When choosing a budget TV from Chinese giant Xiaomi, buyers often face a dilemma: two very similar models that differ only by one letter in the title. At first glance, the Xiaomi Mi TV 4A and Xiaomi Mi TV 4S seem identical: similar frame design, similar screen diagonals and the same operating system. However, this external similarity hides significant differences in hardware and display technologies that directly affect the quality of the picture and durability of the device.
Understanding the difference between the Xiaomi 4a and 4s TVs is critical, as overpaying for the older model may be justified, or the lower-end version will be a smarter choice for your use case. In this article, we will explore technical nuances that are not always obvious in store specifications, but are noticeable in daily use.
Conceptual differences between series A and S
The 4A series is marketed by the manufacturer as a basic solution for the mass consumer, a workhorse designed to provide access to digital content at a minimal cost, using a standard matrix and time-tested components to keep costs low, and focusing on the functionality of the Smart TV rather than advanced image technologies.
The 4S series, in turn, represents a step up the quality ladder. The "S" in the title is often associated with the word "Special" or "Super", which implies improved specs. In these models, the company introduces more modern processors, better color reproduction and, most importantly, support for enhanced dynamic range HDR. It is no longer just a screen for watching news, but a multimedia center for movies.
⚠️ Note: Despite the external similarity of the remotes and interface, the firmware for the model 4A not fit 4S. Attempting to install inappropriate software can lead to a software failure.
The choice between these series is always a compromise between price and quality. If you need a second TV in the kitchen or in the nursery, where perfect color reproduction is not required, the A series will be a great option. For a living room where you want to watch movies in high resolution, the S series will be more preferable.
Matrix technologies and image quality
The biggest difference is the type of panels used: Most 4A series models use standard IPS or VA arrays with base brightness. They can display a picture in Full HD or 4K resolution, but the dynamic range is limited here. Black can appear grayish, and bright areas are not sufficiently detailed.
The 4S series is more likely to feature panels that support HDR10 technology, which means that the TV is able to display a wider range of colors and contrasts, dark scenes in movies become deeper, and light scenes become brighter, retaining details, the difference is especially noticeable when viewing content from streaming services such as Netflix or YouTube in 4K.
What is HDR and why is it needed?
Also worth noting are the viewing angles. Depending on the particular diagonal, the S series is more common. VA-Matrices with better contrast, while in series A can be found IPS It's a lottery game that depends on the party and the panel factory.
Processor performance and speed
The speed of the interface depends on the installed chipset. In the budget 4A series, you can often find processors with four Cortex-A53 cores running at frequencies up to 1.5 GHz. This is enough for video playback and basic applications, but heavy games or multitasking can cause slowdowns.
The flagship 4S series is typically based on more powerful platforms such as Amlogic or MediaTek with an improved Mali graphics subsystem, which provides smoother menu animations, faster opens heavy apps like YouTube or online cinemas, and the difference in the response speed of the remote can also be noticeable.
- 🚀 Series 4A: Optimized for minimum power consumption and basic tasks.
- 🎮 Series 4S: has a power reserve for games and 4K-high-bitrate content.
- ⚡ RAM: In older models, S is often found 2 GB RAM against 1-1.5 GB in junior A.
If you plan to use the TV not only for watching TV, but also as a platform for simple games or installing third-party TVs. APK-The performance of the processor in the S series will be a significant advantage.
Design, Materials and Ergonomics
Visually, you can tell the difference by the thickness of the frames and the materials of the case. The 4A series is traditionally made of plastic, often with a texture that mimics metal, but the difference is obvious to the touch. The frames here can be slightly wider, which visually reduces the usable area of the screen.
4S models often feature thinner bezel-free frames and use metal elements in the construction of the stand or edging.This gives the device a more premium look, allowing it to fit organically into modern interiors.
💡
When buying, pay attention to the location of the legs. Some 4S models have wider spaces, which may require a wider bench than for the compact legs of the 4A series.
In addition, the S series is more likely to support VESA mounting for wall mounting with less fly-off from the wall, which is important for creating a picture effect. Plastic in the A series may be more prone to scratches when transported carelessly.
Comparative Characteristics Table
For ease of perception, we'll bring the basic technical parameters into a single table, which will help you quickly navigate dry numbers.
| Characteristics | Xiaomi Mi TV 4A | Xiaomi Mi TV 4S |
|---|---|---|
| Support for HDR | No (usually) | Yes (HDR10) |
| Processor | Cortex-A53 (basic) | Cortex-A53/A73 (reinforced) |
| Case material | Plastic. | Metal/Plastic |
| Bluetooth | Often absent or 4.0 | 4.2 and higher (for gamepads) |
| Price category | Budgetary | Medium |
As you can see from the table, the key difference is HDR support and an improved S-series processor, which directly affects the quality of the visual experience.
💡
The overpayment for the 4S series is justified primarily by the presence of HDR and more powerful hardware, which prolongs the relevance of the TV for several years.
Audio system and multimedia capabilities
Sound in budget TVs is often a compromise solution: the 4A series has standard speakers with a capacity of 2x6 watts or 2x8 watts. They provide legible speech, but low frequencies are almost absent, and at high volume can appear wheezing.
In the 4S series, engineers often implement DTS-HD technology and increase the power of the speakers. The sound becomes more voluminous and clean. In addition, having a more modern version of Bluetooth allows you to connect quality wireless headphones or sound panels without delay.
⚠️ Attention: To connect external acoustics via optical output (S/PDIF) Make sure that the format is selected in the sound settings PCM, format RAW It may not be supported by some receiver models.
Unless you’re planning on buying a separate soundbar, the 4S audio experience will be noticeably more enjoyable for watching action movies and concerts.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install apps from Google Play on Xiaomi 4A?
Do these TVs have voice search support?
What is the difference in Wi-Fi frequency support?
Should I pay more for 4S if I don’t have 4K content?
Summary of the selection
To sum up the comparison, the Xiaomi Mi TV 4A is a pragmatic choice that needs a simple, reliable screen to watch TV channels or news in the kitchen, and it will do its job, but it won’t surprise you with the quality.
Xiaomi Mi TV 4S is already a full-fledged multimedia center for the living room. HDR support, better design and performance margin make it a more versatile solution that you won’t want to change in a couple of years. The price difference becomes less noticeable over time, while the difference in quality of the picture remains with you for the entire duration of ownership.