Modern TV without access to the Internet and streaming services today is perceived as a relic of the past, but not everyone has the opportunity to immediately purchase a new panel with built-in Smart TV. It is at this moment that media players come to the scene, turning any screen with HDMI into a powerful multimedia center. Xiaomi has been a leader in the Android TV boxes market for many years, offering devices with excellent price-performance ratio.
Choosing a particular model can be confusing for even the experienced user, as the range is constantly updated and the names of models change. In 2026, both time-tested hits and new products with support for modern codecs and Wi-Fi standards are on the market. You will have to understand the differences between the form factors “box” and “stick”, and also understand whether you need a voice remote and support for 4K HDR.
In this article, we will analyze the models in detail so you can make an informed decision about your purchase. We will look at the technical nuances, hidden features of the operating system and real-world use cases for each configuration. The right device will provide a comfortable viewing of content for years to come without lags and hangs.
The evolution of the Xiaomi TV Box line: from the Mi Box S to the new products of 2026
The Chinese giant’s story of media players began with the classic Mi Box S, which for years has been the benchmark of the budget segment, setting the standard for the industry by offering clean Android TV, 4K support and voice control at an affordable price. But time is not standing still, and the demands on hardware from apps like YouTube, Netflix and heavy games have grown significantly.
With the second generation, known as the Xiaomi TV Box S (2nd Gen), the manufacturer has bet on a more modern Amlogic processor and increased RAM, which not only speeds up the interface, but also adds support for the AV1 codec, which is critical for comfortable viewing YouTube in high resolution without undue load on the processor. Old models based on the Amlogic S905X are already beginning to show their age when decoding heavy video stream.
⚠️ Note: When buying, pay attention to the model markings. older versions of the Mi Box S (MDZ-16-AB) only 2 GB of memory and codec AV1, This may cause the brakes in new versions of YouTube apps 2026-2027 years.
In parallel with the classic boxes, a line of compact sticks has evolved, such as the Xiaomi TV Stick 4K. These devices are a trimmed-down, but not always functional, version of a full-fledged console. They are ideal for TVs mounted close to the wall, where installing a bulky box is physically impossible or unaesthetic.
Key technical specifications: what to look at in the specifications
When choosing a smart console, you first need to pay attention to the installed processor and the amount of RAM. These two parameters determine how quickly you open menus, switch applications and load heavy content in 4K. In 2026, 2 GB of RAM becomes the minimum comfortable standard, although for performance margin it is better to focus on models with 3-4 GB.
The second critical aspect is support for wireless communication standards: modern streaming services require stable high-speed connection. If your router supports 5 GHz, then the console must have a Wi-Fi 5 (ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (ax) module. Using outdated 2.4GHz Wi-Fi to view 4K-Video often leads to buffering and a drop in picture quality.
Also worth considering is a set of ports and supported image output standards. Having a USB 3.0 port allows you to connect external hard drives to view local high-bitrate content without delay. Support for HDR10+, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos turns a regular TV into a full-fledged home theater, if your audio system and screen are able to unlock these technologies.
- 📺 Codec AV1: Mandatory for saving traffic and smooth YouTube playback 4K/8K.
- 📶 Dual-band Wi-Fi: Free Freezing Guarantee for Online Browsing.
- 🎮 Bluetooth 5.0+: To connect gamepads, headphones and smart watches without delay.
- 🔌 HDMI 2.1: Support for high frame rate (120 Hz) for gaming and sports.
Comparative analysis of popular models: Characteristics table
To make decision-making easier, let's put the basic parameters of the devices we're talking about in a single table, so you can see the differences between generations and form factors without going into the technical thickets of each description.
| Model | Processor | Memory (RAM/ROM) | Wi-Fi / BT | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Box S (1st Gen) | Amlogic S905X | 2 GB/8 GB | 2.4/5 GHz / 4.2 | Basic model, no AV1 |
| TV Box S (2nd Gen) | Amlogic S905X4-K | 2 GB/8 GB | 2.4/5 GHz / 5.0 | Support for AV1, HDR10+ |
| TV Stick 4K | Amlogic S905Y2 | 2 GB/8 GB | 2.4/5 GHz / 5.0 | Stick form factor, HID mode |
| TV Stick 4K Pro | Amlogic S905X4 | 2GB/32GB | Wi-Fi 6 / BT 5.2 | Maximum speed, 32 GB of memory |
As you can see from the comparison, the new generation of S905X4-K and S905Y2 processors delivers significant performance gains, especially in video decoding speed and interface performance, with the TV Stick 4K Pro winning with its larger drive and Wi-Fi 6 module, making it a favorite for advanced users.
Why is the amount of internal memory (ROM) important?
Use cases: which model to choose for your tasks
The choice of device depends on how you plan to use it. For the average user who watches online cinemas and YouTube, the basic model of the second generation will suit, it is enough power to decode streaming video, and a compact remote with voice search makes navigation easier.
Gamers and enthusiasts who plan to install emulators or play cloud services should pay attention to models with maximum RAM. USB-A port that can be connected to a gamepad or keyboard, in which case the boxing form factor is preferred over the stick because of better cooling.
For digital signage or use in a hotel where the device is supposed to work 24/7, a cooling system is critical. Passive cooling in the sticks can lead to trotting (reduced processor frequency) over long loads, so in such scenarios, a radiator box case will be a more reliable solution than a compact stick.
- 🏠 For the living room: Xiaomi TV Box S (2nd Gen) – optimal balance of price and function.
- ✈️ For travel: TV Stick 4K — carry easily in your pocket.
- 🎬 Home Theatre: Models with Dolby Vision and Passthrough Audio.
- 🛠️ For developers: versions with unlocked bootloader and ADB.
⚠️ Note: Not all models support Dolby Atmos surround sound technology in native mode. If you have a compatible receiver or saunbar, be sure to check the specification of a particular firmware version before buying.
Features of the Google operating system and ecosystem
All modern Xiaomi consoles run Google TV (or Android TV in older versions), which means access to the Google Play Market, where thousands of apps, games and services are available. Google TV has a smart recommendation feed that analyzes your preferences and offers content from different subscriptions.
Integration with the Google ecosystem allows you to use the voice assistant to control not only the console, but also other smart devices in the house. You can ask about the weather, turn on the light in the hallway or display an image from the video intercom camera directly to the TV screen. These features require a stable Internet connection and a Google account.
☑️ Pre-purchase check
An important aspect is the timeliness of security updates and Android versions. Xiaomi usually provides updates to its popular models within 2-3 years of release.However, unlike smartphones, major updates to the Android version on consoles are less common, the focus is shifted to the stability of media functions.
Compatibility issues and possible limitations
Despite the brand's popularity, users may face a number of restrictions, with one of the most frequent issues being the lack of support for some Russian online cinemas in the official Play Market store due to regional restrictions. This problem requires the installation of applications through APK-files from a flash drive or using alternative app stores.
Another nuance is working with file systems: the built-in player may not support certain audio codecs (such as DTS in some versions) or subtitles formats, in such cases, saves the installation of a third-party player, such as VLC or MX Player, which have their own decoders and flexible settings.
adb shell pm list packagesAdvanced users can debug through ADB, which allows you to remove system debris, install applications from the store and customize the system for yourself. However, interference with system files can lead to a loss of warranty or unstable operation of the device, so all changes should be made with caution.
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If the remote stops responding or the buttons are pressed with a delay, try to remove the batteries, press the power button for 10 seconds, and then insert the batteries back in. This will restart the Bluetooth module of the remote.
Final Buying Recommendations in 2026
To sum up, Xiaomi’s media player market in 2026 offers great solutions for all needs. If you just need to revitalize an old TV for YouTube and IPTV, the Xiaomi TV Box S (2nd Gen) is the perfect choice. It’s a proven device with a good remote and sufficient power.
If you value minimalism, your TV has a HDMI-port behind which is not hidden, then the stick TV Stick 4K For those who want to get the most performance and plan to use the console as a lightweight gaming console or media server, it is worth considering models with increased memory and Wi-Fi 6.
Do not forget to check the configuration when receiving: in different regions, sets may differ by the presence of a remote with service buttons or a cable. HDMI A certain length. HDMI-cable 4K60Hz — This is not a small thing, but the key to a stable picture without artifacts.
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The main criterion for choosing in 2026 is the availability of a processor with support for the AV1 codec and a minimum of 2 GB of RAM. All other functions are secondary.