Rating of the TOP-8 TV tuners for a computer or laptop in 2022: an overview and characteristics of the best models

A TV tuner is a small piece of equipment that allows you to watch analogue and/or digital TV without having to buy a TV. A multifunctional device gives laptops, PCs, tablets such an opportunity, and also displays a TV program on the screen and allows you to record the necessary programs, and the most budgetary and simple models simply give the device the capabilities of a TV.

TV tuner is a compact device, outwardly resembling a router, which significantly expands the functionality TV and other device to which it is connected.

Depending on the functions of the gadget, it can allow you to record TV broadcasts, listen to FM radio, watch a TV program, cut all commercials from content, and much more.

How to choose a TV tuner, does it make sense to buy this equipment and what models can be considered for home use?

How to choose a TV tuner?

Note! A set-top box can be the simplest and perform a couple of functions, or it can be a multifunctional device with a lot of features.

It is worth considering this when choosing a model, and it is also recommended to pay attention to several more parameters of the device:

decoder type.
The most popular is DVB-T2, but its predecessor DVB-T is already considered obsolete.
Tuner block type.
It is better to choose a classic high-frequency block in the form of a metal box: it is more reliable than silicone.
Number of various connectors and inputs on the tuner and their correspondence to the sockets on the TV/PC/laptop.
If they do not match, you will have to buy an adapter.
Supported media formats.
The device must support the latest video, audio and photo formats: MKV, AVI, AVC / H.264, DivX, MPEG4, MP3, WMA, AAC, AC3, JPEG, JPG, RAW.
Software.
It is the software that determines the functionality of the device.
Availability of USB-port, card reader and other connectors to expand the functionality of the device.
Manufacturer.
It is better to choose models of well-known companies so that you can easily find a service center, components, additional spare parts and much more.

Overview of the best models

The rating contains both the simplest and improved options with advanced functionality.

We present an overview of the best models for a computer or laptop according to customer reviews and ratings.

AVerMedia Technologies AVerTV Mobile 510

Budget compact model with an adapter for switching the antenna and the antenna included.

One of the simplest devices that supports DVB-T and DVB-T2 broadcasts, HDTV automatically scans channels, allows you to watch electronic TV programs, record broadcasts, and select audio tracks and subtitles.

The model is connected via a USB connector and has a recording timer.

Specifications:

connection type: USB;
standards: DVB-T, -T2;
Compatibility: Android 4.2 and later;
connectors: micro-USB 2.0.

Advantages

compactness;
price;
original design;
DVB-T2 support;
good reception quality;
antenna included.

Flaws

there is no scheduled recording function;
narrow functionality;
warms up.

ESPADA ESP-DVBT2

Compact device with convenient operation, remote control and time shifting mode.

A digital TV tuner looks like a large USB flash drive with an IEC antenna connector on the back.

The model supports DVB-C, DVB-T, DVB-T2 broadcasting standards, is equipped with an FM tuner and IR sensors for remote control, which is included in the kit.

The model is designed to view HD channels, allows you to watch a TV program, search for the desired channels, play files with rewind and start the Time shifting mode for delayed viewing.

Specifications:

connection type: USB;
standards: DVB-C, -T, -T2;
functions: teletext, recording timer, delayed viewing mode.

Advantages

ease of connection;
good sensitivity;
there is a cooling system;
build quality.

Flaws

uncomfortable remote control;
low quality software;
weak antenna.

AVerMedia Technologies AVerTV Hybrid Volar T2

Compact, reliable device with video capture mode, 1080p support and remote control included.

The hybrid HD TV tuner connects to a PC via a USB connector and provides broadcasting of DVB-T and DVB-T2 digital standards, as well as analog PAL, SECAM, NTSC.

The device allows you to record video in MPEG1, MPEG2 formats, has teletext functions, a recording timer and a delayed viewing mode.

The device has many useful ports: USB, audio, S-Video, composite.

Specifications:

connection type: USB;
standards: DVB-T, -T2, PAL, SECAM, NTSC;
connectors: audio, S-Video, composite;
Compatibility: Windows 8 / 7 / Vista™ / XP (32/64-bit).

Advantages

compactness;
build quality;
convenient remote control;
multifunctionality.

Flaws

low-quality and inconvenient software;
warming up;
slow channel switching.

AVerMedia Technologies TD310

Hybrid TV tuner supporting HDTV and DVB-C, DVB-T, DVB-T2 digital standards for PC and other Windows-based devices.

A small device in the form of a flash drive in a white plastic case is connected to a standard USB connector, contains a control panel, an antenna and batteries.

The model supports HD-formats 720p, 1080i, supplemented by teletext, timer and delayed viewing.

The device is designed for computers and laptops with Windows OS, starting from the 7th version.

Specifications:

connection type: USB;
standards: DVB-C, -T, -T2;
connectors: antenna input;
Compatibility: Windows 8.1 / 8 / 7 (32/64-Bit).

Advantages

price;
support for video in 1920x1080 format;
remote control included;
picture-in-picture mode;
compactness.

Flaws

low quality software;
no DVBC mode;
no FM tuner.

Mygica T230

A compact device with support for popular digital standards, a timer and a maximum output video resolution of 1920x1080.

The device with an external type of USB connection is compatible with Windows and Linux gadgets, has a remote control, an antenna and an installation disk with drivers and software included.

The model supports HD (720p, 1080i, 1080p formats), and the maximum output resolution is 1920x1080 at 4:3, 16:9 formats.

As advanced features, we can note the presence of a timer and a mode of delayed viewing.

Specifications:

connection type: USB;
standards: DVB-C, -T, -T2;
HD support: 720p, 1080i, 1080p;
Compatibility: Windows, Linux.

Advantages

price;
compactness;
installation disk included;
simple installation;
supports HD.

Flaws

weak antenna included;
no teletext;
gets very hot.

Digifors Smart 400

Multifunctional set-top box with video capture mode, convenient Android OS and HDMI connectors.

An Android device connects to a TV or computer via a USB connector.

It operates on the basis of the ARM Cortex-A53 processor and has 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of internal memory.

The receiver is capable of playing video with a maximum resolution of 2048×1152 pixels, allows you to install additional applications, supports connecting a USB mouse and keyboard, and some Internet services.

Specifications:

connection type: USB;
OS: Android 7.1;
interfaces: HDMI, Ethernet, USB, audio coaxial S/PDIF connector;
HD support: 720p, 1080i, 1080p;
Compatibility: Windows, Linux.

Advantages

built-in Wi-Fi;
support for Dolby Digital;
there is a slot for a memory card;
many connectors;
supports third-party Internet applications;
does not heat up.

Flaws

unstable wireless connection;
uncomfortable remote control;
no WINK support.

Legend RST-B1302HD

Digital TV tuner with external version, PC connection via USB, HD support and remote control included.

Inexpensive device with support for all popular digital standards, convenient connection and good playback quality.

The model supports HD formats 720p, 1080i, 1080p, and the maximum output video resolution is 1920x1080 pixels.

On the front of the case there is a USB connector, channel switching and power buttons. There is a small display and a convenient remote control included.

Specifications:

connection type: USB;
interfaces: audio, HDMI, composite input;
HD support: 720p, 1080i, 1080p.

Advantages

compact;
convenient management;
there is a display;
cools well;
metal case;
HDMI connector.

Flaws

low speed when playing HD-video;
Wi-Fi adapter sold separately;
no FM tuner.

ESPADA HD809

A small set-top box with an antenna input, a microUSB connector and antennas included.

Digital TV tuner with DVB-T2 support is designed for TV broadcasting from Android devices.

It is compatible with tablets, laptops and smartphones with Android 4.1 and above.

The connection is via a USB connector, more precisely - microUSB with OTG function.

The kit includes the prefix itself, as well as a loop, whip and telescopic antenna.

Specifications:

connection type: USB;
interfaces: microUSB, antenna connector;
standards: DVB-T2.

Advantages

price;
compact;
easy to connect;
does not heat up;
antenna included.

Flaws

badly picks up a signal;
few functions;
no HDMI connector.

Reviews

Customer Reviews

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conclusions

When choosing a TV tuner, you should consider where and for what purposes the set-top box will be used.

In this case, it is necessary to pay attention to the following nuances:

some models are only compatible with devices with a certain OS, so you need to check the compatibility of your device and future set-top box;
The presence of a remote control in the kit makes controlling the device more convenient and comfortable.;
necessarily note what video resolution the TV tuner supportsso that the picture quality is optimal for viewing from any device.

Useful video

From this video you will learn what a TV tuner is for when using a laptop or computer:

Reviews Ratings