Fans of the Android operating system on a smartphone will appreciate the ability to use that same interface on a TV streaming box. An Android streaming box gives you access to games from the Google Play Store as well as apps, making it fun to use.
This streaming box can give you access to video stored on your computer or on YouTube for playing on a television. It’s essential to know that it’s not made for accessing streaming TV subscription services.
Our favorite Android streaming box is the Xiaomi Mi Box S Android 8.1 Streaming Media Box for its plethora of features.
A streaming box should be able to connect to your Wi-Fi network. It also should have Bluetooth connectivity, so you can add a keyboard or mouse if desired.
For the highest level of performance, you’ll want to connect the Android streaming box to your home network router through an Ethernet cable.
Along those same lines, use an HDMI cable if at all possible to connect the box to your TV. This will deliver the highest level of performance.
The Android box will contain both a CPU and a GPU to provide the processing power required to run high-quality video.
Boxes with 4GB or more of RAM (random access memory) will create a smoother playback of the video than those with less RAM.
With the majority of Android streaming box kits, you’ll receive a remote control in addition to the streaming box. You also may receive a wireless keyboard or mouse.
Unfortunately, Android streaming boxes have received some negative press throughout the years. Some manufacturers of these boxes preinstall access to illegally pirated content or expose your home network to viruses.
A legitimate Android streaming player may have some common apps preloaded onto it. But there are some things to watch out for when selecting an Android streaming box:
Extremely basic Android boxes cost $30-$50, but they rarely contain extra components like a wireless keyboard. When you want faster processing speeds and additional features, expect to pay $50-$100.
A. A keyboard simplifies using the box, especially for surfing the web. Entering information is faster with a keyboard than with a remote control.
A. Some of them will. Compatibility is hit and miss between Android streaming boxes and universal remotes, so double-check that the two will work together before buying a new remote.
Xiaomi’s Mi Box S Android 8.1 Streaming Media Box
What you need to know: This is a high-quality Android media player that delivers excellent processing speeds.
What you'll love: It supports 4K video resolution and delivers better-than-average audio quality. It comes at a reasonable price.
What you should consider: If you already own an older Mi Box, this model doesn’t have many improvements to encourage an upgrade.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Transpeed’s RK3318 Android 9.0 Streaming Media Box
What you need to know: This is a low-price option for an Android box that gives you support for 4K video.
What you'll love: It includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth compatibility and ships with a mini Bluetooth keyboard, which is handy.
What you should consider: None of the parts of this kit feel like they’re constructed from high-quality materials.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Ever Express’ T9 Android 9.0 Streaming Media Box
What you need to know: This will give you a good performance level in a variety of areas, even though it has a reasonable price.
What you'll love: It includes support for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, so you can connect a wireless keyboard. It has 4K video resolution.
What you should consider: The quality of the audio seems to be inconsistent.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Kyle Schurman writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
