The XIAOMI Android TV MI BOX S 4K ULTRA HD (MDZ-22) arrived on my desk promising a seamless 4K streaming experience. After several weeks of rigorous testing, streaming countless movies and shows, and navigating its interface, I’m ready to share my honest thoughts. This review dives deep into its performance, ease of use, and overall value, offering a balanced perspective for potential buyers.

The Mi Box S boasts a sleek, compact design that blends seamlessly into any home entertainment setup. Its small footprint (as advertised: 9.53 x 9.53 x 1.67 cm) is a significant advantage, especially for those with limited space. Beyond its aesthetics, the core features are impressive. The built-in Chromecast Ultra functionality is a major highlight, offering smooth casting from various devices. Access to a vast library of apps, movies, and shows is a given, but the 4K HDR10 support truly sets it apart. Picture quality is stunning, with vivid colours and sharp details.

In terms of performance, the Mi Box S (MDZ-22) generally delivers on its promises. Navigation is smooth, app loading times are reasonably quick, and streaming in 4K was consistently flawless throughout my testing period. The Quad-core 64-bit processor handles multitasking well, and I didn’t encounter any significant lag or buffering issues. However, I did notice a slight delay during more graphically intense games, suggesting it might not be ideal for hardcore gamers. The remote is comfortable to hold and easy to use, although the lack of backlit buttons can be frustrating in low-light conditions.

One unexpected positive was the ease of setup. The initial configuration was surprisingly simple, and I was streaming content within minutes of unboxing. The intuitive interface is another strong point, making it easy to navigate even for less tech-savvy users. Overall, the performance is satisfactory for the majority of streaming needs.

Pros:

• Excellent 4K HDR10 picture quality
• Compact and stylish design
• Smooth performance for everyday streaming
• Easy setup and intuitive interface
• Built-in Chromecast Ultra

Cons:

• Remote lacks backlit buttons
• May struggle with graphically intensive games
• Storage space is limited

The XIAOMI Android TV MI BOX S 4K ULTRA HD MDZ-22 offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and affordability. While it may not be the perfect device for every user (especially gamers looking for a high-performance experience), its strong points easily outweigh its weaknesses for the vast majority of streaming enthusiasts. The fantastic picture quality and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment. I would confidently recommend this device to anyone looking for a reliable and cost-effective way to upgrade their home entertainment setup to 4K.