Xiaomi Mi TV Stick is a compact device that turns a regular TV into a smart TV in minutes with access to streaming services, games and apps. TV Or it's got outdated firmware, it's going to be a budget alternative to buying a new TV, but how does it work, how does it differ from consoles like Android? TV Box, and should I buy it in 2026.
The concept of “sticks” for TV is not new: similar solutions offer Google (Chromecast), Amazon (Fire) TV Stick and even Apple (Apple) TV 4K). However, Xiaomi managed to stand out thanks to a combination of low price, performance and adaptation to Russian realities (for example, pre-installed services like Kinopoisk or Kinopoisk). IVI). At the same time, the device works on the basis of Android TV — A full-fledged operating system, not a stripped-down shell.
In this article, we won’t convince you to buy it – instead, we’ll honestly analyze the pros and cons of Mi. TV Stick, compare it to the competition, show you how to connect and configure, and answer frequent questions from users. If you've already decided to buy a gadget, but don't know which model to choose, here you will find a comparison table of characteristics.
What is Xiaomi Mi? TV Stick and how it works
Xiaomi Mi TV Stick is a media player in the format USB-flash drive that connects to HDMI-It's a port of the TV and it converts it into a smart device, and inside the device is a processor, RAM, Wi-Fi, and its own Android operating system. TV 9.0/11.0 (You can access the Internet once you're connected to the model:
- 🎬 Streaming services: Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Okko, IVI, Kinopoisk HD other.
- 🎮 Games from Google Play (including with support for Bluetooth gamepads).
- 📱 Applications: browsers, instant messengers, fitness services, weather, etc.
- 🔍 Voice control via Google Assistant (in new models).
- 📁 Local media files (movies, music, photos) from a flash drive or over the network.
Unlike Android. TV Box (box consoles), Mi TV Stick does not require a separate shelf space, powered by USB-port of the TV (or adapter included) and automatically switches on with the TV. This makes it an ideal solution for small rooms, cottages or trips - the gadget is easy to take with you.
It is important to understand that Mi TV Stick does not replace a satellite receiver or cable TV. It is designed for streaming over the Internet, so the quality of the picture depends on the speed of your Wi-Fi. 4K HDR You will need a connection of at least 25 Mbit / s.
The differences between Xiaomi Mi TV Stick from Android TV Box and other sticks»
There are three types of smart TV devices on the market: TV-prefixes (boxes), TV-Sticks (sticks) and built-in Smart TV. Xiaomi Mi TV Stick is the second type, but it has key differences from competitors:
| Characteristics | Xiaomi Mi TV Stick | Android TV Box (e.g. Xiaomi Mi Box) | Google Chromecast | Apple TV 4K |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Form factor | Compact "rod" (length) ~8cm) | Box (size) ~10×10 centimeter) | "Stick" (without remote in the basic version) | Box (premium design) |
| OS | Android TV 9.0/11.0 (full-length) | Android TV 9.0/11.0 | Google Cast (Stripped OS) | tvOS (Apple’s closed ecosystem) |
| 4K support | Yes, in the Pro models and 4K) | Yes. | Yes, in Chromecast. Ultra/4K) | Yes. |
| Voice assistant | Google Assistant (with microphone on the remote) | Google Assistant | Google Assistant (limited) | Siri |
| Price (2026) | 3,000 to 6,000 ₽ | 7,000 to 12,000 ₽ | 4,000 to 8,000 ₽ | 15,000 ₽ |
The Mi's main advantage TV The Stick in front of box boxes is mobility, and it can be switched between TVs (for example, in the country and at home) or taken on trips:
- ⚠️ Limited performance: weaker than flagship TV Box, due to compact body and passive cooling.
- ⚠️ No Ethernet port: Wi-Fi only (there is often a cable connector in the boxes).
- ⚠️ Fewer ports: usually only HDMI + microUSB for power supply USB-A flash-drive).
⚠️ If your TV is older than 2010, make sure it has one. HDMI-port HDCP. Without it, Mi. TV Stick will not be able to play protected content (e.g. Netflix) 4K).
💡
Mi TV Stick is suitable for the basic Smart TV, Android TV Box – for gamers and demanding users who need maximum performance.
Technical characteristics: comparison of models 2022-2026
Xiaomi has released several versions of the Mi. TV Stick, which features a supported resolution, processor and feature set, and the table below shows the current models you can buy in 2026:
| Model | Processor | RAM/ROM | Max, permission. | Wi-Fi | Bluetooth | Remote with microphone | Price (₽) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mi TV Stick (1st generation) | Amlogic S805Y | 1/8 GB | Full HD (1080p) | 2.4 GHz | 4.2 | No. | ~3 000 |
| Mi TV Stick 4K | Amlogic S905Y4 | 2/8 GB | 4K HDR (3840×2160) | Dual-band (2.4/5 GHz) | 5.0 | Yes. | ~5 000 |
| Mi TV Stick Pro | Amlogic S905W2 | 2/16 GB | 4K HDR (Dolby Vision) | Dual-band (2.4/5 GHz) | 5.0 | Yes. | ~6 000 |
For most users, the best choice is Mi. TV Stick 4K — It supports modern video standards, has enough memory for applications and is equipped with a voice-controlled remote. HD) You should only buy an old TV without support. 4K or a very limited budget.
What to look for when choosing:
- 📺 Your TV resolution: if it doesn't support 4K, Paying for the Pro version doesn’t make sense.
- 📶 Wi-Fi router: for stable 4K-stream requires a dual-band router (5 GHz).
- 🎙️ Voice control: If you plan to use Google Assistant, take a model with a microphone on the remote.
💡
If your TV doesn't have it USB-port TV Stick, use the adapter from the kit. Connecting to the socket through charging from the smartphone can cause the device to overheat!
How to connect and configure Xiaomi Mi TV Stick: step-by-step instructions
Mi connection TV Stick takes no more than 5 minutes. Follow the instructions to avoid errors:
Insert Mi. TV Stick in HDMI-television-port
Connect the power cable (USB → plug-in USB-port)
Turn on the TV and select the right one HDMI-entrance
Wait for the system to boot (first start) ~2-3 minutes)-->
Step 1: Physical connection
- Put Mi in. TV Stick in HDMI-If the port is on the back, use an extension cord. HDMI kitty.
- Connect the power cable: Optimally: in USB-port of the TV (if it gives enough current). Alternative: to the socket through the adapter from the kit.
HDMI-entrance
Source
Input
Step 2: Initial setting
- Select the interface language (there is Russian).
- Connect to Wi-Fi. We recommend using 5 GHz for steady flow.
- Sign in to your Google account (required to download apps).
- Please agree to the terms of use and wait for the system update (if available).
Step 3: Installation of applications
After setting up, the main Android menu will open. TV. To install applications:
- Go to the Google Play Store (the icon on the home screen).
- Find the app you want (like Netflix or YouTube) and click Install.
- For convenience, add shortcuts to the main screen: press the Home button on the remote → Add to the main screen.
How to reset Mi TV Stick to factory settings?
Pros and cons of Xiaomi Mi TV Stick: An honest review
Like any device, the Mi TV Stick has strengths and weaknesses, and we tested it in real-world settings and highlighted the key points:
✅ Advantages:
- 💰 Low price compared to competitors (2-3 times cheaper than Apple) TV).
- 🚀 Fast loading: switches on with the TV, no delays.
- 🌍 Support for Russian services: IVI, Okko, Kinopoisk HD pre-established.
- 🎮 Games and emulators: You can play simple games with a gamepad (for example, PPSSPP for PS1).
- 🔄 Portability: Easy to switch between TVs.
❌ Deficiencies:
- 🔥 Overheating with prolonged use (especially in models without a metal body).
- 📶 Wi-Fi Dependence: Without Internet, functionality is limited to local files.
- 🔊 Weak sound in games and some applications (the problem is solved by external acoustics).
- 🔄 No Ethernet: Wireless Connection Only.
- 📦 Limited Storage: The base model has only 8GB (of which there are only 8GB) ~4GB is available to the user).
Who's good for Mi? TV Stick?
- 🏡 Residents: compact size and ease of connection.
- 👨👩👧👦 Families: Access to children’s channels and streaming.
- 🎯 Minimalists: I don’t want to bother with wires and boxes.
Who better to consider alternatives?
- 🎮 Gamers: for heavy games need Android TV Box with a powerful processor.
- 📽️ Cinemas. 4K: If you want Dolby Atmos and maximum quality, Apple is better. TV 4K or Nvidia Shield.
- 🛠️ Techniques: for customization (firmware, root) is more suitable TV Box.
Frequent problems and their solutions
Even a device as simple as the Mi. TV Stick, it can be a problem. We've collected problems and ways to solve them:
🔴 Problem: The device doesn't turn on or flashes red
- Check the power: try another one USB-cable.
- Reboot the TV and Mi TV Stick (pull out and paste back in).
- If the red light flashes, there's not enough power. Use the adapter from the kit.
🔴 Problem: Lagging video or poor stream quality
- Check the internet speed (for example, for 4K needle ≥25 Mbps).
- Switch to 5GHz Wi-Fi (less interference).
- Close the background applications: Settings → Annexes → Stop it.
- In the video settings (for example, on YouTube) select 1080p instead 4K, if the router is weak.
🔴 Problem: Some apps don't work (Netflix, Disney)+)
- Update the app through Google Play.
- Check the region of your Google account (some services block access from Russia).
- Install. APK-manual file (e.g. from APKMirror site).
🔴 Problem: The remote does not respond to pressing
- Check the batteries (they come in, but they go down quickly).
- Reconnect the remote: pinch the Home + Back to 5 seconds.
- If the remote is lost, use the Mi Remote app on your smartphone.
⚠️ Attention: If Mi TV Stick stopped turning on after the update, try resetting through the recovery mod. OK Remove and hold for 10 seconds until the recovery menu appears.