Choosing a device to turn a regular TV into a Smart Center in 2026 is more difficult than ever. The market is saturated with models that look the same but have radically different capabilities. Many users mistakenly believe that any console with the Mi or Xiaomi logo will provide the same experience, but differences in the version of Android TV, support for codecs and console configuration can spoil the experience.
This year, the situation has been complicated by the release of new broadcast standards and streaming service certification requirements. If you are planning to buy a Xiaomi TV Box or TV Stick right now, you need to clearly understand what features you need to enjoy 4K content and what options are just a marketing ploy. We will take a look at current models available in 2026, and explain why older versions like the Mi Box S 2nd generation should no longer be considered as a mainstream option.
Modern devices are focused on HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and the Chromecast built in. However, not all consoles are equally good at decoding heavy video over a local network. It is important to consider not only hardware, but also software support, which Xiaomi has become more stable in recent years, but still requires attention when choosing a particular modification.
The current model range of Xiaomi in 2026
Xiaomi’s media lineup has now split into several distinct categories, with the flagship being the Xiaomi Mi Box S (3rd Gen), which replaced the popular second version, which features an updated voice-controlled remote and improved processor, which is critical for Google TV’s smooth interface.
For those who prefer hidden editing, the Xiaomi TV Stick 4K is the most popular. This flash drive form factor model has become the standard for portable use or installation behind a TV on the wall. In 2026, this category of devices is in the highest demand due to its compactness and lack of unnecessary wires.
Global Version is Google and Netflix certified, while Chinese versions (CN Version) may require complex customization and lack Google services pre-installed. Buying a Chinese version without firmware experience can be a fatal mistake for the average user.
⚠️ Note: When buying on international marketplaces, carefully check the box labeling.The inscription "Chinese Version" means the absence of Russian in the menu out of the box and the inability to legally watch Netflix in high quality.
Technical Specifications: What to Look at First
When choosing a console in 2026, the minimum acceptable standard is the presence of 2 GB of RAM. 1 GB of RAM models that were found in the early versions of the Mi Stick are no longer able to ensure smooth operation of heavy applications and modern interface. RAM is a bottleneck of any Android TV system, and savings are unacceptable here.
The second critical parameter is support for the AV1 codec. While content in this format has not yet become ubiquitous, YouTube and Netflix are actively implementing it to save traffic and improve quality. The new Amlogic and MediaTek processors used in Xiaomi 2026 consoles already support AV1 hardware decoding, which extends the life of the device.
Also (cannot be ignored) the presence of ports. TV Stick is limited to one single USB-The port (often via an adapter), the full-fledged Mi Box usually has a port. USB 2.0/3.0, HDMI 2.1 And optical output for sound, and for external hard drives or gaming peripherals, you have a full-fledged audio output. USB-A port with sufficient power supply is a decisive factor.
- 🎮 Processor: Look for models based on Amlogic S905X4 or newer for support 4K@60fps.
- 📶 Wi-Fi module: Dual-band Wi-Fi 5 (ac) or Wi-Fi 6 is required for stable streaming without buffering.
- 🎙️ Remote: Availability of an IR port for TV control and voice input via Google Assistant.
Model comparison: characteristics table
To help you decide which Xiaomi console to choose, we have prepared a comparison table of current models, and here are the key differences that affect the user experience.
| Model | Memory (RAM/ROM) | Support for 4K/HDR | Remote complete | Ports |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Box S (3rd Gen) | 2 GB/8 GB | 4K @ 60fps, HDR10+ | Bluetooth, voice. | HDMI 2.1, USB 2.0, Mini-Jack |
| TV Stick 4K | 2 GB/8 GB | 4K @ 60fps, Dolby Vision | Bluetooth, voice. | HDMI 2.1, USB (via adapter) |
| Mi Box S (2nd Gen) | 2 GB/8 GB | 4K @ 60fps, HDR10 | Bluetooth, without voice (often) | HDMI 2.0, USB 2.0 |
| TV Stick (1st Gen) | 1 GB/8 GB | 1080p only | Bluetooth, simple. | HDMI, Micro-USB powered |
As you can see from the table, the difference between the first-generation TV Stick and current models is huge. The lack of 4K support in budget old models makes buying them in 2026 meaningless, even given the low price. TVs with a diagonal of 40 inches require a minimum of 4K resolution for a quality picture.
Why is HDMI 2.1 important?
Software and ecosystem
All modern Xiaomi consoles run Android TV or the new Google TV interface. This means access to the Google Play Store, where thousands of apps are available, from cinemas (ivi, Okko, Netflix) to file managers and games. However, it is worth remembering that the Google TV interface actively promotes content that may not be available in your region without additional settings.
Support for audio codecs is an important aspect. Home theaters are critical to the ability to output multi-channel audio through optics or HDMI ARC/eARC. The Mi Box S in the third generation retained optical output, making it a favorite for owners of old but high-quality acoustic systems.
☑️ Selection criteria for SO
Not to forget security updates. Xiaomi continues to release patches for its devices in 2026, but the support cycle is typically 2-3 years.Buying a new model ensures you get security updates and compatibility with newer versions of apps until at least 2028-2029.
⚠️ Warning: Do not disconnect the console from the network during automatic system updates. Interrupting system file writing can lead to "bricking" of the device, which will have to be restored through the system. UART-programmer.
Use cases: what is best for you
If you want to watch TV on the air via IPTV and streaming services in the country or when traveling, the Xiaomi TV Stick is the perfect solution. You can take it to your hotel with any HDMI TV and get a familiar environment, and compactness is the main thing here.
For a stationary home theater, where it is planned to connect flash drives with films in high bitrate, hard disks or USB-Keyboard, it is better to choose a full-fledged box Mi Box S. Availability of a full-fledged box USB-The port allows you to connect the periphery without unnecessary adapters, and the best passive cooling system (a larger radiator) ensures stability during long-term operation.
💡
Use quality. HDMI-High Speed or Ultra High Speed cables: Cheap cables often cause "snow" on the screen or periodic signal loss when viewing. 4K HDR content.
Gamers should pay attention to the possibility of installing emulators and streaming services like GeForce Now. Here, the performance of the processor and the availability of Bluetooth 5.0 to connect gamepads without delay come to the fore. In this segment, the Mi Box S 3rd Gen shows itself more confident thanks to better heat sink.
Frequent problems and their solution
Even the best devices are not without their disadvantages. Users often experience overheating, especially when the console is mounted behind the TV in a confined space. Temperature throttle causes the interface brakes. The solution is simple: use it. USB-extensioner TV Stick to take the device away from the TV hot panel.
Another common problem is the unstable operation of Wi-Fi. If the router is far away, the built-in antenna module may not be enough, in such cases, it is recommended to use a USB-LAN adapter (for the Mi Box) or set up a separate 5 GHz guest network exclusively for the media player.
- 🔌 Nutrition problem: Don't feed TV Stick from USB-Use the original power supply from the socket to avoid errors "Power Low».
- 📡 If the remote stops conjugating, press the buttons “Back” and “Home” at the same time for 5 seconds to reset the pairing mode.
- 📺 Scaling: If the image is not on the full screen, go to Settings → The device → Screen settings → Screen format and select "Original" or «4K».
💡
The most common reason Xiaomi consoles are unstable is poor power. Always use the original adapter and cable from the kit, without replacing them with phone counterparts.
Final recommendation: what to take in 2026
To sum up, the era of compromise in the budget segment is over: in 2026, there is no point in buying devices with 1 GB of memory or without 4K support. The optimal choice for 90% of users will be the Xiaomi TV Stick 4K due to the balance of price, performance and compactness.
If you want a multimedia station for the living room with external acoustics and drives, the Mi Box S (3rd Gen) remains the leader in its price segment, providing the necessary power and ports for comfortable use by the whole family.
Don’t forget to check the device version before paying. The global version with the Netflix and Google logo is a guarantee that you’ll get exactly the experience you paid for, without the need for tambourine dancing and flashing.