Xiaomi TV: What are these TVs and how they differ from other brands

Xiaomi TVs have become serious competitors to traditional brands like Samsung or LG in recent years. But what is Xiaomi TV really? These are not just screens with the logo of the Chinese manufacturer, they are full-fledged smart devices based on Android TV with the proprietary shell of MIUI TV, integrated services and the Mi Home ecosystem. Unlike classic TVs, here the emphasis is on the software part: voice control, streaming platforms, gaming capabilities and even a bundle with other gadgets of the brand.

If you're used to TVs that just show channels, Xiaomi TVs can seem like a revolution, with automatic content-adjusting devices that support Dolby Vision and Atmos, and some models with built-in deep bass subwoofers, often lower than competitors with similar specs, but there are nuances: not all models are officially sold in Russia, for example, and firmware may contain regional restrictions.

In this article, we will discuss:

• 🔹 What is Xiaomi? TV And how they're built inside.
• 🔹 Differences from Samsung/LG — Why Xiaomi is cheaper than Xiaomi
• 🔹 Functions MIUI TV, Things you won’t find on regular TVs.
• 🔹 How to choose a model for movies, games or everyday viewing

1. is Xiaomi TV just a TV or something more?

At first glance, Xiaomi TV is no different from other Smart TVs: the same flat screen, remote, HDMI connectors. But the key difference lies in the software stuffing. Android TV is based (rather than a proprietary OS like Samsung Tizen or LG webOS), on top of which is installed the proprietary shell MIUI TV.

• 📱 Access to Google Play – you can install any Android apps TV (including Netflix, YouTube, Twitch and even game emulators).
• 🎮 Gamepad support: The TV recognizes Xbox, PlayStation and Mi Game Controller.
• 🔄 Firmware Updates – Xiaomi regularly releases security patches and new features (unlike many budget brands).
• 🏠 Integration with Mi Home – TV can control smart lamps, robot vacuum cleaner and other Xiaomi devices.

But there are pitfalls, such as the lack of a DVB-T2 tuner (digital TV) in some models, which is critical for regions without cable TV, and the lack of support for Russian streaming services (Kinopoisk, Okko) in firmware for the global market.

2.How Xiaomi TV differs from Samsung, LG and other brands

Xiaomi’s main advantage is price/quality ratio, such as the Xiaomi Mi TV. TV Q2 55"s" 4K-120Hz and Dolby Vision are cheaper than similar models Samsung QLED or LG OLED. But cheapness is achieved not only by optimizing production, but also by simplifying some components.

The main advantages of Xiaomi:

• ✅ Open ecosystem – you can install any application through APK or Google Play.
• ✅ Frequent updates – Xiaomi supports devices longer than many Chinese brands.
• ✅ Mi Home integration – TV can be the smart home control center.

The main disadvantages:

• ❌ The quality of the assembly - plastic cases, thin stands (some models).
• ❌ Regional restrictions – global firmware may not have Russian or local services.
• ❌ No Apple. TV+ Disney+ In the official stores (you have to install manually).

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Xiaomi TV wins in price and functionality, but loses to premium brands as builders and support proprietary technologies (such as Samsung DeX or LG ThinQ).

MIUI TV: what kind of shell it is and what chips it gives

MIUI TV is a Xiaomi-branded shell built on Android TV, which adds some unique features that are not found in the standard Android TV:

• 🎵 Mi Music - built-in player with support FLAC and DTS, Who can stream music from the phone.
• 🎮 Game Turbo – a mode for games that reduces input delays (useful for Fortnite or Call of Duty Mobile).
• 📺 PatchWall – Alternative Launcher with Content Recommendations (not available in all regions).
• 🔍 Smart search – looking for movies and TV series on all installed streaming services.

But MIUI TV is not without its drawbacks, for example, some firmware versions don't have the ability to turn off ads on the home screen, and the interface can slow down on budget models with a weak processor.

4.What Xiaomi TV models exist and how to choose the right one

Xiaomi TV lineup is divided into several series, each of which is focused on different tasks:

• 📺 Mi TV A – budget models with Full HD or 4K, Weak processor and basic sound system, suitable for kitchen or cottage.
• 🎬 Mi TV Q - middle segment with QLED-Matrices, Dolby Vision and 60-120 Hz frequency: The best choice for movies and TV series.
• 🎮 Mi TV P - gaming TVs with 120 Hz, ALLM (Automatic switching to game mode) and low input lag.
• 💎 Mi TV Master - flagship models with OLED-screens, premium sound and metal body.

When choosing, pay attention to:

⚠️ Note: Models for the Chinese market (with suffix) CN) You may not support Russian and have restrictions on the installation of Google services.

DVB-T2 tuner (if you need ether)

Dolby Vision/Atmos (for the movie)

Update frequency 120 Hz (for games)

Compatible with Mi Home (for smart home)-->

5. How to set up Xiaomi TV after purchase: step-by-step instructions

When you turn on the TV for the first time, you'll want to get a quick setup, but to unlock the full potential of the device, do this:

1. Update your firmware: Go to Settings → About TV → System Update. If the update is not available, download it manually from mi.com and install it via USB.
2. Set up the sound: In Settings → Sound, select Movie Mode (for Movie) or Game (for Reduced Latency). Enable Dolby Atmos if your model supports.
3. Connect accounts: Add a Google account to access the Play Market and a Xiaomi account to sync with other devices.
4. Install apps: Recommended: Netflix, YouTube, Kodi (for local files), Steam Link (for streaming games from PC).

In models 2023 and later, there is a hidden function “AI Upscaling” – it automatically improves the picture with a resolution below 4K. To turn it on, go to Settings → Picture → Additional settings → AI-scale.

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If the TV is slowing down, try turning off the animation interface. To do this, go to Settings → About TV → Software Version and 5 times click on the MIUI TV Version. The developer menu will open where you can turn off the animation.

6. Frequent problems with Xiaomi TV and how to fix them

Despite being reliable, Xiaomi TVs have some common bugs, and here are the most common ways to fix them:

If the TV is stuck on the logo, try:

• 🔌 Turn off power for 1 minute, then turn on.
• 🔄 Press the Source button on the remote when turned on for reset.
• 💻 Fly through. USB (forum-book 4PDA).

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Most of the problems with Xiaomi TV are solved by updating the firmware or resetting to factory settings. If the TV does not turn on after the update, most likely, the firmware flew off, you will need to reflash through USB.

7.Should you buy Xiaomi TV in 2026?

Yes, if you need smart appliances at a reasonable price, Xiaomi TV is suitable for:

• 🎬 Movies fans – thanks to support Dolby Vision and Atmos.
• 🎮 Gamers - models with 120 Hz and ALLM Samsung is not inferior in game scenarios.
• 🏠 Smart home owners – integration with Mi Home allows you to control equipment from the remote.

Not if you need:

• ❌ Premium Assembly – Plastic cases and thin stands look cheap.
• ❌ 100% stability – firmware sometimes contains bugs (especially in the first batches).
• ❌ Maximum brightness — QLED-Xiaomi models lose to Samsung in peak brightness.

Alternatives:

• 💰 Budget up to 30,000 ₽ → TCL Hisense (better build, but weaker software).
• 💰 Budget 50,000-800,000 ₽ → Samsung Q60C or LG B2 (better picture and sound).

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions