Looking for an Android box. What do you think for my options?

by charsta

Hello all!

I'm in the market for my first Android Box and I have a lot of questions!
Reading around I can see that you all recommend the Nvidia Shield.
However, let me first "list" what I will use the box for:

  1. Will use it for streaming Services like Netflix/Youtube (primarily Netflix)
  2. Kodi (or similar) will be used for local files (either usb or network)
  3. I really want it to be able to play local 4k files (mkv - 2160p) preferably from usb. I'm not sure if I can play such large file on my network. I have to test it somehow.
  4. Probably I'm gonna use Plex (not as server) if my network supports it.
  5. And an IPTV app for free TV and Radio programs available in my country.

Looking around I came across those three devices:

  • Nvidia Shield
  • H96 Pro Plus and
  • Minix U9-H

I really like the fact that Shield has a USB 3.0 however from what I'm reading the CPU is from 2015. Actually, the 2017 Shield is just smaller and with 7.0 os. That's what I read. Wouldn't that be a problem? On the other hand, the other devices have a more "recent" CPU.

Should I also look into different CPUs such as the RK33xx or RK32xx?

Honestly, what I want, is a device that will play almost anything I put on it locally (usb) and last a couple of years!! :)

I have a 42inch 4K Smart LG which is a 2017 model I believe.

The only downside is the price of Shield!

Thank you and sorry for the very long post!! :)

[Update]
Ended up ordering the Shield! :)

pj228

Nvidea Shield is the only Android TV device on your list of contenders...

FezVrasta

Shield tv is the only that reliably plays 4k streams. Others may have problems. At least that's my experience

JimboLodisC

Do not buy a generic junk box that runs touchscreen Android. That makes no sense for a living room TV. Google forked Android TV from Android and optimized it for use with a remote. Stick with real Android TV devices.

DaveDeluria

I bought 4 chinese tv boxes to experiment with this technology thinking I could get in the 4k door w/ little cost but 2 years later I still ended up getting a shield. Save yourself the headache and just get the shield if you can afford it. It's only others who really don't have the budget for one that we try to help squeeze as much out of the mi box (which is the only other alternative).

Kevin84333

shield tv is the best one, I have one and it fast and amazing.

pawdog

No matter what you may have written the answer would have still been Nvidia Shield. The only reason not to get a Shield is you really don't have the money, and in that case the answer is to save until you do.

BiggussDikkuss

Do you need HDR support ?

And which country for IPTV ?