Choosing a media player to turn a regular TV into a smart multimedia station often comes down to the Xiaomi Mi Box S lineup. This device has become a kind of standard in the budget and mid-range segment, offering support for Android TV, high 4K resolution and affordable price. However, there is confusion in the market: users often do not understand how different versions of this console differ from each other.
The question of what are Xiaomi Mi Box S is not accidental, because the appearance of similar boxes can be radically different in the internal stuffing, codec support and even the presence of voice control. In this article, we will analyze in detail all existing versions, from the classic model MDZ-22-AB to the latest revisions, so you can make an informed choice.
Understanding the differences between the Global Version and the Chinese counterparts will help avoid problems with app compatibility and remote control. Let's dive into the technical details.
Xiaomi Mi Box S (1st Gen) Classic Model
The first and most popular version, which received the index MDZ-22-AB, was released in 2018 and is still in demand, and this model has formed the reputation of the lineup, offering users a pure Android TV 8.1 (with the ability to upgrade to 9.0) and support for HDR10.
The device is based on the Amlogic S905X processor, which was a great solution for its time, providing smooth decoding of video in 4K resolution at 60 frames per second. However, it is worth remembering that the amount of RAM of 2 GB and internal storage of 8 GB is now considered the minimum necessary threshold.
Included in the package HDMI-cable 2.0a, So, it was a lossless high dynamic range, and it was also a very important aspect of having an IR receiver that lets you control the volume and turn on the TV through the console.
- 📺 Support for authorization 4K Ultra HD and HDR10 picture-perfect.
- 🎙️ Voice remote with microphone and support for Chromecast built-in.
- 🔌 Port availability: HDMI 2.0a, USB 2.0, optical audio output and Mini-USB power.
- 🌐 Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 and 5 GHz) and Bluetooth 4.0 for peripheral connectivity.
⚠️ Note: In the classic version of the port USB 2.0 has limited power. When connecting external hard drives without own power, active disks may be required. USB-hub.
Despite its age, this version remains relevant for those who just want to watch YouTube and the Internet. IPTV No problem, but no codec support. AV1 low-speed USB-The port is forced to think about more modern alternatives.
Xiaomi Mi Box S 2nd Gen (2023)
Five years after the original, the company has introduced an updated version, which received the name 2nd The device has remained virtually unchanged, retaining the compact black case and shape of the puck, but inside there was a significant upgrade. S905X4-K, which supports video decoding in format AV1.
The operating system is already out of the box with Android TV 11, which ensures compatibility with the latest Google apps and services, and an important improvement is the support for HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, which makes the picture on compatible TVs much brighter and more contrasting.
RAM remained at 2GB, but the type of memory was changed to a faster DDR4. built-in storage is also 8GB, which is still a little bit, but the system is optimized better. Remote control received a redesigned design and new buttons for streaming services.
- 🚀 Processor Amlogic. S905X4-K codec-enabled AV1.
- 🎨 Support for Dolby Vision and HDR10+ for extended dynamic range.
- 📡 Improved Wi-Fi module with standard support AC Bluetooth 5.0.
- 🔋 More energy efficient operation and less heat dissipation of the body.
A key difference is the availability of dedicated buttons on the remote for Netflix and Prime Video (in some regions), which makes navigation easier. For owners of older TVs without a Smart TV, this device will be a real salvation, extending the life of the screen for several years.
Comparative table of version characteristics
To make a final decision, you need to make a direct comparison of the technical parameters, and the differences are not only in the processor, but also in the support of audio formats, which is critical for home theaters.
| Characteristics | Mi Box S (1st Gen) | Mi Box S (2nd Gen) | Mi TV Stick 4K |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Amlogic S905X | Amlogic S905X4-K | Amlogic S905Y2 |
| Operating system | Android TV 8.1/9.0 | Android TV 11 | Android TV 10/11 |
| Support for HDR | HDR10 | HDR10+, Dolby Vision | HDR10+, Dolby Vision |
| Bluetooth | 4.0 / 4.1 | 5.0 / 5.2 | 5.0 |
| USB port | USB 2.0 (full) | USB 2.0 (full) | No (Micro-USB power) |
The table shows that the second generation has seen a significant increase in multimedia capabilities, with support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos making 2nd Gen the preferred choice for moviegoers.
💡
If you have a soundbar or home theater, choose the 2nd Gen version for Dolby Atmos support and optical output (the 1st Gen version has it, but the codec is new).
At the same time, for simple tasks like YouTube 1080p or IPTV channels, the difference will be less noticeable, but the margin of performance in the second generation will provide a longer relevance of the device.
Global Version vs. Chinese (Global vs. CN)
One of the most important things to buy is the region of the device: Xiaomi makes consoles for both the global market (Global Version) and the domestic market of China. The boxes may be identical on the outside, but the software is different.
The global version has a pre-installed Android TV shell with full Google services, support for Netflix in 4K and Russian out of the box. Chinese versions often run on modified Android with a PatchWall launcher that is sharpened for Chinese content.
Trying to reflash the Chinese version on global firmware often results in a loss of warranty and possible “bricking” of the device, as the DRM keys (copy protection) may not match, which will lead to Netflix and other streaming services only working in low resolution.
⚠️ Warning: When buying on marketplaces, carefully check the labeling on the box.The label "Global Version" should be on the factory sticker, not pasted by the seller over the original packaging.
- 🌍 Global Version: Full support for Google Play, Netflix 4K, YouTube 4K, Russian interface.
- 🇨🇳 CN Version: Chinese interface, lack of Google services by default, problems with the Internet DRM.
- 🛠️ Chinese versions can sometimes be re-done, but it’s a complicated technical process.
- 💰 Price: Chinese versions are usually cheaper 20-30%, but need some improvement.
For the average user who wants to take the device out of the box and start using it right away, buying Global Version is the only sensible solution.The savings on the Chinese version can result in hours of dancing with a diamond around the installation. APK-file.
Alternatives in the form of Xiaomi TV Stick
When you talk about what Xiaomi TV devices are, you can't ignore the TV Stick format, which is a compact version of the Mi Box S that is inserted directly into the HDMI port, and comes in Full HD and 4K versions.
Xiaomi TV Stick 4K is essentially a smaller copy of the Mi Box S 2nd Gen. It uses the same processor Amlogic S905Y2, the same amount of memory and support for all modern HDR standards. The main difference is the lack of a full-fledged case and USB port.
Can I connect a flash drive to a TV Stick?
The stick form factor has its pros and cons. On the one hand, the device is completely hidden behind the TV and does not take up space, on the other hand, due to its compactness, it is possible to overheat when watching heavy content in 4K for long periods, which leads to trottling (reduced processor frequency).
If your TV has protruding ports or stands close to the wall, the Mi Box S in the puck case will be more reliable, as it has a passive cooling of a larger area and lies on the surface rather than hanging in the air.
Nuances of choice and compatibility
When choosing a specific modification, it is important to consider not only the characteristics, but also your use case. IPTV-Applications critically important stability of Wi-Fi module.
In versions. 1st Gen has been plagued with complaints of overheating of the Wi-Fi chip over long run, leading to buffering (2nd Gen) this problem was solved by improving the antenna module. HDMI.
☑️ Checklist before purchase
For gamers planning to use cloud gaming or lightweight Android games, 2 GB of RAM may not be enough, in which case it is worth considering more powerful devices, although in the line of “Box S” memory upgrade is not yet introduced.
⚠️ Warning: Make sure your TV is supported HDCP 2.2 if you are planning to watch a license 4K Without this support, the image may not be displayed or may be black.
Also important is the availability of an optical output (S/PDIF) for external acoustics. In the Mi Box S, it is implemented via a combined Mini-USB connector, which requires the use of a special adapter that comes with the kit. Losing this adapter creates problems, so check if you buy a used device.