What is the best Android TV box for 2018?

There are many different brands available so it may seem your choice is endless, but the truth is, not all of them are reputable. Our list includes only the most trustworthy brands!

Here are the best Android TV boxes for 2018.

1. Nvidia Shield TV – Best Android TV Box 2018

The Nvidia Shield TV Streaming Media Player is the best Android TV box for 2018. With its killer 4k HDR graphics and voice command friendly interface, it truly is the best Android TV device for all those who wish to get more from their TV.

Read our Nvidia Shield TV review to learn more about this streaming box.

Setup and Updates

Nvidia Shield TV is just as straight-forward to set up like any other TV box on our list. Once you’ve plugged your unit and started it, you can easily set it up using your Google account. To do this, you can either use an Android phone, tablet, or the remote.

Because it is “the streamer for gamers,” there are some gaming and sharing aspects to consider, but once it’s set up, the interface is extremely easy to use.

Naturally, being a premium streaming device that it is, updates are automatic and offered Over the Air.

There was a major update to Shield TV at the beginning of 2017. The original 2015 Shield TV was upgraded to Android 7.0 Nougat and SHIELD 5.0.

Overview

All Shield TV boxes now come with 7.0 Nougat, the latest version of the Android OS. It brings quicker navigation, faster access to recently used apps, and picture-in-picture support.

Among other changes, the Shield 5.0 update brings the NVIDIA Games app, which replaces the previous Hub app, and the Amazon Video app, which gives you access to thousands of TV shows and movies. Nvidia is also a Diamond Sponsor of Kodi\XBMC.

Netflix is one of the most popular video-on-demand streaming services today, and even though it supports Ultra High Definition or 4k video playback, not all devices are allowed to get this type of content. Most manufacturers, including some of the more established brands, are not in that Netflix-approved list. Nvidia is an exception to this as it can play Netflix, but also Youtube and Amazon’s Prime Video in 4k when used with compatible TVs.

Shield TV is also one of the few Android TV boxes with 3GB RAM. It does not, however, come with an IR receiver, meaning your universal remote may not work with Nvidia TV.

Tech Support

With an active online community, the Nvidia website has many FAQs, covering every area of the query, along with a thriving forum section where tech experts and fellow Nvidia owners swiftly deal with all your queries.

Design

The box comes with a Nvidia Shield TV, a remote, a power adapter, a controller, and a charging cable for the controller.

It’s worth knowing that when the 2017 version of Shield TV was released, the new box came with a refreshed design, improved controllers, and new features. The new compact design is great, but it means that the microSD and micro-USB slots were removed, a move that has angered many.

Shield TV also comes with a new remote that not everyone likes. The company removed the headphone jack and replaced the rechargeable batteries with a 1-year long-life battery.

Alternative to the Nvidia Shield TV

Original Xiaomi TV Box (MDZ-16-AB) International Version

2. Nvidia Shield TV Pro – Best Android Box for Gaming

The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro comes with all that the standard Shield TV has got to offer, but it does come with a couple of major differences. Apart from the price, that is.

Here’s what’s different between Shield TV and Shield TV Pro:

Design

As mentioned in our Nvidia Shield TV review above, the 2017 edition came with a refresh, which gave it a new compact design. In fact, the 2017 Shield TV is about half the size of the original box.

The Shield Pro was not redesigned and retains the size of the 2015 box.

Features

While the new compact design of Shield TV means the microSD and micro-USB slots were removed, the Pro retains these slots, and many people are happy with that.

Although the microSD port means you can expand the storage of your TV box and the Micro-USB port gives you a direct connection to your computer, you might not actually need these features. Shield Pro offers over 30 times more storage, and PC connections are possible via one of the USB-A ports anyway.

One of the most important differences is the inclusion of the IR receiver on the Nvidia Pro. The receiver gives you the opportunity to use any universal IR remote with the box. Without it, the universal remote you might already own would be useless.

Storage

Another major difference between Shield TV and Shield TV Pro is the storage capacity. The Shield TV comes with 16GB of storage, while the Pro offers a whopping 500GB of storage.

The Pro version is a good choice if you intend to download a lot of games, movies, and TV shows on the box. If not, you will be fine with the standard version as the USB ports allow you to connect an external hard drive for extra storage.

Remote and Controller

Both Shield TV and the Pro come with the redesigned Shield Controller, but depending on which version of the box you buy, you get a different remote.

Shield Pro comes with the original remote, meaning it has batteries that you can recharge via the Micro-USB cable and a headphones jack. (If you’re looking for a new pair, check out our Best Noise-Canceling Headphones reviews.)

3. Amazon Fire TV (2017 Edition) – Best Plug and Play Android TV Box

One of the most popular streaming media players available on the market, the new Amazon Fire TV is the best “plug and play” TV box on our list.

It is one of the highest selling and highest rated TV boxes available, and the new features are sure to attract even more customers!

Setup and Updates

Amazon Fire TV is super easy to set up. It is one of the few TV boxes that can be plugged and then played almost immediately. This makes it suitable for you even if you’re new to the world of streaming media players.

Nothing complicated about updates either:

You just need to be connected to the Internet and software updates automatically download and install.

Overview

Already with the old Fire TV, you were able to stream 4k Ultra High Definition content, but the new box brings you improved quality at 60 fps instead of 30 fps. It also now supports HDR or High Dynamic Range content and Dolby Atmos audio on supported apps.

The new 2017 Amazon Fire TV box is one of the only devices on our list capable of streaming Netflix and of course Amazon Video in 4k UHR!

As of January 1st 2018, the Youtube app is not available on any of Amazon’s streaming devices anymore. Fortunately, you can still access it through web browsers, such as Firefox or Silk.

It runs a proprietary version of the new Android Nougat 7.1.2, so you still can’t access the Play Store. But it does support 7000 plus games and apps, and you can install them from the Amazon App Store.

The Fire TV doesn’t come with Kodi, but you can side-load it anytime.

It also has support for Alexa, the web assistant by Amazon, making the Fire TV voice command operated.

The voice search function is one of the best things about this Android TV box:

It lets you control your TV just by speaking, but it can do much more than just launch apps or find programs. Along with accessing media and games on it, you can also control all the smart devices at your home – adjust the thermostat, turn on the lights, etc. 

If you already own one of Amazon’s Echo devices, you can use the Fire TV hands-free! Instead of activating Alexa by pressing a button, you can just speak out loud to control your TV.

Tech Support

Amazon is known as the king of support. Aftersales services and their support is not just for third-party items that they sell, but also for the items they produce. With a call, email, live chat and forum support, Amazon ensures that your issues are dealt with and fast.

Design

If you’ve seen the old Fire TV box before, you’ll immediately notice the new compact and portable design. You no longer need to find space for a rather chunky box, the new Fire TV plugs directly into your HDMI port and hangs behind your TV. This makes it very easy to move from room to room or bring with you when you travel.

*Amazon Prime is a paid program that gives members access to e-books, streaming music, videos, free two-day shipping, and other Amazon services and deals.

Alternatives to the Amazon Fire TV

Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote
Roku Streaming Stick+ | 4K/HDR/HD Streaming Player

4. Skystream TWO – Best New Android TV Box 2018

Since Skystream ONE was one of the most popular streaming media players on the market, we were glad to hear that there was an upgrade coming this year. The new model is officially out now and here is our review.

Setup and Updates

Setting up Skystream is extremely easy. You need to plug the power cable and then HDMI to your Android box and TV, and you’re ready to go.

The box is designed to look for updates automatically, but you can also check for updates through the SkyStream Updater App. It is your go-to place for firmware, app, and add-on updates, but keep in mind that you need to periodically update the app itself as well. Through the updater app, you can choose between the “Family Friendly” or Adult version of Kodi.

Overview

The Android OS was upgraded to Nougat 7.1.2 for the new model and it’s still open source – you can download all your favorite apps and games straight to your streaming media player.

While the old box was running the now outdated Quad-Core S905 processor, the new Skystream TWO comes with the fast S912 Octa-Core processor. The Skystream TWO is the only streaming media player on our list that uses the S912 processor!

Where the Skystream TWO stands out among other best Android TV boxes is its storage capabilities – the new box has 32 GB internal memory versus 16 GB for most other boxes. The only Android box offering more memory than this is the Nvidia Shield TV Pro with 500 GB. RAM was also increased from 2 GB to 3 GB – the only other boxes with 3GB RAM are the Nvidia Shield TVs.

Kodi comes pre-installed on TWO, but you can choose between two versions of it. They are completely identical, but the Family version removes any apps that give access to “adult only” viewing.

Just like the old box, the TWO supports 4k Ultra High Definition resolution when used with compatible TVs. Unfortunately, it still doesn’t meet Netflix’s strict rules when it comes to 4k streaming, so movies and videos are only available in standard resolution.

Tech support

SkyStream offers a variety of support options for its customers. The customer service team is based in the United States, and you can contact them anytime through a toll-free hotline. It also offers access to quick and easy FAQs and an official forum, where all your needs and queries are looked after.

Design

The Skystream TWO is a sleek modern-looking Android box, which is 5 inches wide, 5 inches long and about 1.25 inches tall. Not surprisingly, it is only available in black.

Cord Cutting Package

The Skystream TWO is also available in a Cord Cutting Package. It includes a Backlit Air Mouse remote with voice control and a Mohu Leaf HD antenna, which will both enhance your television watching experience.

One of the core missions of SkyStream is to reduce your dependency on cable and help you save money. They have done exactly that by adding the Mohu Leaf 50 mile HD antenna that will give you access to all the local HD channels in your area.

The original remote only comes with eight buttons and a D-pad. The new Air Mouse comes with a full QWERTY keyboard, giving you full control over your Android device. Even cooler, the voice control function allows you to control apps and TV series hands-free!

You can learn more about this package here.

5. EZ Stream Ti8 PLUS Android TV Box – Newest Kodi Box on the Market!

The EZ Stream Ti8 PLUS is an upgrade of the original model, which was already super popular. The new model comes at a great price and with a couple of important updates.

So what exactly changed? Everything you need to know is in our EZ Stream Ti8 PLUS review below.

Setup and Updates

One primary bugbear of tech users is ease of use. What they usually want is the new hardware to work out of the box.

The EZ Stream Ti8 PLUS does that, just like the old model: it’s virtually plug-and-play so even a novice could use it. Just power it on and connect it to your home Wi-Fi. You do that by entering your router’s password on the wireless setup screen, just as you would on a smartphone or tablet.  Once connected, you are up and running, and the interface is clean and intuitive.

The software and firmware are updated over the air, so you don’t have to take any special measures. Just run the E-Z Stream Updater now and then to make sure your box is safe and secure.

Tip: Make sure your TV has an HDMI port before you purchase the EZ Stream Ti8 Android TV Box. If it has not, you will not be able to use it.

Overview

The OS was upgraded from Android Marshmallow 6.0 to Nougat 7.1.2. It still comes with a standard 2GB of RAM, but you now have twice more internal storage – 32GB instead of 16GB.

The power comes in the form of an Octa-Core S912 64-bit ARM Cortex CPU, which runs at a formidable 2Ghz – another upgrade from the original model. The only other box in this list using the latest Amlogic chipset is the Skystream TWO. As for graphics, a Mali T820 GPU takes care of business.

Mali-T820MP3, coupled with the faster CPU, brings you smooth streaming of super-HighDef-4K content. You can also play even the most graphically challenging games with no difficulties. Of course, how well content is streamed also depends on your Internet download speeds.

For those looking for more; the Jarvis version of Kodi is ready for use. Choose between Adult and Family-friendly versions.

Netflix and Amazon Prime Video are available in standard resolution only.

Tech Support

Tech support is simple and to the point. E-Z Stream is based in Orlando, Florida, which means customer support is US-based as well.

You can do everything you need online, via the ever-growing user forum and handy manufacturer resources. Take any questions and queries you have there; you won’t be disappointed. However, if you prefer to do it the old-fashioned way, there’s telephone support too.

Design

The design is simple and stylish. A sleek black and white box that will fit nicely into your existing entertainment unit.

Tip: Make sure you leave adequate vertical clearance for the aerial. If not, your Wi-Fi signal will be affected. Also, make sure you don’t place the aerial in contact with metal shelving as this will degrade the reception.

Since the original remote was not particularly impressive, the new box comes with the backlit Air Mouse remote.

Cable Cutting Package

Just like Skystream TWO, the Ti8 PLUS is available in a Cable Cutting Package. It includes the Mohu Leaf HD antenna that allows you to watch all your local channels within the broadcasting range.

OTHER ANDROID BOXES REVIEWED

Minix Neo U1 – Android Box for Kodi

With a 64-bit Quad-Core, the Minix Neo U1 is described to be the “ultimate home entertainment media hub.” It brings web browsing, real-time, and lag-free live streaming and extremely high-definition video playback – making it live up to its title.

Our Minix Neo U1 review takes a closer look at this highly rated Android TV box.

Setup and Updates

Setting up this Minix Android TV Box is very easy, just connect it through the HDMI cable to your TV, and you’re almost set. It takes about half a minute to boot, and you can then choose the type of launcher you want to use.

Minix Neo U1 offers regular Over the Air firmware updates, helping you constantly improve its performance.

You can download the updates in two ways:

– Using the Minix System Update app, which checks for new updates and automatically prompts you to download and install them.

– Using the update section in your device settings.

Overview

Looking at the specs, you’ll notice that this Android TV box by Minix uses the old S905 64-bit Quad-Core 1.5GHz processor. Even though the processor is older than many other Android boxes use, the Minix’s performance tops most other streaming players using the new S912 processor. The box offers 2GB RAM.

Along with the old S905, Minix also comes with the older (but full version) of the Android 5.1.1 Lollipop OS, which means you have access to thousands of apps and games from the Google Play Store.

The 4k Ultra High Definition video plays at 60 frames per second (fps) and supports up to 10-bit color format. This increases the range of colors displayed, adds new depths and vibrant picture quality not offered by any of the previous Media Hubs.

Unfortunately, Minix doesn’t run the official Android TV OS, meaning it’s not able to stream Netflix in HD or 4k. The same goes for Amazon’s Prime Video. Standard streaming is available for both.

Minix Neo also comes with its own custom version of Kodi called the “XBMC MINIX Edition”. They are Kodi’s Diamond Sponsors and one of the best Kodi streaming boxes available today!

Tech Support

Minix offers support over email, has an official forum where all your queries are taken care of by their tech support team, as well as other Minix Neo U1 owners.

Design

The Neo U1 comes with a small, but highly efficient remote. The Minix Neo U1 is 16.5 inches wide, 12.5 inches long and 13 inches tall. The product is lightweight and weighs about 1 pound.

Alternative to the Minix Neo U1

Beelink GT1 Ultimate Android 7.1 TV Box

Matricom G-Box Q3 – Matricom’s New Generation TV Box

The G-Box Q3 is a step above the previous version, with a faster processor, latest 7.1 Nougat Android OS, and Amazon’s Prime Video support.

Read our Matricom G-Box Q3 review to learn more about the features of this popular Android TV box.

Setup and Updates

The G-Box Q3 is easy enough to set up with a simple HDMI connection to your TV. Updates are done Over the Air (OTA) automatically, and you can check for them in the system settings too.

Overview

The G-Box Q3 supports 4k Ultra High Definition streaming and 3D video content.

The New Generation Matricom box comes with AmLogic S905, a newer but still not the latest version processor. The upgraded S905 CPU paired with the Mali-450 Octo Quad-Core graphics processor offers much faster streaming than the old version.

The G-Box runs the full, unrestricted version of Android 7.1 Nougat. This means you have full access to Google’s Play Store and most of the apps that work on your smartphone will work on your G-Box too.

Matricom also fully supports Amazon Apps and Video and comes with a built-in Kodi Media Center. This means you pretty much get a 3-in-1 device at the price of one.

Tech Support

Matricom provides tech support in the form of in-store support (in Florida), email support, and has a new public forum where their tech experts and community members assist people and answer queries.

Design

The box is 4 inches long, 4 inches wide, 1.5 inches tall and weighs about 8.8 ounces.

Compared to the old Q2, the Q3 comes with a new user interface that lets you categorize your apps into individual sections, so you’ll find your favorite apps more easily.

Alternative to the Matricom Q3

MINIX NEO U9-H, 64-bit Octa-Core Media Hub for Android

Wrapping It Up

As you can see, there are quite a few things to look at when choosing your streaming box. Since some of them are pretty expensive, you want to make sure you buy a device that lasts longer than a couple of months.

I hope you got all the information you need to purchase your first TV box. If you have any questions or comments, let us know below.