The 3rd generation Xiaomi TV Box S offers an interesting way to transform older TVs into modern smart TVs with 4K resolution without having to buy a completely new device. With improved hardware, especially a significantly faster processor and a powerful GPU, Xiaomi promises a smooth, modern TV experience. Especially in a market where competitors like Amazon Fire TV, Samsung, Sony, Philips, LG, Panasonic, Grundig, Medion, and Hisense are constantly releasing new devices and upgrades, the question arises as to how well the Xiaomi Box will hold its own in this diverse landscape. Below, we explore many facets of this device, including technical specifications, performance, user-friendliness, software, and added value in everyday life.

Xiaomi TV Box S 3rd generation with Google TV 14: A technical masterpiece for everyday use

The basis of the new Xiaomi TV Box S is the AMLogic S905X5M system-on-chip, which is manufactured using 6 nanometer technology. It combines four Cortex-A55 cores with a turbo frequency of up to 2.5 GHz and a Mali-G310 V2 graphics processor, which improves graphics output by an impressive 130% compared to the previous model. For TV enthusiasts with Samsung, Sony, or Philips sets, the rapid GPU improvement can be particularly interesting, as it ensures noticeably better picture quality for 4K content and graphics-intensive applications.

Despite the fast CPU with 25% more performance, the RAM remains at 2 GB DDR4, which may be a bit tight compared to competitors like the Nvidia Shield TV with 4 GB. However, Xiaomi counteracts this limitation by increasing the internal storage to 32 GB eMMC, which offers significant advantages, especially when installing apps and updates. The fast storage is thus sufficiently dimensioned to avoid recurring storage problems that occurred with many previous models. In summary, this means that for the moderate price of just under 70 euros, you get a solid package that represents a significant upgrade, especially for users of TVs from other manufacturers, such as LG or Panasonic, without an integrated smart TV system.

The physical components are kept simple to maintain the compact design. On the back, there is only an HDMI 2.1 port and a USB 2.0 port, while there are no Ethernet or other USB ports. For internet connections, Xiaomi relies on dual-band Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. Selecting the HDMI 2.1 standard allows for the use of the latest televisions, such as those from Grundig or Medion, which increasingly offer such modern connections.

Design and installation: Compact elegance meets ease of use

The 3rd generation Xiaomi TV Box S measures just 97 x 97 x 17 mm and weighs just 91.2 grams. This slim design makes it virtually invisible behind any TV—such as a Hisense model or an older Sony—and enables a clean setup without clutter. The matte surface on the top is only slightly interrupted by the discreet Xiaomi logo and a small status LED. This minimalist design fits perfectly into modern living rooms, regardless of whether you opt for Philips lamps or a Samsung soundbar.

The package includes everything the user needs for a quick start: a compact remote control with direct access to Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, and Xiaomi TV+, an HDMI cable, a power adapter, and instructions that are particularly easy to understand for novices. The setup process consists of three simple steps: connecting to HDMI, connecting to the power supply, and pairing the remote control via Bluetooth. From there, the system guides the user step by step through Wi-Fi setup, logging into a Google account, and selecting personalized content.

The remote control is particularly pleasing, with its 360° Bluetooth signal allowing operation even without direct aiming. This makes it very convenient to use in environments with multiple moving people. However, the loud clicking sound of the buttons can be distracting when used at night in quiet environments, something Xiaomi might want to improve in a future version. The same applies to the USB port: Since there is only one USB 2.0 port, it is recommended to use a USB hub if necessary to use external hard drives and other peripherals, or even an Ethernet adapter, simultaneously.

Everyday performance: Streaming, gaming, and more at a new level

The speed of the Xiaomi TV Box S 3rd Gen is immediately noticeable in everyday use. Navigating through menus and apps is smooth and responsive. Compared to older Android TV devices that Samsung or LG offered as base models a few years ago, the capacity advantage of the latest processor and the optimized Google TV 14 operating system is clearly noticeable.

However, with its 2 GB of RAM, the box reaches its limits when it comes to intensive multitasking. For example, when switching back and forth between Netflix, YouTube, and a file management app simultaneously, loading delays sometimes occur. Nevertheless, everyday performance remains absolutely satisfactory for most users and underlines the strong impression, especially in the streaming sector. Support for 4K content at 60 fps including HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision brings the picture to life on compatible TVs from major brands like Sony, Philips, and Panasonic.

Netflix’s DRM Level 1 certification, which ensures full-quality 4K streaming, is a practical advantage. Prime Video and Disney+ also stream reliably in high resolutions, although automatic refresh rate switching (AFR) doesn’t yet work optimally on all platforms. The integration of the Chromecast feature, which enables easy screen sharing between smartphones and tablets, a feature that is also in high demand on Amazon Fire TV, is also very welcome.

We encountered a few issues when playing locally via USB: Important 4K videos played smoothly, but there were occasional micro-interruptions in two files. 8K playback, which was still possible on older models, is unfortunately not supported on the new box. While this may be irrelevant for most consumers, it underscores the technological evolution and different development priorities.

Software and ecosystem: Google TV 14 for a modern smart TV experience

With the 3rd generation Xiaomi TV Box S, users receive a comprehensive Google TV experience based on Android TV 14. Unlike pure app stores, Google TV’s interface focuses heavily on individual content and personalized recommendations, which makes the TV evening interesting. Users of Grundig or Medion devices benefit from having their favorite series and films available at a glance.

However, there is also the other side of the coin: advertising and sponsored content is shown prominently, which can be particularly annoying to users who come from the clearer interface of a Samsung or LG Smart TV. An “Apps Only” mode is available for those who prefer a minimalist view, but there is still a banner ad at the top of the screen.

The integration of popular streaming services is seamless. In addition to Netflix, Prime Video and YouTube, users can use Xiaomi TV+, which, however, mainly offers older programs. Kodi is easy to use and supports a variety of audio codecs including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. This speaks very well for home cinema fans who are looking for an impressive experience with a Sony or Philips soundbar.

The Google Assistant feature responds reliably to voice commands, be it to control playback or to search for new content. This is an indispensable advantage these days compared to many less intelligent TV boxes in the same price segment. For technology-savvy users who want to expand their television experience, the Xiaomi TV Box S turns out to be a versatile central element in the living room.

Price and comparison with other TV boxes: Why the Xiaomi TV Box S is a smart choice

With a suggested retail price of €69.99, the Xiaomi TV Box S (3rd generation) offers an excellent mid-range alternative to more expensive devices such as the Nvidia Shield TV or various smart TVs from Philips, LG, or Panasonic with built-in systems. This device is significantly superior to inexpensive streaming sticks, such as those from Amazon Fire TV, which often have to make do with more limited features and less storage.

So, anyone who owns a Grundig, Medion, or Hisense TV and hasn’t previously had a smart TV function will find the Xiaomi TV Box S an affordable yet technically modern solution. In addition to excellent 4K video quality, it also offers good sound options and a modern user interface that leave little to be desired.