Turn Any TV Into a Smart TV with the MediaBox Neo Stick: Full Review & Setup Guide
Looking for an affordable and compact way to upgrade your old TV into a smart Android TV? Meet the MediaBox Neo Stick—a certified Android TV stick that fits in your pocket but delivers big on performance.
With support for Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, DSTV Now, and Google Assistant voice control, this tiny device is quickly becoming one of the best streaming solutions under R1,000 in South Africa. The MediaBox Neo Stick is a compact Android TV dongle that plugs directly into your TV’s HDMI port. It turns any compatible display into a Google-certified Smart TV powered by Android 11, with full access to the Google Play Store, Chromecast built-in, and popular streaming services.
What’s in the Box?
- MediaBox Neo Stick
- HDMI extender
- USB Micro to USB-A power cable
- MediaBox voice-controlled remote
- 2 x AAA batteries
- Power adapter
- User manual
Everything you need to get started is included in the package.
Key Features and Specs
Display & Resolution
- 1080p Full HD output at 60fps
- 10-bit color depth via HDMI
Compact Design
- Size: 92 x 30 x 15 mm
- Weight: Only 34g
Connectivity
- Dual-band Wi-Fi 5 (2.4GHz & 5GHz)
- Bluetooth 4.2
- Ports: Micro USB (Power), Full-size HDMI
Hardware & Performance
- Amlogic S805X2 Quad-Core Processor
- 1.5GB DDR RAM
- 8GB internal storage
Google-Certified
- Certified for:
- Netflix
- Amazon Prime Video
- DSTV Now
- YouTube
- Runs official Android TV 11 OS
Smart Features
- Google Assistant voice control
- Chromecast built-in
- Dolby Audio support
How to Set It Up
Setting up the Neo Stick is incredibly simple:
- Plug the Neo Stick into your TV’s HDMI port.
- Power it using either the included USB power adapter or your TV’s USB port (if available).
- Use the HDMI extender if space is tight behind your TV.
- Pair the remote by pressing Home + Back simultaneously.
- Follow the on-screen setup wizard to select your language, connect your Wi-Fi, and link your Google account.
ProTip: If your TV has a USB port, you can power the stick directly from the TV—no need for extra wall power. It will only power on when the TV is switched on, saving energy.
Who Is This For?
The MediaBox Neo Stick is perfect for:
- Students living in res or dorms
- Travelers needing portable streaming
- Minimalists with clutter-free setups
- Landlords or Airbnb hosts adding smart functionality to guest room TVs
- Anyone with an older TV wanting to stream Netflix, YouTube, or DSTV Now without replacing the entire unit
Pricing and Availability
The MediaBox Neo Stick is priced at R999 and is available at:
- Takealot
- MediaBox SA
- Hi-Fi Corp
- Other major electronics retailers
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ultra-portable and lightweight
- Official certifications for major apps including DSTV Now
- Google Assistant voice remote included
- Supports Chromecast and Dolby Audio
- Easy to set up and beginner-friendly
Cons:
- Only 8GB storage, which may limit app installations
- No expandable storage or additional ports
- Requires strong Wi-Fi connection; may struggle with weak signals or signal-blocking walls
Final Verdict: Is the MediaBox Neo Stick Worth It?
If you’re looking for a cheap way to turn your old TV into a modern streaming machine, the MediaBox Neo Stick is a no-brainer. For under R1,000, you’re getting:
- Official app support
- Voice control
- Easy setup
- Compact design
- Smooth performance for everyday streaming
It easily beats most entry-level smart TVs and budget Android boxes, which often lag or fail to support key apps like Netflix and DSTV Now.