Best Android TV Boxes (Mar. 2023) - Rated by CherryPicks' Experts

Android TV Boxes for Streaming: The Ultimate Guide

Are you a tech lover looking to enhance your home entertainment experience? Then an Android TV box might be just what you need! An Android TV box is a device that connects to your TV and allows you to stream and access a wide range of media content.

One of the biggest advantages of an Android TV box is the flexibility and customization it provides. You can choose from a variety of hardware options, ranging from budget-friendly to high-end, and you can also choose from a wide range of streaming services, apps, and games to suit your interests.

Android TV boxes run on the Android operating system, which is familiar to many users and offers a user-friendly interface that can be easily navigated with a remote or controller. And because it's Android-based, you can easily access the Google Play Store and install your favorite apps and games, including popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.

Another benefit of Android TV boxes is their support for 4K and HDR content, which allows you to enjoy your favorite movies and TV shows in stunning detail and clarity. And with a variety of hardware options available, including models with high-end processors and plenty of RAM, you can be sure that you'll have a smooth and seamless streaming experience.

So if you're a tech lover who wants to take your home entertainment experience to the next level, consider investing in an Android TV box. With their flexibility, customizability, and support for high-quality content, an Android TV box is a great way to enjoy your favorite media content in style.

What to Consider Before Buying an Android TV box

When choosing the best Android TV box for streaming, there are a few factors to consider to ensure that you're getting the right device for your needs. Below is a detailed buying guide to help you choose the perfect Android TV box for streaming:

The Processor:

There are only three major companies manufacturing processors for Android TV boxes, and the Amlogic is the best and most popular processor manufacturer. All major Android TV box manufacturers have moved towards using Amlogic processors, and our advice is to stick with the Amlogic S905 or S912 powered device.

Memory:

When it comes to memory, the basic principle remains the same as for smartphones. More memory means faster performance. While you can't use more than 4GB RAM on an Android device, it's recommended to look for a TV box with higher memory capacity.

Storage:

There are two types of storage currently available for Android TV boxes, 8GB and 32GB, with some manufacturers offering 16GB models. We recommend purchasing a 16GB device to give you a little more leeway. If you need more storage in the future, go for an external hard drive or a flash drive.

Wi-Fi Ports:

Make sure to get at least an 802.11 ac Wi-Fi port. Anything lesser than that, and you'll experience slow internet speeds. Gigabit ethernet port is the preferred way to connect to the internet for most users.

App Compatibility

 The apps and services you use for streaming are also an important consideration when choosing an Android TV box. Make sure the device you choose supports your preferred streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. You may also want to look for a device that supports the Google Play Store, which provides access to a wide range of apps and services.

Price

Android TV boxes can range in price from around $30 to $300 or more. Consider your budget and the features you need to determine the best device for your needs. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, there are plenty of devices available for under $100 that offer good performance and app compatibility.

Other Features:

Dynamic Refresh Rate Switching is a useful feature that adjusts the refresh rate between the source and the TV, providing the best quality picture without any input from the user. High Dynamic Range (HDR) improves color depth and makes colors deeper and richer. Widevine Certification is necessary to stream 4K video content from YouTube and Netflix

Recommended Configuration for Running Kodi on an Android TV Box

The recommended configuration for running Kodi on an Android TV box includes:

• Operating system: The Android TV box should run on Android OS 5.0 (Lollipop) or later.

• Processor: The box should have a quad-core processor, with a clock speed of at least 1.5GHz. The processor should be powerful enough to handle HD and 4K video playback without any lag or buffering issues.

• RAM: The box should have at least 2GB of RAM for smooth performance, although 3GB or more is recommended for better performance and to future-proof the device.

• Storage: The box should have at least 16GB of internal storage for installing apps and storing media files. It's best to look for a device that supports expandable storage, such as via a USB port or an SD card slot, in case you need more space in the future.

• Video output: The box should support at least 1080p resolution, although 4K resolution is recommended for the best streaming experience.

By ensuring that your Android TV box meets these recommended specifications, you can ensure that you'll have a smooth and seamless Kodi streaming experience.

How to Set Up an Android TV Box?

Setting up an Android TV box is a straightforward process. Here are the basic steps to follow:

• Connect your Android TV box to your TV via an HDMI cable.
• Turn on your TV and select the HDMI input that your Android TV box is connected to.
• Connect your Android TV box to the internet via Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to configure your Android TV box's settings such as language and time zone.
• Install apps such as Kodi, Netflix, or Amazon Prime Video by accessing the Google Play Store on your Android TV box.
• Configure your installed apps according to your preferences.

You can also use your smartphone or tablet to control your Android TV box with an app, such as the Android TV Remote Control app.

For more specific instructions, refer to the user manual of your Android TV box or manufacturer's website.

Round Up of the Best Android TV Boxes (Verified to Buy)

• 1. Android TV Box 11.0, Smart TV Box RK3318 2GB 16GB...
• 2. Android 10.0 TV Box, T95 Android Box 4GB RAM 32GB...
• 3. Android TV Box 12.0, T95 MAX Android Box 4GB RAM...
• 4. Android TV Box 12.0, T95Z Plus H618 Quad-Core Cortex-A53 CPU...
• 5. Xiaomi Mi Box S 4K HDR Android TV Remote Streaming...
• 6. T95Z Plus Android 12.0 TV Box, Android Box 4GB RAM...
• 7. Android TV Box 4GB RAM 128GB ROM Upgraded W2 Mali-G31...
• 8. Android 12 TV Box 4GB RAM 64GB ROM W2 Mali-G31...
• 9. Android TV Box 10.0, T95 Super Android TV Box 2GB...
• 10. Android 12.0 TV Box, 4G RAM 32G ROM Android TV...

Top 10 Android TV Boxes Brands on Amazon

Here is the list of top-rated brands that were evaluated by CherryPicks.

• Transpeed
• Sidiwen
• YAGALA
• Xiaomi
• SAINTDISE
• T95
• Magcubic
• EASYTONE
• DSYTEIN
• CICCI

Related Android TV Boxes Guides

For more personalized Android TV Boxes guides, Check those pages,

If you're planning to buy an Android TV box online, there are a few things you need to know to ensure that you make an informed purchase. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Research the brand: Before you buy an Android TV box, research the brand and read reviews from other customers. This will give you an idea of the product quality, performance, and customer service.

2. Check the hardware specifications: Make sure the Android TV box you're considering has the recommended hardware specifications, including at least 2GB of RAM, a quad-core processor, and 16GB of internal storage. This will ensure that the box can handle smooth streaming and provide a good user experience.

3. Look for expandable storage: Consider an Android TV box that has expandable storage options, such as USB ports or SD card slots. This will give you the flexibility to add more storage if needed.

4. Check for updates: Ensure that the Android TV box you're considering receives regular software updates to keep it up-to-date with the latest features and security patches.

5. Check for compatibility: Ensure that the Android TV box you're considering is compatible with the apps and services you plan to use it for, including Kodi, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and other streaming services.

6. Compare prices: Compare prices of different Android TV boxes to ensure that you're getting the best value for your money.

7. Check the return policy: Finally, make sure to check the return policy and warranty offered by the seller or manufacturer. This will give you peace of mind in case the device is faulty or does not meet your expectations.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can make an informed decision and buy an Android TV box that meets your needs and budget.

Does Android TV box support Kodi?

Certainly! Many Android TV boxes support Kodi, making it one of the most popular media center applications for these devices. You can find Kodi as a free download on the Google Play Store, which is the default app store on most Android TV boxes.

Some Android TV boxes come with Kodi pre-installed, while others require you to download and install it yourself. Additionally, you may need to enable installation from unknown sources in the device's settings to install Kodi, as it is not available on the Google Play Store in all regions.

It's worth noting that while Kodi is a legal media center application, some third-party add-ons that can be used with Kodi may allow access to pirated content. As a result, it's essential to use Kodi responsibly and only access content that is legal and licensed.

What is the average price range for Android TV boxes?

The price range for Android TV boxes can vary widely, depending on the features and specifications of the device. On the lower end of the price spectrum, you can find basic models for around $30 to $50, while high-end models can cost $200 or more. However, the average price range for Android TV boxes is between $50 to $100.

How much storage do I need for an Android TV box?

The amount of storage you need for an Android TV box depends on how much content you plan to store on the device. For most users, 16GB of internal storage should be sufficient, but if you plan to store a lot of movies, TV shows, or other media content, you may want to consider a device with 32GB or more of storage. It is also important to look for a device that supports expandable storage, such as via a USB port or an SD card slot.

What are the top brands for Android TV boxes?

There are many different brands that produce Android TV boxes, but some of the most popular and well-regarded brands include Nvidia, Amazon, Xiaomi, and Google. According to market research firm, ResearchAndMarkets, Xiaomi, Amazon, and Google are the top three brands in the global Android TV box market.

How do I connect an Android TV box to my TV?

Connecting an Android TV box to your TV is usually a simple process. Most Android TV boxes come with an HDMI port, which you can connect to your TV using an HDMI cable. Some devices also support Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity, which can be used to connect to wireless peripherals like a keyboard, mouse, or game controller.

Do I need a smart TV to use an Android TV box?

No, you do not need a smart TV to use an Android TV box. An Android TV box can be connected to any TV with an HDMI port, regardless of whether the TV is a smart TV or not. In fact, using an Android TV box is a great way to turn a non-smart TV into a smart TV, as it provides access to a wide range of streaming services and apps.

Top 10 Android TV Boxes Sellers: CPR Seller Rank List

CPR sellers rank is based on CherryPicks-AI bestselling ranking system that helps us analyze each seller's sales trends. The List of top seller ranks is our in-house data, essential for our product ranking to help you make the right shopping choice.