The recent release of the Android TV OS is a major step forward for Google, and a new competitor in the market. This guide will help you decide which one is best for you.
The android tv box benchmark comparison is a comparison of Android TV boxes. It will help you decide which one to buy!
The most frequent query in the Indian Android TV set-top box market is which is better: Airtel xstream vs. Tata Sky Binge Plus vs. Jio Fibre. If you want to purchase an Android set-top box but aren’t sure which one is ideal for you. We’ll assist you in making your decision by comparing the features and characteristics of several Android Set Top Boxes, such as Xstreme by Airtel, Tata Sky Binge plus, STB Jio Fibre, and others.
DTH service providers are facing stiff competition from OTT services such as Amazon Prime, Netflix, and Hotstar, as their popularity grows.
To keep their customers engaged, DTH providers like as Airtel, Tata Sky, Dish TV, and Videocon are now offering hybrid set top boxes to their customers, allowing them to view both live TV channels and OTT applications from the same DTH set top box utilizing broadband internet or 4G data through mobile hotspot.
A hybrid set top box combines the features of both an Android TV and a DTH box. These devices support conventional dish antenna input through coaxial cable, as well as internet connection via Wi-Fi and Ethernet ports.
You can also use these Android TV Set Top boxes to turn your regular TV into a smart TV.
Using the built-in Chromecast and Miracast capabilities of these Android Set Top Boxes, you may screen mirror your Android TV and Laptop to your TV.
Chromecast is a Google Android feature that enables users to cast applications from their phone to Chromecast-enabled devices such as Google Chromecast, Android TV, Android TV Boxes, and Android Sticks.
The content link is immediately picked up by Chromecast or built-in Chromecast devices when you touch over the cast symbol on compatible applications.
Miracast is a function that allows users to cast their Android or iPhone screen to a Miracast-compatible TV or wireless display, as well as screen mirroring Android or laptop screens to Windows 10 computers.
Microsoft also included a Miracast adapter, which allows you to utilize your TV or monitor as a wireless display.
These boxes run on the Android TV operating system, which has been customized by DTH providers to allow them to utilize their services with the DTH TV interface and move between applications.
The main disadvantage of these customized set top boxes is that in order to view OTT platform applications, you must also recharge your DTH connection on a regular basis.
Otherwise, you won’t be able to view OTT applications like Netflix or Amazon Prime in addition to DTH channels. Some DTH boxes also disable the Chromecast function, which allows you to cast applications from your phone to your TV over a Wi-Fi network.
Because of the fierce rivalry in the DTH industry, these boxes are built with extremely minimal hardware in order to save money.
For example, only 1GB/2GB RAM is available, and most smartphones have an internal storage capacity of 8 GB. However, they include USB ports for connecting thumb USB drives/hard disks, and some units have memory card slots that can handle up to 128 GB memory cards.
Along with DTH and OTT platforms, most service providers provide their own custom-made proprietary app for an extra fee, such as the airtel xstreme app, which costs Rs. 999 per year. After the 6-month introductory offer expires, the Tata Sky binge app is available for Rs. 299 per month.
Jio TV and other Jio applications are included with the Jio Fibre set-top box, as well as their fibre internet package.
However, in comparison to Tata Sky and Airtel, Jio Set top boxes have additional restrictions, which we shall discuss later in this article.
In this article, we’ve analyzed the most important features, specs, pricing, and connection of these Android set top boxes in order to choose which Android set top box is ideal for you: Airtel xstream vs Tata Sky Binge Plus vs Jio Fibre.
Disclaimer: The information used to create this article was collected from a variety of sources, including official service provider websites, tech blogs, forums, online store websites, and YouTube channels. Users should check with their service providers to validate their plans, Set Top Box capabilities, and specs. Because service providers may alter them from time to time. This website cannot guarantee the exact specs or other features of the set-top box you buy.
Customers who sign up for Jio Fibre’s fibre broadband services will get a free set top box. However, if you want to view live TV channels from local cable TV providers, you’ll need to have a separate DTH connection with Jio STB. There is currently no way to view live TV channels on the Jio STB using a Dish antenna.
Channels that broadcast live television Jio may partner with Hathway, DEN, and GTPL, in which Jio already has an interest.
This Dish antenna port was not accessible in earlier versions of their Set top box, but it is now available in updated STB models, along with an enhanced version of Jio Fibre router.
Although Jio STB is an android-based device, it does not support Google Play Store. The Android version is likewise unavailable in the settings. According to certain YouTubers and tech blogs, older versions of the set-top box run Android 7.0, while newer ones run 9.0 is the latest version of Android..
The kernel version and security patch, on the other hand, are shown in the STB settings. Further details are unknown, however it seems to have 1-2 GB of RAM and 8 GB of internal memory. It’s accessible in all Android DTH set-top boxes that are comparable.
Jio STB is a service provided by Jio. Jio has a Jio shop where you may download applications instead of Google Play. Some applications, such as Amazon Prime Video, Disney + Hotstar, Sony LIV, ZEE5, Sun NXT, Voot, Jio Cinema, and Jio Saavn, are already pre-installed.
Depending on the tariff package you choose, you’ll receive free access to Hotstar VIP, Sony LIV, Voot, and other services. With the Gold Plan and higher, you can get a year of Amazon Prime for free.
However, the Netflix app is not accessible and cannot be downloaded from the Jio store. In comparison to Google Play, Jio Store has a small number of applications. In addition, the majority of the applications are Jio-specific. Furthermore, unlike other manufacturers of STB, you cannot install applications via a pen drive.
The Jio STB is a 4K-capable box with both LAN and Wi-Fi connection options. Other connectivity ports include SAT IN for dish antenna or cable TV, SPDIF for connecting home theaters, HDMI connector, RJ45 port for ethernet LAN, two USB ports, and one power socket, as seen in the image below.
We are unsure about the memory card port, however it is present in most Android STBs such as Airtel, Tata Sky, and others.
You may also play the material stored on the USB device using the pen drive. There’s also a recording option.
Another flaw with this STB is that it lacks the Chromecast functionality seen in other DTH Android STBs.
Jio – Remote Is included a voice-activated remote with its set-top box, however Google Assistant is not included. This is a voice-activated Bluetooth remote control.
Because there is no option to alter resolution (from 4K to Full HD or HD) in the Jio STB settings, all 4K enabled apps operate at their highest resolution by default. Because compatible content and applications run in 4K by default, internet data usage will be greater. Users must evaluate their options and make appropriate plans.
Plans for Jio Fibre
Airtel Set Top is offering its Android-based Hybrid Set Top Box for Rs. 3600 2499 for new customers and Existing clients get a discount of Rs. 2300., including STB and installation fees. With the new connection, Airtel is also giving away a free three-month membership to the Airtel Xstreme app.
This is not a modified Android version like the Jio Fibre STB. This Android STB is a full-featured Android TV Box that runs Android 9.0 and supports the Google Play Store.
The following are the features of the Airtel Xstreme Android TV Set Top Box.
- Bluetooth remote support for Google Assistant speech search
- Chromecast is built-in, allowing you to cast applications from your phone or laptop.
- Memory cards with a capacity of up to 128GB may be used for expansion.
- For any app installation, go to the Google Play Store.
- Apps may also be loaded on the side.
- The contents of the Airtel xstreme app are accessible with a one-year subscription of Rs. 999.
- Using applications, a mobile phone may also be used as a remote control.
- The Netflix app is accessible on the Airtel Xstreme Box, which is a significant advantage over other Android Hybrid STBs.
Some of the disadvantages of the Android Xstreme box include the lack of a program recording function, which is present on the Tata Sky Binge, D2H Videocon, and Dish TV STRM Box.
You must also recharge your DTH connection on a regular basis to use the OTT platform applications and Chromecast.
It is also possible to view just live channels utilizing a DTH connection without the need of an internet connection.
The Airtel Xstreme STB box runs Android 9.0 and comes with 2GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage.
The Airtel Xstreme Box has a variety of ports.
- Dish antenna input through SAT
- Lan port RJ-45
- 2.0 HDMI Port
- S/P DIF Optical
- There are two USB ports.
- 12V power connector
- Slot for memory cards
Image courtesy of YouTube
The Airtel pricing includes a one-year membership to the Airtel TV Xstream app, one month of DTH service, and a three-month subscription to ZEE5.
Tata Sky released its set top box late, however in order to compete with other service providers, Tata Sky maintained the same pricing of Rs. 2999 for their STB. Tata Sky had previously priced its STB at Rs. 5999, but has recently lowered it to Rs. 2999.
You will receive six months of Binge service for free, as well as three months of Amazon Prime video, as a welcome offer. After that, you will have to pay Rs. 299 per month for Tata Sky Binge, which is similar to Airtel Xstreme, where many OTT platform videos, movies, and shows are available in a single app.
Tata Sky is also giving away a free Amazon Fire TV stick to current customers, along with a 30-day Binge app trial and a three-month Amazon Prime membership.
As with Airtel DTH boxes, the Tata Sky binge does not have Netflix app functionality. However, there is a recording function. There is also a catch-up TV function that allows you to view TV programs for up to seven days.
Tata Sky is the source of this image.
The following are the features of Tata Sky Binge + Android STB.
- To view OTT and DTH channels, get a hybrid box.
- Android 9.0
- There is a Play Store accessible.
- A plethora of applications are accessible on the side.
- 8GB internal storage + 2GB RAM
- There is a Micro SD card slot.
- There are two USB ports, as well as recording capabilities.
- Chromecast built-in
- Bluetooth voice remote with Google Assistant
The ports and connection information are identical to those of an Android STB.
- Dish antenna input through SAT
- Lan port RJ-45
- 2.0 HDMI Port
- S/P DIF Optical
- There are two USB ports.
- 12V power connector
- Slot for memory cards
Digit.in is the source of this image.
Both Videocon and Dish TV have released STBs, which are almost identical in terms of functionality, ports, and connection. The STB’s user interface and other features are likewise similar.
These STBs include all of the same features as Airtel and Tata Sky, such as Android 9.0, Play Store, and built-in Chromecast (Also they are advertising that these STB supports Miracast to cast your devices without any hiccups). User Profile may be used to personalize the app experience for various users.
dishtv.in is the source of this picture.
You may create up to 5 user profiles by going to the Profile area in the upper left corner of your screen. The remote’s Option key may also be used to modify the same profiles.
Preloaded applications on both boxes include Video, ZEE5, Voot, Sony LIV, Alt Balaji, Hungama, and Watcho.
It has 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage. These boxes, like Airtel and Tata Sky, include a Google assistant voice search Bluetooth remote.
The ability to record programs using a remote on USB drives is also accessible.
There is no unique tailor-made app accessible in the D2H and SMRT Dish TV, unlike Tata Sky, Xstreme, and Jio TV.
For new clients, the pricing of both boxes is Rs. 3999/-.
Existing D2H and Dish TV SMRT subscribers may upgrade for Rs. 2499 each.
The Netflix app is also missing from these two smart hybrid STBs.
The ports and connections are identical to those seen on other Android STBs:
- Dish antenna input through SAT
- Lan port RJ-45
- 2.0 HDMI Port
- S/P DIF Optical
- There are two USB ports.
- 12V power connector
- Slot for memory cards (not confirm)
picture courtesy of YouTube
| Specifications/Features | Jio Fibre STB | Airtel Xstreme | Binge+ by Tata Sky | Videocon D2H | Dish TV SMRT |
| App Store | Jio Store-enabled Android box with limited app support | With Play Store, it’s a full Android box. | With Play Store, it’s a full Android box. | With Play Store, it’s a full Android box. | With Play Store, it’s a full Android box. |
| Internal Storage / RAM | Uncertainty
(maybe 1-2 GB/ 8GB) |
2 GB/ 8GB | 2 GB/ 8GB | 1 GB/ 8GB | 1 GB/ 8GB |
| Dish Antenna Live TV Channels | Currently unavailable,
Apps are available for viewing. |
Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Antenna Port for Dish (SAT IN) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HDMI out | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| For LAN, use RJ 45. | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Recording | Yes | No (may be available soon) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Netflix assistance is available. | No | Yes | No | No | No |
| Chrome-plated cast | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Voice remote with Google Assistant | Remote control with normal voice | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Slot for Memory Card | Unconfirmed | Yes | Yes | Unconfirmed | Unconfirmed |
| Price | Jio Fibre Plan is completely free. | 2499 rupees for
New & Rs. 2300 for existing customers |
Rs. 2999 | New users pay Rs. 3999, while current customers pay Rs. 2499.
|
New users pay Rs. 3999, while current customers pay Rs. 2499.
|
| Resolution that has been endorsed | 4K | 4K | 4K | Quad HD 2K | Quad HD 2K |
Tata Sky vs. Airtel xstream Which is better: Sky Binge Plus, Videocon D2H, or Dish TV?
Airtel Xstreme and Tata Sky Binge are both excellent choices if you want to upgrade or buy an Android TV Hybrid Set Top Box. Both Airtel Xstreme and Tata Sky are 4K capable and accept SD cards. Airtel Xstreme also supports Netflix, however the recording function is currently unavailable (users have to check with Airtel if recording feature now enables in the latest firmware update).
Tata Sky has a recording function, however Netflix compatibility is not available. Both the Videocon D2H stream and the Dish TV STRM have the same features and specs, however none of these devices supports 4K or Netflix. Furthermore, their STB has 1GB of RAM against 2GB for Airtel and Tata Sky.
If you want to upgrade or buy a fiber broadband internet connection, Jio Fibre may be a better choice for you since Jio Fibre STB is included in the Jio Fibre package. You must first determine if Jio Fibre is accessible in your area.
The disadvantages of Jio Android TV Set Top Box over Airtel and Tata Sky are that it lacks Google Play Store and has restricted app choices via Jio store. Furthermore, since Jio is collaborating with several cable TV providers, you will have to wait for live TV channels. Their STB is missing a memory card, Google voice assistant, and an integrated Chromecast.
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The android 11 tv box is a comparison between the Amazon Fire TV and the Google Nexus Player.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Android TV box is the best?
The best Android TV box is the Nvidia Shield TV.
How do I choose an Android TV box?
You can use our list of the best Android TV boxes to find one that suits your needs.
What is the difference between Android TV and Android TV box?
Android TV is a type of smart TV platform developed by Google. It is designed to run apps and games built specifically for the platform as well as other compatible apps and games from third-party developers.
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