In our previous attempt, we discussed what is Android TV and how it works so our readers could understand everything in detail about the popular TV platform. Now we have come up with another related, but interesting topic — Android TV Box. Here, we discuss the working mechanism of Android TV Box, its features, pros and cons, and similar products in the market that offer a better experience and value. So on that note, let’s go ahead and find out what is an Android TV Box and if you should buy one.
Here, we have enlisted all the sections that we have covered in this article. You can easily skip to the relevant section by clicking on the link below. Be assured, we have broken down every detail in lucid terms so anyone can understand how the Android TV Box works.
- What is an Android TV Box?
- What are the Cons?
- Android TV Box vs Fire Stick vs Chromecast
What is an Android TV Box and How Does it Work?
Android TV Box is a special hardware device that brings smart TV features to your existing TV set. It works through the internet and delivers all sorts of video content on your demand. Android TV Box runs Android TV OS under the hood and offers Play Store support so you can install and run your favorite Android apps on your TV.
Now the question comes, what can you do with an Android TV box? Well, you can stream movies and shows and watch live sports with thousands of well-optimized apps for the Android TV platform. From YouTube to Netflix and Prime Video, you have access to almost everything. If you are wondering, can I watch free movies through Android TV Box then the answer is yes. There are several apps on Android TV Box that allow you to watch movies for free.
Other than that, Android TV Box comes with a built-in Chromecast feature that allows you to cast your smartphone screen to your TV set. It works flawlessly with support for audio output, background playback, high-resolution streaming, and more. You can also play non-intensive games on your Android TV Box, but bear in mind, the experience is not that great.
Finally, coming to what kind of hardware Android TV Box needs to run the TV platform. Well, unlike Android on smartphones, Android TV OS is pretty lightweight so it can run on a decent Amlogic or a Mediatek processor. Generally, Android TV Boxes come with 4/8GB of storage and 2/4GB of RAM. That said, keep in mind, if you wish to play 4K content and want to install several apps then I would recommend getting a well-specced Android TV Box.
While Android TV Boxes are great in terms of features, there are some cons that you must keep in mind. First of all, many Android TV Boxes in the market come with a below-average spec that results in slower booting and delayed UI response. In this regard, I would recommend you to get an Android TV Box with a decently powerful processor and ample RAM/storage.
Q. Can I Watch Free Movies on Android TV Box?
For Netflix, Prime Video, and other streaming services, you will need a subscription to watch movies and shows on Android TV Box. However, there are many Android apps such as Tubi (Free) and Sony Crackle (Free) that allow you to watch free movies on Android TV Box. You can also sideload Kodi and watch free movies on your Android TV Box.
Q. Does Android TV Box Require Internet?
For most of its work, Android TV Box does require internet connectivity all the time. However, if you want to play local media through a USB drive then you can do so without an internet connection.
As I mentioned above, in terms of features, Android TV Box is better than Fire Stick since it comes with Play Store and Google Assistant support. However, in terms of hardware offering, Fire Stick has slightly better internals.
2MBps is generally recommended if you want to play content smoothly on an Android TV Box. However, you can make do with even lower internet speed.
