing down 4K: Connect the console via Ethernet cable (for Mi Box) S/4K You need an adapter. In YouTube or Netflix settings, manually select permission. 1080p.
• 🔊 No sound through HDMI: Check what is in the sound settings (Settings) → Sound) mode selected HDMI Or Auto. Update the firmware of the console and the TV.
• 🎮 Games or emulators do not work: Install an alternative launcher (e.g, ATV Launcher for easy access to games. Connect the gamepad via Bluetooth (in the Mi Box) S/4K Support is better than in Mi TV Stick).

⚠️ Note: If you are using the Mi TV Stick 4K with a television set HDMI-The ports are close together, and you may have a problem with overheating. HDMI-extender.

It is also worth remembering the limitations of streaming services:

• 🎬 Netflix and Disney+ into 4K They only work on the Mi Box. 4K (Other models have a maximum of full HD).
• 🎵 Apple TV+ may not support 4K Xiaomi is on the consoles due to the limitations of Widevine L1.

FAQ: Answers to popular questions