Best Android TV Boxes and Sticks in 2023

Survey that thanks to top movies and other streaming media, the market for Android TV boxes will cross the $23 billion mark by 2028. Popular brands like NVIDIA Shield and Amazon Firecube dominate the market. But, the market is so vast that you could be overwhelmed. That’s where we come in. 

We’ve reviewed several Android TV boxes and sticks and compiled this quick list. Discover which gadgets top the market, and learn how to narrow down to the perfect Android TV box.  

How did we pick the top boxes for 2023?

We considered the following factors and suggest that these should also inform your criteria.

• Hardware and performance: Go for high-quality stuff. Every electronic device, including android set-top boxes and sticks, can only perform proportionately to the quality of the hardware. 

• Connectivity options, HDMI, Ports, and WiFi: An Android TV box that can connect to your TV via an ethernet cable differs from one with many options like Bluetooth, WiFi, and LAN. The more options, the better it is! 

• Operating System: In most cases, the set-top boxes come with a pre-installed Android OS. However, regardless of the OS, check if it is a recent version. This way, you can download the latest apps for the best viewing experience. 

That said, here are the top Android TV boxes for 2023.

Nvidia Shield TV 

Although this device has been around for some time, it still holds the top spot due to its features and reliable performance. The shape and small size make it stand out from other Android TV boxes in the market. It also has a backlit button, so you can easily spot it in a dark movie room. It allows you to access NVIDIA cloud gaming without paying extra. Here are more of its features:

• Operating System Android TV 11

• Connectivity options: WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0

• Ports: HDMI, a microSD card slot, and Ethernet. 

• Hardware and Performance: Fitted with a Tegra X1 processor with a 256-core NVIDIA GPU

• RAM/storage: 2GB/ 8GB

Amazon Fire TV Cube

The firestick is not an Android device (it operates on the Fire OS), but it’s worth a mention here. The third generation cube has a better processor, supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, and includes YouTube. The cube has an in-built Alexa assistant, allows voice commands, and excellent performance. Here’s more on the cube.

• Operating System Fire OS 7.6

• Connectivity options: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0

• Ports: HDMI IN/OUT port, a USB 2.0 port, and an ethernet jack. 

• Hardware and Performance: Fitted with an Octa-core with 4x 2.2GHz and 4x 2.0GHz processor

• RAM/storage: 2GB/ 16GB (expandable)

Chromecast with Google TV

As you would expect from any Google product, Chromecast is a clean and affordable product. First, it is super-easy to set up; just plug in and play. It also comes packed with all your favorite apps. Although it has only one USB port (which you would use for power), the Chromecast compensates by seamlessly connecting with your phone, tablet, or PC. Just download the app on your phone or tablet and operate it. Here’s more about the Chromecast:

• Operating System: Android TV 12

• Connectivity options: WiFi 802.11ac (WiFi 5), Bluetooth 4.2

• Ports: HDMI out, USB - C 

• Hardware and Performance: Fitted with an Amlogic S805X2 processor

• RAM/storage: 2GB/ 8GB

 Mecool MK9 Pro

Along with the sleek looks, the Mecool MK9 Pro comes with an HDMI cable, power cable, and simple remote. It boasts a powerful processor, 4K capabilities, and superior HDR capabilities giving better color and clarity. It comes with a Bluetooth voice control remote, and you can get it with an in-built Google assistant. Plus, it also gels with other devices in your smart home. Here’s more on the Mecool MK9 Pro

• Operating System: Android 10.0

• Connectivity options: inbuilt Wi-Fi 2.4Ghz / 5Ghz

• Ports: HDMI 2.0, USB 2.0, Ethernet, and AV

• Hardware and Performance: Fitted with an Amlogic S905X2 Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 CPU

• RAM/storage: 4GB/ 16GB

Roku Ultra

The Roku Ultra does not have impressive hardware specs. Neither does it run on Android OS like other gadgets on this list. But it features here because it is easy to use and delivers what TV shows and movie lovers want - excellent content. Roku offers hundreds of movies and shows through its media channel. They also work closely with sporting apps to deliver superior experiences. Not to mention other conveniences like voice control, and it seamlessly works with most major streaming media platforms.

Here are some of Roku Ultra's specs:

• Operating System: Roku OS

• Connectivity options: WiFi 

• Ports: HDMI 

• Hardware and Performance: Fitted with an ARM Cortex A7 quad-core processor and an OpenGL ES 2.0 graphics processor.

• RAM/storage: 512MB/ 1GB 

Closing remarks

The above Android TV Boxes would give you excellent viewing experiences. As you check them out, remember to note if the gadget supports popular streaming services like YouTube, Amazon Prime, Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, or Spotify.