MXQ Pro Android 11 TV Box: 4GB RAM Review

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MXQ Pro Android 11 TV Box: 4GB RAM Review

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the MXQ Pro Android 11 TV Box with 4GB of RAM. If you're looking to upgrade your home entertainment setup without breaking the bank, this little gadget might have caught your eye. Let's break down what makes it tick, its pros and cons, and whether it’s worth your hard-earned cash.

First Impressions and Setup

Alright, first things first, let's talk about what you get right out of the box. The MXQ Pro typically comes with the TV box itself, a remote control, an HDMI cable, and a power adapter. The setup process is pretty straightforward, which is a huge plus for those of us who aren’t exactly tech wizards. Just plug in the HDMI cable to your TV, connect the power adapter, and you're basically good to go.

Once you power it on, you'll be greeted with the Android 11 interface. Now, keep in mind that while it's advertised as Android 11, it's often a modified version. This means it might not be as smooth or feature-rich as a stock Android 11 experience you'd find on a smartphone or tablet. Still, it's generally functional and gets the job done.

The interface is usually pre-loaded with some common apps like Kodi, YouTube, and Netflix. However, be aware that some of these might not be the most up-to-date versions, and you might need to update them through the Google Play Store or sideload APKs. Speaking of the Play Store, accessing and navigating it can sometimes feel a bit clunky compared to using it on a phone, but it’s manageable.

The initial setup also involves connecting to your Wi-Fi network. The MXQ Pro usually supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi bands, which is great for ensuring a stable internet connection. After connecting to Wi-Fi, you'll probably want to sign in to your Google account to access the Play Store and sync your apps and preferences. From there, you can start exploring the world of Android apps on your TV.

Navigating the interface is primarily done with the included remote control. The remote is pretty basic but functional, with buttons for power, volume, navigation, and quick access to certain apps. However, many users find that investing in a mini wireless keyboard with a touchpad can significantly improve the overall experience, especially when typing or navigating more complex apps.

Performance and Hardware

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of performance. The MXQ Pro generally boasts a quad-core processor, often an Allwinner or Rockchip variant, paired with 4GB of RAM. While this might sound decent on paper, the real-world performance can be a mixed bag.

For basic tasks like streaming videos on YouTube or Netflix, the MXQ Pro usually handles things without too much trouble. You can generally watch videos in 1080p without significant stuttering or lag. However, don't expect to be blown away by 4K performance, especially if you have a high-end 4K TV. The box might struggle with higher resolutions and bitrates, leading to a less-than-ideal viewing experience.

When it comes to gaming, the MXQ Pro is more suited for casual games rather than demanding titles. Games that require a lot of processing power or graphics might experience lag or slowdowns. Think of it as being able to play Angry Birds or Candy Crush without issues, but don't expect to run Fortnite or Call of Duty smoothly.

The 4GB of RAM helps with multitasking to some extent, allowing you to switch between apps without having to reload them constantly. However, don't expect it to perform miracles. If you have too many apps running in the background, you might still experience some slowdowns. Closing unused apps regularly can help improve performance.

Storage is another important factor to consider. The MXQ Pro typically comes with 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, which should be enough for installing a decent number of apps and storing some media files. However, if you plan on downloading a lot of content, you might want to consider getting a microSD card to expand the storage. This will allow you to store more videos, music, and other files without running out of space.

In terms of connectivity, the MXQ Pro usually includes several USB ports, an HDMI port, an Ethernet port, and a microSD card slot. The USB ports can be used to connect external storage devices, keyboards, mice, or other peripherals. The Ethernet port provides a stable wired internet connection, which can be useful if you're experiencing Wi-Fi issues. The HDMI port is, of course, essential for connecting the box to your TV.

Software and User Experience

Let's talk about the software experience. As mentioned earlier, the MXQ Pro runs on a modified version of Android 11. While this is generally functional, it's not without its quirks. The interface can sometimes feel a bit clunky, and you might encounter occasional bugs or glitches.

One common issue is the presence of pre-installed bloatware. These are apps that come pre-installed on the device but are often unnecessary or unwanted. They can take up valuable storage space and potentially slow down the system. Fortunately, you can usually uninstall these apps through the settings menu, but it's still an extra step that can be annoying.

The Google Play Store is your main source for downloading and updating apps. While it's generally functional, navigating it on the MXQ Pro can be a bit cumbersome. The interface is not always optimized for TV use, and you might find yourself struggling to find the apps you're looking for. Using a mini wireless keyboard with a touchpad can make this process much easier.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the software updates for the MXQ Pro are not always consistent. You might receive updates occasionally, but don't expect them to be as frequent or reliable as updates on a smartphone or tablet. This means that you might be stuck with an older version of Android for a while, which could potentially lead to compatibility issues with newer apps.

Despite these drawbacks, the software experience on the MXQ Pro is generally acceptable for the price. It allows you to access a wide range of Android apps on your TV, stream videos, play games, and perform other basic tasks. However, if you're looking for a more polished and seamless experience, you might want to consider investing in a higher-end TV box.

Pros and Cons

To sum it all up, let's break down the pros and cons of the MXQ Pro Android 11 TV Box:

Pros:

  • Affordable Price: One of the biggest draws of the MXQ Pro is its budget-friendly price tag. It's a great option for those who want to upgrade their TV experience without spending a lot of money.
  • Android 11: Running on Android 11 gives you access to a wide range of apps and features.
  • 4GB RAM: The 4GB of RAM helps with multitasking and overall performance.
  • Expandable Storage: The microSD card slot allows you to expand the storage, which is great for storing more media files.
  • Multiple Connectivity Options: The USB ports, HDMI port, and Ethernet port provide plenty of connectivity options.

Cons:

  • Modified Android: The modified version of Android 11 can be a bit clunky and buggy.
  • Inconsistent Updates: Software updates are not always consistent or reliable.
  • Performance Limitations: The performance is limited, especially when it comes to 4K streaming and gaming.
  • Bloatware: The presence of pre-installed bloatware can be annoying.
  • Remote Control: The included remote control is basic and not the most user-friendly.

Alternatives to Consider

If you're not completely sold on the MXQ Pro, here are a few alternatives to consider:

  • Nvidia Shield TV: This is a high-end option that offers excellent performance, 4K streaming, and gaming capabilities. It's more expensive than the MXQ Pro, but it's worth it if you're looking for the best possible experience.
  • Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K: This is a popular option that offers a user-friendly interface, 4K streaming, and access to a wide range of apps. It's also very affordable.
  • Roku Streaming Stick+: This is another great option that offers a simple interface, 4K streaming, and a wide selection of channels. It's also very easy to use.
  • Xiaomi Mi Box S: This is a mid-range option that offers a good balance of performance and price. It runs on Android TV and supports 4K streaming.

Final Verdict

So, is the MXQ Pro Android 11 TV Box with 4GB of RAM worth buying? It really depends on your needs and expectations. If you're looking for an affordable way to upgrade your TV experience and you're willing to put up with some quirks, it can be a decent option. However, if you're looking for the best possible performance and a seamless user experience, you might want to consider investing in a higher-end TV box.

For casual users who primarily want to stream videos and play basic games, the MXQ Pro can be a good value. However, if you're a power user who demands the best performance and features, you'll probably be better off with a more expensive option. Ultimately, the decision is up to you. Just weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a purchase.

I hope this review has been helpful! Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below.