Do you want to watch digital terrestrial channels even on an older TV and be ready for the transition to the DVB T2 standard? Here are the best digital terrestrial decoders to buy and which one to choose according to your needs.
The decoders for digital terrestrial are the appropriate choice for those who want to give new life to an old TV that is no longer able to pick up the signal or no longer reads the Tivùsat card.
Equipping a digital terrestrial decoder is also necessary in view of the switch off which will take place in summer 2022. This is an obligatory transition from the current DVB-T transmission standard to a new generation one, called DVB-T2. Thanks to this evolution we will benefit from a performance improvement.
Without a decoder compatible with this new standard, it will not be possible to see TV in an optimal way, as the different television stations will move to the new frequencies.
Associated with this standard we also find the HEVC ( H.265 ) codec, which concerns the compression of video content and will increase the number of HD channels available.
Below we summarize everything you need to know about digital terrestrial decoders and how to choose the one that best meets your needs.
Types of decoders
On the market there are different types of decoders for digital terrestrial:
Zapper: the basic model, with this decoder it is possible to receive only free-to-air channels, also known as free to air. The obtainable resolution is SD (720 x 576 p) and at the price level, it is the cheapest, with default functions LCN (channel sorting) and EPG (electronic program guide).
Interactive Pay TV: the type of decoder suitable for those who want to use paid services for additional channels (eg: Sky). On the back there is a slot in which the Smart Card relating to the subscription in possession will be inserted.
Interactive HD: The supported resolution goes up to 1920 x 1080p, making the decoder great for those who have a Smart TV and do not want to lose image quality. The price, in this case, increases but the multimedia contents are more pleasant and immersive.
Interactive 4K: this type of decoder is of the latest generation with a supported resolution of 4096 x 3112 for the possibility of receiving both free-to-air channels and paid services via a special Smart Card. The cost is high, but the performances are the best.
How to choose a decoder
In choosing the decoder for digital terrestrial, attention must be paid to several characteristics, first of all, the shape. A device of this type can come in a standard format or a small box that is easy to place on the TV cabinet, or as a block to be connected directly to the TV’s SCART input, or finally as a USB receiver.
The second aspect to consider, depending on your needs and the TV to which we are going to connect it, is the supported resolution. For optimal viewing, we recommend choosing a decoder that supports at least HD channels via a special tuner.
Of course, as seen above, it is practically a must to choose a decoder for digital terrestrial ready to switch off to DVB-T2, which will take place in 2022.
In terms of connectivity, the fundamental ports are HDMI, which allows the use of HD content. , and SCART to connect older TVs as well. If we also want to use the decoder as a multimedia player we will have to make sure that there is a USB port that supports PVR recording and that it is able to play files by connecting a flash drive or hard disk.
In addition to the technical characteristics listed above, there are also additional functions such as the possibility of using tv services for which a smart card slot and Internet connection via WiFi or Ethernet port is required.
Useful services for daily use are Electronic Program Guide (EPG), Timeshift to block the live program and resume it later, parental control, and Teletext.
Finally, some decoders are also able to receive satellite channels, if connected to a satellite dish, but a double tuner is required for this.
The best DVB-T2 digital terrestrial decoders
Let’s now see the ranking of the best digital terrestrial decoders of 2022, from the high-end to the cheapest models.
1. Octagon SF8008
The best DVB-t2 4k digital terrestrial decoder
The Octagon SF8008 is the best 4k decoder for digital terrestrial, it is suitable for those who are looking for a quality device, efficient thanks to the quad core processor, which supports channels in 4K UHD and is also equipped with two integrated tuners (DVB-S2x and DVB-C / T2), this is the best digital terrestrial decoder of all.
In gold-colored edition with an attractive design, it is suitable for those who want the TV corner to have a modern and minimal look. Octagon SF8008 is a great choice of DVB-T2 decoder for those who own a 2160p resolution TV with HDR and HLG support and don’t want to give up picture quality. Furthermore, it can also be used as a multimedia player and to record your favorite programs on USB or Hard Disk.
The WiFi antennas, if not used, cannot be removed except by disassembling the device. There is no SCART socket, but we can connect it to the TV via HDMI cableand enjoy better transmission quality. Finally, the decoder is highly customizable by installing plug-ins for the use of apps such as Kodi and Youtube.
Pros
Two integrated tuners
Support UHD resolution
Internet access
Cons
Fixed Wi-Fi antennas
SCART socket absent
2. Digiquest Q90
Free and pay professional digital terrestrial decoder
The Digiquest Q90 model is one of the best DVB-T2 decoders for Smart TV , which allows viewing of channels in HD and 4K from both terrestrial and satellite.
On the back we find the HDMI port to connect our TV, the optical digital audio output, the mini-jack AV output, a USB 3.0 port and a USB 2.0 port, the LAN socket, the connection to digital terrestrial and two SAT sockets. (in and out). On the side of the decoder there are two smart card readers to also have access to paid channels such as Sky or Mediaset Premium.
In addition to accessing digital and satellite signals, this decoder is also useful as a TV program recorder. Two channels can be recorded simultaneously, obviously only from one of the signals (terrestrial or sat), while watching a third channel simultaneously.
Also good is the Time Shift function that allows you to pause a live broadcast and resume it later, useful for sporting events for example.
Pros
Internet access
Slot for tivùsat and smart card
High Definition
Cons
SCART absent
Not exactly snappy menu
3. GT MEDIA V7 Pro
The best HD digital terrestrial and satellite decoder
The best combo decoder is the GT MEDIA V7 Pro, which has a good value for money, and which allows you to see both satellite and digital terrestrial channels. Fully compatible with the switch off which will take place in 2022.
The decoder is small, compact, and takes up little space. Since a SCART socket is not available, to connect the decoder to the television we will have to use an HDMI cable. other inputs available are the two USB ports, through which we can also record our favorite programs with PVR function, two inputs for TV and satellite antenna, and the CAM slot to take advantage of subscription services.
Thanks to the included WiFi key we will also have access to the Internet and we can use Youtube directly from the decoder. The configuration procedures are a bit cumbersome, but just follow the instructions to have an efficient and ready-to-use device with a quick and precise channel scan.
Pros
Receiver with double tuner
Internet access via USB stick
Compatible with Tivusat card
Cons
Cumbersome setup
SCART socket absent
4. Digiquest Twin Tuner Rec
The best DVB t2 digital terrestrial decoder to record
The Digiquest Twin Tuner Rec is the best DVB T2 Full HD decoder with video recorder functionality, a model with a maximum resolution of 1080p, and also ideal to take while traveling to watch your favorite programs.
Thanks to the 12V power supply it is possible to connect it in the boat and in the camper, while by inserting a key or a hard disk in the appropriate USB input we will be able to play films, images, videos, and music.
As for the PVR function, which is equipped with a double tuner we can also record two channels at the same time. Other very useful functions are Timeshift, pause live programs, and compatibility with Dolby Digital audio encoding for surround effect.
Some functions such as using the remote control numeric keypad and accessing the Channel Guide will be disabled during registration. Also, the model has the Ethernet port but not the built-in WiFi.
Pros
Double recording tuner
Great to take on the go
Connection to TV with SCART or HDMI
Cons
It does not have the WiFi module
Some functions are not available during recording
5. Cobra Multi-Media
Full HD digital terrestrial decoder
The Cobra Multi-Media is one of the best TV decoders, optimized to support the new standard. It comes in a small and space-saving format and is suitable for those looking for both a digital decoder and a media player to play movies and multimedia content of different formats (such as .avi, .mkv, .mov). It stores up to 999 TV and radio channels and allows you to create 4 thematic lists in order to find your favorites more easily. Internet access is available via the Ethernet port and the device can be connected to the TV via the SCART socket or HDMI cable (included). Furthermore, with Internet access, we will also be able to use Youtube directly from the decoder.
With the USB port, on the other hand, we can both use it as a multimedia player to watch video content and to record programs and TV series with the PVR function. However, while recording, you will not be able to watch other channels. There is also the timer to program the start of recording and the Timeshift function to pause a live program.
The remote control of the decoder is large but has the self-learning function in order to manage the TV using only one device.
Pros
Full HD resolution supported
Access to Youtube via an Internet connection
Self-learning remote control
Cons
It is not possible to switch channels while recording
Wi-Fi module absent
6. Strom 506
The best quality/price digital terrestrial decoder
The Strom 506 model is one of the best latest generation decoders for digital terrestrial. With an excellent quality/price ratio, it is perfect to be taken on the road thanks to the 12V power supply and can be connected to the TV via both SCART and HDMI ports. The device is ready to support the switch off to DVB-T2 with HEVC H.265 standard for high-efficiency video conduction. The materials with which it is built are of good quality and allow to eliminate the problem of overheating, working with low energy consumption. In front, next to the timetable, we also find a USB port with a capacity of up to 500 GB, perfect for recording our favorite TV show that we want to see at another time or to watch the contents downloaded on a stick or hard disk. Also on the front of the decoder, we find three physical buttons to change the channel or turn it off even without the remote control.
Not having a dual tuner, it is not possible to watch a channel while recording. Also, there is no Ethernet port to connect to the Internet.
Pros
Can also be connected to a camper or boat
Good build quality
Can also be used as a multimedia player
Cons
Missing Ethernet port
It does not have a double tuner for recording
7. AVerMedia TD310
The best USB digital terrestrial receiver for PC
A great solution for frequent travelers who want to watch TV channels on a PC is the AVerMedia TD310 USB receiver. It supports DVB-T, DVB-T2, and DVB-C signals and has a wide range of reception for smooth and clear viewing.
With a weight of only 14 g, it comes in pocket format and with an intuitive interface for initial setup. The maximum resolution is 1080p (Full HD) and thanks to the 3D mode we will be able to transform the live channels from 2D to 3D for a more immersive vision and color enhancement.
Furthermore, it will be possible to record, even in a programmed way, our favorite programs in MP4 format to then watch them on a smartphone or tablet as soon as we have more time.
Pros
Full HD resolution
It connects to the PC via a USB port
Record in MP4 format
Cons
Not suitable for TV
8. Digiquest DGQ990 HD
Digital terrestrial receiver with Wi-Fi support
In the economic range, the Digiquest DGQ990 HD is one of the best receivers for digital terrestrial, suitable for changing the coding of DVB-T2 channels, with Full HD resolution, small and easy to take on the go.
Equipped with 12V power input, it can also be connected to a camper or boat. It also has an Ethernet port and dual remote control, one to use for configuration and one for daily use with larger, more intuitive keys. Furthermore, via a USB dongle we will be able to connect it to the Internet via WiFi.
It can be used as a media player to watch movies or images downloaded to a USB stick or external hard disk, or to record programs with the PVR function. On the back we find a SCART socket to connect it to older TVs and HDMI output to see the contents at a higher quality.
Pros
Full HD resolution
Double remote control
Ethernet port and Wi-Fi module
Cons
It has no CAM slot
9. Diprogress DPT201HD
Full HD digital terrestrial decoder
Among the best digital terrestrial decoders of 2022, we also find the Diprogress DPT201HD, an excellent choice for those who want to see channels in Full HD resolution and be ready for the new DVB-T2 transmission standard. The device possesses a good transmission speed and also acts as a media player. On the back, we find the entrance for the antenna, coaxial cable to improve the fluidity of the TV channels, Ethernet port to update the decoder, HDMI to see the contents in high definition, and SCART socket to connect an otherwise obsolete TV. Through the USB port, we will be able to insert a key and play videos, photos, and audio tracks in multiple formats
including MKV, AVI, MP4, MP3, JPEG, and BMP.
Additional functions include the electronic program guide for the next 7 days, automatic or manual channel search, and automatic sorting. Furthermore, with the LAN connection, we will have access to some Web Apps such as the Weather and Maps service.
Pros
Full HD resolution
Ethernet port
Several multimedia formats supported
Access to some Web Apps only
Cons
Unintuitive interface
10. Diprogress decoder Dvb-T2 Hevc H265
DVB T2 HEVC decoder to take on the go
The Diprogress DPT201HD is an economic digital terrestrial decoder or, to be connected to an older TV via SCART socket. It complies with the new HEVC H.265 standard and is designed to support the switch off to DVB-T2 with a viewing of the channels in HD resolution.
Other connectivity options available are the HDMI output for connecting the latest TVs and the USB port that will work both for multimedia playback via the connection of a key or hard disk, and for recording programs and TV series.
When not in use, the time will be displayed on the decoder. Having the 12V power supply available is convenient to take on the road. Furthermore, through the universal remote control and the 4 self-learning keys, we will be able to use the decoder and TV commands in a simple and intuitive way.
The Ethernet port on the back can be used to update the decoder, while it is not possible to use the Wi-Fi to access the Internet.
Pros
Channels in HD
Connectable to TV via SCART or HDMI socket
12V power supply
Cons
It does not support Wi-Fi
11. VMade K7
The best mini digital terrestrial decoder
The best mini decoder for digital terrestrial is the VMade K7, suitable for connection via SCART socket. It supports Full HD resolution, adapts to the new DVB-T2 standard, and also works as a media player.
Suitable for those who own an older generation TV without integrated digital and want to give it new life to avoid replacing it. To use it, simply connect the antenna cable and the small device directly to the TV’s SCART socket. The latter can be rotated up to 180 ° so that you can position it to take up as little space as possible.
By connecting a Wi-Fi pen drive to the USB port, we can also take advantage of Youtube to watch videos directly from the decoder. Among other functions, we have the PVR recording of TV programs and Timeshift to pause the live movie you are watching and resume it later.
Pros
Full HD resolution
It connects directly to the SCART socket
PVR and Timeshift function
Cons
Cumbersome setup
12. Edison Picco T265
The best budget DVB t2 decoder
If you are looking for the best DVB T2 economic or digital terrestrial decoder, the Edison Picco T265 is compatible with the new standard and will show you the channels in HD resolution.
If we want to use the decoder also as a multimedia player, we can insert a key or a hard disk with video, photos or simple audio tracks inside. If, on the other hand, we need to register a channel that interests us particularly we can do it through the PVR function.
Another way to take advantage of the USB port is to insert a Wi-Fi stick, with which we will have access to apps such as Youtube, Weather Forecast, and RSS News.
The other ports available on the back are HDMI for high definition audio/video, SCART for older generation TVs, and S / PDIF for connecting audio devices. The universal remote control will also allow us to use a single device for both the receiver and the TV, using 4 freely programmable keys.
Pros
Access to Web Apps via Wi-Fi key
2 in 1 universal remote control
Economical price
One USB input
Cons
There is no Ethernet port