Is a Xiaomi Mi Box 4k any good?

by Regefade

I am debating between a FireTV and a Mi box. Anyone have any ideas on whats better? I hear there are a lot of problems with the Mi Box using chrome cast. Also I hear the 4k video is awful on it. Is this true? I am not concerned that much about google cast as I doubt I would use it that much at all, but I hear the 4k on it is pretty bad, and that's the main reason why I would get it. I saw it only plays at 30hz in 4k as well, anyone have any complaints about this, or does it look good anyways? What are your experiences with it? Thanks for any help/advice

WhatWasWhatAbout

I've had my Mibox for a few months now and really enjoy it. I have it set to 4k at 30hz and it handles just fine. I haven't even tried 4k at 60hz, but from what I hear, it lags there.

Can't say I've had many problems casting. I do suggest hard-wiring the Mibox to your Ethernet if you can though. My wifi is at a frustrating "middle-zone" of being fine most of the time, but will have slowdowns or missed connections from time to time.

BiggussDikkuss

If Chromecasting features are very important to you - BUY a Chromecast. Google seems to mainly concentrate their efforts on their own Chromecast Hardware.

Android TV GoogleCasting/Chromecasting receiver software plays second fiddle: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.mediashell&hl=en

4K streaming needs strong AC WiFi in your home, in fact if you are streaming 4K video you really should be using a $10 Xiaomi USB > Ethernet adapter for reliability.

People need to be realistic ... WiFi is a stupid way to reliable stream any high bitrate 4K video.

The HDMI 2.0 on the Mi Box is the same as all other HDMI 2.0 media players meaning the fully monty 2160p50/60Hz

The only 2160p50/60Hz video you are likely to find is UHD European TV test Broadcasts. 4K Movies and TV Series are all 2160p24Hz (or 2160p @ 23.976fps)

If you are a power user and want all speed and premium 4K HDR features - buy a NVIDIA Shield. Do not mess around with the $69 Mi Box. There is NO Amazon Video on the Mi Box either.

Otherwise its fine as a cheap an cheerful Android TV streaming box.

monkeyismine

I've set my Mibox to 1080p only. I find if I have it on 4K it overheats and reboots. And that is upscaling to 4K as well. I don't actaully have any 4K content.