Which set-top box for terrestrial TV in 2025?

Wondering which set‑top box for terrestrial TV in 2025 to choose? Picking the right one is crucial to ensure access to your favourite programmes in the highest quality. With technological advances and changes in broadcasting standards, it’s worth paying attention to a few key aspects before making a purchase decision.

Set‑top box for terrestrial TV

A terrestrial TV set‑top box is a device that enables reception of digital television signals broadcast over the air. It converts the digital signal into an analog or digital video signal that can be displayed on a TV screen. In Poland, the DVB‑T2 standard is in force, offering better picture and sound quality and more channels compared to the previous DVB‑T standard.

Set‑top box for an old‑style TV

If you have an older TV model, you may need a set-top box for an old-style TV. Older TVs often only have a SCART (EURO) connector, while modern set-top boxes for TVs mainly have an HDMI output. In this case, it’s worth looking for a set-top box for an old-style TV that supports both types of outputs, or buying an HDMI to SCART signal converter.

Set-top box for internet TV

People who prefer streaming content online should consider buying an internet TV set‑top box. These devices, also known as set‑top boxes, allow you to receive TV over the internet and handle M3U playlists with IPTV channels. An internet TV set‑top box lets you watch TV online without having to connect an antenna, making it an ideal solution for people who don’t have access to a DVB‑T2 signal. Thanks to M3U file support, users can add channel lists from various sources themselves, customising the available channels to suit their preferences.

How much does a TV set-top box cost

One of the key factors when choosing equipment is the price. How much does a TV set-top box cost? Basic models can be purchased from as little as 50 PLN, but they usually offer limited functionality and basic build quality. If you care about better picture and sound quality as well as additional features, it’s worth investing in a TV set-top box in the 100–150 PLN price range.

How to connect the set‑top box to the TV

If you’re wondering how to connect a set‑top box to your TV, here are a few simple steps:

• Connecting the set-top box to the TV: Use an HDMI or SCART cable to connect the set-top box to the TV.
• Antenna connection: Connect the antenna cable to the input on the set-top box.
• Power: Plug the set-top box into the mains and switch the device on.
• Setup: Select the correct source on your TV (e.g. HDMI1, AV) and configure the set‑top box according to the instructions.

Najczęściej zadawane pytania (FAQ)

Does every DVB‑T2 set-top box work with any TV?

Yes, but older TVs may require a set-top box with a SCART output or an HDMI-to-SCART signal converter.

Do I need a set-top box if I have a TV with a DVB‑T2 tuner?

No, if your TV supports DVB‑T2, you don’t need an additional set-top box.

Does the terrestrial TV set-top box support internet television?

A terrestrial TV set-top box receives the signal broadcast over the air. For internet TV you need a set-top box that has an IPTV function and can play files in the m3u format.

Does a DVB‑T2 set-top box allow you to record programs?

Some models offer recording to external USB storage. The channel recording function in set-top boxes is most often called PVR (Personal Video Recording). 

What channels can I receive with a DVB-T2 set-top box?

A DVB-T2 set-top box lets you receive all free over-the-air TV channels available in your region.

Podsumowanie

Choosing the right set-top box for your TV in 2025 depends on your needs. If you’re interested in terrestrial TV, choose a terrestrial TV set-top box 2025 that supports the DVB-T2 standard. Owners of older TVs should look for a set-top box for an old-type TV, while those interested in IPTV streaming should opt for an internet TV set-top box or pay attention to the IPTV function of the set-top box. It’s also important to know how to connect a set-top box to a TV so you can enjoy uninterrupted reception.

Źródła

• EBU Technology & Innovation: DVB-T2
• Rohde & Schwarz: DVB‑T2 technology
• Wikipedia: DVB-T2