Question about Xiaomi TV box Mi TV Stick with Android and HDR support

I assume so. However, I haven't used the Xiaomi pen for a long time. Absolutely uncomfortable. Can only be operated via W-LAN Remote control without numeric keypad and slow. Better buy a TV box, e.g. Nokia Streaming Box. Runs more stable.

I can only confirm pucci, either get the 4K model straight away or a different box. Mine even struggles with FullHD material and keeps stalling with Plex. YouTube content in FullHD also freezes again and again, or YT itself reduces the resolution.

Yes, you can absolutely use the Xiaomi Mi TV Stick (or the newer Mi TV Stick 4K) to stream video files you have stored locally on your Android smartphone to the TV - e.g. via VLC or other compatible apps.

Here's in detail how and what you need to know:

1. Compatibility and main functions

The Mi TV Stick is a mini device with full Android TV (not just a Cast receiver).
It offers:

Access to Google Play Store (you can install VLC, Plex, Kodi, YouTube, Netflix, etc.);

Built-in Chromecast support (so you can 'cast' from your phone);

Connection via Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz);

HDR support in 4K models;

Bluetooth remote control with voice commands (Google Assistant).

2. Broadcast local videos with VLC

You have two ways to do this:

Option A: via integrated Chromecast

Open VLC on your Android phone;

Make sure your phone and Mi TV Stick are on the same Wi-Fi network;

Tap the Cast icon 🔘 (top right in VLC);

Select the Mi TV Stick;

Choose the video: it will be played directly on the TV.

This is the easiest mode, no cables required.

Option B: Direct playback via VLC app on Android TV

Install VLC also on the Mi TV Stick (from the internal Play Store);

Share files from your phone to the TV via:

USB stick (if your model supports it via OTG adapter);

DLNA / Wi-Fi server (you can use apps such as 'LocalCast', 'BubbleUPnP' or 'Send Files to TV');

Local network (LAN) if you have a shared folder.

In this way, the Mi TV Stick plays videos without going through your phone.

3. Why it is useful in your case

Since your Smart TV has a weak connection, using the Mi TV Stick is a great alternative:

You connect to a more stable Wi-Fi network (perhaps another band or a repeater);

The Android TV interface is often smoother and more up-to-date than many built-in Smart TVs;

You have full control over codecs, formats and apps.

Tip

If you can, get the Mi TV Stick 4K (2023) - it is much more powerful than the Full HD model:

Faster processor;

Better Wi-Fi (dual band stable);

HDR10, Dolby Atmos, and Chromecast Ultra support.