How to choose a streaming device
A streaming device turns any TV or projector with an HDMI input into a smart device with Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video and other apps. The range covers Xiaomi devices with Google TV, Google Cast and Google Assistant voice control: two compact TV sticks that hide behind the TV and the TV Box S with more storage.
Popular choices
Xiaomi TV Box S 3rd Gen EU
4K with Dolby Vision and HDR10+, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, 32 GB storage, Wi-Fi 6 and HDMI 2.1.
Xiaomi Mi TV Stick 4K 2nd Gen
4K, Dolby Vision, Wi-Fi 6 and AV1 decoding in a compact body, with Netflix, Prime Video and YouTube preinstalled.
Xiaomi Mi TV Stick HD 2nd Gen
Full HD up to 60 Hz, HDR10+ and DTS:X: a good fit for Full HD TVs.
Model comparison
| Model | Resolution | HDR | Memory | Wi-Fi |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TV Stick HD 2nd Gen | 1080p, 60 Hz | HDR10+ | 1 GB / 8 GB | 2.4 and 5 GHz |
| TV Stick 4K 2nd Gen | 4K | Dolby Vision, HDR10+ | 2 GB / 8 GB | Wi-Fi 6 |
| TV Box S 3rd Gen | 4K, 60 fps | Dolby Vision, HDR10+ | 2 GB / 32 GB | Wi-Fi 6 |
What to look for
- Resolution. For a 4K TV choose a 4K device. The TV Stick HD outputs up to 1080p, so it suits Full HD TVs and monitors.
- HDR. Dolby Vision and HDR10+ only work if the TV supports them too. Check your TV specifications.
- Storage. 8 GB is enough for the main streaming apps, while the 32 GB of the TV Box S leaves room for more apps and games.
- Power. The TV Stick 4K and TV Box S come with a power adapter. The TV Stick HD has no adapter in the box: you need a 5 V, 1 A USB charger or a TV USB port with enough current.
- Sound. All three support DTS:X, and the TV Stick 4K and TV Box S also support Dolby Atmos, which is useful with a soundbar.
Frequently asked questions
Will a streaming device work with an older TV?
Yes, as long as the TV has an HDMI input. For a Full HD TV the Xiaomi Mi TV Stick HD 2nd Gen is enough, for a 4K TV choose the TV Stick 4K or TV Box S.
Can I connect it to a projector?
Yes, via HDMI. It is a handy option for projectors without a built-in system, such as the XGIMI TITAN Noir Pro.
Does Google TV cost anything?
Google TV and free apps such as YouTube cost nothing. Netflix, Prime Video and other streaming services need their own subscription.
