TV manufacturers are constantly expanding the functionality of manufactured devices. However, this does not lead to a decrease in interest in media players. Such devices are extremely popular.
With a minimal 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 about the following points:
- sizes
- type of platform;
- supported formats;
- type of control (remote control, mouse), ease, the ability to use "non-native" remote controls;
- network functions;
- cost;
- Interfaces
- brand reliability;
- internal memory sizes;
- menu (organization, the ability to change the output order, ease of transition);
- Russian language interface;
- additional functions (the device can expand the capabilities of the TV or be focused on gamers).
Also, when buying, take into account the cooling method. A well-designed ventilation system does not require frequent maintenance and helps to extend the life of the media player.
Important! Overheating can affect the speed of the device.
What to look for when buying
Type of network connection. Wi-fi, wired and using an Internet cable are the main options. Ideally, the device should support each of the listed methods. 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, with wired Internet - 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. Monoblock systems and compact devices resembling a flash drive are distinguished by this criterion. The latter are more affordable, running Android. The former may have any operating system. In terms of size, it also observes diversity. However, one should not assume that much depends on the size of the monoblock. 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. Often there are 2 types of remotes: push-button and touch. The first is similar to a conventional device for switching channels. The second is somewhat more complicated due to attempts by manufacturers to expand the functionality to the maximum. Brands add a virtual keyboard, programming functions (including time delayed), hours. Such a device costs an order of magnitude more expensive than a conventional button remote control, and in case of breakdown it is quite difficult to find a replacement.
Important! Now you can find the device controlled from a smartphone. Moreover, the type of platform does not matter.
Video format and audio codec support. Modern MIDI players, with rare exceptions, play any video files. Even if it becomes difficult to display a picture or sound, having 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 reference is the support of Dolby Digital Plus or Dolby True HD audio codecs, as well as Xvid, H.264, AVI, MP4 codecs.
Availability and amount of personal memory. Convenient in that it will be possible to save files on the device itself. Models that combine the characteristics of a game console are simply required to have decent RAM.
Additional functions. It can be built-in Internet services and the possibility of expanding their list, support for subtitles or a motion sensor. The last chip is needed by gamers. Also, someone will be interested in the ability to connect a mouse and keyboard, voice control, the issue of Bluetooth equipment.
The best models in 2019
The following media players were in the top:
- Updated Google Chromecast 2015 (compact, controlled from smartphones on any platform);
- Mecool M8s Pro L (internal memory expandable up to 32 GB, suitable for 4K playback, inexpensive);
- Xiaomi Mi TV Box Pro 3 Enhanced (easy to replace the game console, there is voice control, an active cooling system);
- Apple TV 4K (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 braking, catches a signal at an increased distance, a convenient remote control).
Also noteworthy are NVIDIA SHIELD and Rombica Smart Cast v02.
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