A TV box is popularly known as an Android TV box. The device comes in different sizes and shapes and can be plugged into the TV to watch videos or network channels. The Android TV box also can run the entire Android system.
TV boxes have become quite popular, yet not everyone knows about them, and those who know about them are still quite skeptical about whether they need one. Learn everything you need to know about TV boxes in this article.
Are all TV boxes the same?
TV boxes are pretty similar, with minor changes in some of them. They vary in size and shape, and different manufacturers make them.
Features of a TV Box
As earlier stated, there are different sizes and shapes of Android TV boxes, and they are from different manufacturers.
However, there are certain features you can find in all android TV boxes, and these features are:
Built-in Chromecast
TV boxes have built-in Chromecast support, allowing users to cast directly from their phones or laptops to the TV.
Google Assistant
Like the android mobile phones, the TV box also has Google assistants that help users navigate the device easily.
Additional USB Ports
This feature varies depending on the manufacturer. You might find USB ports and SD card slots on your TV box device. Also, for a wired internet connection, you might find Ethernet ports.
Bluetooth
Some Android TV boxes are Bluetooth-enabled, making for easy connection with your phone, keyboard, laptop, or other devices.
What can you watch with a TV box?
You can watch various channels and streaming services with a TV box ranging from Netflix, BBC iPlayer, YouTube, etc. Although you can access various streaming service providers using a TV box, you can also access local channels.
However, the local channels you can watch vary depending on your purchased TV box. Also, depending on the brand of TV box you got, you can get access to older movies on Box Office.
Who should purchase a TV box?
You can purchase a TV box if you would love to enjoy Android features on your TV but can’t afford to get a Smart TV.
With the TV box, you could access the most prominent streaming apps, such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Amazon Prime Video, and more.
The best part of this is that TV boxes are not costly, and in this article, we have come up with some of the best TV boxes to purchase.
What to consider when purchasing a TV Box
There are various options when you want to purchase a TV box, and choosing the right one might be challenging. Following these tips below may help make the right decision.
Storage option: The memory of the TV box is essential for its running because it helps make the operating system run smoothly.
So, be sure to purchase a box with at least 4GB RAM. Also, it is safer to purchase one that supports external storage devices.
Multiple USB Ports: Purchasing a box with at least 2 USB ports is advisable.
Video and picture quality: If you are a fan of local channels, go for a TV box that supports 4K resolution for videos.
Connectivity options: Check if the TV box has network connectivity options.
Best TV Boxes to Purchase
Here is a compiled list of TV boxes you can purchase to access endless TV shows and films:
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max
The 4K Max TV box has unique features such as Wi-Fi 6, a faster processor, and picture-in-picture support.
If you have a 4K TV, this TV box is your best bet.
Benefits of 4K Max TV box
Here are some benefits to enjoy from the 4K Max TV box below:
1. A wide range of popular streaming services and apps are available on the box.
2. It supports Alexa.
3. It supports Dolby Vision and ATMOS.
Restrictions
These are some restrictions on the device:
1. There are many ads on the Home Screen with lots of self-promotion from Amazon.
2. It is pretty expensive.
NVIDIA Shield TV box
The NVIDIA TV box stands out from other TV boxes because it has many features and can run on the latest Android software. If you can afford it, it’s worth it! Read our full review of the NVIDIA Shield.
Benefits of Nvidia Shield TV Box
Here are some benefits to enjoy from the NVidia Shield TV Box below:
1. It runs on the latest Android TV software.
2. Its remote comes with a built-in microphone.
3. It provides access to Android apps and popular streaming platforms.
4. It offers home screen recommendations.
Restrictions
1. There are no extra USB ports.
2. It doesn’t support advanced Android games.
Amazon Fire TV Cube (2nd-gen)
The 2nd-gen Amazon Fire TV Cube is everything and more. It offers an Amazon built-in speaker, a hands-free feature, and more.
Benefits of the 2nd-gen Amazon Fire TV Cube
Here are some benefits to enjoy from the 2nd-gen Amazon Fire TV Cube:
1. It comes with a built-in Amazon Echo speaker.
2. It offers hands-free control.
3. It can check weather forecasts, get news updates, set timers, and reminders.
4. It supports 4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby ATMOS.
Restrictions
These are some restrictions on the device:
1. It is expensive.
2. There’s heavy Prime Video promotion.
Roku TV Box
The Roku TV box allows 500,000+ movies and TV episodes across thousands of free and paid channels.
Benefits of Roku TV Box
Here are some of the benefits to enjoy from the Roku TV Box below:
1. It grants access to over 3,000 channels and popular streaming platforms.
2. It has a built-in HDMI connector.
3. It supports 1080p HD videos and higher.
4. It supports voice search.
Restrictions
1. It does not offer parental control.
Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite
The Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite has a refined design with unique features, and it is a device that has Alexa voice support and other distinctive features.
Benefits of the Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite
Here are some benefits to enjoy from the Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite
1. It is affordable.
2. It has a clean layout with an easy-to-use interface.
3. Alexa voice support.
Restrictions
Some restrictions on this device are:
1. Heavy Amazon promotion.
2. There are no control buttons for power or volume.
3. No 4K streaming resolution.
Turewell T9
The Turewell T9 Android TV box is pretty fast and efficient, and it supports a lot of features that grant its users premium satisfaction.
Benefits of the Turewell T9
Here are some benefits to enjoy from the Turewell T9 Android TV box:
- It supports Android 9.0 Pie.
- It has a good interface
- There are a variety of games to pick from.
- It supports HD and 4K resolution.
- It saves capacity.
Restrictions
These are some restrictions on the device:
- It is expensive.
- There is a heavy promotion on the device.
Pendoo T95 Android TV Box
The Pendoo T95 TV box is faster than Android 9.0, with better software, games, and applications compatibility.
The Android TV Box also offers user-friendly functions for a better user experience.
Benefits of Pendoo T95 TV box
Here are some benefits to enjoy from the Pendoo T95 TV box below:
1. It is user-friendly.
2. It gives access to various streaming platforms such as Netflix, YouTube, etc.
Restriction
- It is costly.
Manhattan T3-R
The Manhattan T3-R is a TV box that offers an unrestricted view. This box is packed with over 80 channels; HD channels are also available.
Benefits of Manhattan T3-R
Here are some benefits to enjoy from the Manhattan T3-R below:
1. The TV box is easy to use.
2. There are 85 channels available, and 15 of them are HD channels.
3. Great selection of UK on-demand apps.
4. It offers features that help to catch up on apps from UK broadcasters.
5. You can pause, rewind, or record your favorite shows.
Restrictions
These are some restrictions on the device:
1. Netflix, Amazon Prime, and other popular streaming platforms and apps are unavailable.
2. It is costly.
3. 4K content is only available on YouTube and BBC iPlayer.
4. Unavailable in the US.
How to set up your Android TV Box
To set up your Android TV Box, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Turn off your TV.
Step 2: Connect an HDMI cable from your TV to the HDMI port at the back of the TV box.
Step 3: Insert batteries in the remote and turn on your TV.
What is a Smart TV Stick?
A Smart TV stick is popularly known as a Firestick and is a typical example of “small but mighty.”
The device looks like a USB flash drive that you can plug into your TV’s HDMI port. It comes with remote control and a built-in microphone.
You can access the various streaming platforms available on Android TV boxes with the stick.
It also adds thousands of channels to your TV, ranging from sports to entertainment.
How to set up a Smart TV Stick
To set up a Smart TV Stick, follow these easy steps below:
Step 1: Plug the TV stick into its power adapter.
Step 2: Plug the stick into your TV’s HDMI video input port.
Step 3: Turn on your TV and ensure you set it to the correct HDMI input.
Differences between Android TV box and Smart TV stick
Android TV boxes are pretty sizable compared to Smart TV sticks. However, the size of the TV box isn’t wholly a disadvantage because it offers 4K streaming or gaming capabilities.
You would have to go for a costly one to get the highest resolution possible with the Smart TV sticks. Smart TV sticks are significantly cheaper than an Android TV box.
So, picking between the two boils down to your preferences. Do you want a device that is within your budget but powerful?
People will prefer to go with a Smart TV Stick because they can easily hide it behind their TVs.
