How to Choose an Android TV Box – Best Top and Cheap Models of 2025

Android TV box – what is it and why is it needed, we choose the best smart TV boxes for Android for 2022, budget models, top and highest rated set-top boxes that you can buy on Aliexpress. Android TV set-top box is a full-fledged mini computer that can be connected to modern TVs, especially relevant for TVs that are not equipped with Smart TV technology. By connecting a TV panel to this device, you can turn it into a functional multimedia device (
media player ) with the ability to fully access the Internet. However, not every Android TV box will please you with good quality, wide functionality and sufficient RAM. That is why before buying, you should familiarize yourself with the characteristics of the best models and choose the most suitable option for yourself.

Android TV box: what is this device and why is it needed

Android TV set-top box is a full-fledged mini computer, using which, each user will be able to independently connect their TV to the Internet. After the set-top box is connected to the TV, for example, via the HDMI port, a menu will appear on the screen that resembles the menu of the familiar Android. https://cxcvb.com/kak-podklyuchit/televizor-k-kompyuteru-cherez-hdmi.html Using the set-top box, users can download applications from the Play Market, thereby expanding the functionality of the TV. This makes it possible not only to watch movies / programs on the big screen, but also to enjoy your favorite games, install useful applications for self-development, recreation, etc.

Note! A TV with a built-in Smart TV does not have such extensive functionality.

The Android set-top box is a multifunctional device that allows you to expand the capabilities of a conventional TV. Among the most important features and capabilities of an Android TV set-top box, it is worth highlighting the presence of:

1. Wide selection of games . A device running on the Android OS provides access to download various games and their further playback on the big screen. Thanks to this, users can fully enjoy the passage of levels in games with complex graphics and plot.
2. Video calling support . Using the media player, you can communicate via webcam with friends/family members. To do this, the camera is fixed on the TV panel and Skype / Viber / ISQ is installed.
3. Having a stable Internet connection. Users can access the global network by checking mail / watching videos / spending time on social networks / searching for any information.

For your information! Using a media player allows you to view video from a memory card or via the Internet in any format.

Types of smart devices running Android

To date, two types of Android TV boxes are on sale, each of which runs on the Android operating system. The difference between set-top boxes is that one category of devices comes with an Android TV shell (ATV firmware), and the second has a clean OS version – AOSP. The functional characteristics of the set-top boxes are similar, but the appearance of the system will be slightly different, since the set-top box with the Android TV shell is a platform optimized for remote control and convenient consumption of media content. On the main screen there will be a menu with recommendations for viewing. The user will be able to independently decide which applications will be displayed on the screen – licensed services, or “pirate” cinemas that provide the opportunity to view content for free. Moreover, in the ATV firmware, a corresponding remote control is included in the package, allowing you to use the voice search for videos, so that the system searches in all applications that have been installed on the TV. After that, the user will be able to start watching the video directly from the search menu.

What to look for when choosing an Android TV box

Most people who decide to purchase the first Android TV box do not know what criteria to consider when choosing a device. Experts advise to pay attention to:

• the presence of a built-in Wi-Fi module;
• the amount of RAM, which should not be less than 2 GB;
• the presence of connectors necessary in order to connect a peripheral device;
• the number of cores in the processor (the more there are, the faster the data will be processed);
• the presence of an input for a network cable / HDMI port.

It is also worth remembering that the power of the graphics accelerator will affect the speed of content playback.

Popular models of Android TV boxes: top, cheap, media players available for purchase on AliExpress

Below you can find a description of the best models of Android TV boxes that will please you with good quality, wide functionality and a long service life.

TOP 15 best consoles running Android for 2022

When compiling this rating, real reviews of people who own these consoles were taken into account.

Mecool KM9 Pro Classic 2/16 Gb

The processor of this model is 4-core, the speed of work is high. The presence of built-in Bluetooth, allows you to connect wireless devices. The interface is multilingual. The installation and configuration process is simple. The package includes a remote control with voice search. The operating system is certified. The dimensions of the console are compact. 4K video format is supported. Users are not satisfied only with the amount of pre-installed memory. Price: 6000-7000 rubles.

MECOOL KM1 Collective

MECOOL KM1 Collective is a popular Android TV box with a built-in memory of 64 GB. The device supports various Internet services: YouTube/Google Movies/Google Play/Prime Video, etc. There are no glitches or freezes. The amount of internal memory allows you to install games and various applications. The presence of built-in Wi-Fi makes it possible to achieve a stable Internet connection. The case does not heat up even in case of prolonged use. The only drawback is the appearance of periodic glitches of the standard remote control. Cost: 5000-5500 r.

DGMedia S4 4/64 S905X3

DGMedia S4 4/64 S905X3 is an inexpensive set-top box that is of good quality in everything. The presence of Bluetooth allows you to wirelessly connect additional equipment. The device keeps the Wi-Fi signal stable. The setup process is simple. The choice of ports is large. Judging by the reviews of the owners, DGMedia S4 4/64 S905X3 did not have any particular complaints. Cost: 4800-5200 r.

Vontar X96 max 2/16Gb

Vontar X96 max 2/16Gb is an Android TV box model that is perfect for users interested in streaming video/social networking. Internet connection is fast, signal is stable. Glitches and freezes are absent. The interface is intuitive. The presence of various connectors and Bluetooth allows wired / wireless connection of additional equipment. Price: 3800-4200 r.

Tanix TX9S

The Tanix TX9S is a great set-top box for users on a budget. Amlogic device processor. Operating system Android 9.0. Despite the fact that the set-top box is a budget one, there are no glitches and freezes, which is good news. The only drawback is the small amount of memory (8 GB). Cost: 3400-3800 r.

Vontar X3

Vontar X3 is a modern Android TV box that will delight its owners with stable performance. The cooling system is well thought out, so that the case does not overheat. The dimensions of the console are compact. You can buy Vontar X3 for 4500-5500 rubles.

Xiaomi Mi TV Stick 2K HDR

Xiaomi Mi TV Stick 2K HDR is considered quite compact (92x30x15 mm) and inexpensive set-top box, made in the form of a USB dongle. Operating system Android 9.0. Built-in memory – 8 GB. The presence of Miracast support allows you to transfer photos from your mobile device to TV. Price: 4,000 rubles.

Xiaomi Mi Box S

This model is of good quality and fast work. Operating system Android 8.1. The presence of optical audio input / stereo output / USB 2.0 Type A port is a significant advantage. X iaomi Mi Box S is able to integrate into the smart home system, so that the owner of the device can control other equipment that is installed in the room. Price: 5 500 rubles.

Ugoos X3 Plus

Ugoos X3 PLUS is a set-top box with a rather unusual design. The presence of an external antenna makes the device look like a home router. Processor Ugoos X3 PLUS – Amlogic. The amount of built-in memory is 64 GB. It is possible to integrate the device with a PC. Price: 8 000 rub.

Beelink GT-King Pro WIFI 6

Beelink GT-King Pro WIFI 6 combines the features of a game console and a TV set-top box. The device is fast. Hanging and glitches are not observed. The processor of the device is Amlogic S922X. The amount of internal memory allows you to install games and entertainment applications. Price: 12,000 – 13,000 rubles.

TOX1 Amlogic S905x3

TOX1 Amlogic S905x3 will delight you with stable Wi-Fi reception. The processor of the device is Amlogic. The set-top box plays 4K HDR video. Judging by the reviews of the owners of TOX1 Amlogic S905x3, a significant advantage of the set-top box is fast operation, good quality and the option to automatically adjust the refresh rate to the video format. The remote control is not very convenient to use, which is the only negative. Cost: 5400 – 6000 rubles.

Nvidia Shield Pro

The Nvidia Shield Pro is a fairly expensive Android TV box with a 500 GB hard drive. Processor – Nvidia Tegra X1. A significant advantage is the presence of 2 USB 3.0 Type A ports / USB 2.0 Type B port / Ethernet 10/100/1000 / HDMI 2.0 output. The work of the console is fast. The case does not heat up even with active use. Cost: 27 000 rubles.

Zappiti ONE SE 4K HDR

Zappiti ONE SE 4K HDR is a fairly heavy set-top box. Its mass is 1600 g. The operating system is Android 6.0. Using the Wi-Fi module, the device can be connected to the network. Antennas are located on the back of the case, which cannot be removed. On the side, you can find holes that are required for connecting additional equipment. Cost: 25,000 – 28,000 rubles.

Harper ABX-210

This model is included in the budget category. The design of the device is concise, and the body is compact. Operating system Android 7.1. The weight of HARPER ABX-210 is 160 g. The work of the attachment is fast. You can buy this model for 3000 rubles.

DUNE HD HD Max 4K

DUNE HD HD Max 4K is a full-sized set-top box, the use of which opens up endless possibilities for comfortable viewing of content. The work is fast, the interface is intuitive. The case does not heat up even during prolonged use. Operating system Android 7.1. You can buy DUNE HD HD Max 4K for 7000 rubles.
Which smart TV box to choose for a TV in 2022, the best Android TV Box with Aliexpress: https://youtu.be/L5YlV7cdgoM

Top 10 Android TV Boxes Available for Purchase from Aliexpress

If you wish, you can order an Android TV box even from the Aliexpress website. However, it is very important to responsibly approach the selection process so that the resulting device meets expectations. Below you can see the rating of the best set-top boxes with Aliexpress.

MECOOL KM6

MECOOL KM6 is a model with a quad-core Amlogic processor. The device is equipped with an HDMI port. When choosing a prefix, it is worth remembering that the equipment may be different. It is possible to order a prefix with a remote control or with a keyboard / air mouse. The average cost of MECOOL KM6 is 5500-6500 rubles.

Magicsee N5 Max

Magicsee N5 Max is a set-top box equipped with an LED screen. Operating system Android 9.0. The presence of USB and AV is a significant advantage. The device does not bug and does not freeze. The only drawback is not very convenient control from the remote control. You can buy Magicsee N5 Max for 5000-5500 rubles.

UGOOS AM6B Plus

The operating system of this model is 9.0. Thanks to the S922X-J processor, the operation of the device pleases with stability. It is possible to view video files in 4K resolution. Voice control of the device. The case does not heat up even during active use. Cost: 15 500-16 500 rubles.

JAKCOM MXQ Pro

JAKCOM MXQ Pro is a budget device with a fairly powerful RK3229 processor. The design of the console is concise, the interface is intuitive. Case is matte. The only drawback of JAKCOM MXQ Pro is considered to be a periodic decrease in speed. Price: 4600 rubles.

Reyfoon TX6

Reyfoon TX6 is a good quality budget device. Processor quad-core Allwinner. If desired, you can choose the minimum configuration, which includes a remote control or a variant with a keyboard and mouse. Not quite comfortable location of USB ports can upset. Price: 3300-3500 r.

X88 KING

X88 KING is a model with 4 GB of RAM. The device does not lag during operation. A significant advantage is the large amount of internal memory (128 GB). Price: 10 000 r.

TOX1

Operating system – Android 9.0. The presence of through ventilation allows you not to worry about overheating of the case. There are HDMI/2 USB/TF/Ethernet inputs. A good option for the average price category. Price: 6000 r.

Xiaomi Mi Box S

Xiaomi Mi Box S is a device that pleases with stable operation and quality. Operating system – Android 8.0. The case is not subject to overheating. You can buy Xiaomi Mi Box S for 7000 – 8000 rubles.

AX95DB

AX95 DB is a popular model with Android 9.0 operating system. Amlogic processor. The device is equipped with an AV port, which will allow you to connect even to an old TV. The AX95 DB works quickly, however, judging by the reviews on the background of the device overheating, freezes often occur. Cost: 4500-4700 r.

Vontar X96S

Vontar X96S is a TV box shaped like a USB stick. Firmware Android 8.1. The device works without freezes. The case does not heat up. Google services are preinstalled. Cost: 6100 r.

TOP 5 cheap set-top boxes for Android

If the family budget does not allow you to allocate funds for the purchase of an expensive Android TV set-top box, you should not give up on your dream. Manufacturers produce budget models that are also able to please with good quality and a long service life.

TV Box Tanix TX6S

TV Box Tanix TX6S is a budget model with the new Android 10.0 operating system. Processor quad-core Allwinner. The presence of a video accelerator makes it possible to play high-quality 4K content. Throttling is absent. The Alice UX interface is quite user-friendly. You can buy a prefix for 4500-5000 rubles.

Google Chromecast

Google Chromecast is a budget device that lacks not only a drive, but also memory slots. The dimensions of the console are compact, the design is attractive, the setup process is simple. Google Chromecast plays Full HD videos. It upsets the lack of 4K support, the occurrence of problems with the IOS stream. Cost: 1300-1450 r.

TV Box H96 MAX RK3318

TV Box H96 MAX RK3318 is a budget set-top box that can play 4K content. The device pleases with fast work. The top panel does not heat up. The extended package includes a remote control + microphone / gyroscope / keyboard. Cost: 2300-2700 r.

X96 MAX

The X96 MAX is an affordable set-top box with an LCD display showing time/date/list of active interfaces. Quad-core Amlogic processor. The presence of an AV output and an IR module port is a significant advantage. The choice of interfaces is rich, the setup system is easy. When buying X96 MAX, you should take into account that the budget configuration lacks Bluetooth support. Price: 2500-2700 r.

Selenga T81D

Selenga T81D is a device that combines a TV tuner and a Wi-Fi module. The prefix will please you with good work even in bad weather conditions / weak Wi-Fi signal. The amount of internal memory allows you to install games and entertainment applications. The only downside is the unassuming design. Cost: 1600-1800 r.
Choosing an Android TV box: https://youtu.be/6g1noGEOqcY Most modern TVs are already equipped with built-in Android-based software. But? in order to purchase such a Smart TV, you will need to pay a considerable amount. To save money and at the same time be able to view photo and video files, work with applications, play games from the Play Store on a large TV screen, you can purchase an Android TV set-top box. After reviewing the rating of the best models, everyone will be able to choose the right option for themselves.