Unboxing and First Impressions
The Basics
The anticipation builds as you hold the X96 Android TV Box in its box. The packaging itself is typically straightforward, reflecting its budget-friendly nature. Inside, you’ll find the core components needed to get started: the X96 box itself, a remote control, a power adapter, an HDMI cable, and a basic user manual. The initial impression is one of functionality over flamboyance. The box is designed to serve a purpose, and it doesn’t try to be anything it’s not.
Design Overview
The box’s design leans towards a minimalist aesthetic. Its size is compact, easily fitting on a TV stand or tucked away behind your television. The shape is generally rectangular, with rounded corners to soften the edges. The build materials are primarily plastic, which contributes to its budget-friendly price point. While it doesn’t feel as premium as some higher-end devices, it’s sturdy enough for everyday use. The top surface often features a simple logo or branding.
Ports and Connections
Turning our attention to the ports, the X96 houses a selection that provides essential connectivity. You’ll find an HDMI port for connecting to your television, one or two USB ports for peripherals like external hard drives or USB drives, an Ethernet port for a wired network connection, a slot for a MicroSD card to expand storage, an AV port for older televisions, and the power input. These strategically placed ports offer the versatility needed for a complete home entertainment setup.
Specifications and Under the Hood
The Amlogic S905W Processor
At the heart of the X96 beats the Amlogic S905W processor. This system-on-a-chip (SoC) is a popular choice in budget Android TV boxes, and for good reason. The S905W is designed to handle 4K video playback, and it delivers capable performance for streaming and everyday tasks. It’s a step up from some of the older processors, and it offers a balance of power and efficiency.
Core Capabilities
Regarding the processor’s core capabilities, it leverages a quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 CPU paired with a Mali-450 MP GPU. This combination ensures that the X96 can handle a variety of tasks, from streaming your favorite shows to running less demanding games.
RAM and Storage
The 2GB of RAM is a critical component, and in this specific model, it plays a significant role in multitasking and app loading. While not the highest specification on the market, 2GB of RAM allows for smoother transitions between apps and less stuttering during basic operations. Storage options are available. The X96 models we reviewed have either 8GB or 16GB of internal storage. This built-in storage allows you to install apps, save some media files, and store cached data. However, with modern apps growing in size, external storage via a USB drive or microSD card is definitely recommended for maximum flexibility.
Graphics Performance
The graphics processing unit (GPU), the Mali-450, handles the visual aspects of the X96. This GPU efficiently renders images, enhances videos, and accelerates the performance of games. The Mali-450 is more than capable of handling standard definition and high definition video, and it can even play some 4K content, though performance varies depending on the video file.
Connectivity Options
The X96 prioritizes connectivity. It usually offers Wi-Fi support, often including b/g/n standards for compatibility, to connect to your wireless home network. This enables streaming content from online services, downloading apps, and browsing the internet. The inclusion of an Ethernet port provides a wired alternative for a more stable and consistent network connection, especially for those prioritizing video streaming. Additionally, Bluetooth may or may not be included, offering a simple way to connect to devices like game controllers or Bluetooth headphones.
User Experience and Software
The User Interface
The user interface is a key factor. It significantly impacts the day-to-day experience. X96 Android TV boxes often run on a customized launcher built on an Android operating system. The custom interface is typically user-friendly and straightforward, designed for ease of navigation with the included remote. The home screen provides quick access to pre-installed apps, settings, and frequently used features.
The Remote Control
The remote control is an integral part of the experience. X96 remotes generally offer a basic set of controls, including navigation buttons, volume controls, a power button, and often direct access buttons for popular streaming services like Netflix or YouTube. The remote’s responsiveness directly affects your enjoyment of the device; you need a remote that reacts quickly and doesn’t frustrate.
Pre-installed Applications
Pre-installed applications form a foundational layer. The X96 often comes pre-loaded with essential apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Kodi. These pre-installed apps provide immediate access to popular streaming services and content libraries.
Customization and Flexibility
The Android operating system empowers the user with a broad ecosystem. You are free to install and enjoy apps from the Google Play Store. The flexibility to customize the user interface, configure settings, and add more applications to enhance the functionality and features allows you to shape the experience. This can be a significant advantage over other platforms.
Performance Evaluation and Benchmarks
Video Playback Tests
One of the most important facets is performance. The X96 should deliver a seamless streaming experience. When testing video playback, we assess how well the device handles different resolutions, from standard definition to high definition and, in some cases, even 4K. We evaluate how smoothly the videos play, how well the X96 handles buffering, and if there are any noticeable frame drops. We perform a series of video playback tests, experimenting with content of varying resolutions and bitrates. We start by evaluating standard definition videos, and we move on to high-definition content. The performance of the X96 is tested with 4K video content, noting any noticeable lag or stuttering. We also test different video codecs to ensure that they are supported.
Gaming Performance Assessment
The ability to play games contributes to the versatility. We test gaming performance by playing a variety of games. We assess the responsiveness and smoothness of the gameplay, monitoring frame rates and identifying any significant issues.
Multitasking Capabilities
To evaluate its ability to handle simultaneous tasks, we check multitasking capabilities. We simultaneously run multiple apps and monitor the device’s performance. This enables us to assess how well the device handles switching between applications and keeping them active in the background.
Benchmark Results
Benchmark scores help to put things in perspective. We use benchmark applications to measure and compare the device’s performance with other Android TV boxes. We note the performance of the CPU and GPU, assessing whether they meet user expectations. Benchmark testing helps to highlight any weaknesses or strengths.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros of the X96
The X96 Android TV Box has several advantages. First, it is often very affordable, making it accessible to a wide range of users. It offers an opportunity to convert an old television into a modern smart TV without a significant investment. The X96 offers a wide range of content options. It supports various streaming services, including Netflix, YouTube, and others. With a wide selection of available applications, users have no shortage of content options. Another advantage is its ease of setup. The box is usually very simple to set up and use. Users can be up and running quickly without requiring technical expertise.
Cons of the X96
The disadvantages also need to be addressed. The RAM or internal storage can be limited. Performance can suffer if too many applications are installed. This can lead to a slower user experience. The remote control may not always provide the most responsive or user-friendly experience. Some users may prefer to use alternative control methods, such as a wireless keyboard or a mouse. The user interface can sometimes exhibit lag. While the user interface is usually well-organized, it may not be as responsive as those found on high-end devices. The build quality is something else that needs to be evaluated. The device is constructed primarily of plastic, so it doesn’t offer the premium feel of more expensive devices.
Value and Conclusion
Overall Evaluation
The X96 Android TV Box presents a compelling value proposition. The device’s overall assessment is largely positive. The X96 offers solid performance for the price, offering the ability to play video and connect to streaming services. However, its performance capabilities are not always as consistent as more powerful models.
Value for Money Analysis
We examine the value for money by considering the price and the features. The device offers great value, particularly for those who want access to basic smart features.
Recommendation
The X96 is best suited for budget-conscious consumers. It’s an excellent solution for those seeking a way to transform an older television into a smart entertainment hub. Those looking for a powerful device that can handle the latest games may want to consider other devices.
Final Thoughts
Final thoughts are that the X96 Android TV Box with Amlogic S905W and 2GB of RAM is a solid contender in the budget-friendly Android TV box market. It provides a gateway to streaming content, web browsing, and Android apps, making it an accessible and useful piece of technology for many users.
Where to Find It
You can find the X96 Android TV Box online at major retailers.
