We all know how the Android operating system has revolutionized our smartphone experience. To provide the same experience on much bigger screen i.e television, manufacturers have built set-up boxes with Android OS known as Android TV box. This lets us experience the Android ecosystem for streaming media on TV. Not only it lets you stream media platform such as YouTube, Hulu, Netflix but also download other streaming software such as Plex and Kodi. Some of the Android TV boxes will even let you play a few Android games and act as a gaming console.

What it doesn’t do is run every standard Android app that can be run on an Android smartphone. Android TV box runs on Android TV OS so it will only run the apps that are designed for that particular OS. You can experience the same features in an Android TV that has inbuilt Android OS. However, that will need you to spend big bucks and your current TV will be left unutilized. Therefore buying an Android TV box is a better and cheaper option to turn any TV to an Android TV. That is why we are going to recommend some of the best cheap Android TV boxes in this article.

Here Are Our Top Picks!

Best Budget Android TV Boxes

1. WeTek Hub

Price: $66.06
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The WeTek Hub runs on powerful Quadcore AMLogic S905 processor, 1 GB of RAM, 8GB eMMC. It has WiFi and Gigabit Ethernet for connection. HDMI 2.0 for video output of up to 4K at 60fps. You will also get a MicroSD card slot for expansion of memory, and a USB 2.0 port for plugging in your USB devices. The interface has WeTeks own theme and runs on Android 5.1.1 Lollipop. To increase the usability it lets you control the whole system from your smartphone through WeControl mobile app. If you are looking for a reliable TV box brand with a proper Android interface and features then this is the one you should go for.

Specifications

Processor:

Quad-core processor up to 2.0GHz + Penta-core graphics processor Mali-450MP GPU @ 750 MHz

Ports:

• 1x USB 2.0 port
• MicroSD slot
• 1x HDMI port
• Serial Debug port
• IR Extender
• LAN (Ethernet) port
• Power Input Socket
• Antenna port

Connectivity:

• WiFi (802.11 B/G/N/AC 2.4/5 GHz)
• Gigabit Ethernet
• Bluetooth: 4.0

RAM: 1 GB

Storage Memory: 8 GB of flash memory

Dimensions: 6.7 x 6.7 x 2.3 inches

Weight: 21.1 oz

Operating system: Android 5.1.1

Video support/ Output: 4K Ultra HD at up to 60 fps

 Pros

• Micro SD slot for memory expansion
• Ethernet port
• Compact design
• Manufacturer version of Kodi preinstalled

 Cons

• Low RAM
• Older Android version

2. Xiaomi Mi Box

Price: $89.99
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Inside the Xioami Mi Box, you will get a quad-core Amlogic S905X processor with Cortex-A53 that is clocked at 2.0 GHz and Mali-450 GPU clocked at 750 MHz. The 8GB Flash memory acts as a storage space and can be expanded using USB-A port. Its UI is built on Android TV 6.0 which can be upgraded to the latest Android TV 8.0 with the software update. However, you will not get an SD card slot with this one or an ethernet port for connecting to the internet. You will have to rely on your WiFi connection, but this also the best Android TV box you can buy at this budget.

Specifications

Processor:

• Quad-core Cortex-A53 2.0GHz
• Mali 450 750MHz GPU

Ports:

• 1x HDMI 2.0a port (HDCP 2.2)
• 1x USB 2.0 port
• SPDIF Out /3.5mm audio output
• Power Input Port

Connectivity:

• Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4GHz/5GHz
• Bluetooth 4.0/3.0

RAM: 2 GB

Storage Memory: 8 GB of flash memory

Dimensions: 6.7 x 5 x 2 inches

Weight: 20 oz

Operating system: Android TV 6.0

Video support/ Output: Up to 4K x 2K HDR at 60 fps

Key Points

• 4K Android TV set-top box with HDR video support
• Comes with Bluetooth and voice-activated remote control
• Has support for Google assistant and Google cast
• HDMI 2.0a with 18Gbps speed
• Built-in high-performance CPU and GPU to play heavy games via Bluetooth gamepad
• Supports Dolby Digital Plus and DTS audio encoding for realistic stereo sound

 Pros

• Runs on latest Android TV 6.0
• Powerful Processor
• 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound
• Free three months of Pandora Premium and 1 month of CBS access

 Cons

• Doesn’t ship with a game controller
• Absence of SD card slot and Ethernet support

3. Roku Ultra

Price: $79.64
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Roku Ultra is packed with a powerful Quad-core processor and offer 4K, HDR as well as standard video streams. While its internal memory and RAM is unknown, it still lets you expand the memory through a USB stick and micro SD card, hence the slip for both of them. The good thing about Roku devices and their ecosystem is they offer a lot of apps and streaming services than other TV boxes. They also update their software more often than others. There is a lot of customization options with its UI, so if you are a heavy streamer who like to watch a lot of quality 4K content than it is our top recommendation.

Specifications

Processor: Quad-core processor

Ports:

• 1x HDMI 2.0a port
• 1x USB 2.0 port
• LAN (Ethernet) port
• Power Input Port
• Micro SD slot

Connectivity:

• Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4GHz/5GHz
• 100mbps Ethernet

Dimensions: 4.9 x 4.9 x 1 inches

Weight: 7.8 oz

Audio Formats Support: AAC, ALAC, FLAC, MP3, WAV, WMA

Video Formats Support: H.264, H.265, HEVC, MKV, MOV, VP9

Operating system: Roku OS, Android Byte

Video Support/ Output:Up to 3840 x 2160 (4K) at 60fps , HDR(HDR 10 standards)

Key Points

• Support for 4k as well as HDR streaming
• Private or night time listening via earphones that connect to remote
• Works great with Google assistant through the mic on remote
• A USB port that lets you play movies and media from external drives
• Support streaming for numerous streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, Google Play Movies, HBO NOW, etc.

 Pros

• The remote control has voice search
• Tons of streaming services
• USB and ethernet port included
• Private listening through remote
• Expandable storage via flash memory card

 Cons

• IR remote
• Missing gaming feature

4. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K

Price: $49.99
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The Amazon Fire TV stick is a small USB like device instead of the conventional TV box. It has 8GB of internal storage for apps and 1.5 GB RAM, a quad-core MediaTek MT8695 CPU clocked at 1.7 GHz and support for Bluetooth 5.0. Its remote has a dedicated button for voice commands feature that operates through Alexa. It runs on fire OS 6.2.1 which is an optimized version of Android and all the necessary apps will run on TV. You won’t get the feature to add memory or various ports but then again it already packs a lot of features in such a tiny device at a very affordable price.

Specifications

Processor: Quad-core up to 1.7 GHz MediaTek MT8695 processor + IMG GE8300 GPU

Ports:

• 1 x micro USB port for power only
• HDMI output

Connectivity:

• Dual-band, dual-antenna Wi-Fi; 802.11a/b/g/n/ac
• Bluetooth 5.0 + LE

RAM: 1.5 GB

Storage Memory: 8 GB storage space

Dimensions: 3.8 x 1.18 x 0.5 inches

Weight: 1.9 oz

Audio Formats Support: MP3, AC3, AAC-LC, eAC3 (Dolby Digital Plus), Vorbis, Dolby Atmos (EC3_JOC),  PCM/Wave, FLAC

Video Formats Support: Dolby Vision, HDR 10, HDR10+, HLG, H.265, H.264, VP9

Operating system: Amazon Fire OS 6.2.1

Video support/ Output: 720p up to 60 fps, 1080p, 4K 2160p,

 

Key Points

• Alexa integration in the remote for voice search
• Alexa voice remote is compatible with the smart home devices
• Can be operated through your phone with the free Fire TV app
• Audio support includes Dolby Atmos, 7.1 surround sound and 2-channel stereo
• Free cloud storage for media purchased from Amazon
• Supports 4K streaming of media content

 Pros

• Tiny USB stick design
• HDR 10, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos 7.1 support
• Support voice commands feature through Alexa
• Smooth 4K streaming
• Its remote can work as a TV remote

 Cons

• No Google Play apps
• Lack of Ethernet Port and SD card slot

5. Roku Express

Price: $33.49
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It is a cheaper alternative to previously mentioned Roku Ultra. Roku Express will provide you all the services and the user interface but you have to compromise the picture quality as it doesn’t support 4K videos. It does run your content in 1080p however and to be honest, it still looks great. On top of that, it also lacks some ports such as USB, Ethernet, and micro SD slot. Finally, it’s a great value device that lets you experience everything a Roku OS has to offer.

Specifications

Processor: NA

Ports:

• Micro USB for power
• 1 x HDMI 1.4 port

Connectivity: IEEE 802.11b/g/n 2.4GHz with WEP, WPA, and WPA2 support

Dimensions: 1.4 x 3.3 x 0.7 inches

Weight: 1.3 oz

Audio Formats Support: AAC, ALAC, FLAC, MP3, WAV, WMA

Video Formats Support: HEVC, MKV, MOV, VP9

Operating system: Roku OS

Video support/ Output: Up to 1080p HD (1920 x 1080) with up-scaling from 720p

Key Points

• Supports huge selection of streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, Google Play Movies, HBO NOW, etc.
• Streams media at up to 1080p resolution
• DTS Digital Surround, Dolby Audio, and Dolby ATMOS support
• Private listening and cast to TV feature via free Roku mobile app
• Shortcut buttons to popular streaming channels such as Netflix, Hulu, and Sling TV

 Pros

• A vast number of streaming services option
• Cheaper device
• The setup process is easy
• The device is tiny and compact
• 1080p videos look great

 Cons

• Limited ports
• No support for 4K and voice command

6. Skystream Three

Price: $69.99

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With powerful AMLogic S905X2 quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 @ up to 2.0 GHz and 2 GB DDR4 RAM, Skystream 3 is an absolute beast when it comes to performance. It is powerful, lets you stream Netflix, YouTube, Amazon, and Hulu in high definition and support 4K video output. To top that, it runs on the latest Android 8.1 Oreo and offers frequent updates to their customers. In general, you can get everything you expect with an Android TV box from this box.

Specifications

Processor:

• AMLogic S905X2 quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 @ up to 2.0 GHz
• GPU: Mali-G31 – A55 ARM Cortex  650 MHz

Ports:

• 2 x External Ports – 1 USB 3.0, 1 USB 2.0
• MiniSD slot
• HDMI 2.0a port
• AV port
• IR expansion port
• RJ-45 10/100 LAN (Ethernet) port
• Power Input Socket

Connectivity:

• 802.11 b/g/n/ac WiFi 2.4 GHz
• 10/100 Ethernet

RAM: 2 GB DDR4

Storage Memory: 16 GB of flash memory

Dimensions: 5 x 5 x 1.25 inches

Weight: NA

Audio Formats Support: ACC, AC-3, ADPCM, AMR-NB, MIDI, MP2, MP3, MS-ADPCM, PCS, RV40 Vorbis WMA, AAC+ (HE-AAC vi), eAAC+ (HE-AAC v2)

Video Formats Support: MPEG, MPE, MPG, M2V, ISO, TS, VOB, DAT, AVI, MKV, MP4, MOV, 3GP, 3GPP, FLC, WMV, FLV, RM

Operating system: Android 8.1 Oreo

Video support/ Output: Up to 4K x 2K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160) at 60fps

Key Points

• Powerful CPU and GPU for streaming high-quality media content and playing games
• Bundled with the latest Android 8.1 Oreo version
• Interactive Skystream TV user interface to easily navigate through apps and services
• Integrated support for Google assistant and Google Play Store
• Widevine certified for streaming Netflix, YouTube, Amazon, and Hulu in HD quality
• Added benefits of Skystream TV service

 Pros

• Lower cost for higher specs
• Latest software
• Faster CPU, more RAM and USB 3.0
• The latest version of Kodi preinstalled
• 4K Ultra HD Stream
• Front panel display

 Cons

• No Bluetooth
• Outdated look and remote design

7. MINIX NEO U1

Price: Price not available
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Minix Neo U1 might be the most expensive Android TV box in this list, but there’s a lot of benefits of buying this one that definitely beats some cheaper ones. A Quad-Core processor and a Penta-Core GPU are the primary things that we appreciate about this device. Built-in Samsung 2GB DDR3 memory with 16GB of flash storage also makes it stand out. It has 3 different USB 2.0 port to make use of plus 3.5mm audio and headphone jack to connect audio devices. Overall it has too many connectivity options including WiFi and Bluetooth 4.1 and ideal for someone who needs to install a lot of peripheral devices on their TV box.

Specifications

Processor:

• Quad Core Cortex A53 Processor (64-bit)
• Penta Core Mali-450 GPU
  

Ports:

• RJ-45 Gigabit Ethernet port
• Micro SD card slot
• 3 x USB 2.0 port
• OTG port
• HDMI 2.0 port
• 5V power input port
• Kensington lock ready socket
• Optical SPDIF port
• 3.5mm audio jack

Connectivity:

• 802.11ac 2 x 2 MIMO Dual-Band Wi-Fi
• Gigabit Ethernet
• Bluetooth: 4.1

RAM: 2 GB DDR3

Storage Memory: 16 GB eMMC 5.0 Storage

Dimensions: 8.3 x 7.9 x 4.1 inches

Weight: 15.8 oz

Operating system: Android 5.1.1 lollipop

Video support/ Output: 4K Ultra HD at up to 60 fps

Key Points

• 4K streaming compatibility at a vivid 10-bit color format
• Access to Kodi media player
• Gyroscopic remote with dedicated media controls and built-in IR transmitter
• HDMI-CEC support that means you can control your TV’s basic function with the same remote
• Automatically goes to power saving mode when you don’t use it for a long time
• External antenna unit that connects to TV box to improve wireless connectivity performance

 Pros

• Gyroscopic remote control
• Ethernet port
• External antenna
• 3 USB 2.0 port

 Cons

• Doesn’t stream YouTube and Amazon Prime in HD
• Older Android version

8. Yagala T95Z PLUS

Price: Price not available
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The T95Z plus is equipped with a very powerful Amlogic S912 Octa-core processor clocked at 2.0GHz, which provides faster response and smoother playback. It also stands out in the support for various ports department as it has all the necessary ones and runs on Android 7.1. You will not get a lot of preinstalled apps and streaming services but the good thing about this is that it supports downloading from Play Store. What does comes preinstalled is Kodi 16.1 and includes many popular add-ons. It is a perfect option for someone who prefers a full Android experience on their TV.

Specifications

Processor:

• Amlogic S912 Octa-core ARM Cortex-A53 CPU up to 2.0Ghz
• Mali-T820MP3 GPU up to 750MHz

Ports:

• Gigabyte Ethernet Port
• Micro SD card slot
• 2 x USB 2.0 port
• HDMI 2.0 port
• Power input port
• Optical SPDIF port

Connectivity:

• 2.4G/5G Dual Band WiFi
• 10/100/1000M Ethernet
• Bluetooth 4.0

RAM: 3 GB DDR3

Storage Memory: 32 GB eMMC Storage

Dimensions: 4.7 x 4.2 x 1 inches

Weight: 5.9 oz

Operating system: Android 7.1 OS

Video support/ Output: 4K x 2K Ultra HD at up to 60 fps

Key Points

• One of the fastest and strongest processor to bring an enhanced audio-visual experience
• Plays 4K and HD videos (1080p) at 60fps without any lag
• Support for connecting keyboard, mouse, and headphones via Bluetooth
• The remote has LED lights in the button to allow using it in the dark
• Dedicated button for Kodi to launch the app instantly

 Pros

• LED remote control
• Front Panel Display
• Powerful specifications
• Unique and beautiful design
• Newer Android OS version
• Ideal for playing heavy games

 Cons

• Limited preinstalled streaming services
• Untrusted brand name

9. Dolamee D5

Price: Price not available
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Dolamee D5 is another very cheap Android TV box equipped with a powerful quad-core Amlogic S905W processor and a Penta Core Mali-450 GPU. It has 1 GB of RAM, offers 8 GB for storage space and runs on Android 7.1 Nougat. It can play HD videos(1080p) and supports 4K at 30 fps. Additionally, it also supports 3D content. For storing your media you also have the option to increase its storage space via TF card of up to 64 GB. If you want a full Android TV box features but have set a budget for it then you couldn’t go wrong with this one.

Specifications

Processor:

• Amlogic S905W Quad-core Cortex-A53
• Penta Core Mali-450 GPU
  

Ports:

• RJ-45 10M/100M Ethernet port
• External TF card slot
• 2 x USB 2.0 port
• HDMI 2.0 port
• 5V DC power input port
• Optical SPDIF port
• 3.5mm AV jack

Connectivity:

• 802.11 b/g/n/ac WiFi 2.4 GHz
• 10M/100M Ethernet
• Bluetooth 4.0

RAM: 1 GB DDR3

Storage Memory: 8 GB eMMC Storage

Dimensions:7.7 x 5.3 x 2.2 inches

Weight: 11.2 oz

Operating system: Android 7.1 Nougat

Video support/ Output: 4K x 2K UHD at up to 30 fps

Key Points

• Plays 4K and HD videos (1080p) at 30fps and also support 3D content
• It has a memory cleanup app to free the RAM after heavy usage
• Support external TF card of up to 64 GB to extend the internal memory

 Pros

• Powerful device
• Cheaper price
• Newer Android version
• All the necessary ports included

 Cons

• Limited inbuilt streaming services
• Plays 4K at 30fps only

10. MX Pro Plus

Price: Price not available
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Brand name apart this is a very efficient and powerful Android TV box. All the necessary ports are present that include 4 USB 2.0 ports for adding multiple devices. You are also not stuck with bloatware apps and software and have integrated Play store for your every app need. 2 GB RAM and 16 GB internal storage is sufficient for running any TV app and storage of media. With this Android TV box, expect all the premium TV box Features at half the price.

Specifications

Processor:

• Amlogic S905W Quad-core cortex A-53 at 2.0 GHz
• 5 core Mali-450 GPU
  

Ports:

• RJ-45 10M/100M Ethernet port
• Full-size SD/MMC card slot
• 4 x USB 2.0 port
• HDMI 2.0 port
• 5V DC power input port
• Optical SPDIF port
• 3.5mm AV jack

Connectivity:

• 2.4 GHz/5 GHz dual-band WiFi
• 10M/100M Ethernet(LAN)

RAM: 2 GB DDR3

Storage Memory: 16 GB eMMC Storage

Dimensions: 8.7 x 5.7 x 2 inches

Weight: 12.3 oz

Operating system: Android 7.1.2 Nougat

Video support/ Output: 4K Ultra HD

Key Points

• Able to play 4K videos at ultra-high definition
• Integrated PlayStore and APKPure store for downloading thousands of Android apps
• Support Mini Wireless Keyboard with Touchpad and Multimedia keys
• Pre-installed Kodi and Show box service

 Pros

• Extremely Powerful device for playing games
• No bloatware
• Ethernet and SD card support
• Dual-band WiFi

 Cons

• Feels cheap
• Entry level brand

You might also want to look at the following gadgets.

Final Words

At this moment, there are probably thousands of Android TV boxes out there and most of them are not really reliable, so stay clear of those. The Android TV boxes that we came up with have received a good overall review from customers. They are cheap, reliable and have secured a good reputation in the market. You might find a few of them a bit expensive but they come with extra features and most importantly an additional warranty from the manufactures side.

We would also suggest you keep the following requirements in mind while buying an Android TV box. First, make sure it supports your basic streaming apps and services like YouTube, Netflix, etc. One of the popular media streaming services is Kodi, so you also have to keep in mind that your box comes with a clean version of Kodi instead of one with pirated add-ons. The most essential thing is you buy a device that receives frequent software updates for the latest features and software experience. A well-known company like Amazon, Xiaomi and Roku will also keep their devices up to date. That is the reason why we have tried to keep lesser known brands away from this list.

So keep your research extensive and then buy one or choose from the above options. We would also love to hear from you and are committed to answering any of your query related to Android TV Box.