Are you still watching movies from a flash drive or plugging your laptop into your TV to bring videos from the Internet to the big screen? TV Box is a compact device that in minutes turns even the oldest TV into a modern Smart TV But what is it, how does it work, and should you buy the Mi Box in 2026? In this guide, we'll take a look at the device from the inside, compare popular models, and tell you how to use it properly.
Concept TV-The first devices for streaming content appeared in the 2010s, but Xiaomi managed to stand out from the competition due to the combination of affordable price, performance and ecosystem. MIUI TV. Today, Mi Box and Mi TV Stick competes with consoles from Apple, Nvidia and Amazon, offering similar functionality for less money. But is this the right solution for you.
What is Xiaomi? TV Box and how it works
Xiaomi TV Box is a media console based on Android TV, which connects to the television through HDMI It's basically a minicomputer with its own processor, RAM, and operating system optimized for video, gaming, and application. TV, where the “smart” functionality is built into the TV itself, the console Xiaomi makes the “stupid” screen smart without having to buy a new TV.
The prefix works on a simple principle:
- 📺 Connects to the TV through HDMI-Ports (usually supported by permissions) 4K HDR).
- 🌐 Connects to the Internet via Wi-Fi or Ethernet cable (depending on the model).
- 🎮 Managed by remote control (often voice search) or smartphone via the Mi Remote app.
- 📱 Downloads apps from Google Play Store (unlike Fire) TV Stick where Amazon's store is used).
It is important to understand that Xiaomi TV Box is not just a YouTube player. It supports the device:
- 🎬 Streaming services: Netflix, Disney+, KinoPoisk HD, IVI, Okko and others.
- 🎮 Games from Google Play (including retro console emulators).
- 📂 Viewing media files from external drives (USB, SD-maps, network folders DLNA).
- 🔊 Support for voice assistants (Google Assistant or Alice in some models).
⚠️ Note: Not all Xiaomi models TV Box supports Netflix in resolution 4K. For example, the Mi Box S is limited to Full. HD Due to lack of Widevine certification L1 For certain regions, please specify this information for your country before purchasing.
Xiaomi's differences TV Box by Mi TV Stick and other consoles
Users often confuse Xiaomi TV Box with Mi TV Stick is another Xiaomi device that looks like a larger flash drive:
| Characteristics | Xiaomi TV Box (e.g. Mi Box) 4S Pro) | Mi TV Stick (e.g. Mi) TV Stick 4K) |
|---|---|---|
| Form factor | Box (size) ~10×10 centimeter) | Compact "stick" (connected directly to the HDMI) |
| Productivity | More powerful processor (e.g., Amlogic) S905X3) | Weaker (e.g., Amlogic) S905Y4) |
| Ports | HDMI 2.1, USB 2.0/3.0, Ethernet (in some models) | Only HDMI and Micro-USB powered |
| Cooling | Passive (radiator) or active (fan) | Only passive (may overheat) |
| Price. | From 5,000 to 12,000 rubles | From 3000 to 6000 rubles |
Also Xiaomi. TV Box is different from other brands:
- 🍎 Apple TV: More expensive, but better optimized for the Apple ecosystem (e.g. AirPlay).
- 🔥 Amazon Fire TV Stick: cheaper but works on fire OS (Limited access to Google Play).
- 🎮 Nvidia Shield: More powerful (supports games) 4K), but it costs 2-3 times more.
Popular Xiaomi models TV Box in 2026: A comparison
In the line Xiaomi has several current models of consoles. Consider the most popular:
Mi Box 4S Pro
Flagship model with support 4K HDR Google Assistant, with an Amlogic processor S905X3, 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of internal memory. supports Dolby Audio and DTS, It has an Ethernet port for a stable Internet connection.
Mi Box S (2nd generation)
Budget option with Amlogic processor S905L 1GB of RAM, supports Full HD, not 4K. Suitable for watching video in 1080p And the big plus is the price (~3 500 rubles).
Mi TV Box S 2
Updated version of the Mi Box S with improved remote (voice search) and support AV1 — Modern codec for video compression. Performance remained at the level of its predecessor, but added support for Chromecast.
Mi TV Stick 4K
Compact alternative to boxes with Amlogic processor S905Y4 support 4K. Easy to hide behind a TV, but can overheat when under heavy load.
Comparison of key parameters:
| Model | Processor | RAM/ROM | Max, permission. | Ethernet | Price (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mi Box 4S Pro | Amlogic S905X3 | 2/16 GB | 4K HDR | ✅ | ~7,000 rubles. |
| Mi Box S (2nd generation) | Amlogic S905L | 1/8 GB | Full HD | ❌ | ~3,500 rubles. |
| Mi TV Box S 2 | Amlogic S905L | 1/8 GB | Full HD | ❌ | ~4,000 rubles. |
| Mi TV Stick 4K | Amlogic S905Y4 | 2/8 GB | 4K | ❌ | ~5,000 rubles. |
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To watch movies in 4K HDR Choose the Mi Box 4S Pro or Mi TV Stick 4K. For basic tasks (YouTube, IP-TV) Enough for the Mi Box S.
How to Connect and Set Up Xiaomi TV Box: step-by-step instructions
Connecting the console takes no more than 5 minutes.
- Connect the set-top box to the TV: insert HDMI-cable to the appropriate port on the TV, if you have an old model without HDMI, an adapter (for example) will be required, HDMI → AV).
- Connect the power: Use the original power supply (some models require a connection to the socket, not to the power supply). USB-television-port!).
- Turn on the TV: select the connected signal source menu HDMI-port.
- Connect to the internet: via Wi-Fi (recommended 5GHz for stability) or Ethernet (if there is a port).
- Complete the setting: follow the instructions on the screen (selecting language, Google account, software update).
After the first incorporation, it is recommended that:
Update the firmware through Settings → About the device → Updating the system
Install the necessary applications (Netflix, YouTube, Kodi)
Set up voice search (if supported)
Connect an external drive to expand the memory (if necessary)-->
If the console does not turn on or see the Internet, check:
- 🔌 Correct connection HDMI and power (try another cable).
- 📶 Wi-Fi signal (the console may not support the old standards) 802.11b).
- 🔄 Having firmware updates (sometimes solves connection problems).
⚠️ Note: If you are using the Mi TV Stick, avoid connecting to the HDMI-port ARC (Audio Return Channel. This can cause sound conflicts. It's better to use standard ports.
What apps can be installed on Xiaomi TV Box
One of the main advantages of Android TV Xiaomi TV Box is access to the Google Play Store. But not all apps are optimized for remote control -- some require a mouse or a touch screen. Here's what's exactly going to work:
Streaming services
- 🎬 Netflix (requires Widevine certification) L1 for 4K).
- 🎥 Disney+, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video.
- 🇷🇺 KinoPoisk HD, IVI, Okko, START.
- 📺 YouTube, Twitch, Vimeo.
IP-TV torrent
- 📡 Peers.tv, Lazy IPTV (TV-watch).
- 🏴 Kodi (media center with support for plugins for torrent streaming).
- 🔍 Stremio (content aggregator with the addition of torrent trackers).
Games and emulators
- 🎮 Asphalt 9, Minecraft, Brawl Stars (with support for gamepad).
- 🕹️ Emulators: RetroArch (for NES, SNES, PS1), PPSSPP (PSP).
Utilities and chips
- 🔊 Plex or Jellyfin (for home media servers).
- 🌐 TV Bro (browser optimized for remote control).
- 🔄 Send Files to TV (transfer of files from a smartphone over a local network).
Important: Some apps (such as Netflix or Disney)+) They can block access to "uncertified" devices, and then you can change the region or use it. VPN.
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To establish APK-Manual files, turn on developer mode: go to Settings → About the device and 7 times click on "Build Number." Then in Settings. → Developer Preferences Allow Installation from Unknown Sources.
Problems and Solutions: What to Do When Xiaomi TV The box is slowing down or not working.
Even the most reliable devices sometimes fail, and let's look at the typical problems and the ways to solve them.
The console is slowing down or getting stuck.
- 🧹 Clear the cache: go to Settings → Apps, select the problem application and click "Clear cache".
- 🗑️ Remove unnecessary programs: free disk space should be at least 1 GB.
- 🔄 Reverse to factory settings: Settings → The device → Resetting settings (data will be deleted!).
No sound or image.
- 🔊 Check the sound settings: sometimes the console switches to HDMI ARC or SPDIF. Choose. HDMI In Settings → Sound.
- 📺 Try another one. HDMI-cable.
- 🔄 Reboot the console (remove the power cable for 30 seconds).
Not connected to Wi-Fi.
- 📶 Make sure the router is running in mode. 802.11n/ac (Older standards may not be supported).
- 🔑 Check the correct password input (use the remote or Mi Remote app).
- 🔄 Update the router and console firmware.
Applications are not installed or not working
- 🌍 Check the region in settings: some services (e.g. Netflix) require the right region.
- 🛡️ Turn it off. VPN, If it is enabled (can block access to Google Play).
- 📥 Install. APK manually (see the advice above).
What to do if the console does not turn on?
Should I Buy Xiaomi? TV Box in 2026: pros and cons
Xiaomi's consoles remain popular, but does it make sense to buy them today?
Pluses
- 💰 Price: cheaper than buying a new smart TV or Apple/Nvidia.
- 📦 Functionality: access to all popular streaming services and games.
- 🔄 Updates: Xiaomi regularly releases firmware (unlike many "noname" consoles).
- 🎮 Support for gamepads: you can connect the joystick via Bluetooth.
Cons
- 🐢 Performance: Budget models (Mi Box S) can slow down when multitasking.
- 🔌 Dependence on HDMI: if you don't have a TV HDMI, You will need an adapter (quality may deteriorate).
- 📵 Certification Limits: Not All Models Support Netflix 4K.
- 🛠️ Difficulties with repair: in case of a breakdown, it is easier to buy a new console than to repair the old one.
Xiaomi Alternatives TV Box:
- 📦 Nvidia Shield TV Pro: for gamers and amateurs 4K (expensive).
- 🔥 Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K: If you want to be compatible with Amazon Prime.
- 🍎 Apple TV 4K: for users of the Apple ecosystem.
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Xiaomi TV Box is the best choice for those who want to upgrade an old TV inexpensively. 4K, Advanced multitasking: Nvidia Shield or Apple TV.