1.What is the functionality of a set-top box?

An STB or set-top box, locally known as a cable box, is an information appliance device that usually consists of a TV tuner input and shows the output on a television set. It also contains an external source of signaling that turns the source signal into content viewed on a television set or a digital display device.

2.What is the difference between an SD and HD set-top box?

An SD set-top box will display standard definition channels with a clear picture quality because of poor resolution. An HD or high definition set-top box, on the other hand, provides crisp picture quality that is suitable for your television. It enhances the viewing experience because of higher resolution and pixel density. You can enjoy watching sports or your favorite program in the best picture quality.

3.I have an SD set-top box. Do I need to upgrade?

If you have a TV that supports high definition video, definitely go for an HD set-top box. It will not only make your viewing experience better manifold, but it will also provide the best in class picture quality. If you have a TV that supports HD but are yet to purchase an HD set-top box, you are missing out on a lot of things.

4.What if I recharge with the same pack that I used for my SD set-top box?

You will get SD channels only, which will stream in standard definition only. On larger TVs, standard definition picture quality seems pixelated, which might be a letdown for some viewers.

5.How do I connect an HD set-top box to my TV?

If you have a TV that supports high definition, you should most definitely check if it contains an input for HDMI cable. If it does, then there must be no problem connecting your HD set-top box to your TV. Most TVs that have high definition come with HDMI cable inputs, so you need not worry.

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The 4 Best HD Set Top Box In India Reviews and Buying Guide

Updated by

swetha

on Oct 3, 2020

When you purchase an expensive television set loaded with features, you hope to get the best out of it. This is why you should invest in an HD set-top box to make use of the TV up to its full potential.

Set-top boxes nowadays come loaded with extra benefits like OTT services, games, and value-added services. It will stream premium HD content on your TV, including channels that you have always loved but been unable to watch better picture quality because of your previous TV.

While buying the perfect HD set-top box for your television set, consider the following points:

Resolution: since most television sets nowadays come with high definition support, try to get a set-top box with HD channels. If you get a hold of set-top boxes that provide full HD or 1080p streaming, go for it. It will greatly benefit your TV viewing experience and help you put all your TV features into good use.
Added perks: try to find companies that give additional perks along with the main product. Be it additional OTT services, value-added services, games, educational channels, and so on. Most set-top boxes provide a month of free services to allow users to get a demo of the product they are about to use.
Connectivity: Check the connections that the HD setup box offers. Go with the one that comes with HDMI connections, additional connections like USB ports, audio output.

If you want to more about HD set-top boxes, we have evaluated a detailed Buying Guide describing every feature and functions that come with an HD set-top box.

4 Best HD Set Top Box In India

HD Set-Top Box	Resolution	Added services or products	Buy Now
Tata Sky HD Connection	1080p full HD	Amazon Firestick with extra charge, OTT channels with an external subscription fee	CHECK ON AMAZON
Airtel Digital TV HD DTH Set-Top Box	High definition	Dolby digital sound, video of premium quality, and record and play that requires extra charges	CHECK ON AMAZON
Dish TV Hindi HD Set-Top Box	High definition	surround sound; easy recharges, 67+ HD channels, active services	CHECK ON AMAZON
D2h Videocon HD Set-Top Box	Full HD	easy recharges HD channels, active services	CHECK ON AMAZON

4 Best HD Set Top Box In India Reviews

1. Tata Sky HD Connection

First on our list is the most trusted company in the broadcast business, TATA SKY. This is one of the best set-top boxes available in the market to stream HD channels. The thing that makes this product stand out is the fact that it merges pay-tv and OTT services together into one single package.

The company offers package customization, channel selection on an a-la-carte basis, their own platform that provides interactive services, a programming guide available in Hindi, video on demand, a customizable video library along with plenty other services. Their comprehensive list of services offered ranges from news and movies to sports and entertainment channels.

The set-top box streams HD content and that you get the freedom to pick and choose. Unlike other services, you pay for only the things that you wish to watch. When you purchase the TATA SKY HD Connection, you are provided top-notch clarity in audio and video, sharper images, vivid colors, and the support of surround sound. The viewing ratio is 16:9 for your comfort clubbed with 1080 p resolution for a wide range of local, national, and international channels.

The product is 3D ready and houses several channels apart from the regular ones. The whole family can enjoy In-house content and media provided with other services, be it cooking, games based on cartoons, live darshan of heritage sites all over the country, an educational channel for kids, and Vedic maths, and a fitness channel that is available 24/7.

Their post-purchase service is exemplary and is available for you in 13 Indian languages for ease of communication.

Product specifications:

Brand: Tata Sky
Mounting hardware: HD set-top box, dish, remote, HDMI cable, power adapter
Resolution: 1080p Full HD
Audio Wattage: 100 watts
Packages included: Amazon Firestick with extra charge, OTT channels with an external subscription fee
Connectivity ports: HDMI output only

Pros:

Picture quality
Sound quality
Easy and hassle-free installation

Cons:

Only free channels are included in the basic package that is complimentary for the forest 30 days.

Buy Now at Amazon

2. Airtel Digital TV HD DTH Set-Top Box Connection

Airtel Digital TV HD DTH set-top box boasts of extraordinary quality for viewing. It streams in HD and comes with a universal remote. Universal remotes make surfing TV channels easier because it works as a dual receiver for both the set-top box command and the TV itself.

With 5.1 surround sound, you get crystal clear voice output that seamlessly complements the HD video playback. You can get 550+ standard definition and high definition TV channels that come with budget plans that fit everyone’s pocket. You can record your favorite TV programs using the set-top box itself and also pause live TV.

The most unique factor of the Airtel Digital TV HD DTH set-top box is that it doubles up as a media player. When you purchase such a device, you need minimum gadgets and maximum benefits. Otherwise, you would have to purchase a separate media player to stream your personal media. A separate remote would have to be taken care of to navigate through the TV.

The set-top box comes with a one-year warranty and free standard installation. The purchase price includes 1 month FTA pack for you to demo all the channels that you need.

Product specification:

Brand: Airtel Digital TV
Mounting hardware: HD set-top Box, Remote, AV Cable, Outdoor Unit
Resolution: High Definition
Packages included: Dolby digital sound, video of premium quality, and record and play that requires extra charges
Connectivity ports: AV cable