If you’re on the hunt for a new streaming player or contemplating an upgrade, you’re in for a treat with this buying guide. Android TV offers a diverse universe of Android TV streaming players. Whether you’re a budget-conscious buyer or seeking the crème de la crème, the Android TV ecosystem has it all.
The Android TV landscape is bustling with options from various vendors, including Xiaomi, Google, Mecool, Nvidia, Amazon, Tivo, and more. The price spectrum is as varied as the products, starting from a modest $30 and climbing up to a premium $200.
Before you take the plunge into the Android TV streaming player realm, some crucial factors must be considered. Let’s break it down:
- Performance Needs: What specifications do you need for smooth streaming and app performance? Are you looking to stream 4K HDR content, play games, or want to binge-watch movies on Netflix? Gaming requires a lot of processor power, while 4K HDR content streaming will need fast connectivity.
- Budget Bracket: Are you leaning towards a budget-friendly option or ready to invest in premium features?
- Content Ecosystem: Do you have specific content preferences or are you open to diverse streaming platforms? Android TV generally supports a wide range of streaming services, but custom Android TV platforms such as Amazon’s Fire TV are more aligned with the Amazon ecosystem.
- User Interface: Android TV offers various interface options. Vendors are generally allowed to customize their streaming players the way they want given the open-source nature of Android TV. However, Google still has a say. So you will generally get the old traditional Android TV interface, but newer devices launched after 2020 come the new Google TV interface while vendors such as Amazon have a whole different interface.
- App Compatibility: Most Apps available on the Android TV platform can be downloaded from the Google Play store. However, vendors such as Amazon have their own App store (Fire TV store) which might not have all the apps available in the mainstream Play store. DStv App for instance isn’t available on Amazon Firesticks.
- Smart Integration: Does integration with your smart home ecosystem matter to you? Here you have the Google Home or Google Assistant camp and the Amazon Alexa camp.
Now that you’ve got your checklist ready, let’s dive into the exciting part: the top Android streaming players of 2023, presented in no specific order. Let’s explore the options that could transform your streaming game.
Xiaomi Mi Box S(2nd Gen)
Unleash Entertainment in Every Pixel
Launched as an upgrade to its predecessor, Xiaomi Mi Box S 2nd generation Android TV streaming player offers a powerful quad-core processor coupled with 2GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage. The Mi Box S supports 4K Ultra HD resolution at 60 FPS, ensuring that every frame is a visual delight. With HDR compatibility, it brings dynamic contrast and a spectrum of colors to your screen.
Connectivity is a breeze with Wi-Fi 802.11ac support, and the device features a range of ports, including HDMI 2.1, USB 2.0, and an audio output. The Mi Box S also comes with a voice-controlled Google Assistant remote for effortless navigation and search. Running on Google TV, it provides access to a multitude of apps and services, transforming your ordinary TV into a smart, entertainment hub.
Xiaomi Mi Box S 4K Full Specs:
- Model: Xiaomi Mi Box S
- Colors: Black
- OS Version: Google TV(Android 12)
- Dimensions: 95.25 x 95.25 x 16.7mm
- Weight: 147g
- Display: Up to 4K HDR, 60 FPS
- CPU: Quad-core Cortex-A55
- Memory: 2GB RAM
- Storage: 8GB eMMC ROM
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac 2.4GHz/5GHz
- Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
- Decoder: Up to 4K 60FPS, Supports Dolby Audio® and DTS-HD, Dolby Audio® and DTS-HD, HDR10+
- Bluetooth: 5.2
- Ports: HDMI 2.1, USB 2.0, Audio Out, Power
Chromecast with Google TV
Best Google TV experience
Chromecast with Google TV 4K was released in 2020 bringing with it the new Google TV interface that transforms content discovery. Suggesting content based on your preferences, the interface streamlines your viewing experience. Supporting 4K Ultra HD at 60 FPS, HDR 10, and HDR 10+, this device guarantees stunning visuals. The inclusion of Dolby audio pass-through mode ensures a captivating audio experience.
A notable upgrade from the old Chromecast device is the dedicated remote powered by two AAA alkaline batteries, making navigation more user-friendly. This model comes in two variants: a $50 4K version and a $30 FHD 1080 model. Opting for the Chromecast with Google TV ensures timely updates from Google, placing you at the forefront of Android TV technology.
Chromecast with Google TV 4K Full Specs:
- Model: Chromecast with Google TV
- Colors: Snow, Sunrise, Sky
- OS Version: Google TV (Android TV 10)
- Dimensions: 6.4 in x 2.4 in x 0.5 in
- Weight: 1.9 oz (55 g)
- Resolution: Up to 4K HDR, 60 FPS
- CPU: QUAD S905D3 64bit, MALI G31
- Memory: 2GB DDR3 RAM
- Storage: 8GB eMMC ROM
- Wi-Fi: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac 2.4GHz/5GHz
- Bluetooth: 4.2
- Ports: HDMI 2.0b, USB-C, Audio Out, Power
- Decoder: Up to 4K 60FPS, Supports Dolby Audio® and DTS-HD, HDR10+
Nvidia Shield TV Pro
Premium Android TV box, best for gaming
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro is a powerhouse in the realm of Android TV streaming players. This device offers an unparalleled streaming experience with its Tegra X1+ processor, supporting 4K HDR quality at 60 FPS. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro is not just a streaming player; it’s a comprehensive entertainment hub, featuring Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and AI upscaling for a cinematic audio-visual feast. With 16GB of internal storage and expandable storage options, this device ensures you have ample space for your favorite apps, games, and media content. Its robust connectivity, including Gigabit Ethernet and dual-band Wi-Fi, guarantees smooth streaming and minimal buffering.
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro is for those seeking an uncompromising streaming and gaming experience. But they have a lower-priced base model called the Nvidia Shield for $149.99 which is ideal for those looking for Nvidia’s performance but without all the bells and whistles.
Nvidia Shield TV Pro Full Specs:
- Model: Nvidia Shield TV Pro
- Processor: Tegra X1+
- Resolution: 4K HDR, 60 FPS
- Audio: Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos
- Memory: 3GB of RAM
- Storage: 16GB internal, expandable storage options
- Connectivity: Gigabit Ethernet, Dual-band Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0
- Ports: HDMI 2.0b, Gigabit Ethernet, Two USB 3.0, MicroSD card slot
- Dimensions: 6.26 in x 4.02 in x 1.02 in
- Weight: 8.82 oz (250 g)
Xiaomi Mi TV Stick 4K
Budget Android streaming stick
The Xiaomi Mi TV Stick 4K is a pocket-sized streaming powerhouse. Despite its compact design, the Mi TV Stick 4K doesn’t compromise on performance. Featuring 4K Ultra HD resolution at 60 FPS, it transforms your TV into a cinematic marvel. The Quad-core Cortex-A35 along with 2GB of RAM processor ensures speedy navigation, while the Mali-G31 MP2 GPU handles graphics with finesse.
Why the Mi TV Stick 4K? It’s a compact streaming stick that fits behind TV of any size. It’s powered by Android TV 11 operating system which offers a seamless and intuitive experience. With Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, you can effortlessly pair your headphones or speakers for an immersive audio experience. If you’re not going for the bigger-sized Xiaomi Mi Box S(2nd Gen), I highly recommend you go with it and save at least $30. Also I should mention that there’s an HD 1080 version of this model priced at about $50 on Amazon.
Xiaomi Mi TV Stick 4K Full Specifications:
- Model: Xiaomi Mi TV Stick 4K
- Colors: Black
- Operating System: Android TV 11
- Dimensions: 3.9 in (98 mm) x 1.5 in (38 mm) x 0.5 in (13 mm)
- Weight: 42g
- Resolution: Up to 4K Ultra HD, 60 FPS
- CPU: Quad-core Cortex-A35
- GPU: Mali-G31 MP2
- Memory: 2GB RAM
- Storage: 8GB eMMC ROM
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.2
- Ports: HDMI 2.0, Micro USB
- Video decover: AV1, VP9, H.265, H.264, MPEG-2, MPEG-1
- Audio decoder: DTS 2.0 Dolby Atmos
Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen)
Android streaming box with Ethernet connectivity
In the realm of Amazon’s Fire TV lineup, the Fire TV Cube 4K (3rd Gen) stands out not only for its advanced capabilities but also for its unique design and features. The Fire TV Cube, with a cube-like compact shape, diverges from the traditional stick-design form factor of the Firesticks. Like the other premium streaming devices, the Fire Cube offers 4K HDR streaming with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+ support, and an Alexa-powered voice remote.
Equipped with a convenient USB-A port, the Cube extends possibilities for users, enabling the connection of external devices, expanding storage, or even turning the cube into a local media hub. Additionally, the inclusion of an Ethernet port provides a stable wired connection, mitigating potential interference issues associated with Wi-Fi.
The 2023 model adds Wi-Fi 6E and new octa-core 2.0 GHz processor, our fastest streaming.
Fire TV Cube 4K (3rd Gen) Full Specifications:
- Model: Fire TV Cube 4K (3rd Gen)
- Weight: 513g (1.13 lbs)
- Size: 3.38” x 3.38” x 2.99” (86 mm x 86 mm x 77 mm)
- Processor: Octa-core 4x 2.2GHz 4x 2.0GHz, 800MHz GPU
- Memory: 2GB RAM
- Storage: 16GB (expandable via microSD card up to 256GB)
- Resolution: 4K Ultra HD at 60 FPS
- HDR Formats: Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG, and H.265, H.264, VP9
- Audio Formats: Dolby Atmos, 5.1, 7.1, 2ch stereo, and HDMI audio pass-through up to 5.1
- Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, Ethernet
- Ports: HDMI, Power, Infrared (IR) port, USB-A, Ethernet
- Voice Assistant: Alexa
Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen)
Amazon's best Firestick
Amazon’s Fire TV Stick 4K Max takes the streaming experience to new heights with an emphasis on performance and efficiency. The 4K Max introduces a more robust quad-core 2.0 GHz processor, ensuring faster navigation, quicker app launches, and smoother overall performance. On the connectivity front, the latest Fire TV Stick 4K Max supports Wi-Fi 6E providing faster and more reliable connectivity for uninterrupted streaming.
The device also supports 4K Ultra HD streaming with support for high dynamic range (HDR) formats like HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision, delivering vivid and lifelike visuals. The latest model which was released in 2023 doubles the internal storage to 16GB and adds WiFi 6E from WiFi 6.
The model has a base version called the Fire TV Stick 4K which comes with 8GB instead of 16GB internal storage and supports WiFi 6 instead of WiFi 6E. You can save $10 and go with this instead.
If you’re a streaming enthusiast seeking an upgraded and future-ready experience, the Fire TV Stick 4K Max should be on your radar. From faster performance to advanced Wi-Fi capabilities, it’s designed to meet the demands of modern streaming.
Fire TV Stick 4K Max Full Specifications:
- Model: Fire TV Stick 4K Max
- Size: 99 mm x 30 mm x 14 mm (only housing)
- Weight: 43.5 g
- Processor: Quad-core 2.0 GHz
- Memory: 2GB RAM
- Storage: 16GB (internal)
- Resolution: 4K Ultra HD at 60 FPS
- HDR Formats: HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision
- Audio Formats: Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, HDMI audio pass-through up to 5.1
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.2 + BLE
- Voice Assistant: Alexa
Fire TV Stick(3rd Gen)
Amazon's best budget streaming stick
Amazon’s Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen) continues the legacy of its predecessors, offering a budget-friendly yet feature-packed streaming solution. Positioned as an entry-level device, it caters to users who prioritize affordability without compromising on essential streaming capabilities.
Balancing Affordability and Performance:
- HD Streaming: While it doesn’t boast 4K capabilities, the Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen) supports reliable HD streaming for a crisp and clear viewing experience.
- Quad-core Processor: The device is equipped with a quad-core processor, ensuring smooth navigation and responsive performance.
- Alexa Voice Remote: The included Alexa Voice Remote adds a layer of convenience, allowing users to search, play, and control content with just their voice.
If you’re on a budget and primarily consume content in HD, the Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen) is a practical choice. It provides essential streaming features at an attractive price point, making it accessible to a broader audience.
Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen) Full Specifications:
- Model: Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen)
- Size: 3.4” x 1.2” x 0.5” (86 x 30 x 13 mm)
- Weight: 1.1 oz (32.0 g)
- Processor: Quad-core 1.7 GHz
- Memory: 1GB RAM
- Storage: 8GB (internal)
- Resolution: Up to 1080p Full HD at 60 FPS
- Video formats: HDR 10, HDR10+, HLG, H.265, H.264, Vp9
- Audio Formats: Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, HDMI audio pass-through up to 5.1
- Connectivity: WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0
- Ports: HDMI output, micro-USB for power only.
- Voice Assistant: Alexa
TiVo Stream 4K
Theater-like 4k streaming experience
TiVo Stream 4K caters to those who crave the crystal-clear visuals of 4K streaming, offering a feature-rich experience in a compact device. TiVo Stream 4K supports stunning 4K UHD resolution, delivering vivid details and lifelike visuals. It also supports Dolby Vision, HDR 10+ and Atmos Audio elevating the visual experience and providing a surround sound feel that complements the high-quality visuals.
The TiVo Stream 4K is ideal for users with 4K-compatible televisions with Doby Vision and HDR 10 support. Otherwise, compared to the competition, the TiVo does well on price, going for at least $10 than the competition with similar features and specs.
TiVo Stream 4K Full Specifications:
- Model: TiVo Stream 4K
- Colors: Black
- OS Version: Android TV 10
- Dimensions: 77mm x 53mm x 16mm
- Weight: 10.2 Ounces
- Display: Up to 4K HDR, 60 FPS
- CPU: AMLOGIC S905Y2
- Memory: 2GB DDR3 RAM
- Storage: 8GB eMMC ROM
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac 2.4GHz/5GHz
- Bluetooth: 4.2
- Ports: HDMI 2.0a, Micro USB2.0, USB-C
onn. Google TV 4K Streaming Box
Cheapest Google TV 4K Player
For budget-conscious consumers, the ONN Google TV 4K UHD Streaming Device offers a compelling package. Despite its affordable price point, it delivers impressive features that cater to both casual viewers and streaming enthusiasts. It offers 4K content streaming and is powered by a Quad-core processor, 2GB of RAM, and 8GB internal storage for smooth performance.
This device is exclusively sold on Walmart, so users outside of the U.S. might be able to get it. The ONN streaming device comes in two models; the older model runs on Android TV while the 2023 model runs on Google TV.
This is the cheapest 4K streaming device we have found so far. But it lacks HDR (HDR 10+, Dolby Vision) support.
onn. Google TV 4K Streaming Box Full Specs:
- Model: onn. Google TV 4K Streaming Box
- Weight: 0.66 lb
- Size: 3.75 x 2.00 x 7.25 Inches
- Processor: Quad-core Cortex-A35, GPU: Mali-G31 MP2
- Memory: 2GB RAM
- Storage: 8GB
- Resolution: 4K Ultra HD at 60 FPS
- Audio Formats: Dolby Atmos
- Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0
- Ports: HDMI
Nokia Streaming Box 8010
Android TV player with big storage
The Nokia Streaming Box upgrades your TV to a Smart TV bringing the same Android experience known in its smartphones to your Tele. The Nokia Streaming Box 8010 is comparable with the Amazon Fire Cube, only with more storage.
It features WiFi 6 for faster wireless connectivity and Gigabit Ethernet port for interference-free streaming. These two alone guarantee one of the best streaming experiences on any Android TV device. The kicker for me is a whooping 32GB of internal storage. This is way more than the typical 8GB that ships with most Android TV devices. That means, your storage won’t fill up quickly as you install more and more Apps.
My only qualms with this device are it lacks HDR support and is limited to the European market.
Nokia Streaming Box 8010 Full Specs:
- Model: Nokia Streaming Box 8010
- Dimensions: Width – 112mm, Depth – 112mm, Height – 23mm
- Display Resolution: 4K Ultra HD
- Video Resolution: 4Kx2K, 1080i/p, 720p, 576i/p, 480i/p
- Audio Decoding: Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos, DTS
- Operating System: Android 11
- Chipset: Amlogic S905X4-K
- CPU: Quad-Core Cortex-A55 (20800 DMIPS)
- GPU: ARM Mali-G31 MP2 (850 MHz)
- RAM: 4 GB LPDDR4 RAM
- Storage: 32 GB eMMC Flash
- Ports: HDMI, USB-A 3.0, USB-A 2.0, Digital Audio (Optical), AV (3.5mm), USB-C, Ethernet LAN (1000 Mbit/s)
- Wi-Fi: 802.11 b/g/n/a/ac/ax 2.4 GHz/5 GHz (WiFi 6)
- Bluetooth: 5.0
H96 MAX V58
8K Android TV player for gamers
The Mecool H96 MAX V58 is a powerhouse in the world of smart TV boxes. This streaming player is powered by Android TV 12, the lastest Android TV version as its operating system, and supports 4K Ultra HD as well as 8K resolution, coupled with support for HDR10+. The TV box is equipped with the powerful RK3588 quad-core Cortex-A76 and quad-core Cortex-A55 CPU processor and Mali-G31 MP2 GPU, guaranteeing a smooth streaming experience.
If it’s maxing specs that you want, then this is the Android TV box for you. It comes with a whopping 8GB of RAM and a massive 64GB of storage. On the connectivity front, you get WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. You also get GigaEthernet, HDMI 2.0, USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports.
This streaming device is comparable to the Nvidia Shield Pro. It’s for those who wish to go beyond 4K streaming to gaming on their TV. However, it lacks Dolby Vision and HDR 10+ support.
H96 MAX V58 Full Specifications:
- Model: H96 MAX V58
- Operating System: Android 12
- Dimensions: 6.83 x 5.85 x 3.04 inches
- Weight: 7.05 oz (200 g)
- Resolution: Up to 4K HDR, 60 FPS
- CPU: Quad-Core Cortex-A76 And Quad-Core Cortex-A55
- GPU: ARM Mali-G610 MP4
- Memory: 4/8GB RAM
- Storage: EMMC 32G/64G/128G
- Connectivity: WiFi6 2.4G/5G(Ax)
- Ports: 1 * USB 3.0 ; 1*USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI
MECOOL KM2 Plus TV Box
A versatile Android TV streaming player
The MECOOL KM2 Plus TV Box, released in 2021, is a versatile Android TV streaming player that offers an immersive entertainment experience. Powered by the S905X4-B Quad-Core A55 processor and featuring 2GB of RAM and 16GB of eMMC storage, the KM2 Plus ensures smooth and responsive performance for seamless streaming and app navigation. Its HDMI 2.1 port supports 4K Ultra HD resolution at 60 FPS, delivering stunning visuals with vibrant colors and sharp details. The device supports popular HDR formats like HDR10 and HLG, enhancing the contrast and dynamic range for an enhanced viewing experience. With dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz) and Bluetooth 4.2, the KM2 Plus offers reliable connectivity for streaming content and connecting peripherals.
With its competitive pricing and robust feature set, the MECOOL KM2 Plus TV Box stands out in the market, offering a cost-effective alternative to other streaming players.
MECOOL KM2 Plus TV Box Full Specs:
- Model: MECOOL KM2 Plus
- CPU: Amlogic S905X2 Quad-core Cortex-A53
- GPU: ARM Mali-G31 MP2
- RAM: 2GB DDR4
- Storage: 16GB eMMC
- OS Version: Android TV 11
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac 2.4GHz/5GHz, Bluetooth 4.2
- Ports: HDMI 2.1, USB 3.0, USB 2.0, Ethernet, SPDIF, Micro SD card slot
- Video Resolution: Up to 4K HDR at 60 FPS
- Dimensions: 4.13 in x 4.13 in x 0.87 in
- Weight: 5.11 oz
