OTT TV Box: A Complete Guide

An OTT box, also known as a streaming media player, is a small device that allows you to access over-the-top (OTT) streaming content services on your TV.

OTT boxes connect to your TV and home internet network to stream movies, TV shows, live channels, music, and more directly from the internet. 

They provide an affordable and convenient way to watch online streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video, etc. on a big screen.

OTT boxes offer a smart TV experience without having to upgrade your actual TV set. Leading options include Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, and Android TV boxes. 

This guide will explore what OTT boxes are, their features, top devices, and how to set them up and use them to take your streaming to the next level.

What is an OTT Box?

An OTT box is a media streaming device that acts as a platform or gateway to deliver over-the-top internet streaming content to your TV. Some key things to know:

• Hardware device that connects to TV via HDMI port like a cable/satellite box
• Runs a streaming-focused OS and software apps to access online media services
• Connects to your home internet router via WiFi or ethernet to stream content
• Options from companies like Roku, Amazon, Apple, Google at various price points
• Makes smart TV features accessible on any standard TV with HDMI
• Primarily aimed at accessing on-demand OTT video services like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, etc.
• Provides a more robust smart TV experience than most built-in TV platforms
• Eliminates the need for a cable/satellite set-top box for cord-cutters

So in short, an OTT box delivers the internet to your big screen!

Features to Look For

When shopping for an OTT streaming box, key features to evaluate include:

• Apps/services – Number of apps and services supported like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, Spotify, etc.
• 4K and HDR – 4K resolution and High Dynamic Range (HDR) for best picture quality.
• Processor – Fast processor for smooth streaming and quick loading. Look for at least a dual-core CPU.
• Interface – Easy to use and navigate interface. Customizable and intuitive.
• Search – Universal search across multiple apps and services.
• Storage – Some have expandable storage for apps, games, etc.
• TV controls – Ability to control TV functions like power and volume.
• Gaming – Support for game apps and streaming can be useful.
• Audio – Good audio connectivity options like digital optical, HDMI ARC, and Bluetooth.
• Voice control – Hands-free control through voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri.
• Smart home – Can integrate with other smart home devices.

Top OTT Platforms and Models

The most popular OTT box platforms and models include:

Roku 

Roku streaming players and Roku TVs are among the most widely used. Models range from $20 to $100. Very simple interface and universal search.

Has an app store with thousands of channels. Streams in up to 4K HDR. Roku OS is also licensed to some smart TV makers.

Amazon Fire TV 

Amazon’s Fire TV streaming devices integrate well with Prime Video. The cube-shaped Fire TV Cube has built-in Alexa for voice control. Fire TV Edition smart TVs are also available. Good for 4K HDR streaming.

Apple TV 

Apple’s sleek set-top box offers seamless access to Apple content and services. Runs on the tvOS platform. The latest model has a 4K HDR, Siri voice assistant, and an app store with third-party apps and games. More expensive but powerful.

Chromecast 

Google’s popular dongle plugs into an HDMI port to stream from phones/tablets and web to the TV. Very affordable but relies on other devices, WiFi, and apps for all functions.

Android TV Box 

Android smart TV platform for set-top boxes and smart TVs. Flexible open ecosystem with Google Play Store for apps. Some boxes come rooted to allow more customization.

There are also many lesser-known brands of Android boxes with core streaming features at very low prices. Most mainstream OTT platforms provide an excellent streaming experience.

Setting Up Your OTT Box

Getting your OTT device set up is usually quick and straightforward. Just follow these basic steps:

1. Connect the OTT box to your TV’s HDMI port. Make sure your TV is set to the correct HDMI input.
2. Connect the OTT device to power using the included power adapter. Turn on the device.
3. On first boot, follow the on-screen setup prompts to connect the device to your WiFi network and log in/create an account.
4. Download any apps you want from the platform’s app store. Popular options include Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, HBO Max, YouTube, etc.
5. Customise settings and preferences like parental controls. Add streaming service accounts and logins to enable full access.
6. Arrange apps on the home screen and set up any integrated services like voice control.
7. Just open any app to start streaming movies, shows, music, and more to your TV!

Setup is fast and settings are retained, so switching between services is easy. Make sure to check for any available software/app updates periodically.

Using Your OTT Box

Once set up, using an OTT device is simple. Here are some usage tips:

• Browse rows or grids of recommendations on the home screen. Or use universal search to find content across apps.
• Ask your voice assistant to launch shows, control playback, search, and more if supported.
• Download streaming service apps from the platform’s app store to gain access to that content.
• Take advantage of features like cast/screen mirroring from your mobile device if available.
• Check the platform app store for cool entertainment apps, games, and utilities beyond just video.
• Utilise parental controls like content filtering and PINs to limit access for kids.
• Change display settings like resolution and HDR based on your TV capabilities.
• Set up profiles for each user to get personalized recommendations.
• Browse app settings to enable auto-play, subtitles, mature content, etc.
• Connect headphones to the device for private listening without disturbing others.

Streaming boxes provide a smooth, intuitive centralized platform for all your streaming needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. What can you watch on an OTT box?

Ans. OTT boxes allow you to stream from popular services like Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, YouTube, Spotify, and thousands more. The selection is vast.

Q2. How is an OTT box different from a smart TV?

Ans. Smart TVs have built-in streaming platforms, while OTT boxes are separate devices that connect externally to add smart functionality. OTT software is more robust, gets frequent updates, and works on any TV.

Q3. Are OTT boxes legal?

Ans. Yes, mainstream OTT boxes from reputable brands that stream content from legal providers are perfectly legal to use in most countries.

Q4. Do you need internet for an OTT box?

Ans. Yes, an OTT box requires broadband internet access to stream content. Speeds of at least 25Mbps are recommended for the best performance.

Q5. Is it easy to set up an OTT device?

Ans. OTT box setup is designed to be very simple for average consumers. Just connect to your TV and internet, create an account, download some apps, and start streaming. Takes about 10-15 minutes.