Smart TV set-top box to the TV: what it is, which is better, how to choose

Smart set-top box is a small device that can be connected to the TV with an HDMI-connector. Such a set-top box works on the Android operating system. In terms of functions, it resembles a mini computer, because it has a processor, RAM, Bluetooth, built-in Wi-Fi. Smart set-top box does not have a screen, it is replaced by a TV. It allows you to go from the TV screen to the Internet.

Types of smart set-top boxes

Manufacturers offer such set-top boxes in two forms: in the form of a compact peripheral device the size of an ordinary flash drive, as well as in the form of a box. Smart set-top box in the form of a dongle is connected to the TV with a cord-adapter or with a USB connector. In such models there is a special slot for a memory card, as well as a hole for a microphone.

To connect a smart set-top box to the TV and use it, you need to have such a technique:

• A set-top box with Android operating system.
• A TV set equipped with an HDMI connector.
• A remote control, computer keyboard or mouse to control the set-top box.

If you need a more functional smart set-top box, then there are gadgets with several USB ports, AV input, slots for memory cards and MicroSD. Such smart set-top boxes are very popular. The set-top box is controlled with a remote control, mouse and keyboard. Some models are additionally equipped with microphones.

What smart set-top box to choose?

So, the main purpose of a smart set-top box is to access the Internet, watch videos, movies, weather and news from the TV screen. For this purpose, it is equipped with either wireless Wi-Fi or Ethernet port. Once the TV is connected to the Internet, you can watch movies and record them on external media for free. If there is no desire to mess with flash drives and disks, you can combine your home PC with the TV (create a local network). This way you can view photos and movies on the TV screen from your computer.

To work without problems with speed and performance, pay attention to consoles with multi-core processors. Thus, the eight-core Box X92 set-top box has proven itself well. It has a Wi-Fi antenna attached to the outside, so the level of Internet reception is excellent. There is a LAN port, USB port, AV video output, so you can connect it to old-style TVs. It allows you to work with online content. Such a smart set-top box is also a real boon for gamers.

When buying this type of set-top box, you need to pay attention to the way it is connected to the computer. It can be AV, HDMI ports or VGA port. The choice will depend on the type of TV. It is also important how it connects to the Internet. So, there are models with a Wi-Fi adapter, thanks to which you can quickly go from the TV to the Internet, if a router is already installed in the house. And there are models with an Ethernet port.

It is equipped with Wi-Fi, LAN, USB port, microSD slot. It works on a processor with eight cores. The operating system is Android. There is a built-in storage for thirty-two gigabytes. Memory can be expanded with MicroSD cards if desired.

Smart TV set-top boxes can recognize files of different formats. But it is better to make sure that the set-top box supports DivX, MP4, WMA and other formats before buying. Manufacturers offer set-top boxes with built-in memory for 4 and 8 gigabytes. You should pay attention to the package. It is good if the set-top box has a remote control or a convenient keyboard.