Android TV boxes are one of the best ways to watch on-demand video services, live IPTV, and local media on your television. The devices are more customizable than products like Roku and Apple TV, and their range of price points means everyone can find a box to suit their needs.

But which are the best Android TV boxes? The answer depends on how much you're willing to spend and where in the house you're planning to install the device.

Here are some of the best Android TV boxes available today.

Premium pick

1. Nvidia Shield

9.00 / 10
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The Nvidia Shield is much more than an Android TV box. With tons of features that offer an incredible viewing experience and best-in-class game streaming services, the Nvidia Shield is an impressive, feature-rich device.

With access to a wide range of mainstream streaming services, the Google Play Store, and even Nvidia's own game streaming service, Geforce Now, there are plenty of entertainment options for the entire family. It's also possible to load emulators for those retro games you've wanted to play since the 90s.

This 4K streaming player isn't the most budget-friendly option, but it's certainly impressive performance-wise. Now you can watch your favorite shows and movies with incredible clarity, thanks to the Nvidia Shield's AI-upscaling.

Key Features
  • 4K upscaling
  • Dolby Vision
  • Dolby Atmos
  • Dolby Digital Plus
  • HDR
  • GeForce NOW
Specifications
  • Brand: Nvidia
  • Operating System: Android TV
  • Downloadable Apps: Netflix, Hulu, SlingTV, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and many more
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Ports: microSD
  • Audio codecs: Dolby Atmos
  • RAM/storage: 3GB, 16GB
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
  • Dimensions: 1.02 x 6.26 x 3.86 inches
Pros
  • Voice control
  • Plex Media Server built-in
  • Works with Bluetooth gaming controllers
  • Can stream AAA games
Cons
  • Expensive
Buy This Product
Nvidia Shield
Editors choice

2. Fire TV Cube

8.60 / 10
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The Fire TV Cube is an impressive Android TV streaming device with some great features. Featuring a new octa-core processor, the Fire TV Cube is extremely responsive, offering a smooth entertainment experience.

With a built-in microphone, speakers, and Alexa, the Fire TV Cube offers an entirely hands-free experience. And with Wi-Fi 6E you're guaranteed the best possible connection, ensuring you enjoy your favorite shows without interruption.

Thanks to Dolby Vision and HDR, your favorite shows have never looked so good (when viewing on a compatible TV). While Dolby Atmos breathes new life into your audio.

Key Features
  • Octa-core processor
  • Wi-Fi 6E support
  • Dolby Atmos
  • Alexa voice remote pro compatible
Specifications
  • Brand: Amazon
  • Operating System: Fire OS
  • Downloadable Apps: Yes
  • Resolution: 4K Ultra HD
  • Ports: Micro-USB, HDMI
  • Audio codecs: 14
  • RAM/storage: 2GB, 16GB
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E
  • Dimensions: 3.38 x 3.38 x 2.99 inches
Pros
  • Additional HDMI ports
  • Fast and responsive
  • Alexa built-in
  • 4K HDR playback
Cons
  • Home screen mostly Amazon content
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Fire TV Cube

If you're looking for one of the most affordable streaming sticks, the Chromecast with Google TV (HD) has you covered. Enjoy watching the shows you love in 1080p and get your hands on thousands of movies, songs, and TV shows.

Use the Chromecast with Google TV (HD)'s home screen to see personal recommendations to discover new content, or use voice search to find what you're looking for.

Compatible and easy to install with almost any TV with an HDMI port, the Chromecast with Google TV (HD) is your one-stop solution to access streaming services, on-demand, for the whole family.

Key Features
  • Google Assistant
  • HDR
  • Personal content recommendations
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 6.4 x 2.4 x 0.5 inches
  • What's Included: Chromecast, Voice Remote, Power Cable, Power Adapter, 2xAAA Batteries
  • Brand: Google
  • Connective Technology: Wi-Fi
Pros
  • Great value for money
  • Includes kids profiles
Cons
  • Only 1080p streaming
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Chromecast with Google TV (HD)

Set up access to your favorite streaming services with the Xiaomi Mi Box S, easily. Supporting 4K content, Google Assistant, and Android TV built-in, this streaming device gives you access to a wealth of apps and features.

While more affordable than the Nvidia Shield, the Xiaomi Mi Box S is a little slower. And, it doesn't offer many additional features; it's simply a streaming box. But, if this is what you're looking for, then it's good value for money.

Although the software can be a little buggy, the Xiaomi Mi Box S is a solid option. It's a decent Android-based streaming box that supports Google Assistant, so you can sit back, relax, and tell the device what show you want to watch.

Key Features
  • 4K HDR
  • 60fps playback
  • Dolby and DTS
  • Google Assistant
Specifications
  • Brand: Xiaomi
  • Operating System: Android TV
  • Downloadable Apps: Kodi, Plex, Netflix, Hulu, SlingTV, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and many more
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Ports: USB, headphone jack
  • Audio codecs: Dolby DTS
  • RAM/storage: 2GB, 8GB
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi
  • Dimensions: 0.39 x 3.82 x 3.82 inches
Pros
  • Comes with NordVPN pre-installed
  • Great value for money
Cons
  • Not all streaming services are compatible
  • Software issues have been known
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Xiaomi Mi Box S

Cheaper than the Xiaomi streaming box, the Xiaomi Mi TV Stick 4K is also smaller in size, with a close resemblance to the Chromecast. This device comes equipped with Android TV 11, offering thousands of movies and shows, as well as apps from the Google Play store.

Unlike Chromecast, however, the Xiaomi Mi TV Stick 4K supports 4K content. So, if you're willing to spend a little bit more on this streaming stick, you'll be able to enjoy the ultimate viewing experience.

With built-in IR, you can control the power and volume of your TV with the Xiaomi Mi TV Stick 4K's remote control. It's convenient, easy to setup, and relatively affordable.

Key Features
  • Dolby Atmos
  • Dolby Vision
  • Google Assistant
Specifications
  • Brand: Xiaomi
  • Operating System: Android TV 11
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • RAM/storage: 2GB, 8GB
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2
  • Dimensions: ‎1.16 x 0.6 x 4.2 inches
Pros
  • Chromecast built-in
  • Easy to use and set up
Cons
  • Not the most responsive device
Buy This Product
Xiaomi Mi TV Stick 4K

The TiVo Stream 4K is a budget-friendly 4K streaming stick that supports HDR in HDR10 and Dolby Vision. While the home screen isn't as intuitive as some other Android TV boxes or streaming sticks, it doesn't feel sluggish and responds quickly to controls.

Using Android TV, there are thousands of services and apps you can access. Examples include Amazon, Google Play, Netflix, Hulu, and more. However, you can also use it to stream content from your smartphone onto your TV.

Running on top of Android TV is the TiVo Stream app. This offers different menus and services, as well as live TV on Sling. A great affordable choice for taking with you on vacation, or in a spare bedroom.

Key Features
  • Google Assistant
  • Dolby Vision
  • Dolby Atmos
Specifications
  • Brand: TiVo
  • Operating System: Android TV
  • Downloadable Apps: Yes
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • Ports: None
  • Audio codecs: Dolby Atmos Sound
  • RAM/storage: 2GB
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi
  • Dimensions: 7.2 x 3.7 x 2.4 inches
Pros
  • Expandable storage
  • Voice assistant remote
  • Fast and responsive
Cons
  • Interface is less intuitive than competitors
  • Chunky remote
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TiVo Stream 4K

If you want to stream 4K content but don't want to spend a lot, the T9 Android 9.0 TV Box might be a suitable option. This Android TV box comes with Android 9 and offers support for 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi bands.

The T9 Android 9.0 TV Box supports 4K and 3D content, so you can access thousands of shows, movies, and games from your couch. While it does feature a much lower Bluetooth standard than other competitors, it's hard to grumble due to the cost.

Key Features
  • 3D graphics acceleration
  • Supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi bands
  • USB 3.0 interface
Specifications
  • Brand: EVER EXPRESS
  • Operating System: Android 9
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • RAM/storage: 4GB, 32GB
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0
  • Dimensions: 4 x 4 x 1 inches
Pros
  • Supports 3D video
  • Responsive
Cons
  • Much older Bluetooth standard
Buy This Product
T9 Android 9.0 TV Box

FAQ

Q: What Does an Android TV Box Do?

An Android TV box is a set-top box or device that allows you to watch content via your favorite streaming services.

Connected to your TV, you can access thousands of movies, shows, and apps from the comfort of your home.

Q: Is There a Monthly Fee for Android TV Boxes?

No. You won't have to pay a monthly fee. The only fee you'll have to pay is related to your streaming service subscription such as Netflix.