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1080p streaming

Xiaomi Mi TV Stick Review: Is the Original 1080p Model Still Worth It?

The original Xiaomi Mi TV Stick is a genuine Android TV streamer with Chromecast and a Bluetooth remote, but its 1080p ceiling and aging hardware limit its value in 2026.

By DocumentaryTube Team 10 min read
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The original Xiaomi Mi TV Stick is a real Android TV streaming device, not just a casting dongle: it has a TV-focused interface, Google Play Store access, a Bluetooth remote, Google Assistant and Chromecast built in. But it tops out at 1080p and runs Android TV 9.0 on modest hardware. In 2026, it makes sense mainly as a cheap way to add streaming to a 1080p screen or as a compact travel device—not as a good-value choice near the price of a current 4K streamer.

Which Xiaomi Mi TV Stick is this?

This review covers the original Xiaomi Mi TV Stick, which outputs up to 1080p at 60 frames per second. It is not the later Xiaomi TV Stick 4K. The distinction matters: Xiaomi lists Android TV 11, 2GB of RAM and 4K output for the newer model, versus Android TV 9.0, 1GB of RAM and 1080p output for the original. The 4K model’s Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos features should not be attributed to the original.

Xiaomi’s official specifications for the original are available on its Mi TV Stick specifications and FAQ page; the newer device is listed separately on the Xiaomi TV Stick 4K page. The latter is Xiaomi India’s regional page, so its availability and package details are not universal.

Feature Original Xiaomi Mi TV Stick
Maximum output 1920 Ă— 1080 at 60fps
Operating system Android TV 9.0
RAM and storage 1GB RAM; 8GB internal storage, of which some is used by the system and preinstalled software
Processor and graphics Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 CPU; ARM Mali-450 GPU
Wireless Dual-band 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi; Bluetooth 4.2
Connections HDMI output and micro-USB power
Remote and casting Bluetooth remote with Google Assistant button; Chromecast built in
Audio Dolby and DTS decoding listed by Xiaomi
Size and weight Approximately 92.4 Ă— 30.2 Ă— 15.2mm; 28.5g

Specifications are from Xiaomi’s original-model FAQ and its US product page.

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#1 Best Overall
Xiaomi TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen) Streaming Media Player Device Google TV Cast Dolby Vision HDR10+ Atmos Dual Band Wi-Fi 6 with 360° Bluetooth Voice Remote Control
  • 4K Streaming Device with Dolby Vision & Atmos: Thanks to the 4K decoding that provides stunningly clear picture quality for an unbelievable viewing experience. Features professional Dolby Vision and supports HDR10+ for a higher dynamic range, cinema-level lighting and shadow details, combined with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X enables panoramic surround sound for a true cinematic experience at home
  • Smoother & Faster: Powered by an efficient 6nm high-performance platform with a 2.5GHz quad-core A55 CPU and 64-bit processor architecture, providing powerful performance and smoother operation. Features the latest wireless standard, dual-band Wi-Fi 6 delivering increased network bandwidth, faster transmission speeds, and seamless streaming and instant playback of online videos
  • Smart Bluetooth Remote Voice Control: The intuitive Google TV organizes all your movies, stream apps, musics and shows from apps and subscriptions in one place. You can even get recommendations, answers and control smart home devices by pressing the Google Assistant button via the Bluetooth Voice Remote for hands-free control. Besides, access a growing library of free live TV channels
  • Easy Set Up & Plug-and-Play: Simply plug Xiaomi tv stick 4k (2nd Gen) into the TV's HDMI port to upgrade your TV into a smart TV in second. You can watch news, movies, sports, reality shows, entertainments and more from free live tv streaming, no subscription is required. Besides, you can easily cast movies, shows, photos from your phone or tablet directly to your TV by using Google Cast app
  • Ultra-Slim, Lightweight & Portable Design: You can take your smart tv to any where due to the slim, lightweight, and portable design. Simply plug it into a hotel TV or projector to enjoy your personalized entertainment profiles, streaming apps and contents on the go

Is it fully functional Android TV?

Yes—in the practical sense that it has a television-oriented Android TV interface, supports Google Play Store apps designed for TV, navigates with its own remote, and includes Google Assistant and Chromecast built in. You can use it without reaching for a phone every time you want to browse or launch an app. Xiaomi describes these features on its Mi TV Stick product page.

That does not mean every Android app works well on a television, that every streaming service is available in every country, or that the device has current software. App availability depends on region, developer support, service requirements and the device’s compatibility. The safe expectation is access to a selection of TV apps through Play Store, not universal Android app compatibility.

How well does it handle streaming and picture quality?

1080p is the ceiling

The stick’s maximum output is 1080p at 60fps. It is a reasonable match for an older HD television, a bedroom screen, a monitor or a projector where compactness and streaming access matter more than resolution. A 4K television can display its signal, but the stick cannot deliver native 4K detail; Android TV support does not change that limit.

For a 4K television, HDR-focused viewing or a purchase intended to last through future display upgrades, the original model is a poor fit—especially if its price is close to a current 4K device.

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Streaming apps and subscriptions

Xiaomi presents the device for services such as Netflix, Prime Video and YouTube, and it can install compatible apps through Play Store. Android Central’s original review reported Netflix, Prime Video and YouTube preinstalled at the time, with Disney+, HBO Max, Spotify and Twitch among the apps available through Play Store then. That launch-era app list is not a guarantee of present availability: check the service’s listing and compatibility in your country, and remember that paid services still require subscriptions.

Rank #2
XIAOMI TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen) Streaming Device with Google TV, Dolby Vision & Atmos, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth Voice Remote - Black
  • True 4K Home Cinema with Dolby Vision & Atmos: Transform your TV with stunning 4K Ultra HD clarity. Enjoy cinema-grade visuals with Dolby Vision & HDR10+, and be immersed in panoramic surround sound with Dolby Atmos & DTS:X for a true theater experience.
  • Smoother & Faster: 6nm Quad-Core Power with Wi-Fi 6: Enjoy lag-free streaming powered by an efficient 6nm, 2.5GHz quad-core CPU. Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 ensures faster, more stable connections for seamless 4K playback, even when others are online.
  • Your Entertainment, Curated by Google TV & Voice: Find what to watch easily. Google TV organizes your movies and shows from across apps. Press the button on the Bluetooth voice remote to search, play, or control smart home devices with just your voice.
  • Free Live TV, Easy Casting & Universal Plug-and-Play: Watch news, sports, and more from free live channels. Cast videos or photos from your phone instantly with Google Cast. Simply plug into any TV's HDMI port to upgrade it to smart TV in seconds.
  • Ultra-Portable Design, Take Your Smart TV Anywhere: Its slim, pocket-sized design goes wherever you do. Turn any hotel TV or monitor into your personal streaming center—your entertainment profiles and apps follow you on the go.

The original Android TV 9.0 software base may become more consequential as services change app, certification or DRM requirements. Neither Xiaomi’s product page nor its FAQ provides a current service-by-service compatibility guarantee.

Is performance adequate in 2026?

The original has 1GB of RAM, a quad-core Cortex-A53 processor, a Mali-450 GPU and 8GB of storage. That is a modest foundation for a streaming interface. It can be sufficient for ordinary app launching and video playback, but it leaves little headroom for heavy multitasking, large games or a growing collection of apps. The 8GB figure is total internal storage, not space all available to install apps; keep some free rather than filling it completely.

Android Central’s hands-on review reported that an initial lag issue was addressed by an out-of-box update and that everyday navigation and 1080p playback were fluid during its testing. Those are historical observations from the product’s original review period, not a current performance test. Modern app versions and an aging device can produce a different experience, so expect basic streaming competence rather than consistently fast launches or long-term performance headroom.

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What is the remote and casting experience like?

The Bluetooth remote has a directional pad, Back, Home and menu controls, volume buttons, a Google Assistant microphone button, and dedicated Netflix and Prime Video buttons. It gives the stick a conventional TV feel instead of making a phone the primary controller. Bluetooth normally avoids the direct line-of-sight requirement of an infrared remote.

The dedicated service buttons are useful if those services are part of your routine; otherwise they may go unused. Xiaomi’s official materials do not establish that the hotkeys can be remapped. Battery type and whether batteries are included can vary by regional package, so check the specific listing. Android Central praised the remote in its original review, a launch-period assessment rather than a current comparison.

Rank #3
Sale
Roku Streaming Stick HD with Voice Remote
  • HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
  • Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
  • No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
  • Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
  • TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.

Chromecast built in lets compatible apps cast from phones, tablets and computers, with Xiaomi specifying casting at up to 1080p. Chromecast is not the same as Apple AirPlay. Xiaomi’s original product materials document Chromecast, not native AirPlay, so Apple users should not buy the stick assuming AirPlay support.

Is it genuinely portable?

At 28.5g and roughly 92.4mm long, the stick is small enough to carry in a pocket or bag. Its portability is useful for moving between a home television, monitor and projector or for taking a familiar interface on a trip. But it is not self-powered: it still needs the micro-USB cable and a suitable power source, as well as Wi-Fi, an HDMI input and your streaming-service sign-ins.

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Hotel and dormitory Wi-Fi can be the weak link. Networks that require browser-based sign-in or device registration may not work smoothly with a streaming stick. Before relying on it while traveling, consider whether you can connect to the property’s network and complete any required authentication.

Will it fit and work with your display?

The stick connects to HDMI and can be used with a compatible television, monitor or projector. The HDMI port does not power it: the device also needs its micro-USB power connection. A television’s USB port may or may not provide reliable power, so use the supplied adapter or another power source confirmed to be adequate rather than assuming any USB port will work.

Android Central reported that the device’s shape could obstruct a neighboring HDMI socket in one setup and that its reviewed package did not include an HDMI extension. A short extension can help when ports are tightly packed or awkwardly placed, but check the contents of the specific regional package. HDMI-to-DVI adapters may not carry audio as expected, and HDMI-CEC behavior depends on the television.

Rank #4
Sale
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus with AI-powered Fire TV Search, Wi-Fi 6, stream hundreds of thousands of movies and shows, free & live TV, find shows faster with Alexa+
  • Advanced 4K streaming - Elevate your entertainment with the next generation of our best-selling 4K stick, with improved streaming performance optimized for 4K TVs.
  • The newest Fire TV experience (2026) – Our biggest update to Fire TV has a new, modern design that gets you to your entertainment fast. Browse dedicated content categories, pin more of your favorite apps, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+. Spend less time scrolling, and more time watching.
  • Cloud gaming, no console required – Stream Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Hogwarts Legacy, Outer Worlds 2, Ninja Gaiden 4, and hundreds of games on your Fire TV Stick 4K Select with Xbox Game Pass and Luna via cloud gaming. Xbox Game Pass subscription and compatible controller required. Each sold separately.
  • Smarter picks with Alexa+ – Getting to what you love has never been easier. Press the voice remote button and talk naturally to find what to watch across your apps, manage your smart home, or dive into virtually any topic.
  • Wi-Fi 6 support - Enjoy smooth 4K streaming, even when other devices are connected to your router.

Audio, local media and games

Audio support has limits

Xiaomi lists Dolby and DTS multichannel HD audio decoding, along with MP3, AAC, FLAC and OGG audio formats. That specification is not a promise that every app, file or receiver setup will pass through every surround format. The result depends on the content, app, television, soundbar or receiver, and HDMI audio settings. Do not confuse the original stick’s listed decoding with the newer model’s Dolby Atmos feature.

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Local playback and games are modest use cases

Xiaomi lists support for video codecs and containers including H.264, H.265, VP9-10, MKV, MP4, TS, AVI and MOV. A listed format does not guarantee smooth playback of every bitrate, audio track, subtitle or network share. Compatible playback apps can make basic local video or media-server use possible, but server transcoding and app support matter.

Play Store access also permits compatible games, but the 1GB of RAM, older graphics hardware and limited storage make this a casual-use device, not a serious gaming, emulation or high-end media-box replacement.

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Software support and ownership risk

Xiaomi’s official pages identify the original Mi TV Stick as an Android TV 9.0 product, but do not state a current Android-version roadmap, security-update schedule or guaranteed support period. That does not prove that updates have ended; it means buyers should not assume a continuing update commitment. Check for available system updates during setup and consider that an old software base can affect app compatibility, features and security over time.

Current retail availability and pricing are also not established by Xiaomi’s US product page. If buying a used or marketplace unit, verify the model, seller, region, warranty and return terms; an old listing or live specification page is not proof of current stock or seller authenticity.

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Best Value
Sale
Roku Streaming Stick Plus with Voice Remote - 4K & HDR10+
  • 4K streaming made simple:With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
  • 4K picture quality: With Roku Streaming Stick Plus, watch your favorites with brilliant 4K picture and vivid HDR color.
  • Compact without compromises: Our sleek design won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
  • No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
  • Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.

Setup and practical troubleshooting

Xiaomi’s basic setup is to connect the stick to a television, connect it to Wi-Fi and start using it. A more complete first setup helps catch power, pairing and update problems before judging speed.

  1. Plug the stick into an available HDMI port. If nearby sockets are obstructed, try another port or a short HDMI extension.
  2. Connect the micro-USB cable to the supplied adapter or a power source confirmed to be adequate.
  3. Turn on the television and select the HDMI input used by the stick.
  4. Pair the Bluetooth remote when prompted, then select language and region.
  5. Connect to a 2.4GHz or 5GHz Wi-Fi network.
  6. Sign in with a Google account if you need Play Store downloads or Assistant features.
  7. Install or update your streaming apps, then check for available system updates.
  8. Set display and audio options for the screen or sound system, and test a streaming app, casting and remote controls.

If setup fails, use these checks as practical troubleshooting suggestions rather than Xiaomi-specific guarantees:

  • No picture: Confirm the television’s input, reseat the stick, try another HDMI socket and check for physical obstruction.
  • Blank screen or repeated restarts: Try the supplied power adapter rather than relying on the television’s USB port.
  • Remote will not pair: Check or replace its batteries, move close to the stick and retry pairing.
  • Wi-Fi trouble: Try both available Wi-Fi bands and check whether the network requires a captive-portal sign-in.
  • An app is missing: Check regional availability, device compatibility and whether the app supports Android TV.
  • Buffering: Check Wi-Fi signal and router placement, then compare another app before attributing the problem to the stick.
  • Storage warning: Uninstall apps you do not use and clear app caches carefully; avoid deleting system components.

Who should buy the original Mi TV Stick?

It can make sense if

  • You want to add streaming to a 1080p television, monitor or projector.
  • You specifically value Android TV, Play Store access, a physical remote or Chromecast.
  • You will move it between screens or use it occasionally while traveling.
  • You find it at a genuinely low clearance price and accept older software and modest hardware.

Choose something else if

  • You want native 4K output, modern HDR features or more performance headroom.
  • You prioritize a clearly documented update commitment or long-term ownership.
  • You need Ethernet, substantial storage, demanding gaming or extensive multitasking.
  • The original costs close to a current 4K streamer.

Alternatives worth comparing

The right alternative depends on whether you value Google’s platform, a compact stick, a simple interface or a low entry price. Prices below are regional and time-sensitive where stated; they are not a universal price comparison.

Device What the cited source lists Best fit Main trade-off
Xiaomi TV Stick 4K Android TV 11, 4K, 2GB RAM, 8GB storage, Bluetooth 5.0, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos; HDMI extender listed in the package Those who want a newer Xiaomi stick with 4K The cited specification page is for India; local availability, price, certification and package may differ.
Google TV Streamer 4K, 4GB RAM, 32GB storage, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos and Ethernet; Google’s comparison page lists a US price of $99.99 Those who want a fuller Google TV device, more storage and wired networking It is a larger, more expensive box, not a pocket-sized HDMI stick.
Roku Streaming Stick 4K 4K, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, long-range Wi-Fi and voice remote; Roku’s US page displayed $49.99 on sale from $79.99 when checked US buyers who prefer Roku’s interface and a compact 4K device It is not Android TV and does not provide Google Play Store apps or Google Assistant integration.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select Amazon announced 4K, HDR10+ and its Vega operating system at $39.99; the announcement described preorder with shipping planned for the following month Amazon customers seeking an inexpensive 4K stick and Alexa integration It is not Android TV and does not use Google Play Store apps; the announcement alone does not establish current stock.

These details come from the Xiaomi TV Stick 4K page, Google TV comparison page, Roku’s US product page and Amazon’s Fire TV announcement. Prices and availability can change; the cited Google and Roku prices are US figures, and Xiaomi’s cited 4K page is regional.

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Final recommendation by use case

  • For an older 1080p TV: A sensible basic upgrade if the price is low and the apps you need are available.
  • For travel: Its size is a real advantage, but power, Wi-Fi authentication and credentials are part of the packing plan.
  • For a 4K TV: Skip it if you expect 4K output or want modern HDR features.
  • For long-term ownership: Its old software base and undocumented support schedule make newer hardware the safer choice.
  • For a Google Play Store user on a tight budget: Consider it only when its local price is substantially below a newer 4K alternative.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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