Choosing a modern media center for a TV has become a challenge due to the abundance of technical specifications and confusing model range. The market is saturated with devices that only at first glance seem the same, but the hardware platform and the operating system version can dramatically change the user experience. In 2026, the de facto standard became 8K resolution and support for advanced gaming protocols, so it is important not to get confused with marketing tricks.
Xiaomi offers several product lines, each targeting a specific user segment, from travelers to premium home theater owners. A mismatched console may not unlock your new home theater’s potential. OLED-TV or, conversely, become an excessive waste of money for simply watching on-air television.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the current models available in 2026, analyze their performance and help determine which device will be the perfect complement for your entertainment system. TV, Support for codecs and features of connection to the local network.
The evolution of platforms: why old models are no longer relevant
For a long time, Android TV 9 and 10 were the industry standard, but that changed in 2026: Modern streaming and gaming apps require more computing power and updated security libraries. Older models, such as the first Mi Box S, have stopped receiving security updates and do not support new video compression codecs, such as AV1 with high bitrate.
Not only is the Android version a key factor in choosing, but the latest Widevine L1 and Google Cast certificates are also available. Without these components, you won’t be able to play 4K HDR content on popular platforms or stream images from your smartphone without delay. New chipsets from Amlogic and MediaTek, used in current boxes, provide real-time video decoding without jerks.
⚠️ Warning: When buying a used device or on marketplaces, be sure to check for the "Works with Google Assistant" logo on the box. ROM Chinese software often lacks certificates DRM, What Limits the Quality of Pictures on Netflix and Disney+ before 720p.
Also worth considering is support for HDMI 2.1, which has become critical for owners of high-refrequency TVs. If your TV supports 120Hz, using a console with an HDMI 2.0 port will cut this feature short, and you will not be able to appreciate the smoothness of movement in dynamic scenes of movies or games.
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Look at the year of the chipset, not just the year of the device itself.The model released in 2026, but on a chip in 2022, will run slower than the competition.
Xiaomi TV Box S (2nd Gen) and its dominance
The second generation of the popular Xiaomi TV Box S has secured the status of the gold standard for the mass consumer, the device received an updated processor Amlogic S905X4-K, which provides stable interface and support for the AV1 codec. This saves traffic when watching YouTube in high resolution, as this codec provides better picture quality at a smaller file size.
One of the main features of the model is the presence of a full port. USB 3.0, which allows you to connect external hard drives to view heavy video files weighing more than 50 GB without buffering.Previous versions often suffered from a lack of bandwidth USB 2.0, which led to twitching of the image when playing 4K-content from external media.
2GB of RAM combined with 8GB of internal storage is the minimum required for a comfortable work in 2026. Google TV, which replaced the classic Android TV, more demanding resources, but offers personalized recommendations and convenient integration with the smart home.
- 🚀 Support for all modern HDR Formats: Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG.
- 📡 Built-in Wi-Fi 5 (AC) Bluetooth 5.0 for connecting gamepads.
- 🎮 Availability of low-latency mode (Low Latency Mode).
- 🗣 Voice remote control with separate buttons to call streaming services.
Despite its compact size, the device requires high-quality cooling, and unlike sticks, there is room for a full radiator, which avoids trotting (reducing the frequency of the processor) during long loads, making it ideal for those who plan to use the console as a mainstay for daily viewing.
Portability vs Power: Should You Take a TV Stick 4K?
The stick form factor, which is inserted directly into the HDMI TV connector, is popular for its stealth. The second-generation Xiaomi TV Stick 4K offers almost the same performance as the box version, but in an even more compact case. This solution is ideal for TVs mounted close to the wall, where there is no space for the box to be placed behind.
However, there are limitations to this design: Due to its dense layout and lack of active or large passive cooling, the device can heat up more with prolonged use. If you plan to watch 5-6 hours of film marathons, thermoregulation can become a bottleneck, although in normal use scenarios this is rarely a problem.
An important advantage of the stick is the support of the technology eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) through a special adapter or directly, if TV allows, which makes it easier to connect sound systems. USB-port (only micro-USB is used for power) means you won’t be able to plug in a flash drive or hard drive without buying an extra one. OTG-A hub that needs to be placed somewhere.
For travelers or use in rented apartments, the stick is an option without alternative.It is easy to take with you, it does not require a separate power supply (often enough power from the mains). USB-The port of the TV itself) and turns any screen from the HDMI Smart TV in seconds.
Premium segment: Xiaomi TV Box 3 Pro and new horizons
For enthusiasts and owners of top TVs from 2026-2026, the Xiaomi TV Box 3 Pro is released. This device is designed for those who do not just “watch a movie”, but need a full-fledged multimedia station. It uses a flagship chipset that supports video decoding in 8K resolution at 60 frames per second.
The main trump card of this model is the presence of a Gigabit Ethernet port and support for Wi-Fi 6E. This ensures stable transfer of large amounts of data over the local network, which is critical for viewing “heavy” remixes from a home server (NAS) without compression of quality. The built-in USB 3.1 port also supports charging of connected devices, which allows you to power an external SSD drive without additional socket.
Unlike the younger models, it has increased RAM to 4 GB, which allows you to keep open a lot of background applications and switch between them instantly. The operating system operates in High Performance mode, prioritizing the interface response speed over energy saving.
| Characteristics | TV Box S (2nd Gen) | TV Stick 4K | TV Box 3 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Amlogic S905X4 | Amlogic S905Y4 | Amlogic S928X |
| Memory (RAM/ROM) | 2 GB/8 GB | 2 GB/8 GB | 4GB/32GB |
| Port port Ethernet | No (needs adapter) | No. | Yes (1 Gbps) |
| USB port port | 1x USB 3.0 | No (hub required) | 1x USB 3.1 + 1x USB 2.0 |
| Max, permission. | 4K @ 60fps | 4K @ 60fps | 8K @ 60fps |
The cost of such a console is much higher, and it makes sense to buy it only in conjunction with a TV that can unleash its potential. If your TV is limited to Full HD resolution or basic 4K without advanced features, overpaying for the Box 3 Pro will not be advisable.
Criteria of choice: what to look at in the characteristics
When you analyze the specifications in the store, first pay attention to the type of wireless module. In 2026, having only Wi-Fi 4 (N) is a sign of an outdated device that will strugg with streaming video in 4K. The minimum required standard is Wi-Fi 5 (AC), and for future-proof purchases, it is better to look for Wi-Fi 6.
The second important option is the Bluetooth version. To connect modern wireless headphones with aptX HD or LDAC codecs, as well as to use advanced gamepads, Bluetooth 5.0 and higher is necessary. Older versions can dissynchronize sound and video, which completely kills the viewing experience.
⚠️ Please do not blindly believe the inscriptions "8K Support" on boxes of low-end Chinese consoles without a brand, often meaning only the chip's ability to display a static picture. 8K, But not decode the video in that resolution. 8K They only have devices on Amlogic series chips. S905X4 and newer or MediaTek Pentonic.
It is also worth checking the availability of Dolby certificates and DTS. If you use a home theater or soundbar, not having a Passthrough license will cause the console to convert audio to stereo, losing surround sound. RAW-audio.
☑️ Pre-purchase check
Setup and optimization of the device
After the purchase and initial setup, it is recommended to perform a series of manipulations for stable operation. First of all, go to Settings → System → About TV → Build and press 7 times to turn on the developer mode. This will turn off unnecessary animations and speed up the interface.
To extend the life of the device, it is important to ensure that the device is properly ventilated. Do not put the console on a working appliance (for example, on a router or amplifier), which emits heat. If you use a stick, try to avoid it being clamped behind a TV, where air circulation is minimal.
For users planning to install third-party applications (APK files), it is important to understand the risks: Installing software from unknown sources can lead to infection of the system by miners who use 100% of the processor power, causing overheating and lag. Use only verified repositories.
How to clean the cache of system applications?
Regular firmware updates are key to security and new features. Xiaomi periodically releases patches that improve Chromecast performance and fix compatibility bugs with new versions of applications. Set up automatic updates at night so you don’t interrupt your browsing.