With the rise of internet streaming media networks like Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon Instant, Sling TV, Pandora, and HBO, it’s becoming more appealing to ditch local TV channels and instead embrace streaming online content directly to your TV. And to make this happen, you’ll need a TV box.
While there are many choices available on the market, the XiaoMi MIUI TV-Box has elicited quite a buzz. Much of this has to do with the innovative features that this media player has to offer. If you’re planning to buy a TV Box, this review will help you learn all about the XiaoMi media player and figure out whether it would be a good investment for your entertainment needs.
Powerful Hardware Specifications for Reliable Video Streaming
A TV-Box is only as good as its hardware specifications. Though small, the XiaoMi TV-Box is quite powerful. It features a 1.3GHz Quad Core Cortex A7 CPU, 1GB RAM, and a 450-Mali 4+2e core GPU for stable, efficient and reliable streaming.
With these hardware specs, this unit matches the speed of pretty most TV set top boxes that are currently available. The best part is that you’ll be able to enjoy all your favorite TV shows and movies in full HD as this media player streams videos with 1080p resolution. As an added bonus, this TV box offers support for Dolby Digital Sound plus and DTS effects as well as H.265 hardware decoding.
There is only one downside with this TV box when it comes to hardware components. It has a limited storage capacity of 4GB (ROM) and there is no option to expand memory storage via memory cards.
Support for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Connectivity
As with most TV-PC boxes, the XiaoMi mini box allows users to connect to the Internet. This device connects to the internet only via Wi-Fi networks, and the wireless signal supports coverage for the 802.11b/g/n standard. Users will be able to enjoy a more stable signal since Wi-Fi supports transmission over a dual band 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency range.
Another great connectivity feature that this TV box provides is support for Bluetooth 4.0 devices. You can immerse yourself in a world of wireless entertainment by pairing compatible Bluetooth gadgets like game controllers, headsets, and much more with your TV Box. Although the package comes with a sleek Bluetooth remote, the preinstalled Wireless Display Master app allows you to use your android smartphone as a remote control. This interactive feature even makes it possible to project content from your phone onto the TV.
The last connectivity option offered by the XiaoMi MIUI TV-Box is one HDMI output port located at the back. This allows you to turn your TV into an online media streaming display.
Stylish Design for a Compact TV Box
Sleek and Portable Design
Not enough space on your TV cabinet for a large set top box? Or do you prefer a TV box that’s compact and easy to carry on the go? Well, most TV boxes are usually small, but the XiaoMi is a game changer. Measuring 38 x 46.8 x 46.8mm, this is the first TV box of its kind when it comes to size. It features a cube shaped, pocketsize design that is perfect for users who want to carry their TV boxes on the go or when your entertainment cabinet is full with appliances.
While compact in size, the XiaoMi is still elegantly designed for those who are on the lookout for stylish entertainment gadgets. The top matte side features the MI logo and the sides have a glossy white finish with curved corners. On the underside, you’ll find a retractable two-pin plug to connect your TV box to a power source. The bottom comes in multiple colors such as red, pink, green yellow, blue and orange to suite different tastes.
Powered by the Intuitive MIUI
Launching your favorite apps, games, and media players will be a breeze when using the XiaoMi TV-Box. This Android 4.4.2 device hosts applications using the MI user interface, which is very responsive and easy to use. Several apps come pre-installed on the TV box, including the built-in XiaoMi Internet Radio MITV APP store. For some added fun, you can even customize the MIUI the way you like by downloading one of the numerous themes from the Theme Store.
Dimensions
The MIUI XiaoMi TV Box is only 1.49 inches high and 1.84 inches in both length and width. This compact device only weighs 73g.
Pros
- Low cost yet feature rich TV-Box/Wi-Fi hotspot
- Compact size for added convenience
- Easy to operate
- Support for dual band Wi-Fi frequency range
Cons
- No support for ultra HD 2k or 4k content
- Limited storage (4GB ROM) and no micro SD slot for expanding storage capacity
What’s in the Box?
- 1 XiaoMi MIUI TV-Box
- 1 HDMI Cable (1.5m long)
- 1 Bluetooth Remote Control
- User manual
Consumer Ratings
Most customers who have reviewed the XiaoMi TV-Box online rate it highly not just for the price, but also its build quality, ease of use, and usefulness. While ratings for this device have generally been good, expandable storage would have been a great additional feature.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a budget-priced TV box that’s convenient to use, the XiaoMi’s Mi Box mini would make a great buy. What this TV Box lacks in storage capacity makes up for in powerful hardware components that support high performance and stable Wi-Fi transmission. As the smallest TV Box ever made, the XiaoMi has set high standards for other brands to follow.
You can buy the XiaoMi MIUI TV Box at GearBest: http://www.gearbest.com/tv-box/pp_164680.html
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