In this article
#1 · Best Android TV box for streaming
RockTek G2 Next
#2 · Best Android TV box for gaming
RockTek G2 RTX5000
From $140.95
View at DROIX
#3 · Best Android TV box for premium media
RockTek GX1
$108.95
Pre-order at DROIX
#4 · Best Android TV box for compact streaming
RockTek GB1
Direct answer: which is the best Android TV box?
The RockTek G2 Next is the best Android TV box in this guide for most buyers who want a fast, Google-certified Android TV experience with 4K HDR playback, Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6, expandable storage and useful gaming performance. The RockTek G2 RTX5000 offers the same core box with a GP1500 Bluetooth controller, making it the best Android TV box for buyers who want to stream and play games straight out of the box.
For a smaller and more modern Google TV setup, the RockTek GX1 is the best Android TV box for streaming 4K Dolby Vision content in a compact enclosure. The RockTek GB1 is the best Android TV box for simple, discreet and affordable streaming, especially when you want a compact alternative to a Firestick.
Introduction: what is an Android TV box?
An Android TV box is a small device that connects to your television through HDMI and runs a television-optimised version of Android or Google TV. It adds streaming apps, voice search, casting, media playback and downloadable games to almost any TV with an HDMI input. Unlike a basic streaming stick, a full-size box can offer more storage, extra USB ports, wired Ethernet and better cooling.
The best Android TV box should make everyday viewing simple while leaving room for the way you actually use your TV. That may mean watching Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube and other services in 4K; playing Android games with a Bluetooth controller; running Kodi or a local media player; or installing compatible apps from outside the Play Store. Certified Android TV and Google TV devices are especially useful because official streaming apps can offer the expected quality and updates, subject to each service’s requirements.
There is also renewed interest in Android TV boxes as people look for alternatives to Firesticks and other more restricted platforms. Our guide to the best Firestick alternatives explains the wider difference between closed streaming platforms and the more flexible Android ecosystem. The RockTek range gives you several ways to choose the best Android TV box without giving up 4K HDR, a clean TV interface or the option to expand what the device can do.
Picks at a glance
| Model | Best for | Key strengths | Store |
|---|---|---|---|
| RockTek G2 Next | Overall streaming, media and light gaming | Amlogic S905X5M, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage, Wi-Fi 6, Gigabit Ethernet, microSD | Buy RockTek G2 Next |
| RockTek G2 RTX5000 | Gaming and streaming | G2 hardware plus GP1500 Bluetooth controller | Buy RockTek G2 RTX5000 |
| RockTek GX1 | Compact premium streaming | Google TV 12, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, Wi-Fi 6, HDMI 2.1 | Buy RockTek GX1 |
| RockTek GB1 | Compact and affordable streaming | Google TV 12, 4K HDR, Dolby Vision, Wi-Fi 5, tiny footprint | Buy RockTek GB1 |
Best Android TV box for streaming and overall use: RockTek G2 Next
RockTek G2 Next
Google Certified Android TV for exceptional 4K streaming- Faster performance than the G2
- Silent and efficient
- Strong connectivity and media support
The RockTek G2 Next is the best Android TV box in this guide for buyers who want the newest hardware and software in the RockTek range. It is the successor to the RockTek G2, and it upgrades the processor, graphics, Bluetooth, HDMI and operating system while keeping the features that made the G2 popular: 4GB of RAM, Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6 and a microSD slot. It is sold by DROIX with a one-year warranty.
At its heart is the 6nm Amlogic S905X5M quad-core Cortex-A55 CPU running at up to 2.5GHz, paired with the Mali-G310 V2 GPU, which supports OpenGL ES 3.2, Vulkan 1.2 and OpenCL 2.2. It runs Google Certified Android TV 14, so you get the Google Play Store, a simple interface with customisable shortcut apps, and the option to add apps from outside the store. It is a strong Android box for TV setups that need more speed for menus, media apps and emulation. Read the full RockTek G2 Next review for the detailed hands-on impressions.
RockTek G2 Next dimensions and I/O
The RockTek G2 Next measures 99 x 99 x 22 mm (3.89 x 3.89 x 0.86 inches) and weighs about 141g, based on the hands-on review. That makes it slightly smaller than the RockTek G2 and easy to tuck behind a TV. The box has no front ports or buttons, and a power status LED sits on the top.
- 1x HDMI 2.1b output (4K x 2K at 60fps)
- 1x Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45) port
- 1x optical S/PDIF output
- 1x USB Type-A port on the left side for external storage and peripherals
- 1x USB Type-C port on the left side
- 1x USB Type-C port on the back for power
- 1x microSD / TF card slot, supporting cards up to 128GB
- Wi-Fi 6 (2.4GHz/5GHz, MIMO 2T2R) and Bluetooth 5.2
The Bluetooth remote has a number pad, a voice control button, navigation and volume buttons, and shortcut buttons for apps such as YouTube and Netflix.
RockTek G2 Next technical specifications
| Specification | RockTek G2 Next |
|---|---|
| CPU | Amlogic S905X5M, 6nm, 64-bit quad-core ARM Cortex-A55, up to 2.5GHz |
| GPU | Mali-G310 V2 (OpenGL ES 3.2, Vulkan 1.2, OpenCL 2.2) |
| RAM | 4GB LPDDR4 |
| Storage | 64GB eMMC 5.1 |
| Storage expansion | microSD / TF card up to 128GB, plus USB drives |
| Operating system | Google Certified Android TV 14 |
| Video output | Up to 4K x 2K at 60fps via HDMI 2.1b |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6 (MIMO 2T2R, 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax), Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Wired networking | Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000Mbps) |
| Audio output | HDMI and S/PDIF optical |
| Cooling | Passive cooling, no fan |
| Dimensions and weight | 99 x 99 x 22 mm, about 141g |
RockTek G2 Next benchmark results
The hands-on review compared the RockTek G2 Next with the original RockTek G2. In Geekbench 5 it scored 195 single-core and 673 multi-core, against 144 and 456 for the RockTek G2, gains of about 35.4% and 47.6%. In AnTuTu it scored 168,775 against 112,678, about 49.8% higher. In 3DMark Slingshot it scored 1592 against 593, about 168.5% higher, and it also completed Wild Life Extreme with a score of 152, which the RockTek G2 did not run.
Power use was low at 0.8W on standby, 1.5W idle on the Home screen, 3W watching a film and 3.6W at full load. The box is passively cooled and reached a high of 37°C watching a film. These are hands-on results from the review unit and should be used as an indication rather than a guarantee for every software update.
What the RockTek G2 Next can play
In the review, Dolby Vision, Dolby TrueHD and Dolby Atmos worked with apps such as Plex and Jellyfin, while Dolby Digital Plus worked with Netflix and Prime Video. HDR10 and HDR10+ are supported. The box connected to a Jellyfin server without trouble, Kodi runs fine, and a VPN and streaming software worked as expected. For retro gaming, RetroArch runs 8-bit and 16-bit systems well and classic systems up to around the PlayStation 1 era. Android games need to support a controller, and PSP emulation was mixed, so treat it as a streaming-first box with good emulation rather than a dedicated gaming box. If you want a controller in the box, see the RockTek G2 RTX5000 above.
Why buy the RockTek G2 Next?
Buy the RockTek G2 Next if you want the best Android TV box for performance and the latest Android TV 14 software. It is the fastest box in this guide, with a clear step up from the RockTek G2 in processing, graphics and Bluetooth, and it keeps Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6 and microSD expansion. It is also silent and very efficient, which suits a living-room or bedroom setup. Choose the RockTek G2 if you want the original proven box, or the RTX5000 if you want the controller bundle. Read the full RockTek G2 Next review, then buy the RockTek G2 Next from DROIX.
Best Android TV box for gaming: RockTek G2 RTX5000
RockTek G2 RTX5000
High-quality GP1500 Bluetooth game controller for an enhanced gaming experience- Bundled high quality game controller
- High performance S905X4-K CPU
- Good amount of RAM and storage
The RockTek G2 RTX5000 is the best Android TV box for gaming because it bundles the G2 platform with a GP1500 Bluetooth controller. It is designed for buyers who want a single purchase that covers streaming, Android games, cloud gaming and retro emulation without immediately needing to add a separate gamepad.
The core experience is familiar: official Android TV software, HDMI 2.1 output, 4K at 60Hz, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support, Wi-Fi 6, Gigabit Ethernet and expandable storage. The GP1500 adds a D-pad, dual analogue sticks, shoulder controls and other gamepad buttons. Our RockTek G2 RTX-5000 review found the controller comfortable and responsive for extended play, and tested Android games, cloud services and retro emulation.
RockTek G2 RTX5000 dimensions and I/O
The RTX5000 uses the same compact G2 enclosure, measuring around 11 x 11 x 2 cm and weighing about 142g. Its physical connections are:
- 1x HDMI 2.1 output
- 1x Gigabit Ethernet
- 1x AV output
- 1x optical SPDIF output
- 1x USB 2.0 Type-A
- 1x USB 3.0 Type-A
- 1x USB Type-C charging port
- 1x microSD card slot
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5
- GP1500 Bluetooth controller included
RockTek G2 RTX5000 technical specifications
| Specification | RockTek G2 RTX5000 |
|---|---|
| CPU | Amlogic S905X4-K, quad-core ARM Cortex-A55, up to 2.0GHz |
| GPU | ARM Mali-G31 MP2 |
| RAM | 4GB LPDDR4 |
| Storage | 64GB eMMC 5.1 on the current listing |
| Operating system | Google-certified Android TV platform; the review covered Android TV 11 |
| Video output | Up to 4Kx2K at 60Hz via HDMI 2.1 |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5 |
| Wired networking | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Included controller | GP1500 Bluetooth game controller |
RockTek G2 RTX5000 benchmark results
Our RockTek G2 RTX5000 review reported Geekbench scores of 144 single-core and 456 multi-core, a 3DMark score of 593, and an AnTuTu score of 112,678. These results come from the reviewed hardware/software configuration and are best treated as indicative. The review also measured around 2.2W standby, 2.9W idle and 3.1W under Geekbench, with the passively cooled box reaching approximately 35°C.
Why buy the RockTek G2 RTX5000?
Choose the RockTek G2 RTX5000 when the best Android TV box for you also needs to be a ready-to-use gaming box. The included GP1500 controller is more substantial than the basic gamepads often bundled with low-cost Android boxes, and the G2 platform is capable of Android gaming, cloud streaming and classic emulation. It is also a full-featured 4K streaming box for everyday viewing. Buy the RockTek G2 RTX5000 from DROIX or read the full RTX5000 review.
Best Android TV box for premium media: RockTek GX1
RockTek GX1
High performance in a small package- Good specifications including Dolby Vision HDR, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos and Dolby Audio
- Fast Realtek RTD1325TPV CPU and ARM Mali-G57 GPU
The RockTek GX1 is the best Android TV box for premium media playback in a compact set-top box. It uses Google TV 12 and a Realtek RTD1325TPV platform with Dolby Vision HDR, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos and Dolby Audio support. Its HDMI 2.1 output includes eARC and dynamic HDR support, which makes it a good match for a modern TV and soundbar setup.
This is a capable 4K Android TV box for viewers who prioritise a clean Google TV interface, fast app navigation and broad audio/video format support. It supports AV1, VP9, H.264 and HEVC/H.265 decoding up to 4K at 60fps. Widevine L1 and HDCP 2.3 support are listed for premium streaming compatibility. Google TV also includes Chromecast functionality and a voice-enabled Bluetooth remote.
RockTek GX1 dimensions and I/O
The RockTek GX1 measures only 70 x 70 x 15 mm, making it an unobtrusive addition to a TV stand or media cabinet. Its connections include:
- 1x HDMI 2.1 output with eARC and dynamic HDR support
- 2x USB 2.0 Type-A
- 1x RJ45 Ethernet port
- 1x SPDIF optical audio output
- Wi-Fi 6
- Bluetooth 5.2
RockTek GX1 technical specifications
| Specification | RockTek GX1 |
|---|---|
| CPU | Realtek RTD1325TPV, quad-core 64-bit ARM Cortex-A55, up to 1.7GHz |
| GPU | ARM Mali-G57, up to 850MHz |
| RAM | 4GB LPDDR4 |
| Storage | 32GB eMMC 5.1 |
| Operating system | Google TV 12 |
| Video decoding | AV1, VP9, H.264 and HEVC/H.265, up to 4K at 60fps |
| HDR and audio | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos and Dolby Audio |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Wired networking | RJ45 Ethernet; product listing specifies the port but not Gigabit speed |
Why buy the RockTek GX1?
The RockTek GX1 is a strong choice if the best Android TV box for you is compact, modern and focused on high-quality streaming rather than maximum gaming performance. Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, Google TV 12, HDMI eARC and Wi-Fi 6 make it well suited to a premium living-room setup. It also has two USB ports for peripherals, storage or accessories. Buy the RockTek GX1 from DROIX.
Best Android TV box for compact streaming: RockTek GB1
The RockTek GB1 is the best Android TV box for buyers who want a small, simple and affordable way to add 4K streaming to a TV. It measures only 70 x 70 x 15 mm, runs Google TV 12 and supports 4K HDR playback with Dolby Vision. It is a practical Android box for TV bedrooms, kitchens, travel setups and smaller entertainment centres.
The RockTek GB1 uses an efficient Realtek RTD1315C quad-core CPU with an ARM Mali-G57 GPU, 2GB of RAM and 16GB of eMMC 5.1 storage. It supports AV1, VP9, H.264 and H.265 decoding, as well as Widevine L1 DRM for compatible premium streaming services. Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5 provide wireless connectivity, while the included Bluetooth remote keeps operation familiar for TV users.
RockTek GB1 dimensions and I/O
The GB1 measures 70 x 70 x 15 mm, giving it one of the smallest footprints in this guide. The available product information lists:
- 1x HDMI 2.1 output
- USB-C power connection
- Wi-Fi 5 dual-band wireless networking
- Bluetooth 5
The RockTek GB1 is designed primarily for wireless streaming, so buyers who specifically need wired Ethernet or multiple USB ports should step up to the RockTek GX1 or G2.
RockTek GB1 technical specifications
| Specification | RockTek GB1 |
|---|---|
| CPU | Realtek RTD1315C, quad-core ARM Cortex-A55, up to 1.7GHz |
| GPU | ARM Mali-G57 |
| RAM | 2GB LPDDR4 |
| Storage | 16GB eMMC 5.1 |
| Operating system | Google TV 12 / Android TV platform as listed |
| Video decoding | AV1, VP9, H.264 and H.265, up to 4K at 60fps |
| HDR and audio | Dolby Vision HDR, HDR10 and Dolby Atmos support on compatible content/equipment |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5 |
| Dimensions | 70 x 70 x 15 mm |
Why buy the RockTek GB1?
The RockTek GB1 is the best Android TV box here for keeping things small and straightforward. It delivers the main streaming features most viewers need, including Google TV, 4K HDR and Dolby Vision, while taking up barely any space. Choose it for a bedroom or secondary TV, or when you want a compact alternative to a Firestick. If you need more storage, wired networking, expandable storage or better gaming headroom, consider the G2 instead. Buy the RockTek GB1 from DROIX.
How to choose the best Android TV box
Check the operating system and streaming certification
A certified Android TV or Google TV device is usually the safest choice for official TV apps, updates and high-quality playback. Check the requirements of each service you use, because app availability, resolution and HDR support can vary by region and subscription.
Decide whether you need wired Ethernet
Wi-Fi is convenient, but Ethernet can be more consistent in busy homes or when streaming high-bitrate local media. The RockTek G2 Next and RockTek G2 RTX5000 are the best Android TV box choices in this guide for a wired Gigabit connection. The GX1 adds RJ45 Ethernet, while the RockTek GB1 is primarily a wireless device.
Allow room for apps and media
Streaming apps do not usually need huge storage, but games, Kodi libraries, offline content and sideloaded applications can fill a small drive quickly. The G2 and RockTek G2 RTX5000 offer the most storage and add a microSD slot. The GX1 provides 32GB, while the GB1 is aimed at lighter use with 16GB.
Consider gaming and controller support
The G2 can run Android games and emulators with a compatible controller, while the RTX5000 includes the GP1500 in the box. The RockTek GX1 and GB1 are better understood as streaming-first devices. For cloud gaming, your internet connection and service subscription will have as much impact as the box itself.
Look at the ports you will actually use
HDMI is essential, but USB, optical audio, eARC, Ethernet and microSD can make a major difference to a home cinema or media-server setup. Before choosing the best Android TV box, check whether your TV or soundbar needs optical audio, whether you plan to connect a hard drive, and whether your network supports wired Ethernet.
Android TV box versus a Firestick
An Android TV box and a Firestick both connect to a TV and provide streaming apps, but they can differ substantially in hardware, software freedom and connectivity. A box such as the RockTek range can offer more RAM, more storage, Ethernet, extra USB ports and expandable storage. Android TV and Google TV also provide access to the Google Play ecosystem and support compatible sideloading.
Read our dedicated guide to the best alternatives to Firesticks for a broader explanation of the differences and the RockTek range. As always, only install and use apps and content that you are legally entitled to access, and check the compatibility and terms of each streaming service.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best Android TV box overall?
The RockTek G2 Next is the best Android TV box overall in this guide. It combines a fast S905X5M processor, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage, 4K HDR output, Wi-Fi 6, Gigabit Ethernet and a microSD slot. It is a strong choice for streaming, local media, sideloading and light gaming.
What is the best Android TV box for gaming?
The RockTek G2 RTX5000 is the best Android TV box for gaming because it includes the G2 platform and a GP1500 Bluetooth game controller. It can run compatible Android games, cloud gaming services and retro emulators, subject to the app, game and controller requirements.
Which Android TV box is best for Netflix and Prime Video?
A Google-certified RockTek device is the best starting point for official Netflix and Prime Video TV applications. The G2 and RTX5000 are the most powerful options, while the RockTek GX1 and GB1 provide a smaller Google TV experience. Streaming resolution and HDR depend on the service, account, region and compatible TV.
Can Android TV boxes play 4K video?
Yes. All four RockTek models in this guide are designed for 4K playback, and the RockTek G2 Next, RTX5000 and GX1 list HDMI 2.1 support. The RockTek GB1 also supports 4K HDR streaming. Your television, HDMI cable, app, subscription and source file must also support the desired resolution and HDR format.
Can I install apps that are not in the Play Store?
Compatible Android TV boxes can generally be configured to install apps from external sources by enabling the relevant unknown-app or developer setting. Availability and compatibility vary, and you should only install software from sources you trust and have permission to use. Some sideloaded apps may not appear in the standard TV launcher.
Is an Android TV box better than a Firestick?
It depends on your priorities. A Firestick may be convenient, but an Android TV box can offer more storage, more ports, Ethernet and greater flexibility. The RockTek GB1 is the closest compact Firestick alternative, while the GX1, G2 and RTX5000 provide more hardware and connectivity.
Which Android TV box has the most storage?
The current RockTek G2 Next offers a 64GB configuration, and the RTX5000 listing also specifies 64GB. Both add a microSD slot for expansion. The GX1 has 32GB, while the GB1 has 16GB.
Do these Android TV boxes support Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos?
The RockTek G2, RTX5000, RockTek GX1 and GB1 product information lists Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support. Actual playback depends on the application, source content, subscription, AV receiver or soundbar, television and regional service support.
Do Android TV boxes need Ethernet?
No. All four models can connect over Wi-Fi. Ethernet is useful when wireless interference, distance or high-bitrate local media makes a wired connection preferable. The G2 and RTX5000 are especially suited to wired networking with Gigabit Ethernet, while the GX1 includes RJ45 Ethernet and the GB1 is primarily wireless.
Which RockTek box should I buy?
Choose the RockTek G2 Next for the best all-round experience, the RTX5000 if you want the included controller for gaming, the GX1 for compact premium Google TV streaming with Dolby Vision and eARC, or the RockTek GB1 for the smallest and most affordable streaming-focused setup.
Conclusion: which is the best Android TV box for you?
The best Android TV box depends on whether you value maximum performance, gaming, premium media features or compact simplicity. The RockTek G2 Next is the best all-rounder, the RockTek G2 RTX5000 is the best Android TV box bundle for gaming, the RockTek GX1 is a polished choice for premium Google TV streaming, and the RockTek GB1 is the most discreet route into 4K Android TV.
All four models offer a more flexible alternative to a basic streaming stick, with access to modern apps, 4K playback and the wider Android ecosystem. Compare the ports, storage and networking you need, then use the links above to choose and buy the best Android TV box for your television setup.
Bringer of videos, text and images! AKA the social media guy at DROIX. Massive retro gaming fan and collector, with a far too large collection of consoles and computers from 1970's to modern. Contact me at [email protected]
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