Smart TVs have long been an integral part of modern life. Providing the user with Internet access, with all the ensuing opportunities, it has become a kind of home entertainment center. But the high cost of such TV models has not yet allowed them to displace conventional TVs from the market. Moreover, with a smart box, they easily acquire the basic capabilities of smart panels.

How to expand the capabilities of a TV with a set-top box

A TV box is a full-fledged mini-computer with Android or Windows OS. By connecting it to a TV with an HDMI cable, you get Internet access. The set-top box itself is most often connected to the network via Wi-Fi.

Using a box can turn even a regular monitor into a smart TV. Connection is via HDMI, if available, or via a specialized converter.

However, when purchasing a set-top box for an older TV, don't expect a premium device to deliver picture quality comparable to modern AMOLED displays. This is a misconception, as the specifics of image output to the TV screen depend on the connection method. If your TV doesn't have an HDMI output and connects to the box via a RCA jack, the signal will pass through a converter with a resolution of 640x480, and you won't be able to adjust it. Therefore, purchasing a premium box is often a waste of money, and a budget model may be the better choice.