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Thomson Box 245: A Budget-Friendly 4K Streaming Box That Rivals Chromecast
Even with the increasing popularity of Smart TVs, the market for standalone TV streaming devices continues to flourish. For years, solutions like Google Chromecast and Amazon Fire TV Stick have dominated this space. However, a new player has entered the arena: Thomson, which recently unveiled its own streaming box offering solid specifications at a highly competitive price.
Can This New Device Outperform the Google Chromecast?
The Thomson Box 245 is designed to transform older televisions into fully functional Smart TVs. This device leverages the versatile Google TV multimedia platform, granting users access to a wide array of popular streaming services, including Netflix, HBO Max, and Disney+.
Typical of most devices in this category, the Thomson Box 245 is primarily controlled via a dedicated remote. A significant convenience feature, however, is its HDMI CEC compatibility, which allows users to control the streaming box using their existing TV remote, simplifying the entertainment experience.
One of the most compelling aspects of the Thomson Box 245 is its capability to play video in stunning 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, complemented by HDR10 support. Interestingly, the device also supports Dolby Atmos audio for an immersive sound experience, though it does not simultaneously support Dolby Vision for picture quality. For those unfamiliar, HDR10 (High Dynamic Range 10) enhances contrast and color depth, while Dolby Atmos delivers multi-dimensional audio that moves around you.
Key Specifications of the Thomson Box 245:
- Processor: Amlogic S905Y5-B chipset
- RAM: 2 GB
- Storage: 32 GB for apps and content
- Video Output: 4K at 60 frames per second with HDR10
- Audio Output: Dolby Atmos support
- Operating System: Google TV
- Estimated Price: Approximately $85-$90 USD (prices may vary by region)
Google Chromecast’s Successor Could Take Notes
Considering the Thomson Box 245’s appealing price point, its main competitors in the TV streaming market, particularly Google, might need to reconsider their pricing strategies. This is evident when looking at the Google TV Streamer 4K, often considered the successor to the popular Chromecast.
When the Mountain View tech giant initially launched the Google TV Streamer 4K, its price was considerably higher, launching at around $180-$190 USD. While approximately 18 months have passed since its release, and its price has now settled to about $115-$120 USD, this figure remains significantly higher than Thomson’s offering. This stark price difference highlights the Thomson Box 245 as a strong value proposition in the competitive streaming device market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Google TV and what content can I access with the Thomson Box 245?
Google TV is a smart TV platform developed by Google, built on Android TV. It aggregates content from various streaming services and apps into a unified, personalized interface. With the Thomson Box 245, you can access popular streaming platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, YouTube, and many more, along with thousands of apps available through the Google Play Store, effectively turning any TV into a modern smart entertainment hub.
What is the difference between HDR10 and Dolby Vision, and why is it important that the Thomson Box 245 supports HDR10 but not Dolby Vision?
HDR (High Dynamic Range) technologies, like HDR10 and Dolby Vision, enhance the contrast, color accuracy, and brightness of video content, making images more vibrant and lifelike. HDR10 is an open standard that uses static metadata, meaning the color and brightness information is set once for the entire movie or show. Dolby Vision, on the other hand, is a proprietary standard that uses dynamic metadata, allowing for scene-by-scene or even frame-by-frame optimization, potentially offering a more refined visual experience. While Dolby Vision is often considered superior, HDR10 still provides a significant improvement over standard dynamic range (SDR) content. The Thomson Box 245’s support for HDR10 ensures users can enjoy high-quality visuals, and its lack of Dolby Vision support is a common trade-off for devices in its price range, as Dolby Vision licensing adds to manufacturing costs.
How does the Thomson Box 245’s storage and RAM compare to other streaming devices on the market, and is 32GB sufficient?
The Thomson Box 245 comes with 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB of internal storage. In comparison to many entry-level streaming sticks which often offer 8 GB or 16 GB of storage, 32 GB is quite generous and provides ample space for a significant number of apps, games, and even some downloaded content. The 2 GB of RAM is standard for smooth navigation and multitasking on the Google TV interface. For most users primarily focused on streaming, this configuration is more than sufficient. However, for power users who download many large games or frequently sideload applications, storage might become a consideration over time, though it generally outperforms many direct competitors in this regard.
Source: FlatpanelsHD. Opening photo: Thomson / Press materials
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