![25 Best Android TV Boxes For 2020 [… And We Tested Them All]](https://cdn.statically.io/img/androidpcreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/The-Best-Android-TV-Box.png?quality=80&f=auto)
![25 Best Android TV Boxes For 2020 [… And We Tested Them All]](https://cdn-0.androidpcreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/The-Best-Android-TV-Box.png)
Updated June 2020
OK, you have decided that you want a TV box and you have decided that Android is the operating system for you. Now, all you have to do is pick the device. Simple, right?
When you start searching, you will find that there are hundreds of different Android TV boxes available, all with different specifications. How do you know which is right for you?
Well, I have reviewed 25 of the best Android TV boxes on the market to help you choose. I’ve recommended which box is best for which purpose, so you can find the perfect Android TV option to suit you.
Quick Look At Our Top Pick:
Editor’s Choice
SkyStream Android TV Box
The powerful, super easy to use Android box SkyStream Three is our top choice.
FEATURES
- 4K Ultra HD Streams
- Voice Controlled remote
- Excellent customer support
- 30 Day money back guarantee
Best Android TV Boxes
- Best Android TV Box Overall: Skystream Three
- Best Android TV Box Runner Up: Pendoo T95 Android 10.0 TV Box
- Best Android TV Box For Gamers: NVIDIA Shield TV
- Best Android TV Box For Easy Set-Up: NVIDIA Shield Android TV 4K
- Best Android TV Box By Amazon
- Best Lightweight Android TV Box: Fire TV Stick 4K
- Best Android TV Box for Storage: Greatlizard TX6 Android 9.0 Smart TV Box
| #1 Skystream Three
|
|
|
|
| #2 Pendoo T95 Android 10.0 TV Box
|
|
Shop Now |
|
| #3 NVIDIA Shield TV
|
|
|
|
| #4 NVIDIA Shield Android TV 4K HDR Streaming Media Player
|
|
|
If you’re buying your first streaming media player, I created a perfect starting point to learn more about TV boxes. Or, look here if you’re just looking for a good, cheap Android TV box.
Won’t Any Device Work?
Let me be clear about something: The best streaming media player depends on what streaming services you want to use.
If you’re going to be using it solely as a Kodi box, then the field is open, and you have your choice of TV boxes. But…if you’re planning on streaming a good portion of your content through Netflix or Amazon Prime, then you’re going to be limited.
Netflix only has a short list of devices that can stream in 4K.
Why? That’s a good question.
The short answer is that there are DRM (Digital Rights Management) services that will limit who can see specific content to those devices that run those services.
Think about it this way: Would you rather watch a crappy camcorder version of the latest movie or go see it in the theatre? Sure, the cam version is cheaper (i.e., free), but you’re missing out on the experience.
For Android media players, you need Netflix Approval and a Google Widevine Level 1 licence to play back DRM 1080p or 4K video streams. For HBO Now, you’ll need a Microsoft Playready licence as well.
Without the right hardware, you’ll never get better than Standard Definition (SD) resolution with those streaming services.
What Should I Look For?
There are some “must-have” features you should be looking for in your next Android TV box, so I’ve made this list with those in mind.
Note: If you’re wondering, What is an Android TV box?” click on the link to find out. Each of the devices I recommend will have a list of which features it supports and which ones it doesn’t. Think of it like your own personal shopping checklist.
- 5.1 Audio Passthrough
- H.265 Hardware Decoding
- Android 6.0 Marshmallow (or higher)
- Dynamic Refresh Rate Switching
- OTA Firmware Updates
- HDMI 2.0
- USB 3.0
- Dual-Band Wi-Fi andor Gigabit Ethernet
- The latest version of Kodi
Not every device on this list will have all of these features. That would make things way too easy. But, the way I’ve set this up, you can decide for yourself which of these features is important to you, and which you can skip this time around.
If you’re just starting out and want to get more information before you choose which TV box to buy, I’d suggest reading “Getting started with TV boxes.”
1. Skystream Three – Best Overall
Skystream is back again with the SkyStreamThree and this time they’ve doubled down on their success.
OK…sorry for the bad pun. I can’t resist.
In all seriousness though, Skystream took what made the Skystream Two a killer Android TV box and doubled it.
The processor has been upgraded to the Amlogic S905x2 octa-core CPU – double the cores from the One. The regular version has 2 gigs of RAM and 16 gigs of storage; if you opt for the “plus” version, you can upgrade to 4 gigs of RAM.
System memory hasn’t quite been doubled, but it has definitely been given a big boost. There’s now 3 GB of memory, up from 2 GB. And now DDR4 memory, which has the edge in performance over the older DDR3 in most TV boxes.
There’s also a slick new custom interface that is more modern than the brightly colored interface from their older boxes. You’ll still find most of the large icons where you’d expect them to be, but they don’t jump out at you as much as they used to.
What really gets me excited is the extra features they’ve crammed into the Skystream Three.
They’ve integrated Google Voice Search into the media center, so you can search for whatever you want to watch instead of typing it out on the on-screen keyboard. With Google Assistant, “OK Google” is always available to answer questions.
Also new on the Skystream Three is Widevine certification. It’s one of the main requirements for getting Netflix, YouTube, Amazon, and Hulu in HD quality.
What to love: Looking at the specs, there’s a lot to love. More memory. More CPU power. More storage. Pair that with the famous Skystream support network, and we’ve got a great TV box.
What’s missing: Still missing USB 3.0, which will really hurt transfer speeds from external hard drives. There’s also an increase in price to go along with the increases in memory, storage, and CPU.
CHECKLIST:
- 5.1 Audio Passthrough
- H.265 Hardware Decoding
- Android 7.1 Nougat
- Dynamic Refresh Rate Switching
- OTA Firmware Updates
- HDMI 2.0
- Dual-Band Wi-Fi and/or Gigabit Ethernet
- The latest version of Kodi
Find the best price on the Skystream Three directly from Skystream.com.
2. Pendoo T95 Android 10.0 TV Box – Runner Up
Brand new for 2020, Pendoo’s T95 TV Box makes the most of Android 10.0 OS. Outstanding compatibility with games, apps, and software combines with user-friendliness, making this TV box one that’s sure to gain plenty of fans.
What to love: Pendoo has done a great job of eliminating some of the issues seen in earlier products – annoying problems with buffering and freezing are distant memories.
This 10.0 Android TV box supports both 4K and 6K Ultra HD resolution, vastly improving picture quality. Whether you’re gaming, watching a movie, or cheering on your favorite team, you’ll notice tons of stunning details and richer colors than ever before.
Like many others that made it onto our list of the best Android TV boxes, this model offers convenient plug and play features, so you can dive right into your next binge-watching session. The remote control features a button that takes you straight to apps, and setup is super simple.
What’s missing: While Kodi fans will appreciate the fact that this box comes with the latest version of Kodi (v18.5) pre-installed, there are no pre-loaded add-ons. Don’t hate Pendoo for this, though; they’re only following regulations.
If Bluetooth compatibility is on your list of must-haves, we’re sorry to report that this unit doesn’t have it, meaning that it probably isn’t the right TV box for you.
Last but not least, make sure you have some AAA batteries on hand if you decide to go for this model. You’ll need to put two of them into the remote before you get started. On a happier note, an HDMI cable is supplied.
CHECKLIST:
- 4G RAM
- 32 GB Storage space
- SD card slot and USB ports
- Android 10.0
- 6K/3D video
3. NVIDIA Shield TV – Best For Gamers
Honestly, this isn’t even a fair fight.
NVIDIA, the graphics powerhouse behind most of the world’s top performing PC gaming systems, stormed on to the scene in May 2015 with the NVIDIA Shield Android TV console. Unlike the Razer Forge TV, which never really caught on, the Shield has a devoted following of Kodi enthusiasts, developers, and casual gamers that have made it extremely popular.
Now redesigned for 2020, the Shield TV is aimed at the user who wants more power and storage from their streaming device than a Roku or Fire TV can give but need what the super high-end streaming devices like the Cyrus Stream Xa or Naim ND5 Xs offer. It has the high-end Tegra X1 CPU, 3GB of RAM, and a graphic processor with a whopping 256 cores!
The Shield user interface is one of the slickest I’ve seen. Google’s official Android TV interface runs on top of Android 8.0 Oreo – the only device on this list to use the latest version of Android.
What to love: The Shield TV checks most of the items on our checklist. It is also one of the few devices to have 4K Netflix, Amazon Prime, and YouTube streaming. Both the controller and remote fit comfortably in your hands and both include NVIDIA’s voice search using Google Now. As one of Kodi’s Diamond Sponsors, NVIDIA has the support of Team Kodi, so you can be sure that the latest versions of Kodi will work the way they’re supposed to.
What’s missing: Not much now that Amazon Prime Video has joined the party. It’s worth noting that while it has 5.1 and 7.1 audio passthrough, there are some issues getting HD audio passthrough to work within Kodi at the time of this writing. Other services do not have this issue.
CHECKLIST:
- 5.1 Audio Passthrough
- H.265 Hardware Decoding
- Android 8 Oreo
- Dynamic Refresh Rate Switching
- OTA Firmware Updates
- HDMI 2.0
- USB 3.0
- Dual-Band Wi-Fi and/or Gigabit Ethernet
- The latest version of Kodi
The NVIDIA Shield isn’t cheap, but you definitely get what you pay for. It’s not quite the perfect streaming device, but it’s as close as you can get at this point. The 16 GB version lists at $179, while the 500 GB model will set you back $299.
4. NVIDIA Shield Android TV 4K HDR Streaming Media Player – Best TV Box For “Easy Setup”
NVIDIA have made quite a name for themselves and we’re happy to see that they’re expanding their product line. Just like NVIDIA Shield TV, this streaming media player offers outstanding performance. It’s a bit less robust (which explains the far lower price point), but for most people, it’s a fantastic little piece of tech that’s sure to make accessing entertainment far more convenient.
Google Assistant voice control is built in, but if you’d like to use Google Home, Echo, or Alexa, you can easily make the connection and use your voice to navigate, ask questions about topics such as weather and sports, and much more.
What to love: Just like its predecessors, this NVIDIA Shield streaming device is super-fast, minimizing worries over the lagging that can sometimes plague slower options. We have the NVIDIA Tegra X1+ Processor to thank for the powerful performance it puts on.
Those who enjoy movies and action-packed TV shows (isn’t that everyone?) are in for a real treat. The NVIDIA Shield Android TV 4K streaming media player brings authentic theatre experiences into your home, courtesy of Dolby Atmos surround sound and Dolby Vision HDR. Yes, you’ll need quality hardware to make all that magic happen!
If you’re tight on space, you’re going to love the way this little device fits right into your entertainment center. Despite offering plenty of power and speed, it’s easy to hide in an inconspicuous place.
Like other options that made their way onto our list of the best Android TV boxes, this little powerhouse brings content from all the major players front and center. You’ll be able to watch Netflix, Vudu, Amazon Video, and Disney+ in 4K HDR.
YouTube, Google Play Movies & TV, Hulu Live, and other options stream in 4K. Speaking of streaming, you can connect your phone and stream with NVIDIA’s built-in Chromecast 4K.
Gamers, heads up. This Android TV box connects with game controllers, so you can use GeForce NOW to play your favorite games without adding even more equipment to your entertainment center.
What’s missing: If you’re a fan of old-school downloading, you’ll be disappointed. While you can use Puffin with this NVIDIA TV box, Puffin no longer offers downloading. Additionally, there is no browser. Yes, you can browse with your phone or tablet while you watch a movie, but those who love to browse on the big screen will want to keep on looking.
There’s no access to the app store, either. While this might not matter to people who want a simple point and click entertainment solution, it is a dealbreaker for some.
Last but not least, only 32-bit applications are supported, leaving an entire world of 64-bit apps inaccessible to those who want them. Again, this isn’t a dealbreaker for people who want TV, movies, sports, awesome sound, and great visuals, but it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re looking for a way to enjoy every game and app under the sun.
CHECKLIST:
- NVIDIA Tegra X1+ Processor
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Dual-band AC Wi-Fi
- Built-in power supply
- microSD card slot for expanded storage
- Customizable remote with voice control, Bluetooth, IR control for TV, and lost remote locator
5. Fire TV Cube With Alexa – Best For Alexa
Amazon Fire TV is an operating system built on top of the Android TV operating system in order to give a unique environment for Amazon. So, it is an Android TV device with some bespoke additions and restrictions.
If you are considering investing in a TV box, and you also quite fancy an Alexa speaker for sending things to your shopping list and controlling all your smart devices with voice command, then get the Fire Cube.
It is a top-quality 4K media streamer, but also a fully-fledged Alexa speaker. Dim the lights, check the weather, and search for your favorite TV programs, all without raising a finger. The Cube also comes with the Amazon remote, so you can use that as well. Of course, with all these Amazon goodies included, you can expect the home screen and navigation to be skewed towards Amazon content.
The Cube offers excellent 4K Ultra HD streaming, using Dolby Vision and HDR10+ with no delays. Unlike the 4K Fire Stick, it comes with an ethernet adapter included, so you can get maximum bandwidth and your Cube will process quickly with hexa-core.
It also delivers some of the best 4K SDR playback of any device on the market. Plus, it does YouTube better than most streaming boxes, with its own native act. While that might seem trivial, it is a big step forward as YouTube was unavailable on Fire products for a period of time.
The Cube only has 16 GB of internal storage, rather than the 32 GB you see with some devices, but this is more than enough for most users. It also doesn’t have a MicroSD slot, despite the pretty hefty size of the cube.
Considering the Cube is also an Alexa speaker, the $100 price tag isn’t bad. But it strangely doesn’t come with an HDMI cable included, so bear that in mind. But if you want to get a streaming box and a smart speaker in one, you won’t find a better option than the Cube.
What we love: We love that this is a fully-fledged Alexa speaker, so it is like getting two pieces of amazing tech in one. We are also impressed by the lightning fast speeds and the quality of the 4K playback.
What’s missing: This machine could have had more storage, and there is also no MicroSD card slot to easily expand the storage. Plus, as you would expect with an Amazon player, the launcher is always skewed towards Amazon products.
CHECKLIST:
- 5.1 Audio Passthrough
- H.265 Hardware Decoding
- Dynamic Refresh Rate Switching
- OTA Firmware Updates
- HDMI 2.0
- Dual-Band Wi-Fi and/or Gigabit Ethernet
6. Fire TV Stick 4K – Best Lightweight Device
If what you are looking for is something lightweight and easy to use to get your favorite apps and streaming services on your TV, then look no further than the Fire TV Stick 4K. The most basic Amazon Fire TV option on the market can deliver 4K, and it is affordable and unobtrusive.
This tiny dongle is capable of delivering stunning 4K Ultra HD up to 60 frames per second. It is all delivered in exceptional clarity through Dolby Vision, HDR 10, HLG, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos audio. It manages to deliver all this pretty quickly with its quad-core, and there is space to download all your favorite apps with 8 GB of storage.
However, it can be hard to stream top-quality 4K over WiFi, so this often requires an ethernet connection. For this, the Fire Stick needs an Amazon Ethernet Adapter, which does need to be purchased separately.
This option will appeal more to users who are Amazon inclined. As expected, their content is highlighted in the player’s interface, and it integrates with other Amazon products, such as Alexa, which can let you control all your smart devices. It comes with an Amazon remote, which is worth $30 on its own, making this a very high-value product.
This is a great product if you are looking for something lightweight and unobtrusive. But there are more powerful Amazon Fire options, which may tempt some users.
What we love: We love that this option delivers 4K Ultra HD at a highly affordable price tag. We also love the discreet design, which is barely visible as part of your entertainment settlement and that in comes with the Amazon remote included.
What’s missing: We were disappointed to see that the ethernet port needed to get the kind of streaming speeds needed for 4K is not included. Plus, there is no escaping that this option simply isn’t as powerful as other Amazon TV products. And there is the ongoing issue that the interface will always push you towards Amazon options.
CHECKLIST
- 5.1 Audio Passthrough
- H.265 Hardware Decoding
- Dynamic Refresh Rate Switching
- OTA Firmware Updates
- HDMI 2.0
- Dual-Band Wi-Fi and/or Gigabit Ethernet
7. Greatlizard TX6 Android 9.0 Smart TV Box – Best For Storage
Android 8.1, a newly updated Amlogic S905X2 quad-core, and the ability to support recording make the Dolamee X2 A95XMax TV box a great choice.
This box has plenty of speed and memory – 4GB RAM and 64GB ROM mean you’ll never run out of space. It’s one of a few we’ve found that supports 5G WiFi, so if 5G is available in your community or coming soon, this box is all ready to go.
Pricewise, this box is a little spendy but considering all the upgrades, it’s definitely worth the extra money. 4K and the ability to record make this a great choice.
What to love: Not only does this TV box have USB 3.0, it also offers Bluetooth 5.0, so however you transfer data, it happens quickly.
The hard drive is big, plus it’s expandable. You can add up to a 2TB 2.5” notebook-sized SSD/HDD if you like, without worries about freezing or buffering. If you expand, make sure you format the SSD/HDD before you add it to the TV Box.
What’s missing: Like a lot of TV boxes, this one has a low-end remote and the user manual isn’t that great, either. Kodi is installed but you’ll want to update to the newest version. Overall, this box does not disappoint.
CHECKLIST:
- 1 Audio Passthrough
- 265 Hardware Decoding
- Android 6.0 Marshmallow (or higher)
- Dynamic Refresh Rate Switching
- OTA Firmware Updates
- HDMI 2.0
- USB 3.0
- Dual-Band Wi-Fi andor Gigabit Ethernet
- The latest version of Kodi
Additional TV Boxes We Have Reviewed
8. Pendoo TX6 Android TV Box
Pendoo TX6 is a high-performance Android TV box that comes with OS 9.0, which is more stable. It offers unique functionalities with customization options to enhance the user experience. The Dual Wi-Fi and external antenna ensures you enjoy improved connectivity for seamless HD video streaming.
Features
- Android OS 9.0 with 64-bit CPU
- 4GB RAM, 32GB ROM, and TF card support
- Dual Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz) with an adjustable antenna
- 3D, 4K, H.265, and VP9 decoding
9. Yagala Android 9.0 TV Box T95Z PLUS
Plenty of storage space means lots of room for apps, games, movies, and more – and a powerful Android 9.0 OS makes for a pleasant viewing experience with no more slow downloads or endless buffering. In addition to an HDMI cable and a remote, this affordable Android TV box comes with a backlit wireless keyboard equipped with a touchpad mouse.
Features
- Android 9.0 OS
- Amlogic S950X3 CPU
- ARM G31 MP2 GPU
- 32GB EMMC Flash
- 4GB RAM
- Supports 2.4 and 5G WiFi
- 2 high-speed USB ports
10. NinkBox N1 Max TV Box
NinkBox N1 Max is another fantastic Android TV box that assures users of online gaming and movie streaming without lagging. The H.265 decoding technology improves video streaming, ensuring you enjoy compressed, smooth-running videos. With its 2.4GHz/5GHz Wi-Fi, as well as Bluetooth 4.0, users are assured of a fast and stable wireless connection for using other compatible devices.
Features
- Dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0
- 3D, 4K, and H.265 decoding technology
- Android 9.0 with 4 GB RAM and 64 GB ROM
PRICE: $69.99
11. NVIDIA Shield Android TV 4K HDR Streaming Media Player –
Equipped with a Tegra X1+ processor, this is one of the fastest Android media players on the market. But it doesn’t just deliver speed; it also delivers the best sound and visuals with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision HDR. If you have the bandwidth, it feels like there is no limit to the quality this machine can deliver in HD or 4K. The weakest thing about this product is probably the remote, which can be a bit touchy, and behave differently with different apps.
Features:
- Tegra X1+ Processors
- Android 8.0 Oreo
- 16 GB Storage
- 2.⅘ GHz WiFi
- USB 3.0
- Dolby Atmos Sound and Dolby Vision HDR
12. DOOK Android 9.0 TV Box
If you are looking for a streaming box that also gives you a lot of space to store your own content, then look no further than the DOOK, which offers a huge 128 GB of ROM storage, plus USB 3.0 for superfast content transfer and 1000M ethernet for the fastest possible streaming. This box can stream the best quality content, with 8K, 4K, and H.265, all processed by a 64-bit quad-core. It can also play 8K at 4K to make it compatible with your set.
And you have lots of options when it comes to controlling your device: use the remote, your tablet, smartphone, games controller, or mouse. You can also link up headsets or speakers to listen to your finds the way you like. It is highly adaptable and compatible.
Features:
- Android 9.0
- H6 Quad-core cortex-A53
- 128 GB STorage
- USB 3.0
13. Pendoo X10 MAX Android TV Box
The X10 MAX is a smart TV box that features the latest Android 9.0 operating system running on a quad-core 64-bit CPU with faster running speed. Users do not have to worry about memory space as it offers a 4 GB RAM and 64 GB ROM, as well as a TF card and USB ports for storage expansion. It comes with dual Wi-Fi, RJ-45 Ethernet (100Mbps), and Bluetooth 4.2 for improved data or file transfer.
Features
- Android 9.0 with quad-core 64-bit CPU
- TF card and USB 3.0 ports for memory expansion
- Dual Wi-Fi, RJ-45 Ethernet (100Mbps), and Bluetooth 4.2
PRICE: $68.99
14. EVER EXPRESS X88 PRO TV Box
EVER EXPRESS X88 offers improved efficiency with the updated Android 9.0 OS, allowing users to enjoy compatibility with several apps and games. It comes with 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of ROM that are capable of handling its memory requirements. Equipped with dual Wi-Fi and 10/100Mbps Ethernet, users will continue to enjoy high-quality videos.
Features
- 2 GB RAM, 16 GB ROM, and USB 3.0
- Supports 4K, as well as multiple audio and video formats
- Dual Wi-Fi with 10/100Mbps Ethernet
PRICE: $31.99
15. EASYTONE TV Box
The EASYTONE smart TV box features the Android 7.1 operating system and 3D GPU that can be used for streaming 4K videos for enhanced entertainment. With H.265 & VP9 decoding support, you can watch your favorite movies in multiple formats. The built-in 1 GB of RAM and 8 GB of ROM provides you with enough memory for an enchanting experience.
Features
- Android 7.1 with a quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 CPU (up to 2GHz)
- H.265 & VP9 decoding support
- Built-in 1GB RAM and 8GB
PRICE: $25.99
16. Q Plus Android 9.0 TV Box
An Android 9.0 TV Box under $50? It’s possible! The Q Plus Android 9.0 TV Box features an H6 quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 CPU for faster performance and compatibility with the apps and games you like most. This TV box supports 3D and 6K, so HD entertainment is more exciting than ever. Note that it doesn’t support 5G WiFi – only 2.4G is supported. An HDMI cable, remote, and US power charger adapter are included.
Features
- Android 9.0 OS
- H6 Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 CPU
- Mali-T720MP2 GPU
- 32GB Flash
- 4GB SDRAM
17. SUPVIN X96 Max Android TV Box
SUPVIN X96 Max is the ideal machine for individuals who want to enjoy the perfect video streaming experience. It runs the Android 9.0 OS and is equipped with 4 GB DDR4 RAM, as well as a 32 GB of ROM to ensure your apps and games run smoothly without crashing. With its Davlin MP2 GPU and 64-bit quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU, your 4K videos would play smoothly without freezing.
Features
- Android 9.0, Davlin MP2 GPU, and 64-bit quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU
- 4 GB DDR4 RAM and 32 GB ROM
- 3D, 4K, and H.265 video decoding technology
- 2T2R 2.4GHz/5GHz Dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.1
PRICE: $57.99
18. Bqeel TV Box
Bqeel TV box sports the latest Android 9.0 system with an enhanced user interface and compatibility with several games and applications. Users will be ecstatic with this Bqeel if they want to pair the machine with other devices like the mouse, keyboard, and game controllers. Its storage space is expandable up to 128 GB through a mini SD card slot for those that have exhausted the built-in 32 GB ROM.
Features
- Android 9.0 and 64-bit quad-core ARM Cortex A55 CPU
- Ultra HD resolution, with HDR10 and H.265 video decoding technology
- 4 GB RAM and 32 GB ROM with dual Wi-Fi
PRICE: $69.99
19. Mi Box S
This Android box from Xiaomi runs on Android 8.1 OS, giving you access to several apps and premium video services at your convenience. It supports Chromecast and Google Assistant, allowing you to stream new content from the device using voice commands. The Mi Box S comes with 2 GB of RAM, 8 GB of ROM, Mali-450 GPU, and a 64-bit Cortex-A53 quad-core CPU.
Features
- Supports 4K, as well as multiple audio and video formats
- Android 8.1, 2 GB RAM, 8 GB ROM, Mali-450 GPU, and a 64-bit Cortex-A53 quad-core CPU
- Chromecast and Google Assistant support
PRICE: $49.99
20. Pendoo Android 10.0 TV Box
If you are looking to upgrade your streaming box, and you want the most up-to-date operating system on a budget, then the Pendoo Android 10.0 will tick all your boxes. The quad-core maximizes processing efficiency. It also supports 4K/6K HD resolution, HDR 10+, and H265 decoding technology for the best possible picture quality. The box comes with all the latest tech, including USB 3.0 for quick transfer and a TF card memory expansion slot if you want to add to the 32 GB of memory that it comes included with.
Features:
- Android 10.0
- Quad-core processor
- 4K/6L HD resolution
- USB 3.0
- 32 GB Storage
21. TUREWELL Android 10.0 TV Box
New for 2020 and at a surprisingly affordable price, the TUREWELL Android 10.0 TV box features Allwinner H3 quad-core for fast processing and outstanding efficiency. This user-friendly model offers easy plug and play features – simply connect and enjoy. There’s plenty of storage space for your apps, movies, and games, too.
Features
- Android 10.0 OS
- 2 GB DDR3 RAM
- 16 GB EMMC Flash storage
- 2 USB
- Supports 3D & 4K HD viewing
22. T9 Android 9.0 TV Box
Apps, games, and movies? You bet. The T9 Android 9.0 TV box delivers the entertainment of your choice with speed and efficiency thanks to an RK3318 quad-core CPU, dual WiFi, and the option to add an extra TF card for even more storage. 4K resolution plus 3D make for an improved home theatre experience whether you’re watching sports or chilling with some Netflix. An HDMI cable is included, along with a remote control.
Features
- Android 9.0 OS
- RK3318 Quad-core CPU
- Mali-450MP2 GPU
- 16 GB Flash
- 2 GB SDRAM
- 4G & 5G WiFi
- 1 USB 2.0, 1 USB 3.0
23. Zidoo Z9S TV Box
The Z9S has a dual Wi-Fi system with an external antenna, which ensures the network signal remains strong to reduce freezing while streaming online content. It runs an Android 7.1 OS with fantastic functionalities to assure you of the best experience. The machine, with its 2 GB of RAM and 64-bit CPU, has a powerful image processing ability that allows you to enjoy 4K and HD videos.
Features
- Android 7.1, 2 GB RAM, and 16 GB ROM
- 3D, 4K, and H.265 video decoding technology
- Dual Wi-Fi with external antenna
PRICE: $59.99
24. Ever Express T9 Android 9.0 TV Box
A few internal tweaks make the Every Express T9 TV Box a nice upgrade from previous versions. This one offers faster performance and far less risk of buffering thanks to Android 9.0, a robust RK318 quad-core CPU and an expanded memory. 3D and 4K HD are supported, along with 2.4G and 5G WiFi. An HDMI cable and a remote control are included.
Features
- Android 9.0 OS
- RK3318 Quad-core CPU
- Mali-450MP2 GPU
- 4 GB RAM
- 32 GB ROM
- Supports 4K & 3D
- 4G & 5G WiFi
- 1 USB 2.0, 1 USB 3.0
25. EVANPO Android 7.1 Smart TV Box
If you are looking for something functional but reliable, then consider this Android 7.1 streaming device from EVANPO. It offers the best compatibility with software, games, and applications. If you want to use your mouse and keyboard, connect them wirelessly for maximum control.
It has all the technology it needs to do the heavy lifting including a quad-core, H.265 hardware decoding, built-in HDR processing, and 4K HD and 3D video. You are unlikely to come across anything this box can’t decode and play.
Features
- Android 7.1
- 16 GB Storage
- MicroSD slot
- Quad-core
- H,265 hardware decoding
- 4K HD and 3D video
FAQs About Android TV Boxes
Which Is The Best Android TV Box To Buy?
Which Android TV Box is best for you depends on what you want to do with it, as they all have different features.
If you want to be able to stream films and television in top-quality 4K, you will need a high-end device that supports an ethernet connection and has a powerful processor. But if you are just looking for a way to get your favorite streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu onto your TV, then you can get a more basic option at half the price, especially if you don’t even have a 4K compatible TV.
The key is to know what you want to use your device for, and then you can find something that meets your specifications.
What Is The Best Android Box 2020?
The best Android Box is a matter of opinion, but our top pick is the Skystream Three. It has a powerful processor that is set to deliver up to 8K picture quality with sound to match. We also love that it has Google Now voice command built in.
Are Android TV Boxes Worth It?
If you want to cut the cord to cable and instead stream the entertainment content you want on-demand, then a TV box is a good investment. And an Android TV Box is a better investment than most because it comes with no restrictions.
If you get a proprietary TV Box, like Apple TV, you are restricted on what you can use and how. You need to use Apple-approved apps through the standard Apple interface. That is fine for most people, as Apple has done a very good job of creating a sleek and usable interface, and all the most popular entertainment content is available.
But, while Android comes with a great proprietary launcher and many amazing native apps, it is open-source, so there is so much more you can do with it. You can download and run third-party apps and even launchers and interfaces on your device. So, you have the option of customizing your entertainment and doing it your way.
Which Is Better: Smart TV Or Android TV?
Smart TV and Android TV are essentially the same thing. They are both pieces of tech that allow you to stream content directly to your television. The main difference is that with a Smart TV, this is all integrated into the TV itself, and an Android TV Box is an extra device you use to make a normal TV smart.
In fact, some smart TVs are even based on the Android TV operating system.
So, if you have a Smart TV, you don’t need an Android TV Box. But if you don’t, an Android TV box is an affordable way to make your “dumb” TV smart.
Are Android TV Boxes Illegal?
Android TV boxes are entirely legal. There is nothing dubious about using equipment that allows you to stream content directly to your television.
If you have heard talk about the legality of TV boxes, it relates to how people use them, rather than the box itself. A TV box lets your stream Netflix, TV channels, and movies to your television using the legal apps that provide this content, usually for a cost.
But, since you can stream almost anything to your TV using your TV box, it is also possible to play films that have been downloaded illegally or use streaming services that you might be using illegally, for example through a VPN to appear like you are in another country.
These acts are still illegal.
How Do I Choose An Android TV Box?
In order to choose the right Android TV Box, you need to know what you plan to use it for, and this will help you decide on your required specs. For example, you might not prioritize 8K compatibility if you don’t even have a 4K compatible TV. This can be a needless expense.
But basically, you will want to choose something that has a relatively up-to-date version of the Android operating system (7 or above) and a powerful processor, which will make the difference when it comes to the quality and speed of your box’s performance.
What Internet Speed Do I Need For An Android TV Box?
In order to use your Android TV Box effectively, you will need internet speeds of at least 2 MB/per second for standard content, and 4 MB/per second for HD content. Speeds should also be consistent so you don’t suffer frustrating dropouts while watching.
Standard household internet is usually more than enough to accommodate these speeds. Issues usually occur if you are running your box over WiFi. This is why it is usually a good idea to plug your box into the ethernet.
Do I Need An Android Box If I Have A Smart TV?
If you have a Smart TV, you don’t need an Android TV Box, as a Smart TV is essentially a television with a TV box built-in. Depending on your Smart TV, you may find its interface more restrictive than an Android TV Box, but usually not enough to justify the additional expense.
The Verdict
There are many TV boxes on the market, but an Android TV box is one of the best options if you are looking for something flexible.
While the Android launcher and app are awesome, Android is also open source, so you have a lot more options at your fingertips if you want to customize your experience.
But it also means that there are lots of different options on the market, and it can be incredibly difficult to choose.
Which Android TV Box is right for you depends on what you want to do with it. Do you just want to stream a bit of Netflix? Do you want to download and store your own content? Do you want to make the most of your 4K TV?
Whatever your need, one of the items on our list will fit the bill.
So what do I use? My main device right now is the 16 GB version of the NVIDIA Shield, but I also have a new Amazon Fire TV as a secondary device on my office TV. Both will give me great 4K resolution in Kodi, but the Shield just feels quicker to use. It doesn’t hurt that it can also play some games during downtime either.
What do you think? Have anything that you think would be a better choice? Let us know in the comments below.
This article originally appeared on https://androidpcreview.com/best-android-tv-box/
