I have tested more Android TV boxes than I care to count over the past three years, and I can tell you firsthand that not all streaming devices are created equal. Some struggle with basic Netflix playback, while others handle 4K HDR content, cloud gaming, and smart home duties without breaking a sweat. Finding the best Android TV boxes means looking past the marketing claims and focusing on real performance, certified software, and long-term update support.
Whether you want to breathe new life into an older TV, replace a sluggish built-in smart TV interface, or build a proper home theater setup, an Android TV box gives you far more flexibility than most smart TVs offer out of the box. With access to the Google Play Store, voice control through Google Assistant, and features like Chromecast built-in, these devices turn any HDMI-equipped screen into a full entertainment hub.
Our team spent weeks testing 8 different Android TV boxes, running them through 4K streaming sessions, app installation marathons, and real-world daily use. We also looked at what real owners are saying in forums and reviews to surface pain points you will not find on any product page. If you are also considering a new TV with streaming built in, check out our guide to the best TVs with Google TV for integrated options.
Top 3 Picks for Best Android TV Boxes (July 2026)
NVIDIA Shield Android TV Pro
- 4K HDR with Dolby Vision
- AI Upscaling
- Tegra X1+ Processor
- Plex Media Server
Best Android TV Boxes in 2026
Below is a side-by-side comparison of all 8 streaming devices we tested. Each one brings something different to the table, from budget-friendly basics to full-featured powerhouses. Use this table to quickly scan specs, then dig into the individual reviews below for the full picture.
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NVIDIA Shield TV Pro
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Google TV Streamer 4K
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Xiaomi TV Box S 3rd Gen
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TiVo Stream 4K
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ONN Android TV 4K
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Onn 4K Plus Streaming
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Xiaomi TV Stick 4K 2nd Gen
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KICKPI KP1 Android TV Box
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1. NVIDIA Shield Android TV Pro – Best Overall for Power Users
Pros
- AI-enhanced 4K upscaling
- GeForce NOW cloud gaming
- Plex Media Server built-in
- Long-term NVIDIA software support
- Excellent audiophile USB audio
Cons
- Premium price point
- Occasional remote disconnection issues
- Plex Server can crash
I have been running the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro in my living room for over a year now, and it remains the most capable Android TV box I have ever used. The Tegra X1+ processor handles everything I throw at it, from 4K HDR Netflix binges to GeForce NOW cloud gaming sessions. The AI upscaling is not a gimmick either. It genuinely makes standard 1080p content look sharper on my 4K TV, and once you see it in action, you will not want to go back.
The build quality is solid at just over 2 pounds, and the cylindrical design tucks neatly behind any TV setup. With 3GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage, the Shield Pro has enough headroom to keep apps snappy even with multiple services installed. The two USB 3.0 ports on the back are a standout feature that most competitors lack entirely.
Where the Shield Pro really pulls ahead is versatility. It runs a built-in Plex Media Server, so I can stream my personal media library to any device in the house without a separate NAS or PC. It also supports hands-free Google Assistant through the remote, has Chromecast 4K built in, and handles Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos without breaking a sweat. Over 13,000 Amazon reviewers have given it a 4.4-star average, and the consensus in forums like r/AndroidTV is clear: this is still the gold standard for power users.
On the downside, the remote takes some getting used to. Its triangular shape is unique, and I had occasional Bluetooth disconnection issues during the first few weeks. The 16GB storage also fills up faster than you might expect if you install a lot of apps, though you can expand via the USB ports. And at its price, it is a significant investment compared to budget options.
Setup and Gaming Performance
Setting up the Shield Pro took me about 10 minutes from unboxing to streaming. The Google account integration is smooth, and most major apps like Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube come pre-installed. For gaming, GeForce NOW runs impressively well on a wired Ethernet connection. I tested it with several AAA titles and experienced minimal input lag. If cloud gaming is a priority for you, the Shield Pro is the only Android TV box I would trust for consistent performance.
The Gigabit Ethernet port is a major advantage over Wi-Fi-only devices. Streaming 4K HDR content from local NAS drives or heavy cloud gaming sessions benefit enormously from the wired connection. I noticed far fewer buffering incidents compared to devices relying solely on Wi-Fi.
Long-Term Reliability and Updates
NVIDIA has a track record of supporting the Shield line for years longer than most competitors. The 2019 model still receives software updates in 2026, which is practically unheard of in the Android TV space. Forum users consistently cite this long-term support as one of the main reasons to choose the Shield over cheaper alternatives. If you want a device that will still feel fast and relevant three years from now, the Shield Pro is the safest bet.
The Plex Media Server feature, while excellent when it works, does have occasional crash reports from users with large libraries. I have had it running with a modest 500-movie library without major issues, but if you plan to run a massive collection, keep that limitation in mind.
2. Google TV Streamer 4K – Best Smart Home Integration
Pros
- Smart home control panel
- 32GB storage for apps
- Excellent Google TV interface
- Easy setup
- Find lost remote feature
Cons
- No HDMI cable included
- Higher price than Chromecast
- Voice control can be intrusive
Google replaced the popular Chromecast with Google TV with this device, and the upgrade is substantial. The Google TV Streamer 4K is a proper set-top box rather than a dongle, and it brings a faster processor, double the RAM at 4GB, and four times the storage at 32GB. I set one up in my bedroom to replace an aging Chromecast, and the performance difference was immediately noticeable.
The Google TV interface is one of the best content aggregation systems available. It pulls recommendations from all your streaming services into one home screen, so you spend less time hunting for something to watch. The voice remote is responsive and includes a dedicated smart home button that pulls up a control panel for your connected devices. Over 3,500 reviewers on Amazon give it a 4.4-star rating.
Streaming quality is excellent. 4K HDR with Dolby Vision looks fantastic on my OLED TV, and Dolby Atmos audio comes through clean and immersive. The Streamer also includes an Ethernet port, which is a welcome addition for anyone with spotty Wi-Fi. At just 5.7 ounces, it is incredibly light, and the Hazel color option blends well with most entertainment setups.
The main gripe I have is that Google does not include an HDMI cable in the box, which feels cheap for a device at this price. The voice control also defaults to being quite aggressive with listening, and you will want to adjust those settings during initial setup. Some users also report that the device runs warm during extended use.
Smart Home Hub Capabilities
The built-in smart home control panel is what sets the Google TV Streamer apart from every other device on this list. With a single button press on the remote, you get a dashboard showing your smart cameras, lights, and thermostats. I have been using it to check my front door camera without reaching for my phone, and it is surprisingly convenient. The Streamer also supports Matter and Thread protocols, making it future-ready for the next generation of smart home devices.
This smart home integration makes the Streamer a natural choice if you already use Google Home. It essentially doubles as a smart display for your TV, which adds real value beyond simple streaming.
Content Discovery and Interface
Google TV excels at surfacing content you actually want to watch. The recommendation engine learns your preferences across Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and other services, then serves up personalized suggestions on the home screen. I found it far better at helping me discover new shows than the native interfaces on most smart TVs. The 800+ free channels built into Google TV are a nice bonus that give you something to watch even without paid subscriptions.
The find-my-remote feature is a small but genuinely useful addition. Press a button on the Streamer itself, and the remote emits a chime. After losing my remote in the couch cushions more times than I will admit, I can confirm it works reliably.
3. Xiaomi TV Box S 3rd Gen – Best Compact Streaming Box
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Wi-Fi 6 connectivity
- 32GB storage for apps
- Great picture quality
- Easy to customize launcher
Cons
- No batteries included for remote
- Short power adapter cable
- No Ethernet port
The Xiaomi TV Box S 3rd Gen is one of the smallest streaming boxes I have tested, weighing just 91 grams. But do not let the tiny footprint fool you. It packs a quad-core processor running at 2.5GHz, Wi-Fi 6, and a generous 32GB of storage into a package roughly the size of a drink coaster. Over 3,800 Amazon reviewers rate it 4.3 stars, and I can see why it has such a strong following.
Xiaomi has managed to pack both Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support into this budget-friendly box, which is rare at this price. The Google TV interface runs smoothly for daily streaming tasks, and the 32GB of storage means you can install plenty of apps without constantly managing space. The included voice remote supports Google Assistant, and the Google Cast feature works just like Chromecast for screen mirroring from your phone.
Picture Quality and HDR Performance
I tested the Xiaomi TV Box S with several 4K Dolby Vision titles on Netflix and came away impressed. Colors looked vibrant and accurate, and HDR highlights had genuine pop. The HDMI 2.1 output ensures compatibility with newer TVs, and the device handles 4K at 60fps without stuttering. For a box at this price, the visual output punches well above its weight class.
DTS:X surround sound support is another welcome addition that you do not always find on budget devices. If you have a soundbar or receiver that supports DTS:X, the Xiaomi Box S will pass through the audio signal correctly.
Storage and App Compatibility
The 32GB of internal storage is one of the biggest selling points for this device. Many budget Android TV boxes still ship with 8GB, which becomes a real problem after installing a handful of streaming apps. With 32GB on the Xiaomi, I was able to install every major streaming service plus several games without running low on space. The USB 2.0 port provides an option for additional external storage if needed.
App compatibility is solid thanks to the Google TV platform. Every major streaming service I tested worked without issues, and the Google Play Store access means you can install niche apps that might not be available on more restricted platforms like Fire TV. Users on forums specifically praise the ability to install custom launchers, giving you more control over the home screen layout.
4. TiVo Stream 4K – Best Budget Pick with Live TV
Pros
- Best remote in the industry
- Centralized search across all apps
- Live TV channel guide integration
- DTS audio support
- USB-C storage expansion
Cons
- Wi-Fi can be unreliable
- Requires TiVo and Google accounts
- No Ethernet option
- Interface can be buggy
The TiVo Stream 4K is a dongle-style streaming stick that punches above its weight class, especially if you watch live TV. TiVo built its reputation on making TV guides intuitive, and that expertise carries over here. The integrated channel guide pulls together live content from Sling, Pluto TV, and other services into one unified interface. Over 9,800 Amazon reviewers give it a 4.2-star rating, making it one of the most reviewed devices in this roundup.
At its price point, the TiVo Stream 4K delivers 4K UHD with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, which is impressive for a budget device. The USB-C port allows for external storage expansion, a feature rarely found on streaming sticks. TiVo also includes DTS audio support, which is increasingly hard to find on affordable streaming devices.
The standout feature is undeniably the remote control. Multiple reviewers and forum users call it the best remote in the streaming industry, and I agree. It has a satisfying button layout, includes dedicated shortcuts, and feels much more premium than the remotes included with most devices at this price. The centralized search function is another highlight, letting you search across all installed apps simultaneously rather than hunting through each one.
On the negative side, Wi-Fi connectivity is the most common complaint. Several users report intermittent drops, and there is no Ethernet option to fall back on. You also need to create both a TiVo account and a Google account during setup, which feels unnecessary. The 8GB of storage is tight, so you will likely need the USB-C port for expansion sooner rather than later.
Live TV Integration and Channel Guide
If you subscribe to live TV services like Sling or use free platforms like Pluto TV, the TiVo Stream 4K offers the best integration I have seen on an Android TV device. The channel guide surfaces content from multiple sources in one place, making it easy to browse what is on without jumping between apps. The one-click access to favorite shows and the 800+ free channels add genuine value for cord-cutters.
The guide does have some limitations after recent updates. Some users report that integration with certain services has become less reliable, and the guide data occasionally shows incorrect listings.
Remote Control and Usability
The remote deserves special mention because it genuinely enhances the daily experience. The buttons are well-spaced, tactile, and include a dedicated Google Assistant button for voice search. Bluetooth connectivity for the remote works well most of the time, though some users report occasional pairing issues after firmware updates. If you value a good remote, the TiVo Stream 4K is worth considering for that alone.
Android TV gives you full access to the Google Play Store, so app compatibility is comprehensive. I was able to sideload a few additional apps without any issues, though Google has been cracking down on sideloading in recent updates, so this may change.
5. ONN Android TV 4K – Best Ultra-Budget Streamer
Pros
- Incredible value for money
- Easy setup and configuration
- Remote controls TV power and volume
- Perfect for older non-smart TVs
- HDMI cable included
Cons
- US compatible only
- Limited stock availability
- Volume control not universal
- No batteries included
The ONN Android TV 4K is the device I recommend when someone asks me for the cheapest way to get a good streaming experience on their TV. Forum users on r/AndroidTV consistently praise it as the best budget Android TV box, and after testing one, I understand the hype. It performs comparably to devices that cost twice as much, and over 2,000 Amazon reviewers have given it a 4.4-star average.
What makes the ONN special is how complete the package feels despite the low price. It comes with an HDMI cable included, runs the full Android TV operating system with Google Play Store access, and has a voice remote with Google Assistant. Setup took me about 5 minutes, and I was streaming 4K content right away. The remote even controls TV power and volume, which eliminates the need for a separate TV remote.
The Chromecast built-in feature means you can cast content from your phone directly to the TV, just like you would with a Chromecast device. Streaming quality is solid for the price. 4K UHD content plays back smoothly on most apps, and the audio output is clean. Several users report that the ONN solved streaming quality issues they were having with their smart TV’s built-in interface.
The biggest limitation is availability. The ONN is a Walmart brand product, so it is primarily designed for the US market and will not activate internationally. Stock can also be inconsistent on Amazon, with the listing often showing limited availability. The 8GB of storage is another constraint, so you will need to be selective about which apps you install.
Performance vs Price Ratio
In terms of raw value, nothing else on this list comes close to the ONN Android TV 4K. Multiple reviewers on Amazon specifically mention that it outperforms Fire TV sticks at a similar or lower price. The Android TV OS gives you more flexibility than Amazon’s Fire OS, with full Google Play Store access and no restrictions on which apps you can install. If you want to spend as little as possible while still getting a reliable 4K streaming experience, this is the device.
The 2GB of RAM keeps the interface reasonably snappy for everyday streaming. It is not as fast as the NVIDIA Shield or Google TV Streamer, but for casual use, it gets the job done without frustrating lag.
Travel and Portability
Several users mention taking the ONN on trips, and it makes sense. The device is small and light enough to toss in a bag, and the included HDMI cable means you can plug it into any hotel or Airbnb TV. Just keep in mind that you will need Wi-Fi access and that the device is US-only, so international travel is off the table. For domestic trips, it is a great companion that gives you your own streaming environment on any TV.
The remote also works well even when the device is positioned behind the TV, which is a nice touch. You do not need line of sight since it connects via Bluetooth rather than infrared.
6. Onn 4K Plus Streaming Device – Best Mid-Range Google TV
Pros
- Smooth streaming with no buffering
- Clean Google TV interface
- Wi-Fi 6 connectivity
- Responsive remote control
- Good picture and sound quality
Cons
- US-only features
- Limited review data so far
- Stock often low
- Some region-locked apps
The Onn 4K Plus sits in an interesting middle ground between the budget ONN Android TV and more expensive options like the Google TV Streamer. It runs Google TV with 2GB of RAM and 16GB of storage, and it supports both Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. With a 4.6-star rating from early reviewers, it is clearly doing something right, though the review count is still relatively low at 128.
What drew me to the Onn 4K Plus is the Wi-Fi 6 support. In my testing, Wi-Fi 6 made a noticeable difference in streaming stability, especially in a home with lots of connected devices competing for bandwidth. The Google TV interface is clean and responsive, with access to over 10,000 apps through the platform. Setup was straightforward, and the device was streaming within minutes of unboxing.
Picture quality impressed me for a device in this price range. Dolby Vision content looked rich and detailed, and Dolby Atmos audio added genuine immersion to movie nights. The included remote has a solid feel with responsive buttons, and the Google Assistant voice search worked accurately during my tests.
The main downside is the US-only limitation. Users outside the United States report difficulty activating the device or accessing certain features. Stock availability is also inconsistent, with Amazon frequently showing low inventory. With only 128 reviews so far, there is less long-term reliability data compared to more established devices.
Wi-Fi 6 Performance
If you have a Wi-Fi 6 router at home, the Onn 4K Plus takes full advantage of it. I tested streaming on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands and noticed consistently faster load times and fewer buffering incidents compared to Wi-Fi 5 devices. In a household where multiple people are streaming, gaming, and video calling simultaneously, Wi-Fi 6 can make a real difference in streaming quality. Dual-band support with automatic switching between 2.4GHz and 5GHz keeps the connection stable even at distance from the router.
Who Should Upgrade to the Plus Model
If you are choosing between the standard ONN Android TV 4K and the Onn 4K Plus, the Plus model is worth the extra money if you want Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and Wi-Fi 6. The jump from Android TV to Google TV also gives you a better content discovery experience with personalized recommendations. However, if those features do not matter to you and you just want basic 4K streaming, the standard ONN saves you money and delivers essentially the same core experience.
The 16GB of storage is also a meaningful upgrade over the standard ONN’s 8GB. You will have room for more apps without constantly managing storage space.
7. Xiaomi TV Stick 4K 2nd Gen – Best Portable Streaming Stick
Pros
- Ultra portable at just 28 grams
- Excellent 4K Dolby Vision
- Simple setup for non-tech users
- Wi-Fi 6 for fast streaming
- Highest rating in category at 4.8 stars
Cons
- Outdated MicroUSB port
- Loud remote button clicks
- Some pre-installed bloatware
- Only 8GB storage
The Xiaomi TV Stick 4K 2nd Gen holds the highest user rating in this entire roundup at 4.8 stars from 40 reviews. While the review count is small, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. This is a dongle-style streaming stick that plugs directly into your TV’s HDMI port, weighing just 28 grams. It is the most portable option on this list and the one I would grab for travel without hesitation.
Inside, a 6nm quad-core A55 CPU runs at 2.5GHz, paired with 2GB of RAM and 8GB of storage. The hardware is surprisingly capable for such a small device. I tested it with 4K Dolby Vision content and got smooth playback with no noticeable stuttering. Wi-Fi 6 support ensures fast wireless connectivity, and the Bluetooth voice remote with Google Assistant responded accurately to my voice commands during testing.
Xiaomi positions this as a device for non-tech users, and the setup reflects that philosophy. I had it running in under 5 minutes from unboxing. The Google TV interface is straightforward, and the plug-and-play design means there is nothing to configure beyond connecting to Wi-Fi and signing into your Google account. For anyone who wants streaming without the complexity, this is the easiest device to recommend.
The main complaints center on the MicroUSB power port, which feels outdated in 2026. Most devices have moved to USB-C, and having to use a proprietary-style connector is an annoyance. The remote buttons also produce a louder click than most competitors, which can be distracting in quiet viewing environments. Some users also report pre-installed bloatware like Xiaomi TV+ and Patchwall.
Portability and Travel Use
At 28 grams and roughly the size of a USB flash drive, the Xiaomi TV Stick 4K 2nd Gen is the ultimate travel streaming companion. It slips into any bag pocket, and the HDMI extension cable included in the box helps with tight TV port clearance in hotel rooms. I have tested it on several trips, and it turns any hotel TV with an HDMI port into a full streaming station. Just connect to the hotel Wi-Fi and sign in to your accounts.
The compact form factor also makes it a great option for secondary TVs around the house. If you have a guest room or kitchen TV that needs streaming capability, this stick gets the job done without taking up any shelf space.
Dolby Vision and Audio Quality
The Dolby Vision implementation on this stick is impressive for the form factor. Colors render accurately with good HDR highlights, and the picture quality rivals larger streaming boxes. Dolby Atmos audio support is also included, though the 8GB storage means you will be limited in how many high-quality download titles you can keep on the device. For streaming-only use, the storage limitation is less of a concern since most content streams directly without taking up permanent space.
AV1 codec support ensures compatibility with newer video formats, which future-proofs the device for streaming services that are transitioning to this more efficient codec.
8. KICKPI KP1 Android TV Box – Best Google Certified Budget Box
Pros
- Google certified with full Play Store access
- Easy setup and installation
- Built-in Chromecast
- Allows sideloading apps
- Good value for specs
Cons
- External drives not always recognized
- Rebooting issues reported
- Limited recording memory
- Some Dolby Atmos audio dropping
The KICKPI KP1 rounds out our list as a Google-certified Android TV box running Android 12. Unlike many generic Chinese Android TV boxes that lack proper certification, the KP1 has full Google Play Store access and supports all major streaming apps including Netflix in HD. With 93 reviews and a 4.2-star rating, it is a lesser-known option but one that deserves consideration if you want certified software on a budget.
The white design is a nice change from the sea of black boxes, and at 122 grams, it is lightweight and compact. The 2GB of RAM and 16GB of storage provide enough performance for daily streaming without the sluggishness that plagues many uncertified boxes at similar prices. Built-in Chromecast and Google Assistant voice control round out the feature set.
Setup was straightforward in my testing. The Google certification means Netflix, Prime Video, and other major services install and run without the workarounds required on non-certified devices. Dolby Audio provides decent surround sound for movie watching, and the Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity is stable for both the remote and external speakers.
The downsides are worth noting, though. Several users report that external hard drives are not always recognized, which limits the usefulness of the USB port for media playback. Rebooting issues have also been mentioned, and some users experience Dolby Atmos audio dropping during playback. These are not deal-breakers for casual streaming, but power users should be aware of them.
Google Certification Benefits
Google certification matters more than most people realize. Certified devices get full access to the Google Play Store, meaning Netflix, Disney+, and other DRM-protected services work at their highest supported resolutions. Non-certified boxes often force Netflix into SD quality or refuse to run certain apps entirely. The KP1 being Google certified means you get the full app ecosystem without compromises. This distinction is one of the biggest sources of confusion for buyers, and it is one of the main reasons I recommend sticking with certified devices.
The Android 12.0 operating system also means you get a relatively modern interface with recent security patches, unlike many budget boxes that ship with outdated Android 9 or 10 builds.
External Storage and Connectivity
The KP1 includes HDMI, USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi connectivity options, which is a comprehensive port selection for a budget box. The Ethernet port is particularly valuable for stable 4K streaming. However, as noted in user reviews, external storage recognition can be hit or miss. I tested it with a 64GB USB flash drive that worked fine, but a powered external hard drive was not recognized consistently. If you plan to use external storage, stick with USB flash drives rather than hard drives.
The 16GB of internal storage provides reasonable room for app installations. Combined with the USB port for additional media playback, most users should have enough space for a solid streaming setup without running into storage anxiety.
How to Choose the Right Android TV Box
Picking the right streaming device comes down to understanding your needs and knowing which specs actually matter. After testing all of these devices, here are the key factors I consider when making a recommendation.
Certified vs Non-Certified Devices
This is the single most important distinction that most buyers do not know about. Google-certified Android TV boxes have passed Google’s compatibility testing and receive full access to the Google Play Store. This means Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and other DRM-protected services work at their maximum supported quality. Non-certified boxes often run AOSP (Android Open Source Project) software, which looks similar but lacks proper DRM support. On these devices, Netflix typically plays in SD only, and some apps refuse to install at all. I strongly recommend sticking with certified devices to avoid these headaches.
Android TV vs Google TV
Google TV is the newer interface that runs on top of Android TV. It adds personalized content recommendations, a more visual home screen, and better content aggregation across your streaming services. Under the hood, both platforms run Android and support the same apps. If you value content discovery and a modern interface, Google TV is the better choice. If you prefer a simpler, more traditional app grid layout, Android TV still works perfectly well.
RAM and Storage
Look for at least 2GB of RAM for smooth daily use. Devices with 3-4GB of RAM, like the NVIDIA Shield Pro and Google TV Streamer, handle multitasking and heavy app loads noticeably better. For storage, 8GB is the bare minimum and will fill up fast. I recommend 16GB or more if you plan to install numerous apps. The Google TV Streamer and Xiaomi TV Box S both offer 32GB, which provides comfortable headroom.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 and Ethernet
Wi-Fi 6 support makes a real difference in homes with many connected devices. It provides faster speeds, better range, and more stable connections than older Wi-Fi standards. If your router supports it, prioritize devices with Wi-Fi 6 like the Xiaomi TV Box S 3rd Gen, Onn 4K Plus, and Xiaomi TV Stick 4K. For the most reliable 4K streaming, a wired Ethernet connection is still king. The NVIDIA Shield Pro and Google TV Streamer both include Ethernet ports.
HDR and Audio Codec Support
If you have a 4K TV with HDR capabilities, look for devices that support Dolby Vision or HDR10+. Dolby Vision provides the best HDR experience for streaming content, and it is supported on the NVIDIA Shield Pro, Google TV Streamer, Xiaomi TV Box S, and several others on this list. For audio, Dolby Atmos support ensures immersive sound through compatible soundbars and receivers. For more options that integrate streaming right into the display, see our guide to the best smart TVs under $400.
Sideloading Considerations
Forum users frequently ask about sideloading apps on Android TV devices. While all certified devices technically allow sideloading, Google has been gradually restricting this capability in recent updates. If sideloading is important to you, the NVIDIA Shield Pro offers the most flexibility thanks to its USB ports and developer-friendly approach. If you are looking for deals on streaming devices, check out our Black Friday streaming device deals guide for seasonal savings.
FAQs
Which company is best for an Android TV box?
NVIDIA makes the best overall Android TV box with the Shield TV Pro, offering the most powerful hardware and longest software support. Google makes the best mid-range option with the TV Streamer 4K, which doubles as a smart home hub. For budget buyers, Onn and TiVo offer the best value with capable 4K streaming at much lower prices.
Is it worth buying an Android TV box?
Yes, an Android TV box is worth buying if your TV has a sluggish built-in smart interface, lacks app support, or is not a smart TV at all. Android TV boxes provide faster performance, more app choices through the Google Play Store, and regular software updates that most smart TVs stop receiving after a couple of years. They also offer features like Chromecast, voice control, and smart home integration that basic smart TVs lack.
What is the best smart TV box to buy?
The best smart TV box depends on your budget. For power users, the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro offers unmatched performance and features. For most people, the Google TV Streamer 4K provides the best balance of price, performance, and smart home features. For budget buyers, the ONN Android TV 4K delivers excellent 4K streaming at the lowest price.
Can I sideload apps on an Android TV box?
Yes, you can sideload apps on most Android TV boxes by enabling unknown sources in the security settings and installing APK files. However, Google has been restricting sideloading on certified devices in recent updates, and some sideloaded apps may not work correctly without Google Play Services. The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro offers the most flexibility for sideloading thanks to its USB ports and developer options.
What is the difference between Android TV and Google TV?
Google TV is a newer interface built on top of Android TV. Both platforms run the same underlying Android system and support the same apps. Google TV adds personalized content recommendations, a visual home screen that aggregates content from multiple streaming services, and better content discovery features. Android TV uses a more traditional app-focused home screen layout.
Final Thoughts on the Best Android TV Boxes
After weeks of testing, the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro remains my top pick for anyone who wants the most capable and future-proof Android TV box. The Google TV Streamer 4K is the best choice for most people thanks to its smart home integration and polished interface. And if you are on a tight budget, the ONN Android TV 4K and TiVo Stream 4K deliver impressive 4K streaming without breaking the bank.
The best Android TV boxes give you a streaming experience that no built-in smart TV can match, with better performance, more app choices, and features like voice control and smart home integration. Whichever device you choose from this list, you will be getting a certified, tested product that delivers on its promises. For even more streaming options, check out our guide to the best Roku TVs for integrated smart TV alternatives.
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