Which media player to choose for TV 2019

TV manufacturers are constantly expanding the functionality of their devices. However, this does not lead to a decrease in interest in media players. Such devices are in extremely wide demand.

With a minimum configuration, the media player is a “smarter” version of the video player. Expensive models can additionally not only play files from a flash drive or the Internet, but can also replace a game console or even a computer.

How to choose a media player

Buyers are primarily concerned with the following points:

• dimensions;
• platform type;
• supported formats;
• type of control (remote control, mouse), ease, ability to use “non-native” remote controls;
• network functions;
• price;
• interfaces;
• brand reliability;
• built-in memory sizes;
• menu (organization, ability to change the order of output, ease of transition);
• Russian-language interface;
• additional functions (the device can expand the capabilities of the TV or be aimed at gamers).

Also, when purchasing, take into account the cooling method. A well-designed ventilation system does not require frequent maintenance and helps extend the life of the media player.

Important! Overheating can affect the speed of the device.

What to look for when purchasing

Network connection type. Wi-fi, wired and using an Internet cable are the main options. Ideally, the device should support each method listed.If the functionality is limited, then they rely on the type of connection available at home. If you have a router, take a media player with Wi-fi; if you have a wired Internet, take a device with the ability to connect to the network using a cable.

Active cooling. An indicator that the selected model will last longer even with very active use.

Form factor. According to this criterion, monoblock systems and compact devices resembling a flash drive are distinguished. The latter are more affordable and run Android. The former can have any operating system. In terms of size, there is also diversity. However, you should not assume that much depends on the dimensions of the candy bar. Sometimes this characteristic is tied to the number of connectors and the ability to install additional modules, but it is not an indicator in terms of hardware power.

Control. There are 2 types of remote controls most often: push-button and touch. The first one is similar to a regular channel changer. The second is somewhat more complicated due to manufacturers’ attempts to expand functionality to the maximum. Brands are adding a virtual keyboard, programming functions (including time-delayed programming), and a clock. Such a device costs an order of magnitude more than a conventional push-button remote control, and in the event of a breakdown, finding a replacement for it is quite difficult.

Important! Now you can find a device controlled from a smartphone. Moreover, the type of platform does not matter.

Video format and audio codec support. Modern midiplayers, with rare exceptions, play any video files.Even if difficulties arise with displaying pictures or sound, if you have an expensive model, you can simply switch to another channel or service, or download the application necessary for normal broadcasting. In budget and outdated versions, designed only for playing movies, there is no such functionality. In the case of such players, the guideline is support for Dolby Digital Plus or Dolby True HD audio codecs, as well as Xvid, H.264, AVI, MP4 codecs.

Availability and volume of personal memory. It’s convenient because you can save files on the device itself. Models that combine the characteristics of a gaming console are simply required to have decent operating memory.

Additional functions. This could be built-in Internet services and the ability to expand their list, support for subtitles or a motion sensor. The last feature is needed by gamers. Also, someone will be interested in the ability to connect a mouse and keyboard, voice control, and the issue of Bluetooth equipment.

The best models in 2019

The following media players made it to the top:

• updated Google Chromecast 2015 (compact, controlled from smartphones on any platform);
• Mecool M8s Pro L (built-in memory expandable up to 32 GB, suitable for 4K playback, inexpensive);
• Xiaomi Mi TV Box Pro 3 Enhanced (easily replaces a game console, has voice control, active cooling system);
• Apple TV 4 K (32 GB of internal memory, very fast, plays 4K, many useful services are already installed);
• Beelink GS1 (reproduces 6K, the ability to connect an external hard drive);
• Zidoo X7 (4K video plays without slowdown, good signal reception at an increased distance, convenient remote control).

NVIDIA SHIELD and Rombica Smart Cast v02 also deserve attention.