If you want to turn any TV or projector into a smart device, a TV box or streaming key can be a great option. These devices provide access to modern interfaces with streaming apps, video, and audio content. Three main systems are available: Android TV (and its newer version, Google TV), Fire TV OS from Amazon, and tvOS from Apple. Choosing the right one depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. Here's a look at some of the top options available today. The Apple TV 4K (2022) is a refined version of Apple's TV box, offering a sleeker design with slightly reduced connectivity options. It supports HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision formats, ensuring high-quality visuals on both 4K TVs and projectors. Inside, the A15 Bionic processor delivers excellent performance, and the tvOS interface is smooth and easy to use. It also integrates well with Apple devices, allowing for seamless Apple ID transfers through the "Siri Remote" feature. The Apple TV 4K is recommended for those seeking a premium smart TV experience, though it lacks an HDMI cable in the box. For users looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Xiaomi TV Box S (3rd generation) is a solid choice. It runs on Android TV 14 and features a 6 nm processor, offering a smooth 4K experience. While it has only 2GB of RAM, which can limit multitasking, it handles 4K content well and supports popular streaming services like Netflix and YouTube. The device also works for retro gaming, thanks to its updated graphics chip. Priced at around 69 euros, it's a cost-effective option for enhancing an older TV. Another strong contender is the Google TV Streamer, a more advanced version of the Chromecast. It offers a smooth interface, compatibility with 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision, and runs on Android TV OS. It also supports the Matter protocol for smart home integration and includes an HDMI 2.1 port. Priced at 119 euros, it's a bit more expensive than the Chromecast but offers more features for those looking to get deeper into the Google TV ecosystem. For those who prefer a compact and affordable option, the Xiaomi TV Stick 4K is a good choice. It runs on Google TV with Android 14, offering a smoother interface and better performance than older Android TV models. It supports 4K, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos, making it great for a cinematic experience. However, it uses a micro-USB port instead of the newer USB-C, and its 2GB of RAM may be limiting for heavy users. Amazon's Fire TV Stick 4K Max is the top model in the Fire TV range. It features a fast processor, 16GB of storage, and Wi-Fi 6E for a stable connection. It supports 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision, and includes a "Dynamic Screen" mode for interactive content. However, it runs on a modified version of Fire OS called Vega OS, which lacks the Play Store but has its own app store. For a more budget-friendly option, the Fire TV Stick Plus and Select models are also available at lower prices. For users who want to play local media files, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro and Zidoo Z9X 8K are excellent choices. The Shield TV Pro features a powerful Tegra X1+ chip, 3GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage, supporting 4K, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos. It also includes an Ethernet port for a stable internet connection and has an advanced upscaling feature that enhances HD content. The Zidoo Z9X 8K is designed for high-quality local content, offering an HDMI 2.1a port for 8K video and support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. However, it limits streaming services to 720p resolution. In conclusion, TV boxes and streaming keys offer a flexible and powerful way to enhance your viewing experience, whether you're streaming content or playing local media. The choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferred ecosystem. Whether you're looking for a premium option like the Apple TV 4K or a budget-friendly device like the Xiaomi TV Box S, there's a smart TV solution to suit your preferences.