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10 Best Android TV Boxes 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

NVIDIA Shield Android TV Pro | 4K HDR Streaming Media Player High Performance, Dolby Vision, 3GB RAM, 2X USB, Works with Alexa, Model:945-12897-2500-101

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,424
Processor (CPU)
Operating System (OS)
Connectivity

Most important from
12977 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The NVIDIA SHIELD delivers a stable and snappy performance, with all streaming apps working flawlessly.
Operating System (OS)
Security-wise, the SHIELD runs native straight Android, making it a trustworthy choice compared to other Android TV boxes.
Connectivity
Using wired Ethernet, the SHIELD performs seamlessly with other devices like a Marantz receiver and Samsung QLED TV.
User Interface and Remote Control
The SHIELD is highly reliable and offers a great user interface, making it a top choice for streaming and gaming.

The NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Pro is a standout choice in the Android TV box category, particularly for those seeking a robust streaming and gaming experience. It excels with powerful features like 4K HDR video, AI-enhanced upscaling, and support for Dolby Vision-Atmos, making it ideal for home theater enthusiasts who crave high-quality visual and audio performance.

One of the product's greatest strengths is its versatility; it can handle a wide range of streaming services including Netflix, Amazon Video, and Disney+, all in stunning 4K resolution. The inclusion of the GeForce NOW cloud gaming service transforms the SHIELD into a capable gaming rig, allowing access to over 1000 titles, which is fantastic for gamers who want to enjoy PC-quality games without a high-end gaming PC.

The built-in Google Assistant and Alexa compatibility add convenience for users who prefer voice control to navigate their media. The two USB 3.0 ports allow for easy storage expansion, making it a practical choice for those who want to keep their media library accessible. However, the device comes with only 3 GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage, which might be limiting for heavy users who download lots of apps or games. Additionally, while the performance is impressive, the price point is relatively high compared to other streaming devices, which might not appeal to budget-conscious consumers. The user interface is generally user-friendly, but some less tech-savvy folks might find the setup process and navigating through the various features a bit daunting at first.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,424
Processor (CPU)
Operating System (OS)
Connectivity

Most important from
12977 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The NVIDIA SHIELD delivers a stable and snappy performance, with all streaming apps working flawlessly.
Operating System (OS)
Security-wise, the SHIELD runs native straight Android, making it a trustworthy choice compared to other Android TV boxes.
Connectivity
Using wired Ethernet, the SHIELD performs seamlessly with other devices like a Marantz receiver and Samsung QLED TV.
User Interface and Remote Control
The SHIELD is highly reliable and offers a great user interface, making it a top choice for streaming and gaming.
#2

NVIDIA Shield Android TV | 4K HDR Streaming Media Player High Performance, Dolby Vision, Google Assistant Built-in, Works with Alexa (945-13430-2500-000)

Rating
9.1
Processor (CPU)
Operating System (OS)
Connectivity

Most important from
5029 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The NVIDIA SHIELD TV blows other streaming devices out of the water with its polished and fast performance.
Operating System (OS)
The Android TV interface is smooth, easy to navigate, and superior to Roku and Fire TV.
Connectivity
Setup is incredibly quick, taking just a few minutes, and Ethernet connection ensures smooth streaming without issues.
Video and Audio Output
The display quality is fantastic, with both the standard and PRO versions offering great performance and sound clarity.
User Interface and Remote Control
The remote syncs effortlessly with the TV, much faster than other remotes.

The NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Streaming Media Player is a top contender in the Android TV box category, primarily designed for those seeking high-quality media streaming and gaming experiences. Its powerful NVIDIA Tegra X1+ processor and 4K HDR capability make it a great choice for anyone who values stunning picture quality and smooth performance. With support for a broad range of streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu, users can access a wealth of content in impressive 4K HDR resolution.

One of the standout features is the AI-enhanced upscaling, which enhances HD content to near-4K quality, ensuring that even older shows and movies look great on modern TVs. The inclusion of Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos provides an immersive audio-visual experience, perfect for home theater setups.

For gamers, the GeForce NOW cloud gaming service turns the SHIELD TV into a powerful gaming machine, allowing users to play a wide range of titles without needing a high-end gaming PC. The ability to play games in 4K HDR adds to its appeal for gaming enthusiasts. The user interface is intuitive, and the built-in Google Assistant allows for convenient voice control, making navigation and interactions easy and hands-free. It also works seamlessly with Amazon Alexa for those who prefer that ecosystem.

However, there are a few downsides to consider. While the SHIELD TV packs a punch, it comes at a higher price point compared to other Android TV boxes, which might deter budget-conscious consumers. Additionally, although it supports an extensive range of services, some users might find specific app availability varies by region.

Lastly, while it has solid connectivity options, including dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet, advanced users may desire more customization options for their network settings. For anyone serious about streaming and gaming, the NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV is certainly a compelling option, but it might not be necessary for casual users looking for basic streaming capabilities.

Rating
9.1
Processor (CPU)
Operating System (OS)
Connectivity

Most important from
5029 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The NVIDIA SHIELD TV blows other streaming devices out of the water with its polished and fast performance.
Operating System (OS)
The Android TV interface is smooth, easy to navigate, and superior to Roku and Fire TV.
Connectivity
Setup is incredibly quick, taking just a few minutes, and Ethernet connection ensures smooth streaming without issues.
Video and Audio Output
The display quality is fantastic, with both the standard and PRO versions offering great performance and sound clarity.
User Interface and Remote Control
The remote syncs effortlessly with the TV, much faster than other remotes.
#3

ONN Android TV 4K UHD Streaming Device with Voice Remote Control Google Assistant & High Speed HDMI Cable (100026240) Black

Rating
8.8
Processor (CPU)
Connectivity
Remote Control and User Interface

Most important from
1442 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The device delivers smooth performance with no noticeable lag and stable network connectivity.
Connectivity
The device delivers smooth performance with no noticeable lag and stable network connectivity.
Remote Control and User Interface
Voice remote with Google Assistant simplifies navigation and content search through natural speech.

The ONN Android TV 4K UHD Streaming Device is a solid choice if you want to upgrade your TV with smart features and enjoy ultra-clear 4K picture quality. It runs on Android TV, giving you access to many apps and services through the Google Play Store, and includes built-in Chromecast to easily stream content from your phone. The device comes with 2 GB of RAM, which provides smooth streaming for most uses.

Connecting is simple with the included HDMI cable, and Wi-Fi allows you to stream content without cables. The voice remote with Google Assistant makes it convenient to search and control shows just by speaking. Audio quality is good, offering clear sound and enhanced dialogue to improve your viewing experience.

This device is well-suited for users looking for an affordable, easy-to-use streaming box compatible with many TV brands. It works well primarily for watching movies, shows, and casual use rather than for power users or gamers.

Rating
8.8
Processor (CPU)
Connectivity
Remote Control and User Interface

Most important from
1442 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The device delivers smooth performance with no noticeable lag and stable network connectivity.
Connectivity
The device delivers smooth performance with no noticeable lag and stable network connectivity.
Remote Control and User Interface
Voice remote with Google Assistant simplifies navigation and content search through natural speech.

Buying Guide for the Best Android TV Boxes

Choosing the right Android TV box can significantly enhance your home entertainment experience. These devices allow you to stream content, play games, and even browse the internet on your TV. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting an Android TV box.
Processor (CPU)The processor, or CPU, is the brain of the Android TV box. It determines how fast and efficiently the device can perform tasks. A more powerful CPU will provide smoother performance, especially when streaming high-definition content or running multiple apps simultaneously. CPUs are often categorized by the number of cores they have: dual-core, quad-core, and octa-core. For basic streaming and casual use, a quad-core processor is usually sufficient. However, if you plan to use the device for gaming or running demanding applications, an octa-core processor would be a better choice.
RAMRAM (Random Access Memory) is crucial for multitasking and overall performance. It allows the device to handle multiple applications at once without slowing down. Android TV boxes typically come with 2GB, 4GB, or 8GB of RAM. For basic streaming and light usage, 2GB of RAM may be adequate. If you plan to use the device for more intensive tasks like gaming or running multiple apps, 4GB or more is recommended to ensure smooth performance.
StorageStorage capacity determines how much content and how many apps you can store on your Android TV box. Common storage options range from 8GB to 64GB. If you primarily stream content and don't download many apps, 8GB or 16GB should be sufficient. However, if you plan to download a lot of apps, games, or store media files locally, opting for 32GB or 64GB would be more appropriate. Additionally, check if the device supports expandable storage via microSD cards or USB drives for added flexibility.
Operating System (OS)The operating system is the software that runs on the Android TV box. Most devices come with a version of Android TV, which is optimized for use on televisions. It's important to choose a device with a recent version of the OS to ensure compatibility with the latest apps and features. Android TV versions are updated periodically, so look for a device that either comes with the latest version or can be easily updated. This will help you get the most out of your device and ensure it remains functional for a longer period.
ConnectivityConnectivity options determine how you can connect your Android TV box to other devices and the internet. Key connectivity features include Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, and USB ports. Wi-Fi is essential for wireless internet access, while an Ethernet port provides a more stable wired connection. Bluetooth allows you to connect peripherals like keyboards, mice, and game controllers. USB ports are useful for connecting external storage devices or other accessories. Consider your setup and how you plan to use the device to determine which connectivity options are most important for you.
Video and Audio OutputThe quality of video and audio output is crucial for an immersive viewing experience. Look for an Android TV box that supports at least 1080p resolution, though 4K support is preferable if you have a compatible TV. HDR (High Dynamic Range) support is also a plus, as it enhances the color and contrast of the video. For audio, check if the device supports surround sound formats like Dolby Digital or DTS. This is especially important if you have a home theater setup and want to enjoy high-quality sound.
Remote Control and User InterfaceThe remote control and user interface greatly affect the ease of use of your Android TV box. A well-designed remote with intuitive buttons and voice control can make navigating the device much simpler. Some remotes also come with dedicated buttons for popular streaming services. The user interface should be clean and easy to navigate, allowing you to quickly find and launch apps. Consider devices that offer a user-friendly experience, especially if you are not very tech-savvy.

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