Our Picks For Best Android Tv Box 2016

David Muir

2 min read

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09-12-2024

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The year 2016 saw a significant surge in the popularity of Android TV boxes, offering consumers a cheaper alternative to smart TVs and streaming devices. However, navigating the market to find a truly reliable and high-performing box could be challenging. This article reviews our top picks from that year, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses based on the information available at the time. Please note: Technology rapidly evolves; the performance and availability of these devices may differ significantly from current offerings.

Criteria for Selection

Our selection considered several key factors, including:

• Performance: Processing power, RAM, and overall responsiveness of the user interface.
• Features: Support for 4K resolution, HDR, and various streaming apps.
• Value: Balancing performance, features, and price point.
• Software Updates: The frequency and availability of updates are crucial for security and feature enhancements. (This was a particularly significant factor given the relative newness of the Android TV platform at the time).

Top Contenders of 2016

While specific models and ranking positions varied across different reviews, several Android TV boxes consistently emerged as top performers in 2016. These include (but are not limited to):

• Nvidia Shield Android TV: Often cited as a premium option, the Nvidia Shield boasted powerful hardware and a smooth user experience. Its strong processing power made it capable of handling demanding games and high-resolution video playback. However, its higher price point made it inaccessible to budget-conscious consumers.

• Xiaomi Mi Box: A popular choice for its balance of affordability and functionality. The Xiaomi Mi Box offered a solid performance for everyday streaming needs. While not as powerful as the Nvidia Shield, it provided good value for its price.

• Nexus Player (Google): While not technically released in 2016, the Nexus Player continued to be a relevant and available option. Its strength was its tight integration with the Google ecosystem and clean Android TV experience. However, limitations in processing power compared to other competitors were apparent.

Considerations for 2016 Buyers

Consumers in 2016 needed to carefully consider several factors before purchasing an Android TV box:

• App Compatibility: The availability of desired streaming apps was crucial. While most popular services were generally supported, some less-known or regional apps might have faced compatibility issues on certain boxes.

• Storage and Expandability: Internal storage varied between models. Consumers needed to consider their storage needs for apps and downloaded content. The availability of expandable storage via microSD card was a significant advantage.

• Remote Control Functionality: The quality and usability of the included remote varied widely. Some remotes offered more advanced features like voice search.

Conclusion

The Android TV box market in 2016 offered a diverse range of options to meet various needs and budgets. The Nvidia Shield, Xiaomi Mi Box, and Google Nexus Player represented some of the leading contenders, each with its strengths and weaknesses. The information provided here offers a retrospective look at the landscape of that year and highlights the considerations buyers had to navigate. Remember, these are based on information available at the time and the technology has significantly advanced since then.