How to Choose A Set-top Box on Android

Can a regular TV become something akin to a PC? Yes, it can, all you need is an IPTV set-top box connected to it. Browsing the web, streaming content, and playing online games—all that brought to your TV with a tiny little box. And the best ones you can find are the set-top boxes running Android TV. In this article, we will tell you how to choose Android TV box.

What is a good Android TV box?

A set-top boxes' smooth and reliable performance depends on its specs. Let's consider the Ukrainian company Infomir’s MAG425А as an example. The set-top box is powered by a 1,200 MHz quad-core ARM Cortex A-53 CPU and features HEVC codec support, so 4K video playback is not an issue. Now factor in an integrated Dolby Digital Plus system, and you get a perfect foundation for a home theatre system.

It can be connected to the internet with an Ethernet cable, but Wi-Fi is also an option if no cable connection is available. The Wi-Fi module works on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. With the former, you get a wider coverage at a relatively slow speed (about 200 Mbit/s), while the latter helps max out data transfer at 800 Mbit/s as long as the box is placed in the router's line of sight.

What makes a good Android TV box?

MAG425A is a certified Android TV device and thus has access to Google's numerous services. Take Google Assistant, for example. This service enables you to control your box without using the remote, but with your voice instead. You can use voice commands to look up information on the internet, launch apps, and input text.

Also, MAG425A has access to the official Google Play Store, complete with over 5,000 games and apps. With Google Chromecast built-in, the set-top box can play content cast from smartphones or tablets.

To get a more personalized experience, the device stores and analyzes your search queries. This way, the home screen shows only the content that may be interesting to you.

One of MAG425A's most significant features is its support for various peripherals. The device is equipped with two USB ports: one USB 2.0 and one USB 3.0. You can use them to connect a mouse, a keyboard, gaming controllers, and wireless peripherals. There is also a Bluetooth 4.2 module for you to connect wireless headphones and speakers.

Do Android TV boxes have any other advantages?

The device's look is also important. MAG425A's body features a universal MicroFusion design, making it a perfect match for any interior, be it a suburban house or a high-tech flat.

Every Android TV box needs to pass Google's certification to ensure the device's high quality and compliance with Google's stringent requirements. But besides all these things, Infomir's MAG425A also comes with a warranty of at least one year.

With the quality and specifications of a premium device, the MAG425A is still affordably priced ($100 at the highest). Thanks to their value for money, Infomir's products enjoy high demand worldwide.