Xiaomi TV Stick 2nd Gen: First Impressions and Features
Xiaomi has officially launched the Xiaomi TV Stick 2nd Gen, marking its first streaming device powered by Google TV. If you've been searching for an affordable 4K streaming stick with Google TV support, this new device may have caught your attention. But is it worth the hype? While it supports modern features like 4K output, Dolby Vision, and Wi-Fi 6, many users may find its hardware specs disappointing. In this post, we’ll walk you through what the Xiaomi TV Stick 2nd Gen offers, how it compares to competitors, and whether it's a good fit for your home streaming setup.
The Xiaomi TV Stick 2nd Gen features a plug-and-play design that connects directly to your TV’s HDMI port. It offers visual enhancements with Dolby Vision and HDR10+, and enhanced sound through Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. The device is powered by a newer chipset, which Xiaomi claims offers an 80% performance boost compared to its predecessor. Thanks to Wi-Fi 6 support, streaming stability and speed are also improved, which is essential for high-quality video playback without buffering.
Google TV Comes to Xiaomi Streaming Devices
The most notable change in the Xiaomi TV Stick 2nd Gen is its shift from Android TV to Google TV. This move aligns Xiaomi with other major streaming device manufacturers that have embraced Google’s more intuitive, content-first platform. With Google TV, users get personalized content recommendations, a cleaner interface, and better integration with Google’s ecosystem—including voice search and smart home controls.
Unlike Android TV, which many found clunky or outdated, Google TV is faster and more user-friendly. This change helps Xiaomi better compete with Amazon Fire Stick, Roku, and Chromecast with Google TV. That said, some users might be disappointed by the limited onboard storage—only 8GB—and just 2GB RAM, which could limit multitasking or running heavier apps. It’s clear Xiaomi is targeting casual streamers rather than power users with this device.
How Xiaomi TV Stick 2nd Gen Compares to Competitors
When comparing the Xiaomi TV Stick 2nd Gen to popular alternatives like Walmart’s Onn 4K Plus, Amazon Fire Stick 4K, or Chromecast with Google TV, the competition becomes stiffer. While Xiaomi’s offering comes with 4K support and Dolby features, its internal specs are behind the curve. Most competing products offer similar features—often at lower prices and with more storage or better RAM configurations.
For example, Walmart’s Onn 4K Plus, priced at around $30, offers a similar streaming experience with arguably better value. Xiaomi’s stick might win on design and Google TV integration, but the lower RAM and storage could cause slowdowns when switching apps or navigating the interface. For users who value speed, app flexibility, and long-term performance, this might be a dealbreaker.
Should You Buy the Xiaomi TV Stick 2nd Gen?
If you’re looking for a sleek, affordable device that brings Google TV to your non-smart TV or monitor, the Xiaomi TV Stick 2nd Gen might be a good option—especially in markets where alternatives like Chromecast or Onn aren’t readily available. It provides a modern interface, better content discovery, and good streaming quality for casual viewing. However, if you're expecting a powerhouse device for gaming, heavy multitasking, or long-term storage of apps, the limited specs could leave you frustrated.
It’s also worth noting that Xiaomi doesn’t plan to launch this stick in the U.S. market. It appears to be focused on select international regions, so availability may vary. Overall, while the Xiaomi TV Stick 2nd Gen is a step forward for the company’s streaming efforts, it still has a long way to go to compete with established players. If performance matters more than brand loyalty, you might be better served exploring other options before making a final purchase.
The Xiaomi TV Stick 2nd Gen is a welcome update for Xiaomi fans wanting to experience Google TV, but its hardware limitations might be a dealbreaker for users expecting more than just the basics. If you’re okay with a minimalist setup for streaming Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+, this stick gets the job done. But for the same price—or even less—you can find more powerful devices that offer faster speeds and better storage.
Whether this product becomes a hit or fades into obscurity depends on user expectations. It’s clearly not a top-tier offering, but it fills a niche for affordable, brand-backed streaming. Before buying, weigh your priorities: Google TV support and sleek design, or better overall specs and long-term performance.
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