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Xiaomi Mi Box (Int'l) $69.99 USD (~$92.17 AUD) Delivered @ Aliexpress

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Was posted as previous deal late last year which is now marked as expired but it back up again for limited time.

Xiaomi Mi Box Amlogic S905X 2GB RAM 8GB ROM TV Box - International Version

Features:

CPU: S905X Quad-core Cortex-A53 2.0GHz
GPU: Mali 450 750MHz
RAM: 2GB DDR3
ROM: 8GB eMMC
OS: Android TV 6.0 Marshmallow
Wifi: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4GHz/5GHz
Bluetooth: 4.0

Package Includes:

1 x Xiaomi MI Box International Version S905X 2G/8G TV box
1 x Remote Control
1 x HDMI Cable
1 x US Power Adapter
1 x User Manual
1 x AU Plug Adapter

Related Stores

AliExpress
AliExpress
Marketplace
Xiaomi MC Store
Xiaomi MC Store

closed Comments

  • +2

    Don't forget 7% Cash Rewards

    • yep comes out to $90.86 with Cashrewards

  • Has anyone else been getting more stuff rejected by customs from aliexpress? ive never had any issues up till the last few months. Had a security camera and a battery pack rejected and sent back to the sender. i notice a lot more stuff listed now is "cannot ship to australia" than before eg Anker cords and battery products

    • +9

      Normally 'Customs' is a 'BS' and convenient excuse for tardy shipment.

    • No but haven't purchased battery items… yet

    • +2

      Is Customs (Border Force) notifying you that your stuff is being "rejected"?

      • "HI friend,
        Really sorry to tell you that the parcel is returning to us because of the security is not qualified,we can refund the money to you, could you please give us your PayPal account? we will tell you.We believe any issue can be solved through our communication.
        Thank you very much for your understanding and cooperation!"

        a message from the seller on aliexpress

        • +5

          Then it is not Oz Customs/BF.

          See Peck's earlier comment.

        • +4

          Total, total bullshit. Probably take the cash, earn interest and refund. Border Force would send you a T receipt for goods or seizure notice.

        • +6

          Sounds like a dodgy seller. Since when did aliexpress allow PayPal anyway? I pretty much buy everything off Aliexpress these days. It's so cheap already and 7% cashrewards just makes it crazy cheap!

        • @2jzzzz:

          ive applied for a refund through aliexpress,

          the tracking number for the package never worked through the website, but using another tracking one its for a package being sent to Pakistan!
          http://www.17track.net/zh-cn/track?nums=RB141186333SG&fc=0

          this was the product/seller if anyone reading was curious:
          https://www.aliexpress.com/item/dodocool-MFi-Certified-Ultra…

        • @Tm15: Interestingly, has a "cannot deliver to Australia" label on it.

        • @lolcoaster:

          yeah they updated the listing, wasnt there when i ordered about a month ago

    • If they are directly ship from mainland China, Toll still accepting small battery delivery. Rest of them just refuseed

    • +1

      Me. I bought the Xiaomi 4K camera back in November and has been turned around once. They sent another out by express (therefore no more alipay protection), and has been stuck at Australian customs for about 2 months now. I've tried calling auspost and they keep telling me they can't do anything about it, and that I need to contact the seller to ask China post to enquire about it. But so far no progress. Been about 4 months now guess how I feel… No refund, no product. GG $300

      • damn, sorry to hear that

      • Are you sure it is held in Australia? I bought one last Tuesday and I am waiting for the del9.

        • 2017-Feb-25Sat.10:20:00In Transit to Destination

        • +1

          Yeah the tracking number says its in "arrived at facility in destination country". I bought it from the yi Official store as well

        • @Loyalwings:
          I received my delivery this morning.
          Mon 27/02/2017 11:15 AM 1 Successful Delivery FITZROY VIC

          2017-Feb-25Sat.10:20:00【海外】In Transit to Destination - from Taobao

      • +2

        Chargeback with bank for last resort

      • +1

        Dude exact same thing happened with me for this same product on Aliexpress. Open a dispute and hassle the shit out of both the seller and aliexpress. Took a couple of months but they finally processed refund. My tracking also seemed to get stuck at customs. Have a feeling it's stuck in an AusPost somewhere, as they are no better!

        • Thanks for the support guys. Have been hassling the seller and aliexpress customer service. Will now try even harder! Gonna give them 2 more weeks before I go all out chargeback with my bank.

        • You won't have stocks held in Customs. They either dump it or ask the courier to take them back. Maximum is one or two weeks. Taobao is now sending purchases to oversea. I believe it is more reliable. But all are in Chinese.

    • Anker doesn't sell here directly, use CableGeek. They've posted a few deals here before.

      That's just a logistics thing more than customs.

      With customs though, be careful what you order. I've noticed most sites won't let you order Xiaomi pens with any devices that contain lithium batteries for example, apparently customs gets a little suspicious by the ink and lithium ingredients being together in a package, lol.

  • +1

    Anybody know if they have they fixed DTS passthrough for the native Plex app?

  • Do these actually render UI and apps at 4K, or is that a limitation of Android TV? I have a Sony Android TV and only 'certified' apps like Netflix and YouTube output at 4K, nearly everything from the Play Store renders at 1080p including Kodi and VLC - so whilst I can play 4K files, they actually downscale to 1080 then the TV panel then upscales the downscale. Hardware decoding is also unavailable to 'uncertified' apps. I'll buy one of these if someone can confirm (download AIDA64 on it and tell me the resolution it gives).

    • +2

      Do these actually render UI and apps at 4K

      Yes, for video playback it supports hardware decompression for HEVC @ 2160p.
      Not too sure about the UI but when it boots up it does say the signal is 2160p before the Android TV menu shows.

      • Thanks for your response. Decisions decisions.

    • +2

      Kodi's UI may only be 1080p but 4k video still play at 4k. Can attest with the 4K videos I've played through Kodi on my Sony X850D

      • On my X9300D and my X8500C before it, both have less visible detail on Kodi (and others) than the Sony 'Video' app (which is a pile of junk I may add) playing the same files. Also, I was trawling through the Kodi forums and many people are saying the same thing for the Sony TVs.

        As I understand it from research, Sony and/or Google has locked down Android TV so only 'approved' apps can actually display 4K content. Only those with Apps (Video) in the 'Picture' action menu such as Netflix, and YouTube. Any other app just says 'Apps' instead and is locked out of the hardware decoding and native 4K displaying.

        I could be wrong, but as far as I can tell on my particular set - it's definitely not displaying in 4K.

        • +4

          On Android TV — your Sony included — the UI is rendered at 1080p but 4K video is output at 4K. The UI is upscaled but the video is native. Android is not stupid enough to do an up/down/upscale 2160p->1080p->2160p. Doesn't matter if its "approved" like Netflix or not, its 4K.

          Both Kodi and its main Android fork SPMC support hardware acceleration of AVC, HEVC, etc on the Bravia and proper 4K playback. (VC-1 is missing though.)
          https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Oc4jKpjPKd-IwU_GLLIhg7vT…

          There are plenty of problems with the Sony's (particularly audio), but getting 4K video out of them is not one of them. As long as Mediacodec (Surface) acceleration is on and you're playing standard H.264 or H.265, you've got hardware-accelerated 4K video. Some people choose to switch Kodi to use Sony's player, but that's generally only to get DTS (now working fine in 6.x/SPMC) or playback VC-1 encoded video. Stop focusing on the 1080p GUI.

          Back to "real 4K GUIs"…SPMC does have the option to render the GUI at 2160p on high-powered devices like the Shield so it IS possible. But I haven't tested it on the MiBox. The Kodi devs specifically chose to lower the GUI res around 16.0a4.

          Coming from the owner of an X8500C, the MiBox is miles ahead of my Bravia in terms of speed, audio support (supports DTS-HD / TrueHD / Atmos passthrough), Wifi throughput, and is specifically recommended on the Kodi hardware forum.
          http://forum.kodi.tv/showthread.php?tid=275083&pid=2446197#p…

          The one thing it can't really do is auto refresh rate switching but if you have a good TV with 24/25p-inside-60p detection like the Bravia's it won't be a problem.

          AC Wifi throughout is solid on this box but there are USB ethernet adapters that work out of the box based on the ASIX chipset.

        • @SteveBuscemi: Just bought a Sony with Android TV. Was messing around with it last night. Seems promising so far. I'd like to mess around with it and see what I can get running on it. Netflix and Youtube are great, but I can't even dream of streaming 4K content with my connection. 9 Mbps is the best I'm ever going to get.

          I can't, however, get 4K from my PS4 Pro. It tells me I can get 2K (didn't even know that was a thing), but I had to change my picture mode to get 4K. I'm still trying to work it out, but if you have any tips, I'll be sure to try them.

          EDIT: I noticed you mentioned speed in your post. I can confirm that the speed on my Bravia is slower than the PS4. Netflix on the Bravia is slow and does not even reach 1080p. On the PS4, it hits 1080p the second it loads. Samsung's implementation of Netflix on their TVs is better than Sony's.

        • @flaminglemon: You need to go into input settings in the settings screen (on the TV) and turn on 'Enhanced Mode' on the HDMI input that your PS4 (or anything you want to run in 4K) is connected to. It will require a TV reboot.

        • @SteveBuscemi: Thanks for that information! I just wish internal apps let you click the info button on the remote so you knew what resolution it was running at, like HDMI and Digital TV.

          Regardless of what we're talking about, the coding of Sony's Android TV is a bloody mess, and the SoC is way underpowered. I've just about given up on it. The internal WiFi speed is terrible (enough though it's a AC chip and negotiates at 867, it's connected to a USB2 bus with a bad driver and only pumps out 125Mbps with the 6.0.1 update - not enough for Blu-Ray remuxes to stream over network and that's my main use).

        • @BradH13: I just did a Google search just before coming back here. This is exactly what one of the forum posts say. Thanks for getting back to me! Looks like I'll be fiddling around with the TV more tonight.

          It's funny. I get a kick more out of fiddling with the TV than playing actual games on the PS4.

        • @BradH13: I'm connected via ethernet, and that's just as bad. I don't know if they'll ever update their Android TV. They're not all that great with updating Android on the phones.

        • It's definitely coming. What set do you have? 6.0.1 for 8000C, 8500C, 9000C, 8000D, 8500D, and 9300/4000D is just about to roll out OTA. If you have one of those sets, you can download it right now from here (http://tv.update.sony.net/ond/2015/as/main/F18894400_PS10818…) and extract the PKG file to the root of a USB flash drive and update it that way. I can confirm on my 9300D it works and has improved a few things.

    • If this Xiaomi TV is the actual "International Version", it's a proper Android TV, it gets the official Netflix app from playstore just like your Sony TV.

  • Is this thing any good, or just some hack box with some dodgy OS apps?

    • +5

      I just got one and I like it, it is an official Android TV device (proof: https://www.android.com/tv/xiaomi-mi-box/) which may or may not be everyone's cup of tea.

      My uses include Netflix, Kodi, Google music and chromecast (or google cast i think they call it these days?). I like how the remote has a built in mic for google voice commands :)

    • +4

      They are very good. I have 2. Plenty of reviews. Just make sure that you get the International version.

      The Chinese version has a locked ROM, probably so that residents of China cannot mod the box to add international channels, and ignore CCP propaganda.

      I you are new or don't like hacking Android, you might want to pay a bit more for the "fully loaded" ones on eBay.

      • +1

        This could be a misunderstanding

        XiaoMi locked the ROM of tv box is a business concern since Xiaomi wants to expand its ROM as much as possible thus develops its own app market (http://app.mi.com/)
        Its ROM can be replaced by original android or other ROMs easily if you have a tutorial for this but the warranty will be voided.
        Moreover, there are piles of original android ROM tv boxes can be found from taobao.com from ~$20 to ~$100+

        For international users, APP market is nothing since the majority of apps are in Chinese.

        Technically the international channels are blocked in China on the basis of the internet connections.
        with a VPN (many free VPNs), anyone can facebook or youtube. Chinese gov won't trouble anyone for VPN but will trouble people who criticize the gov.

        Hope this helps

        • This is the "International version", it's an official Android TV device with playstore installed. It's not the chinese version you've mentioned above.

          http://www.mi.com/en/mibox/
          http://www.androidpolice.com/2016/10/23/xiaomi-mi-box-review…

        • +1

          Thanks for the detailed explanation.

          I learned to my cost when I bought a second Xiaomi TV box, that it was the Chinese version and the ROM cannot be replaced (bootloader is locked).
          serial MDZ-09-AAxxx is locked
          serial MDZ-09-ABxxx is not locked (International version)

          This one is the International version which can be changed/upgraded using the ROM.

  • +5

    it has issues with plex where the audio and picture are out of sync due to DTS audio. also netflix is flaky for some people because it sometimes doesn't play sound.

    • good to know

  • Good seller compared to the likes of GearBest?

    • Are you saying Gearbest is good?

      • Haha not exactly but is this a random seller?

    • +2

      Has close to 6000 orders and 1500 feedback. It should be fine but always good to read through the feedback first.

  • +2

    How does this device stack up against the Fire Stick?

  • How's everyone getting around lack of storage and ethernet port? Is there latency from bluetooth controllers for those gaming?

    • +1

      Wtf no Ethernet?

      • No RS-232 either. Welcome to the world of wireless networking.

        The 8GB is limiting if you like lots of games, but plenty for a streaming device.
        You could plug in a local HDD, if you really want it to be standalone.

        • Surely a 4k streaming box would have ethernet!

          deal breaker for me

        • @deeps: ethernet disappearing from slimline devices - use an adapter to USB. The remote works on bluetooth so doesn't need a receiver I would imagine

        • +1

          @fishies:

          Yeah - but a device that streams 4k needs ethernet.. Will struggle on wifi.

      • Yeah.
        If this had ethernet, I'd buy one in a heartbeat given the hd audio support and 4k (at least with libreelec)

    • A NAS for storage and ac wifi.

  • Anyone know if Bluetooth headphones would work?

    • Yes, no reason why not.

    • Yes. They work really well.

  • +1

    Geek buying is also selling for the same price.

    http://www.geekbuying.com/item/-Official-International-Versi…

    • So is it safer or quicker to buyi from geekbuying than alipress?

      The cashback is a bit less in geekbuying.

      • I am not sure about Aliexpress but geekbuying accepts PayPal and also you can choose express delivery if needed. Last time I bought an item i choose express delivery and it arrived in a couple of days.

  • Could this Mi box be used for Hong Kong TVB program? TIA

    • +1

      u better go for unblock tech

  • I'm interested in this but can anyone tell me what this offers me that my chromecast can't do? Struggling to see the differences

    • Then don't buy it

    • AFAIK a chromecast allows you to push media/content to your TV from your phone. whereas this is a stand alone android OS.

    • +1

      You can cast things to this device just as you would normally with the Chrome Cast while also having the ability to act as a media centre. Connect your USB or HDD to it and watch your shows/movies. But one of the main reasons why people buy this is for the Kodi app. If you're not sure what that is, probably best to google it. There are also tones of reviews and youtube vids on this device to help make your decision.

      • This means you can also become a TV Pirate, as well as all of our other buccaneer ways.

      • thank you for a helpful answer :)

  • +4

    I purchased one last night, but from this seller instead.

    https://www.aliexpress.com/item/xiaomi-mi-box-4K-Streaming-M…

    The guys on whirlpool forums use them and highly recommended them, they also have a DHL express shipping option. This is the correct MDZ-16-AB international version also.

    There's heaps of info on the mi Box in this thread if anyone is interested.

    https://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum-replies.cfm?t=2538163

    • I purchased from the seller greencomet linked and can confirm it is the international version. Paid extra for DHL express and got it within 5 business days.

      • Can you link to that seller? I dread waiting 40 days for my delivery, thanks

      • How long did it take for your order to be processed within aliexpress? Placed an order with this seller 3 days ago and it is still yet to be processed.

        • From memory it took a few days to process. Have you tried to contact the seller?

  • Any idea why these are so expensive? I'm currently using a MQ Nexbox 4k blah thing but that was less than half the price from a previous deal. Sure it's only 1G and S905, does 4k and hvec, what else you need from a TV box? I boot OpenELEC off usb/sd straight into kodi and it's perfect.

    Is there anything with this unit provides that warrants the price?

    • +1

      This is Android TV, not some skinned version of Android.

      • Yes, it is hard to find an actual Android TV device online without first looking at wikipedia or some other site with official info on Adroid TV devices.

    • +1

      Compared to anything that is not a no-name, unsupported and unlicensed generic box, the Mi Box is cheap!

      Valid comparisons are other Android-TV boxes, which must meet a standard: Nvidia Shield, Nexus Player, Sony TV.

  • does it support atmos sound?

  • Deal is the same as the standard price (current now and same for months) at https://www.aliexpress.com/item/xiaomi-mi-box-4K-Streaming-M…

    I have used this vendor previously and had good service. It is the same dealer that greencomet recommends, above.

    • +1

      [Edit] I ordered another one from this seller. The order is automatically cancelled by aliexpress if it doesn't ship within 5 days. Dodgy sellers like gearbest or geekbuying get around this by lodging shipment doc's with DHL (if that is the chosen shipping option) to pretend the item has shipped although they have no stock to ship. The seller I recommend in this post (same as greencomet) has just done the same to me. Claimed to have shipped the box 3 days ago, DHL say they have only received shipping information, the box is not ready for pickup. Disappointed that this seller is now copying dodgy tactics of Gearbest and Geekbuying.

  • Many thanks for three interesting posts

  • What do you think about this site? A bit too cheap …

    http://aud.dx.com/product/original-xiaomi-mi-amlogic-s905-qu…

    • DX? Never heard of it. They must be new.

      Similar hardware, totally different software. Suits China market.

      • LOL you must be making a joke? These guys were around before Alliexpress etc took off.
        They used to be cheaper than ebay a long time ago. They started shipping some stuff from Aust about 6 years ago(but don't know if they still do).

        www.dx.com will get their full product range.

        • -1

          Yes, of course it was a joke. Sorry I forgot the <irony> tags :-)
          I used to buy a ton of junk from them before eBay got easier. Remember when the reviews and product ratings were genuine and useful?

    • i bought a few things from them a year or so ago. i got a mele f10 remote which works fine. the postage was a bit slow but i believe they have a warehouse in australia now.

    • +1

      There were a few versions of the Mi Box before the current Android TV version that used a skinned version of Android rather than Android TV. They look similar so you have to be careful.

      The tell there is probably that it's running Android 5.

  • would anyone like to comment on this box (not the deal, just the box!)
    It appears to have more ram and more powaaaaa

    http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/282214417881

    • +2

      I would pass on that one

      Buggiest Android Kodi Box getting about is:
      - Any AMLogic S912 box running Android Marshmallow 6.0, like the Beelink GT1 as an example. Don't get hoodwinked by clever marketing and Tech specs people. Its been awarded a D by our very own @hdmkv. A D for Do Not Bother!

      http://forum.kodi.tv/showthread.php?tid=252916

      • cheers @Legion, much appreciated

    • I'm not an expert but when I see powerful hardware with a no name brand with adds being like "we are the best! Look the others are doing shit! LOOK AT MEEE!" (Feeling I had when scrolling down the page), I tend to think there must be a trick. I imagine there would be no firmware updates on that stuff once you bought it (maybe it's fine without updates) but looking at the specs … It looks really tempting

  • is there any way to run sonarr or sickbeard on one of these box's ?

    • the retort is why would you? it has no ethernet, but I suppose you could save the files to a USB HDD. you'd be better off buyin a cheaper s905/x based media player which has multiple USB ports AND ethernet - installing linux and then running sonarr on that. Or just buy a cheap 2 bay synology NAS and run sonarr there (which is what I do).

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