Beat boredom and enjoy all the benefits of a smart TV when you have the best Android TV box in Malaysia 2021! Gone are the days when satellite TV was the only option!
You can pretty much do the same thing you do with your smartphone, but with a bigger display (i.e. your TV), all housed within a compact package.
See these reviews on Android TV boxes in Malaysia! Starting from ~RM150 and up!
What Is An Android TV Box?
An Android TV box is an entertainment device (running on Android OS) for your TV.
While it may not look like much, but with one of these, you can convert a regular TV to a smart TV!
Allowing you to browse the web or stream videos from your TV! You can access popular streaming sites like Disney + or Netflix!
Some Android TV boxes are specialized for games too!
What You Can Do With An Android TV Box
An Android TV Box should be able to match a Smartphone or tablet in terms of overall features, allowing you to:
- Watch your favorite TV shows and movies via a streaming website (or from your hard disk)
- Browse the web
- Play games (stored or online)
- Read emails
- Write documents
- Check the news
- Listen to music
And more!
Are Android TV Boxes Legal In Malaysia?
When it comes to the legality of Android TV boxes in Malaysia:
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and Standard and Industrial Research Institute (SIRIM) are the leading authorities.
For now, Android TV boxes are still legal.
However, it’s not enough that your Android TV box is certified by SIRIM; your usage of it is also important.
For example, if you’re using it to stream pirated content and/or access illegal websites, you’re already flouting the Copyright Act 1987.
Some Android TV boxes are installed with the means to connect to international landlines/ satellites. These could also be considered illegal too without a license from MCMC!
11 Best Android Tv Boxes In Malaysia 2021
- Best Overall – Xiaomi Mi Box S
- Best Android TV Box for Netflix at 4K – Xiaomi Mi Box S or Google Chromecast with Google TV
- Best Android TV Box for Asian Series/ Movies – EVPAD 5SMY
- Best Basic Android TV Box – T9 4GB+64GB RK3328
- Best Local Android TV Box – LongTV Louie
- Best Mid-Ranged Android TV Box (WiFi 6) – MECOOL KM6 Deluxe Edition
- Best Budget Android TV Box – Tanix TX6s
- Best Android TV Box For 4K Streaming – Google Chromecast with Google TV
- Best Budget Android TV Box for Gaming – Beelink GT King Pro
- Best Android TV Box for Gaming – NVIDIA Shield TV Pro
- Best 4K Android TV Box – MINIX NEO U22-XJ
1. T9 4GB+64GB RK3328 Android 9.0 Pie Smart Android TV Box
Performance & Features
Running the latest Android 9.0 OS, the T9 RK3328 is a decent entry-level TV Box, allowing you to stream your favourite series or browse the net on your TV.
With a Quadcore CPU and dedicated GPU, the RK3328 ensures stable and smooth running,
Although, it has a tendency to stutter and lag on occasion.
It also supports contemporary audio and video formats, most notably 4K UHD and 3D videos.
As for storage, the RK3328 has 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage memory (which can be expanded via TF Card), providing adequate space and fairly smooth operation.
All thing’s considered, it’s pretty average for an Android TV Box, with the best thing about it being that it’s quite cheap.
However, if you’re looking for something more specialised to act as a Smart hub device or for gaming:
Then we would recommend the Google Chromecast and NVIDIA Shield TV Pro respectively, as the T9 RK3328 doesn’t have much to offer apart from its affordable price and basic functionality.
Verdict – Best Basic Android TV Box
If you’re looking for a basic budget option, the T9 RK3328 is the baseline minimum of what you should be looking for, offering okay quality at an affordable price.
- Processor: Rockchip Quad-Core Cortex-A53 (64bit)
- GPU: Mali-450 MP2
- Memory & Storage: 4GB RAM, 64GB ROM (Expandable via MicroSD, USB Flash or HD)
- Video Resolution: 4K Ultra High Definition
Operating - System: Android 9.0 Pie (API 28)
- Connectivity: WiFi 2.4+5.8GHz, Bluetooth 4.0, USB 2.0 (x1), USB 3.0 (x1)
- Warranty: 6 months
- Price: ~RM145
Pros:
- Neat design
- Has USB 3.0
- New operating system version
- Supports 5GHz Wi-Fi
Cons:
- Wi-Fi setup is tiresome
- Remote is annoying to use (get a wireless keyboard or mouse instead!)
- Not sure if it is SIRIM approved. But the company is legally registered (Hericaine Sdn Bhd).
- Many advertisements
2. Tanix TX6s Android TV Box
Performance & Features
While it doesn’t look like much, the Tanix TX6S offers surprisingly good performance, especially given its relatively low price.
Powered by a Quad Core ARM A53 CPU, mid-ranged GPU (Mali G31) and 4GB of RAM, the TX6S boasts some respectable specs. Obviously, it can’t beat the latest generation of mobile devices.
The TX6S also runs on the latest Android 10 OS. Which means you’ll have access to the Google Play and its library of applications – be it streaming (Netflix, Disney+, etc.) or games.
Other notable features of the TX6S includes both an external and internal Wi-Fi antenna for proper signal strength. As well as support for external peripherals such as mice or keyboards.
Of course, as a budget TV Box, the TX6S isn’t perfect:
One of its annoyances is the lengthy updating process right out of the box which doesn’t make it very plug-and-play friendly. If you’re not tech-savvy, this could set you up for a frustrating time.
There are also instances where the box can’t be turned on with the remote control, requiring you to manually turn the main power supply on-and-off.
Verdict – Best Budget Android TV Box
If you’re looking for something inexpensive, the Tanix TX6s is a competent Android TV Box that will serve you quite well, so long as you stick to streams and web-browsing.
It’s a solid step-up from the T9 RK3328 at a slightly higher price, but there are definitely other options if you’re looking for something a bit more high-tech.
- Processor: Alwinner H616 Quad-Core Cortex-A53 (64bit)
- GPU: G31 MP2
- Memory & Storage: 2GB / 8GB; 4GB / 32GB; 4GB / 64GB (Expandable via MicroSD, USB Flash or HD)
- Video Resolution: 4K Ultra High Definition
- Operating System: Android 10.0
- Connectivity: WiFi 2.4+5GHz, Bluetooth 4.1, USB 2.0 (x3), TF CARD (x1)
- Warranty: 6 months
- Price: ~RM115 – 170
Pros:
- Easy-to-use
- Multi-language support
- HDMI-cable included
- Android OS gives you access to Google Play
- Still affordable
- Peripherals can be connected
- Expandable memory storage
Cons:
- No Bluetooth Support for 2GB + 8GB version
- Only has USB 2.0
- Requires updates out of the box
- Can’t turn off while on standby (must disconnect power supply)
3. Xiaomi Mi Box S 2GB+8GB Android 8.1 Oreo Smart Android TV Box
Performance & Features
It may not look like much, but the Xiaomi Mi Box S offers a Smart TV-like experience too. And is a great starting point to see what getting a full-scale Smart TV is like.
With the Mi Box S, you can access to Google Play Store and voice control functions with Google Assistant.
The latter allows the Mi Box S to act as a hub for your various smart devices. So you can control them directly through the microphone present on the remote.
Other prominent features include Chromecast support, 4K HDR processing for up to 60Hz, and premium quality audio with Dolby Audio and DTS support.
It’s also pretty easy to set-up:
All you need to do is to attach the box to your TV, connect it to the internet, and you’re good to go.
As a side note, while the Smart remote does work, you might want to consider connecting a keyboard. Because typing on a virtual keyboard with the remote control isn’t very intuitive. And frankly, annoying!
Verdict – Best Android TV Box for Netflix
We’d recommend the Mi Box S as a great all-round Smart Android TV Box for your living room, especially if you’re using it mainly for streaming.
Although it can run some light games decently too.
It is high quality and feature-rich, but its 4K performance is behind some higher-spec Smart TV Boxes, such as the Beelink GT King Pro.
- Processor: Quad-Core Cortex-A53 2.0GHz
- GPU: Mali-450 750MHz
- Memory & Storage: 2GB RAM, 8GB ROM (Expandable via MicroSD, USB Flash or HD up to 64GB)
- Video Resolution: 4K Ultra High Definition
Operating - System: Android 8.1 Oreo (API 27)
- Connectivity: WiFi 2.4+5GHz, Bluetooth 4.2, USB 2.0 (x1)
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM235 – 245
Pros:
- Smart control (Google Assistant)
- Easy set-up
- HDMI 2.0
- Bluetooth compatible
- Works with Chromecast
- With premium audio (DTS and DOLBY Digital Plussurround sound)
- Supports 4K HDR video decoding
- Compact size
- Streams Netflix at 4K
Cons:
- 4K performance is not as impressive as more expensive TV boxes
- Relatively subpar for Live TV Streaming
- Awkward buttons on the remote control
- Single USB 2.0 Port
4. X96 Max Plus Smart Android TV Box
Performance & Features
The X96 Max Plus offers good performance for its price, and is one of the more aesthetically-pleasing TV boxes we have on our list.
Note: There are 3 versions of the X96 Max Plus (2GB+16GB, 4GB+32GB and 4GB+64GB)
For starters, the X96 comes pre-loaded with a host of apps such as Netflix, YouTube, and a wide range of local specialties. Giving you access to some of the more popular dramas and series in the region.
However, the Netflix application doesn’t seem to be compatible with the OS that the X96 is running. Meaning it’ll only run in 480p quality, which detracts quite a bit from the streaming experience.
Netflix aside, the X96 does run YouTube videos at a solid 4K resolution with HDR output, and can provide a sound (pun intended) audio experience with Dolby Atmos and DTS sound mixing.
If you’re fond of mobile games, you’ll be pleased to know that the X96 can run games fairly well, although not to the level of the Beelink GT King Pro or NVIDIA Shield.
The X96 also supports both AirPlay and Miracast, so you can cast your devices screen right on the TV.
Verdict – Best Android TV Box (~RM250)
The X96 Max Plus is another well-rounded TV Box and is a pretty good deal for the price. Especially if your main focus is on playing pre-downloaded 4K movies or watching YouTube videos.
However, its poor Netflix compatibility does knock it down quite a few pegs. And you might need some 3rd Party tweaking to get other streaming apps running as well.
- Processor: Amlogic S905X3 Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A55 (64bit)
- GPU: G31™ MP2
- Memory & Storage: 4GB RAM, 64GB ROM (Expandable via MicroSD, USB Flash or HD)
- Video Resolution: [email protected] & 4K Ultra High Definition @ 60FPS
- Operating System: Android 9.0 Pie (API 28)
- Connectivity: WiFi 2.4+5.8GHz, Bluetooth 4.0, USB 2.0 (x1), USB 3.0 (x1)
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM250
Pros:
- Comes with pre-installed apps and Google Play
- Sleek design
- User friendly interface
- Satisfactory Wi-Fi performance for 5G
- Supports AirPlay and Miracast
- HDR-compatible
- High audio quality with Dolby Atmos and DTS
- Can run Android Games (keymaps available)
- Plug-and-play installation
Cons:
- No navigation or stats bar
- Occasional freezing
- Netflix locked to 480p
- Heats up significantly when running
- Air Mouse preferred for UI navigation
5. MECOOL KM6 Deluxe Edition TV Box
Performance & Features
The Mecool KM6 is quite the Android TV box, offering plenty of prominent features from streaming to gaming, all within a well-polished package.
It runs on the Arm Cortex-A55 processor, has 4GB of RAM as well as 64GB of internal storage. So it performs quite well for a mid-range Android TV Box.
The box can also work with the latest WiFi 6, increasing the overall speed and stability of your box’s internet connection. Of course, this assumes that your router itself can support WiFi 6 too.
As for the Software, the KM6 runs on the Android TV 10.0 OS, giving you access to Google Play and Google Assistant for a definitive Smart TV experience.
The box also supports 4K HDR streaming for both YouTube and Prime Video. Although, it’s a shame that there’s unfortunately no native support for Netflix.
You can also cast your favourites shows and apps from your mobile devices through the KM6 by using Chromecast. Very handy if you find using the remote slightly troublesome.
Verdict – Best Mid-Ranged Android TV Box
If you can overlook the lack of a native Netflix app, the MECOOL KM6 is definitely one of the best mid-ranged Android TV Boxes you can find on the market.
It’s quite comparable to the Xiaomi Mi Box S, but is notably faster with Wi-Fi 6 and 4GB of RAM.
Of course, the MECOOL KM6 is also pricier. But if you’re looking for a quality TV Box that can both stream at 4K and run the occasional game, the Mecool KM6 is a steady Android TV Box.
- Processor: Amlogic S905X4 Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A55
- GPU: Mali-G31 MP2
- Memory & Storage: 4GB RAM, 64GB ROM (Expandable via MicroSD, USB Flash or HD)
- Video Resolution: 4K Ultra High Definition, HDR
- Operating System: Android 10
- Connectivity: 2.4+5GHz WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, USB 2.0 (x1), USB 3.0 (x1), Micro SD Card
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM398
Pros:
- Runs on Android 10
- Supports WiFi6
- Chromecast support
- 4K Decoding with HDR
- 4K Streaming (Prime Video, YouTube, etc.)
- Has access to Google Assistant
- Large variety of apps through Play Store
- Easy plug-and-play set up
Cons:
- Does not officially support Netflix (can only be side-loaded)
- On the pricier side for a mid-ranged TV Box
6. EVPAD 5SMY Smart Android TV Box
Performance & Features
Underneath the hood of the EVPAD 5SMY lies an Android TV Box that’s surprisingly content-rich. It’s able to deliver multiple global channels, on-demand.
While the 2G RAM 16GB ROM (expandable) internal storage is adequate, other boxes such as the X96 Max Plus or MECOOL KM6 offer higher specs (4GB RAM and 64GB ROM) at a lower price!
Specifications aside, one of the best things about the EVPAD 5SMY is its long list of directly available series and movies, thanks to a number of pre-installed apps.
The EVPAD 5SMY also offers a great viewing experience from your own media library. With 4K HDR video rendering, along with Dolby and DTS audio for enhanced sound quality.
As it runs on Android OS, the 5SMY does have access to Google Play and a whole host of apps too.
And while the Android TV box also has voice control, it’s not to the level of Google Assistant or Alexa. Only basic functions are available, such as switching between apps or playing/pausing music.
Verdict – Best Android TV Box for Movies
If you’re a fan of the silver screen and/or East Asian dramas, the EVPAD has a staggering amount content available for you to enjoy. Even if it’s not the most high-tech TV Box on our list.
For a quick commentary of this TV box, this video should prove insightful:
- Processor: Quad-Core Cortex-A53 (64bit)
- GPU: Mali-T720 MP2
- Memory & Storage: 2GB RAM, 16GB ROM (Expandable via MicroSD, USB Flash or HD)
- Video Resolution: 4K
- Operating System: Android 7.0 Nougat (API 24)
- Connectivity: WiFi 2.4+5.8GHz, Bluetooth 4.2, USB 2.0 (x1), USB 3.0 (x1)
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM500
Pros:
- Thousands of free movies and series (from many Asian countries), including 4K movies
- Has voice control (built-in EVAI voice assistant)
- Quick to set up and straightforward to use
- Supports 4K Videos at 60Hz output
- Low running temperature
Cons:
- Questionable legality (free access to some Astro channels)
- Fairly dated Android TV Box OS
- UI is slightly hard to navigate
- Basic voice control functions
- Low specs (e.g. small built-in memory storage) for the price
7. LongTV Louie 1GB+8GB Android 7.0 Nougat Smart Android TV Box
Performance & Features
The LongTV Louie is essentially a portable Internet TV service – offering you up to 300 local and international channels, a large library of games, and a surprisingly robust karaoke selection.
Hardware-wise, the LongTV Louie is a hard sell. Since it has only 1GB of RAM, 8GB of internal storage, and is lacking a GPU Unit (a no-no for avid gamers).
However, it does offer 4K HDR video rendering as well as mobile screen-casting support.
And while the LongTV Louie offers plenty of television channels for you to browse, the OS doesn’t fully support either Netflix or Prime Video. Unfortunately making it a poor choice for streaming.
That being said, the LongTV Louie is exceptionally plug-and-play friendly. And you can bring it just about anywhere, so long as you have a decent internet connection.
Verdict – Best Local Android TV Box
If you need a subscription-free replacement for your cable TV service, the LongTV Louie is definitely a prime choice. It gives you access to multiple local and international television channels.
However, we would recommend either a Mi Box S or MECOOL KM6 instead if your primary focus is video streaming.
- Processor: Hi3798MV200 Quad-Core 2.0GHz
- GPU: n/a
- Memory & Storage: 1GB RAM, 8GB ROM (Expandable via MicroSD, USB Flash or HD)
- Video Resolution: 4K Ultra High Definition
Operating - System: Android 7.0 Nougat (API 24)
- Connectivity: WiFi 2.4+5.8GHz, Bluetooth 4.1, USB 2.0 (x1), USB 3.0 (x1)
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM418
Pros:
- 1 USB2.0 port, 1 USB 3.0 port, 1 Ethernet port
- No additional subscription fees for those included channels, games and songs
- User-friendly UI
- SIRIM And MCM Certified
- Plug-and-play friendly
- 265 decoding
Cons:
- Small memory storage
- Fairly outdated Android OS
- Low amount of RAM
- Can’t run any games
- Manual is not very detailed
8. Beelink GT King Pro Smart Android TV Box
Performance & Features
With a Hexa-Core CPU, Hexa-Core GPU, the Beelink GT King Pro is one of the most powerful Android TV Boxes on the market. Just what you need for a high-quality gaming experience!
Of course, it’s not better than the Nvidia Shield. But if you’re looking for a substitute at half the price, the GT King Pro can do the job!
The GT King Pro also offers 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage, with the option of adding in an SD Card for even more storage capacity.
Running on the Android 9.0 OS, the GT King Pro has both Google Play and Google Assistant too. Along with the customisability options that Android is known for.
Video quality is also quite high, as it has a HDMI output of up to [email protected], while also supporting HDMI 3D Video formats;
For sound quality, the box has 2 dedicated ESS Hi-Fi decoding chips, allowing you to play Hi-Fi Lossless Audio.
Couple this with support for both Dolby Audio and DTS Listen decoding, and you arguably have the best-sounding Android TV Box on our list.
That being said, if you’re here for 4K Streaming content, the GT King Pro is unfortunately not the device for you, as it can only run most streaming sites at a max 1080p resolution.
Verdict – Best Budget Android TV Box for Gaming
If you’re a fan of mobile games but aren’t too sure about the steep price of the NVIDIA Shield:
The Beelink GT King Pro is a great budget alternative, giving you quality visuals at a high framerate.
But if you just need a box for 4K streaming, we would suggest either the Mi Box S or the Nvidia Shield instead. As both of these Android TV boxes natively support popular streaming apps at 4K.
Quick overview:
- Processor: Amlogic S922X-H Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A73 + Dual-Core ARM Cortex-A53
- GPU: Mali-G52 MP6
- Memory & Storage: 4GB RAM, 64GB ROM (Expandable via MicroSD, USB Flash or HD)
- Video Resolution: 4K Ultra High Definition
- Operating System: Android 9.0 Pie (API 28)
- Connectivity: WiFi 2.4+5.8GHz, Bluetooth 4.1, USB 2.0 (x1), USB 3.0 (x3), SD Card Slot (x1)
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM628
Pros:
- Great audio specifications (e.g. High-Fidelity Lossless Music, DTS Listen Surround and Dolby Audiosupport)
- 4K performance with few instances of lag
- 4K on YouTube (via Android TV)
- 3D rendering game compatibility
- HDMI 2.1 port
- WiFi 6 Support
- Great aesthetics
Cons:
- No 4K Supportfor Netflix, Prime Video or Hulu
- No playback control buttons (e.g. play/pause, rewind, stop, etc)
- NVIDIA Shield TV still better for gaming (i.e. more powerful GPU)
9. MINIX NEO U22-XJ Smart Android TV Box
Performance & Features
The MINIX NEO U22-KJ is pretty similar in terms of specifications to the Beelink GT King Pro, offering a similar Hexacore CPU and a slightly lower spec GPU.
They both also have 4GB of RAM, but the NEO U22-XJ only has 32GB of storage, as compared to the GT King Pro’s 64GB.
But while the GT King Pro offers high fidelity audio and smooth games, the Neo U22-KJ specialises in giving you a cinematic viewing experience instead.
This is done through its use of H.265 Hardware decoding, the ability to display images up to [email protected], along with the usage of both HDR10+ and Dolby Vision for higher visual fidelity.
The box also offers great audio quality with the use of Dolby Audio, giving you immersive surround sound for your favourite films and shows.
As for its OS, the NEO U22-XJ runs on the Android 9.0 OS, meaning it does support Google Play. But lacks the voice control functionality of other Android TV boxes previously mentioned.
The box also supports Miracast and AirPlay, allowing you to stream both Android and Apple devices directly through the TV Box.
Verdict – Best 4K Android TV Box
Whether you’re playing media from your personal library, watching 4K YouTube vids or trying your hand at a game, the Minix NEO U22-KJ offers a great visual experience.
Fair warning though, it’s quite pricy. And if you’re already paying this much for a TV Box, there’s nothing stopping you from getting the slightly pricier NVIDIA Shield Pro if gaming is your top priority!
- Processor: Amlogic S922X-J Hexa-Core processor with Quad-Core Cortex-A73 + Dual Core Cortex-A53 (64bit)
- GPU: ARM Mali-G52 MP4
- Memory & Storage: 4GB RAM, 32GB ROM (Expandable via MicroSD or External HDD)
- Video Resolution: 4K Ultra High Definition
- Operating System: Android 9.0 Pie (API 28)
- Connectivity: WiFi 2.4+5GHz, Bluetooth 4.1, USB-C (x1), USB 3.0 (x3)
- Warranty: 1 year
- Price: ~RM665
Pros:
- Regular updates
- 3 USB 3.0 ports!
- External antenna to improve signal range
- Supports 4K HDR and Dolby Vision
- Dolby Audio surround sound support
- Miracast and Airplay Compatible
- Clean UI
Cons:
- No warranty
- Netflix and Prime Video up to 540p only
- NVIDIA Shield TV still better for gaming (i.e. more powerful GPU)
- Very pricy for a TV Box
10. NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 3GB+16GB Android 9.0 Pie Smart Android TV Box
Performance & Features
When it comes to TV Boxes, there’s nothing quite like the Nvidia Shield Pro, as it offers some of the best performance out of any TV Box on our list.
For its processors, the Nvidia Shield Pro comes with a NVIDIA Tegra X1+ processor with a 256-core NVIDIA GPU. Guaranteeing you the best processing speeds and visuals.
While not on par with a modern gaming console, the Nvidia Shield can run the latest mobile games, as well as its own cloud library of AAA PC/Console games, at a very high fidelity.
It’s also an exceptional TV Box for streaming, being able to offer both Netflix and Prime Video at 4K.
Aside from this, audio-visual features include support for Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos surround sound, plus 4K AI Image Upscaling. Together, these give you a quality viewing experience.
As it runs on the Android TV OS, the Shield Pro also offers great Smart TV capabilities through Google Assistant. Use it for voices commands and as a hub for all the Smart devices in your home.
Verdict – Best Android TV Box for Gaming
If you’re looking for a comprehensive device that can stream at 4K, play high-quality games and be an all-round media power house, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro really doesn’t have much competition.
That being said, it is exceptionally expensive, being nearly triple the price of the Beelink GT King Pro.
It’s definitely not a casual purchase, but if you can stomach the high price, you’ll have the best Android TV boxes in Malaysia that money can buy.
One final note, if you already have the Nvidia Shield TV, do not bother upgrading to the Nvidia Shield TV Pro as the performance improvement between the two models is not justifiable.
- Processor: NVIDIA® Tegra® X1+
- GPU: 256-core NVIDIA
- Memory & Storage: 3GB RAM, 16GB ROM (Expandable via USB Flash or HD)
- Video Resolution: 4K Ultra High Definition
- Operating System: Android 9.0 Pie (API 28)
- Connectivity: WiFi 2.4+5GHz, Bluetooth 5.0, USB 3.0 (x2)
- Warranty: 3 months – 1 year
- Price: ~RM1,399
Pros:
- Powerful Android TV box for gaming
- Built-in voice control compatible with Google Home & Amazon Echo
- Large selection of free AAA Games (through Nvidia Game Streaming)
- 4K Streaming (YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video, etc.)
- Supports both Dolby Vision and Dolby ATMOS
- Built-In Chromecast 4K
- AI Image Upscaling (HD to 4K)
- Google Assistant offers voice control and hub device functionality
- Supports Samsumg SmartThings
- Can function as a Plex server
Cons:
- Performance improvement is not significantly better than the NVIDIA Shield TV
- No IR receiver
- No HDR support for YouTube
- No SD Slot
- Very expensive
11. Google Chromecast with Google TV
Performance & Features
The Google Chromecast with Google TV offers some great features for an Android TV box, especially if you want one mainly for video streaming.
For its specs, the Chromecast runs on a Quad-Core CPU, but it has no dedicated GPU. And only packs 2GB of RAM and 4GB of ROM.
While it might seem inferior to other TV boxes in a similar price range. Such as the Mi Box S or Mecool KM6):
The Chromecast is mainly meant for streaming, so its lower specs aren’t too much of an issue.
Moreover, the Chromecast also runs on an Android TV OS. And is filtered through Google’s proprietary Google TV which is a neat UI that organises content from every major streaming platform, all in one place.
Naturally, the box also comes with Google Assistant, giving you voice control commands directly from the Smart remote.
Best of all, the Chromecast offers support for almost all the major streaming apps, from Netflix and Prime Video to Disney+, at a solid 4K resolution.
As for the viewing experience, the Chromecast offers video rendering at 4K [email protected], along with both Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, for high-quality sound.
Lastly, the Google Chromecast incorporates Chromecast for you to stream to the box directly from your mobile devices.
Verdict – Android TV Box For 4K Streaming
If you’re looking for an affordable TV Box that can play all the major streaming sites at native 4K and have voice control functionality, you can’t go wrong with the Google Chromecast.
It’s not bad for gaming either:
Especially as a game emulator for gaming consoles like the PS 1, PSP, etc). Provided you connect a PC or plug in an external flash drive for additional storage while you run your games!
Want to know how the Chromecast fares after having it for 6 months?
- Processor: Amlogic S905X3 Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A55
- Memory & Storage: 2GB RAM, 4GB ROM
- Video Resolution: 4K HDR
- Operating System: Android 10
- Connectivity: WiFi 2.4+5GHz, Bluetooth, Google Assistant, HDMI, USB-C (Power)
- Warranty: 1 year, 3 months (Remote Control)
- Price: ~RM279
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Great for streaming
- With voice control functionality
- Built in Chromecast
Cons:
- Doesn’t work as well with Apple devices
- Low internal storage (only 4GB)
- Doesn’t have the flexibility of other Android TV boxes (e.g. not for gaming)
How To Choose An Android TV Box
1. Processor
If you want smooth running performance, you’re going to need a quality processor and a decent amount of RAM for your TV Box.
A powerful processor means you can run 4K quality content with little or no lag!
Forget dual-core completely, octa-core processors are the best that money can buy these days! And at the very least, a 1.5GHz quad-core will do.
By the way:
If you’re focus is more on the gaming side of things, make sure your Android TV Box has a GPU (graphics processing unit). Also known as a graphics card.
Which is a type of microprocessor to specifically process graphics optimally.
2. RAM And Storage
You need at least 4GB of RAM. And preferably a minimum of 32GB for storage. If you can add in external storage (via a microSD card or built-in hard disk slot), that’s even better!
Having more RAM means better performance in general, allowing you to multiple apps concurrently without excess lag (i.e. multitask)!
3. Port Capability
HDMI 2.0 (for 4K streaming), at least 2 USB ports and an Ethernet cable port (for internet connection) are all physical features you should look for in an Android TV box.
Newer TV boxes now support USB 3.0, which is a step-up from the older USB 2.0s. You’ll notice a definite speed increase, especially if you watch movies or shows through an external hard drive!
4. Video Resolution
To sum it up, these are the features you want for high quality videos:
- Dynamic Refresh Rate Switching
- HEVC (High-efficiency Video Encoding) or 265 hardware decoding (H.265) for up to 8K resolution
- If your Android TV box can only manage 720p, it’s considered outdated!
- Your TV display must be able to support 4K too
- Fast internet connection is necessary too
5. Operating System Version
Anything lower than Android 5.0 (Lolipop) is really outdated.
So, do go for Android 6.0 or higher!
Of course, there are other TV boxes with operating systems other than Android.
If you’d like to know more about their differences, check out our article on Smart TVs VS Android TVs for a quick overview.
6. Network Connectivity
If you’re experiencing frequent buffering, it may be due to a poor internet connection.
At least 4Mb (Or Mbps) broadband will suffice for HD streaming purposes!
Other than upgrading your internet plan, you can also try boosting the Wi-Fi signal with a dual-band router, range extender and other similar devices.
For the most stable connection, it’s recommended to directly connect your TV Box to your router via an Ethernet cable.
7. Bluetooth Support
Bluetooth capability can be useful for connecting to external peripherals or transferring files. But not all TV boxes come with Bluetooth connectivity.
How Does An Android TV Box Work?
Android TV boxes are pretty similar in function to a Smartphone or tablet, albeit on the big screen of your TV. And with more input and output possibilities (e.g. keyboard, remote control, etc).
To use an Android TV box, you’ll need reliable Internet access (via Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi).
You’ll also have to install some prerequisite apps, depending on what you want to stream or play (e.g. music or games).
It may be that you will have to pay for your streaming service of choice too!
How To Set Up Your Android TV Box
While the specifics may vary, here’s a quick reference guide below on setting up your TV Box:
- Connect the Android TV box to your TV via a HDMI cable.
- Plug in the power cable of the Android TV box to a power outlet. Try not to use the same outlet your TV is using!
- Turn on your TV and the box.
- If you haven’t attached an ethernet cable from your router, the Android TV box should prompt you for access to your home Wi-Fi connection. If not, do check the settings section.
- Once your TV Box has internet connection, you can start installing Apps using Google Play Store(after signing into your respective Google account).
- If the Android TV box prompts you to update the device, do follow through to get the best experience out of it.
- For streaming, just install one of the many streaming apps off the Play Store, make an account, and you’ll be good to go.
Conclusion
To cut this short and sweet, the best Android TV Box in Malaysia 2021 is the Xiaomi Mi Box S, a great all-rounder TV Box that can handle both streaming and games to a great level.
If you need a budget device for streaming specifically, we’d highly recommend the Google Chromecast with Google TV, due to its affordability and ease of use.
And for avid gamers and/or tech enthusiast, the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro is a great premium option for both gaming and streaming. While the Beelink GT King Pro works well if you’re on a budget.
