With the rise of HD, 4K, and smart content, the humble set top box has evolved into a full-fledged entertainment hub. Whether you want traditional DTH channels or app-based OTT streaming, the best set top box in India can meet all your viewing needs.
From giants like Tata Play, Airtel, and Dish TV to newer Android-powered OTT boxes, there’s never been a better time to upgrade your TV experience. In this guide, we’ll break down the top options available in India in 2025—including both DTH set top boxes and smart Android boxes.
Table of Contents
Types of Set Top Boxes in India
There are two main categories:
1. DTH Set Top Boxes
These connect to a satellite dish and provide live TV channels via service providers like Tata Play, Airtel Digital, and Dish TV. They offer SD, HD, and even 4K resolutions, with features like recording and catch-up TV.
2. Android TV Boxes / Smart Boxes
These use the internet to stream content from platforms like Netflix, Hotstar, and YouTube. Many also support Google Play Store apps and voice assistants like Google Assistant or Alexa.
Key Features to Consider
When choosing the best set top box for your home, consider:
- Resolution Support: HD, Full HD, or 4K
- Connectivity: HDMI, AV, USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
- Storage & Recording: Some DTH boxes allow live TV recording
- Voice Control: Smart remotes with Google Assistant/Alexa
- App Access: For Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, etc.
- Subscription Flexibility: Choose packs or stream freely
- Smart TV Features: Screen mirroring, casting, multi-device sync
Top 10 Best Set Top Boxes in India – 2025
Here are the top-rated DTH and Android-based set top boxes for Indian consumers:
1. Tata Play Binge+ Android Set Top Box
Best Overall Smart Set Top Box
- Type: Android + DTH Hybrid
- Resolution: 4K Ultra HD
- Features: Google Assistant, Chromecast built-in, 5000+ apps
- Storage: 8GB internal
- Price: ₹2,299 (with DTH subscription)
Pros:
✔ Combines DTH and OTT in one box
✔ Excellent UI and app support
✔ Remote with voice control
Cons:
✖ Needs active internet for OTT apps
2. Airtel Xstream Box
Best Android Box for Streaming and DTH
- Type: Android + DTH
- Resolution: 4K
- Features: Google Assistant, Chromecast, dual-band Wi-Fi
- Price: ₹2,000–₹2,500
Pros:
✔ Smooth Android TV experience
✔ Preloaded OTT apps
✔ Powerful remote and voice control
Cons:
✖ OTT subscription charges extra
3. Dish TV D2H Stream Android Box
Affordable Smart DTH Option
- Type: DTH + Android
- Resolution: 4K
- Features: Bluetooth remote, app store, dual-mode DTH & OTT
- Price: ₹1,999
Pros:
✔ Good value for money
✔ Android interface
✔ Supports both satellite and streaming
Cons:
✖ Some lag on cheaper internet plans
4. Jio Set Top Box (with JioFiber)
Best for JioFiber Users
- Type: IPTV Android Box
- Resolution: 4K
- Features: Free with JioFiber plans, OTT apps, gaming support
- Price: ₹0 (included with plan)
Pros:
✔ Completely free with certain plans
✔ Voice remote
✔ Multiple streaming apps
Cons:
✖ Only works with JioFiber internet
5. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max
Best Non-DTH Smart TV Stick
- Type: Streaming Stick
- Resolution: 4K
- Features: Alexa Voice Remote, Netflix, Prime, Hotstar
- Price: ₹4,999
Pros:
✔ Excellent app support
✔ Ideal for non-smart TVs
✔ Voice control with Alexa
Cons:
✖ No live TV (unless paired with apps)
6. Google Chromecast with Google TV
Best Android Streaming Dongle
- Type: OTT only
- Resolution: 4K
- Features: Google TV UI, Assistant remote, casting
- Price: ₹5,999
Pros:
✔ Best Android UI
✔ Fast and responsive
✔ Ideal for YouTube and Netflix lovers
Cons:
✖ No DTH functionality
7. Tata Play HD Set Top Box
Best HD DTH Set Top Box (Non-Smart)
- Type: DTH Only
- Resolution: Full HD 1080p
- Features: 7-day catch-up TV, Dolby Digital
- Price: ₹1,499
Pros:
✔ Affordable
✔ Great for basic TV viewing
✔ Excellent picture quality
Cons:
✖ No internet or OTT support
8. Airtel HD Digital TV Set Top Box
Best Basic DTH Box for Families
- Type: DTH Only
- Resolution: HD
- Features: Dolby Audio, parental control, multi-language support
- Price: ₹1,500–₹1,700
Pros:
✔ Reliable brand
✔ Simple UI
✔ Good remote
Cons:
✖ No OTT or internet apps
9. SITI HD Digital Set Top Box
Best Local Cable Set Top Box
- Type: Cable TV only
- Resolution: HD
- Features: Custom packs, local content
- Price: ₹999–₹1,299
Pros:
✔ Budget-friendly
✔ Wide regional coverage
✔ Ideal for non-metro areas
Cons:
✖ Fewer features than DTH or smart boxes
10. MXQ Pro 4K Android TV Box
Best Budget Android TV Box (Non-DTH)
- Type: OTT Android Box
- Resolution: 4K
- Features: 1GB–2GB RAM, app downloads, USB ports
- Price: ₹2,000–₹3,000
Pros:
✔ Affordable Android box
✔ Good for casual streaming
✔ HDMI & USB support
Cons:
✖ Slower performance
✖ No DTH channels
DTH vs Android Set Top Box: Which One is Best for You?
| Feature | DTH Set Top Box | Android TV Box |
|---|---|---|
| Live TV | ✅ Yes | ❌ Only via apps |
| Internet Needed | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| OTT Support | ❌ Limited (if at all) | ✅ Yes |
| 4K Support | ✅ In newer models | ✅ Available |
| Remote with Voice | ✅ In smart models | ✅ Mostly included |
| Subscription Charges | ✅ Monthly | ✅ For OTT subscriptions |
Best of Both Worlds? Go for a Hybrid Box like Tata Play Binge+ or Airtel Xstream Box which support both DTH and OTT.
Set Top Box Prices in India – 2025 Snapshot
| Model | Type | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Tata Play Binge+ | Hybrid | ₹2,299 |
| Airtel Xstream Box | Hybrid | ₹2,000–₹2,500 |
| Jio Set Top Box | IPTV | ₹0 (with plan) |
| Tata Play HD Box | DTH | ₹1,499 |
| Fire TV Stick 4K Max | Streaming only | ₹4,999 |
| MXQ Pro Android TV Box | OTT | ₹2,000–₹3,000 |
FAQs
Q: Which is the best set top box in India for 2025?
A: For a complete experience, go for Tata Play Binge+ or Airtel Xstream Box. For pure streaming, choose Fire TV Stick 4K Max.
Q: Can I convert my normal TV into a smart TV with a set top box?
A: Yes, Android boxes and streaming sticks like Chromecast or Fire TV Stick can turn any TV with HDMI into a smart TV.
Q: Is there a 4K set top box in India?
A: Yes, Tata Play Binge+, Airtel Xstream, and Jio Set Top Box offer 4K resolution.
Q: Which box offers both live TV and apps?
A: Go for Hybrid boxes like Airtel Xstream Box and Tata Play Binge+.
Q: What’s the difference between DTH and smart set top boxes?
A: DTH offers live satellite TV. Smart boxes provide internet-based content via apps.
Final Thoughts
The best set top box in India depends on your viewing habits. If you want the best of live TV and apps, go for:
- Tata Play Binge+ – Best Hybrid
- Airtel Xstream Box – Best for OTT + TV
- Fire TV Stick 4K Max – Best for streaming only
- Tata Play HD – Best basic DTH set top box
Be sure to check your internet connection if you’re leaning toward a smart box, as smooth streaming needs at least 20 Mbps speed.
Related Searches
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- DTH set top box comparison
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- Airtel vs Tata Play
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- Set top box price
- Best set top box for non-smart TV
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