Top 10 Best Android TV Boxes in Malaysia 2023 (HD & 4K)

Summary

Our picks for the Best Android TV Boxes follow the following criteria:

• Resolution: 4K and above.
• RAM: 2GB and above.
• Storage: 8GB and above.
• OS version: Android 10 and above.
• Other specs: Some include Dolby Audio, dual-band Wifi and more than 2 USB ports.

After careful consideration, we picked the following Android TV Boxes:

Premium Options: The NVIDIA Shield Pro is always a top choice and the best overall if you’re looking for a smooth streaming experience with top quality video and audio output. However, it is a bit pricey, as you should expect.

Mid-Range Options: If you don’t have that big of a budget, the Mecool KM2, X96 X6, and Google Chromecast are all pretty solid choice.  

Budget Options: Lastly, the Xiaomi Mi Box and X96Q Pro Max offer decent features and work fine in 2023, but with a slightly cheaper price tags.

What Is An Android Box?

An Android Box is a device that allows you to connect your regular TV to the Internet and stream content from apps like Youtube or Netflix. This means that you’ll be able to download, store and run the apps, just like other devices such as smartphones, Smart TV or Android TV, but with your regular TV as the display device. 

Android Box Buying Guide

Here are some basic things to consider when buying an Android Box so you”ll make the best purchase decision.

1. Check Resolution

It is essential to check the resolution supported by the Android TV box and the resolution of your TV. To ensure that you get the best possible experience, make sure the TV box supports the resolution of your TV. You wouldn’t want to buy an Android Box that supports only 1080p for your 4K TV! So, always get the 4K version as the price difference is not that big anyway.

2. Check Compatibility

Most modern TVs can be connected with an Android TV Box with a HDMI cable. However, please still check if your TV has a HDMI slot.

3. Get More Than 2GB RAM

The Random Access Memory (RAM) is a crucial component of an Android TV box and determines how fast the device can perform. Never buy an Android Box with only 1GB of RAM. In most cases, it’d be a waste of money. Aim for a device with at least 2GB, although devices with 8GB of RAM or more are a bit over the top. You won’t need that much.

4. Aim for 8GB of Storage

The amount of storage space on an Android TV box is also a vital consideration. If you plan to stream content regularly, 8GB of storage should be sufficient. However, if you intend to download lots of apps and files, it is advisable to get a device with more storage space.

5. Audio & Video Support

The audio and video formats supported by an Android TV box determine the quality of your viewing experience. Make sure the TV box supports audio formats such as Dolby Digital and DTS. 

6. Check Connectivity

Check the number of HDMI and USB ports available to ensure that you can connect your external devices easily. Also, check the connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi and Ethernet, and if possible, choose a device with Dual Band WiFi to give your more connection flexibility. Some high-end models also offer Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to connect to wireless headphones or speakers.

7. Remote Control & User Interface

Android Boxes often come with a remote control. Regardless of the remote control’s design, you won’t have many issues navigating with it. However, voice-control remote control is something you definitely would want as it’s not easy to type on the Android Box’s user interface.

8. Price

Most Android Boxes in Malaysia are priced around RM100 to RM300, depending on the features and specs offered and performance. High-end ones would cost between RM300 to RM800.

Does Your TV Need An Android Box?

You may think an Android Box is something you need to run streaming apps on your TV, but you may actually not need to hook up your TV to the device at all. First thing to do is check what exactly is your TV type:

If Your TV Is Neither A Smart TV Nor Android TV

If you have a regular TV with a HDMI port without a built-in OS or app stores, you will need an Android TV box to watch Netflix or Youtube or use and play other apps. It is a much cheaper option than buying an Android TV or Smart TV.

If Your TV Is A Smart TV

If your TV is a Smart TV that’s not operating on Android OS and you don’t like its app store, you can use an Android Box to access the Google Play Store and enjoy the same features as an Android TV (albeit with slight differences).

If Your TV Is An Android TV

If your TV is an Android TV, you likely will not need an Android Box the TV will have a built-in function to access the Google Play Store, unless you wish to get apps not available on the Play Store.

If you’re looking to upgrade your TV as well, check out our recommendations on the best Android TV or Smart TV.

Is The Android Box Illegal in Malaysia?

The Android Box itself is not illegal as it is just a device that connects to apps like YouTube, Netflix or Disney+. However, having unauthorized connections or accessing illegal contents that go against intellectual property laws may be. As long as you stick to free streaming apps like YouTube, or have subscriptions to paid ones like Netflix, or download your movies legally, it’s perfectly okay.