8 best DVB-T2 digital set-top boxes

Ratings of electronics and engineering goods

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

During 2019, all of Russia should switch from analog to digital television. This means that from now on, a device with support for the DVB-T2 standard will be required to receive a signal. There is a definite plus in this transition. Now absolutely all residents of our country will be able to enjoy high quality pictures. The problem is that not everyone has TVs with DVB-T2 support. Fortunately, buying a digital set-top box can solve this problem. It is about them that will be discussed in our rating – we will consider only the best models.

Rating of the best digital set-top boxes supporting DVB-T2 standard

Nomination a place Name of product price
Rating of the best digital set-top boxes supporting DVB-T2 standard 1 AverMedia Technologies AVerTV Hybrid Volar T2 RUB 5,305
2 D-COLOR DC1302HD RUB 1,029
3 HARPER HDT2-1514 RUB 1,050
4 LUMAX DV-3206HD RUB 1,590
5 World Vision Premium RUB 1,436
6 Oriel 421 (DVB-T2 / C) RUB 1,030
7 Selenga T81D 898 RUB
8 BBK SMP145HDT2 RUB 1,022

AverMedia Technologies AVerTV Hybrid Volar T2

Rating: 4.9

AverMedia Technologies AVerTV Hybrid Volar T2

At one time, the AverMedia company produced very decent TV tuners that were built into the computer. Now the assortment of the company has changed quite a lot. Many gamers know this brand for video capture cards that allow you to write gameplay to an external drive or stream it. Well, the production of TV tuners continues. Only now these are not internal boards, but devices such as the AVerTV Hybrid Volar T2.

This gadget is designed to be connected to a computer. It can be either a desktop model or a laptop – you only need one free USB port, to which you can connect. At the other end of the device is the antenna connector. Indoor and outdoor models can be used as an antenna. The second option will provide the best signal reception.

There is also an FM tuner under the body of this device. This allows you to use your computer to listen to the radio. But much more often the device is used to receive digital TV. It supports the DVB-T2 standard, so if you live in a large city, you will have access to both 'multiplexes', each of which consists of ten channels.

Do not forget that in addition you will need a driver and a special computer program developed by the creators of the TV tuner. The first one should download automatically, and to search for the application, you can use either the bundled disc or the manufacturer's official website.

Upon careful acquaintance with the product, the presence of an S-Video connector is immediately evident. This means that the TV tuner can be used for video capture by connecting third-party image sources to it. This is done using an adapter from S-Video to composite connectors (a separate connector is used to receive sound). Of course, the corresponding adapter is in the box in which the device is delivered. There are also two portable antennas for radio and television. It is felt that the manufacturer was primarily thinking about the owners of laptops who want to watch this or that public TV channel from outside their apartment.

Returning to the video capture function, one cannot help but notice that it does not work perfectly. Alas, it is impossible to transmit a picture in high quality via the connector available here. Modern game consoles can be used only with full-fledged video capture cards – their capabilities of the TV tuner from AverMedia will not suit at all. It is assumed that you will be connecting to a Dendy device, Sega MegaDrive or at least a Sony PS One. Also, using a TV tuner, you can digitize your old video tapes by connecting an appropriate tape recorder.

As for watching TV in the DVB-T2 standard, in this regard, the TV tuner will delight you with several additional functions. You can start recording the broadcast at any time. The so-called deferred viewing is also available – this means that you can order the utility to record something at the time you specify, when, for example, you are at work. You just need to not turn off the computer out of habit – the program will definitely not be able to automatically start it.

Advantages

  • The set includes a remote control;
  • Supplied with two antennas and an adapter;
  • Very small size;
  • Works even on very old operating systems;
  • Can be used for video capture;
  • Built-in FM tuner.

disadvantages

  • Digital channels switch with high latency;
  • The software turned out to be buggy;
  • Very high cost.

D-COLOR DC1302HD

Rating: 4.8

D-COLOR DC1302HD

But let's close the topic of computer TV tuners. Surely 90% of the readers of this rating are going to watch digital TV on their TV. And for this you need a digital set-top box that transmits picture and sound via HDMI or composite connectors (the so-called 'tulips'). For example, you can buy the D-COLOR DC1302HD. This model is sold for 1200-1500 rubles. It is clear that it does not have any advanced functionality. But the overwhelming majority of digital set-top boxes now on sale, sharpened for antenna connection, cannot boast of this, so you should not worry.

This console cannot be called the cheapest. This is no accident. The fact is that this is one of the most reliable representatives of our rating. Many digital set-top boxes are made from budget components, and therefore they fail after a year or a half. If you believe the reviews on the D-COLOR DC1302HD, then this set-top box remains operational for a much longer period. There are also exceptions to the rule, but nothing can be done about it – a certain percentage of rejects is allowed in the production of any equipment.

The design of this attachment is simplified as much as possible. You will receive a small black box with many logos on the bezel. There is also a segment display that displays the channel number you selected. Well, in the lower left corner there is a USB port. It will further expand the functionality of your TV, especially if it is a CRT. This connector can be used for two purposes:

You can record this or that broadcast on a connected USB drive;

You can play a variety of media content from a USB flash drive – video, music and pictures.

I am glad that you can record video, including by timer. This is very convenient if your favorite TV show is shown while you are at work. At the same time, you do not need to keep the TV turned on – it is enough for the set-top box itself to be activated. By the way, the transfer of the picture to the TV is carried out either via an RCA cable (included in the kit) or via HDMI. It turns out that even owners of CRT TVs, on the back of which there are only multi-colored 'tulips', will not be deprived. Well, to more modern devices, the set-top box should be connected with an HDMI cable – this way you will receive increased image quality.

Cheaper set-top boxes for receiving digital television broadcasting also have many of the above features. What is the reason for the high cost? It must be with the presence of a tuner of increased sensitivity here. This allows you to use a conventional indoor antenna in tandem with such an attachment – most often this leads to good signal reception. The manufacturer also spent money on licensing the Dolby Digital 5.1 codec. This should provide the user with high quality sound when playing content from a USB stick.

Advantages

  • High reliability;
  • There is support for Dolby Digital 5.1;
  • Built-in high sensitivity TV tuner;
  • The picture is displayed not only via HDMI;
  • You can write a broadcast to an external drive;
  • Has no problems with one or another media format.

disadvantages

  • The price tag will not suit everyone;
  • Short power supply lead;
  • There is no coaxial audio output.

HARPER HDT2-1514

Rating: 4.7

HARPER HDT2-1514

Another fairly reliable TV box in our rating. Its cost in most stores does not exceed 1200 rubles, which is good news. For this money, you will receive a traditional black box, on the top of which there are beautiful ventilation cutouts, decorated in a pattern. The bezel houses the USB port and segment display. Well, all the connectors are on the back wall.

Traditionally, such set-top boxes are equipped not only with HDMI-out, but also with 'tulips'. HARPER HDT2-1514 is no exception to the rule. As a result, it can be easily connected to any TV, even a very old one. It is recommended to operate the set-top box with the supplied remote control. Despite its minimal size, the accessory is capable of boasting a large number of buttons. Even volume control is available here. In a word, you can remember about the remote control intended for the TV only at the moments of switching on and off.

This set-top box detects a digital signal encoded in the DVB-T2 standard without any problems. If you connect a USB storage device to the corresponding connector, the broadcast can be saved as a separate video file. There is also the ability to play content already contained on the flash drive. But we do not recommend connecting an external hard drive to the device. Reviews show that drives with a volume of 1 TB or more are not detected by the console.

Unfortunately, the device has one more serious drawback. It lies in the possibility of overheating. And this despite the presence of so many ventilation holes! Oddly enough, not all buyers have this problem. That is why we still recommend the HARPER HDT2-1514 for purchase, especially if no other model among those considered in this rating is being sold nearby. But do not forget to immediately test the console in every possible way. If you still encounter shutdowns and reboots due to overheating, then use the warranty by returning the goods to the store.

Advantages

  • The set includes a convenient remote control;
  • You can connect to your TV not only via HDMI;
  • All major media formats are supported;
  • It is possible to record TV on a flash drive;
  • Not very high cost.

disadvantages

  • External drives with a volume of 1 TB or more are not supported;
  • Overheating problems are possible;
  • No coaxial audio output.

LUMAX DV-3206HD

Rating: 4.6

LUMAX DV-3206HD

One of the most interesting set-top boxes in our ranking. This is a rare model with a memorable design. On the front panel of this device there is a white arc, to which numerous buttons are adjacent. However, the first version of the console had such a design. Unfortunately, now a simplified version is rolling off the assembly line, which is a faceless black box, where even the buttons are not painted in a different color.

If you think about it, it quickly becomes clear that this console is equipped with additional functionality. Firstly, this is evidenced by the price reaching 1600-1900 rubles. Secondly, the aforementioned buttons hint at this, because cheaper set-top boxes cost only one or two keys. So what does this device do? First of all, it will be used to receive digital TV signals – support for the DVB-T2 standard guarantees no problems. The product is also designed to play media content on a USB storage device. All audio codecs are supported, so playing a movie without sound is almost impossible (and this is an urgent problem for many budget set-top boxes not included in our rating). Of course, a USB stick can be used to record TV content. Including the activation of a timer recording is possible – this is important for those cases when the TV series is shown while you are at work or are just busy with something.

But other digital set-top boxes can also boast of the above functions. What is the difference between the LUMAX DV-3206HD? Perhaps there is internet functionality here. Unfortunately, due to a very weak processor and the lack of a full-fledged operating system, it had to be severely limited. In fact, YouTube, weather, maps and less interesting functions are available to the user. And not all of this loads normally, especially if you are using a Wi-Fi connection to the router! If you have such a problem, then try connecting the set-top box to the router using a cable – for this purpose, the standard RJ-45 port is intended here.

Another distinctive feature of the product is the coaxial digital audio output. With it, you can output sound to the speakers in the highest available quality. This is especially true for those people who are going to use a TV box as a media player.

Note that the Internet functionality is present here only as a bonus. If you seriously want to be able to watch YouTube, then it is better to get yourself some kind of TV with Smart TV support. You will definitely not have to put a digital set-top box next to it, since you will receive built-in DVB-T2 support. You can also get the aforementioned smart set-top box. But we do not recommend looking in the direction of cheap models – they usually shamelessly slow down.

Advantages

  • Various types of connection are possible;
  • Several internet applications are available;
  • Built-in coaxial audio output;
  • The set includes a convenient remote control;
  • The warranty period extended to 730 days;
  • It is possible to record the broadcast on a flash drive;
  • All common media formats are supported.

disadvantages

  • High price;
  • Some buyers complain about the sensitivity of the TV tuner;
  • Stable operation of Internet applications is not guaranteed.

World Vision Premium

Rating: 4.5

World Vision Premium

Another digital set-top box with a stylish look. The front panel of the device that got into our rating is partially made of plastic, the surface of which is similar to polished metal. And again, here you will find a huge number of buttons that allow you to control the set-top box in case of losing the remote control. Also on the front panel there is a segment display showing the channel number and some other information.

World Vision Premium is a fairly expensive TV box. It is unlikely that you can buy it for less than 1,500 rubles. But on the other hand, you will get your hands on a device that should not fail after one or two years of use. You will also be able to enjoy the additional functionality presented here by Internet options. However, due to the lack of a full-fledged operating system, many applications are very limited. The same ubiquitous YouTube is not implemented in the best way here – in terms of convenience, it is much inferior to similar clients installed on a smartphone. Also confusing is the fact that the set-top box has neither built-in Wi-Fi, nor an RJ-45 connector. Want to activate internet access? An appropriate adapter is required. Do I need to say that it is being sold for 500-800 rubles?

Well, what can you say about the main functionality? There are also certain claims to him. The set-top box recognizes the terrestrial signal DVB-T2 without any problems. Moreover, it also supports the cable standard DVB-C. This is great news for those whose cable operator is offering their set-top box for money. The problem is that the console is turned on for a long time. And if you can put up with it, then the menu regularly freaks out – it is extremely ill-considered. It is also inconvenient to sort and rename TV channels here.

There is a traditional USB connector on the body of the device. This allows you to connect a flash drive with media content to the set-top box. The device understands many modern formats, so most of the time movies and music are played without any problems. Also, TV broadcasts are saved to an external drive. Certain problems can arise with their recording. If the transfer ends after midnight (say, at 1:40), then it is possible to record it by timer only if you write '25: 40 'in the' Stop recording 'field. Although it is possible that this bug has already been corrected in new firmware.

The rear panel of the set-top box contains an HDMI jack and composite outputs. The kit contains both cables for connecting to these connectors. This is nice, because TV box manufacturers often save money on HDMI cables. There is also a coaxial audio output here – it will come in handy for owners of some speakers.

In a word, the World Vision Premium digital set-top box is quite suitable for us to recommend buying it. Devices of this kind with an atypical design are now extremely rare. But be sure to test this device right away! There are also overheating problems here. However, they are not too strong – the product will definitely not turn off.

Advantages

  • The remote control turned out to be very convenient;
  • Memorable design;
  • There is additional internet functionality;
  • It is possible to record a TV broadcast on a USB flash drive;
  • Support for most popular formats has been implemented;
  • Various types of connection are possible;
  • Built-in digital coaxial audio output.

disadvantages

  • Internet applications are neither convenient nor functional;
  • The menu is not well implemented;
  • The cost will seem high to some;
  • A Wi-Fi adapter will require a more powerful power supply.

Oriel 421 (DVB-T2 / C)

Rating: 4.5

Oriel 421

Another representative of our rating, which recognizes two digital standards at once. That is, you can connect to it both a conventional antenna and a 'cable'. Of course, in the second case, you need to clarify whether this 'trick' will work with your cable operator. The fact is that, for example, cable TV from MTS works with a connected SIM card, but here it is nowhere to insert it.

Of course, the manufacturer did not deprive his creation of the USB connector. Moreover, there are two of them! If you connect a flash drive, you can write any TV broadcast on it. And it is not necessary to be at home for this – you can preset the time when the recording will activate and end. Also, the user can view the media content already on the external drive.

The high cost of the device indicates that it has additional functionality. Indeed, the YouTube client is built in here. And this is a rare case when it is convenient to use it! But there were some pitfalls. There is no RJ-45 port or built-in Wi-Fi. This means that to connect to the router, you will need an appropriate adapter (usually called an access point in stores). In this case, excessive heating of the Wi-Fi adapter is possible, which will definitely affect its service life.

Otherwise, the Oriel 421 prefix will hardly surprise you. Yes, there is a digital coaxial audio output here. But a rare person will connect this box to high-quality speakers. Separately, it should be noted that the set-top box is equipped with a remote control, which has certain complaints about its operation. The point is that it needs to be accurately pointed at the device – the problem is either in the infrared transmitter or in the corresponding receiver. However, this is a typical problem for many set-top boxes, including those distributed by cable operators.

Even in the reviews, there are complaints about the quality of playback of media files from a USB drive. In this regard, the product is seriously inferior to full-fledged media attachments, even the cheapest ones. However, if the device is connected to a CRT TV, then the quality is enough for the eyes!

Advantages

  • Comfortable viewing of YouTube is possible;
  • Two USB connectors are built in at once;
  • Recording of TV broadcasts to a flash drive is available;
  • All popular media formats are supported;
  • Various types of connection are possible;
  • There is a coaxial audio output.

disadvantages

  • The media content is reproduced with a very average quality;
  • To access the Internet you need an external Wi-Fi adapter;
  • The price may seem high;
  • Not the most convenient use of the remote control.

Selenga T81D

Rating: 4.4

Selenga T81D

Basically, digital set-top boxes have a familiar appearance. This means that they have right-angled corners and their body is painted black. Exceptions to this rule are extremely rare. For example, the Selenga T81D can boast of some difference from most competitors. This product has a curved body. Another unique feature of the device is the rear panel, which is not the most loaded with connectors. Instead of two composite jacks, it uses one 3.5mm output. A cable with a suitable plug is supplied in the kit – the usual 'tulips' are located at the other end. Of course, the manufacturer did not forget about the HDMI output either. It will be used to connect the set-top box to a modern LCD TV or monitor. Well, next to it is a USB port.

Any USB flash drive can be easily connected to a digital set-top box. They may contain one or another media content – if the video resolution does not exceed 1080p, then with a high degree of probability it will be recognized. You can also write current TV broadcasts on a flash drive. Scheduled recording is also available, which is important for those cases when the TV show is on while the user is at work or somewhere else.

If you carefully examine the set-top box, you can find a second USB connector. Why do you need so many? Everything is very simple. The firmware of the device is supplemented with several Internet applications. In particular, YouTube and MeGoGo are available to the user. But there is no built-in Wi-Fi module here, as well as the RJ-45 port. Therefore, to connect to the router, you need to use one or another USB adapter. As a result, when you connect such an accessory, you will not lose the ability to connect an external drive as well. By the way, the product supports external hard drives, not just flash drives, but first you need to stock up on a 2 A power supply.

This is where the functionality of the device is exhausted. Before buying it, be sure to think about the type of connection – if HDMI is selected, then the corresponding cable must be purchased separately. As for the remote control, it works fine. Importantly, it has a wide angle of action – this is a definite plus.

Advantages

  • Playback of media from an external hard drive is possible;
  • Built-in two USB sockets;
  • Internet applications are present;
  • Different types of connections are available;
  • Unusual appearance;
  • Recording of TV broadcasts to an external drive is available;
  • All major media formats are supported;
  • Convenient, wide-angle remote control.

disadvantages

  • To connect to the router, you need a third-party adapter;
  • No digital audio output;
  • Not everyone will like the cost;
  • To connect an adapter or HDD, you will need a more powerful power supply;
  • The built-in antenna will most likely not pick up any channel.

BBK SMP145HDT2

Rating: 4.4

BBK SMP145HDT2

BBK Electronics is a real monster, although many do not even know about it. She produces a variety of devices. Of course, budget devices are in the greatest demand. For example, in our country they are actively buying BBK SMP145HDT2. This is not the cheapest digital set-top box, but it cannot be called expensive either – in Russian stores they ask for no more than 1,300 rubles for it. The price tag suggests that you can't expect Internet functionality from such a device. Indeed, the console provides only basic features. With its help, you can watch digital television encoded in the DVB-T2 standard. If you plug in a USB storage device, you can view your media before. You can also save certain TV broadcasts to a flash drive, including doing it on a timer. But this is still not surprising. Even watching a TV program is an ordinary function, which is also not deprived of any of the existing digital set-top boxes.

You may notice that the front panel of the device is home to a large number of buttons. However, they are only needed to call the menu and switch channels. In a word, they were equipped with a prefix in case a person loses the remote control. It's nice that the product can even recognize an external hard drive – one of the buyers writes in reviews about the successful connection of a 2 TB drive. As for the transmission of images to a TV, then composite connectors and HDMI can be used for this.

Advantages

  • Timer recording of broadcast is possible;
  • The set-top box understands all major media standards;
  • Detects even external hard drives;
  • Various types of connection are possible.

disadvantages

  • Not very sensitive TV tuner;
  • Not the best visual interface;
  • Not everyone likes the remote;
  • No coaxial audio output.

Conclusion

This is the list of the best digital set-top boxes that receive a TV signal encoded in the DVB-T2 standard. All the devices discussed in this article perfectly cope with their main task, especially if they are used together with a good antenna. Keep in mind, however, that none of the existing TV boxes are everlasting. Alas, the components used in them usually order to live long after one and a half to two years. Someone is lucky, his console has been working for three to four years. But it is extremely rare for such devices to function for a longer period. That is why it is better to buy a TV with DVB-T2 support, so you will not get confused in the remote controls.


Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

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