In the era of digital TV, set-top boxes and TV boxes are found in many households. But what is the difference between the two? Can they all use the wireless projection function?

1. Program Copyright

First of all, there is a big difference between a set-top box and a TV box: the copyright issue of the program.

The TV box, can’t broadcast the live programs of the TV station, so it is impossible for you to find the resource content of TV live broadcast in the pre-installed APP and services of the TV box.

Even if there is, it is the line resource of the third-party APP's abnormal channel, so sometimes it will be stuck and unclear.

So your card may also have a problem with the signal source you selected, which has nothing to do with the TV and home network.

As for the set-top boxes, they are generally the official television equipment of several radio and television bureaus, such as China Mobile/Telecom/Unicom/Tianwei/Wasu...etc. Various operators, depending on who the local radio and television is working with.

If you use a set-top box, you can normally watch high-definition live TV broadcasts and local stations, especially sports programs. No matter how unclear, the quality is better and smoother than the video from unknown sources on the Internet, and some cities have already seen some 4K Super clear test channel.

Due to this essential difference, many people will apply for a local set-top box even if they have other internet devices such as iPads, mobile phones, computers, etc., because sometimes they can watch the news live and look at local and foreign shows . This particular advantage makes watching sports events specially good.

2. Screen Mirring Function

Basically, set-top boxes do not support screen mirroring of mobile phones or computers to the set-top box, and then the screen output to the TV.

Current TV boxes basically support mainstream projection protocols such as AirPlay, Miracast, and DLNA. The corresponding Apple devices, Android devices, and computer devices can all be projected to the TV through the TV box.

If you just want to cast a screen to see the TV series and movie resources of the video apps or Youtube, in fact, you can only buy a wireless device (such as EZCast wireless devices), the price is actually affordable , and mainly depends on the configuration.

3. Online video content

In addition to live TV programs, the current set-top boxes generally come with paid video content, and you are recommended to buy some monthly memberships, but they are generally older popular movies.

TV box supports the installation of third-party software apps, such as Galaxy Kiwi, Tencent Aurora, Station B, and Youku Kumiao. Users can choose the appropriate APP according to their own needs, and purchase their "TV membership "(It's still convenient to cast screens on mobile phones, so there is no need to pay the membership fee twice).

The resources are up-to-date, and those who like watching series will enjoy the most.

4. Fees and services

Set-top boxes generally are subscribed to services from local operators, monthly or annual subscriptions. In addition, set-top boxes have major updates, around 10 or 20 years, upgrades to 4K lines, etc., and free door-to-door replacement equipment , responsible for long-term maintenance.

If you experience any problems, you just have to make a service call and someone can deal with the usage problems. For example, when the set-top box is broken, the signal cannot be received, etc.

TV boxes are prone to be bought and sold with one-off sale. Whether it is offline retailers, or online channels such as Tmall, JD, etc. Buy a piece of equipment for a one-time fee.

Continuing the after-sales service, follow the three-guarantee policy, one-year warranty, etc., However, after the time has passed, there won’t be follow up.

5. A Dongle is a Cost-effective Choice

The cost-effective choice between the two is the wireless screen mirroring dongle.

(1) If you have a smart TV, you don't need to buy a TV box or a screen projector;

(2) You just want to buy a wireless screen projector if you just want the same screen (mirroring the same screen) or projecting a movie (video APP resource projection);

(3) For users who often watch live sports and news live, set-top boxes are essential equipment.

Regarding the difference between wireless dongles and screen mirroring, you can read this article:

Which screencasting effect is better with the same screen device, TV projection, and projection App?

EZCast wireless dongles are rich and diverse, with different prices and performance styles to choose from, and they can now be purchased at EZCast store.

If you like our projection screen products and want to become our distributor, please contact sales.

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