I've ordered this box from Amazon tonight for £45.99. I've just been checking some videos and reviews of it on the internet and it seems very well respected for its price.
A little search around has shown me that GearBest currently have it for £26 (gutted). But I'm happy to receive mine tomorrow. If you're looking for a new Android box and don't mind waiting, this looks like a tidy little option. I was particularly drawn to its metal finish and LCD display.
Sunvell T95M TV Box Amlogic S905 Quad Core 64Bit Android 5.1 Smart 4K HD Media Player 2GB 8GB 2.4GHz WiFi Bluetooth 4.0
Main Features:
● Amlogic S905 quad-core CPU is rapid and stable which can give you high-speed feedback and smooth response.
● Mali-450 as GPU of this TV Box which gives you the high definition pictures and videos.
● With 64bit Android 5.1 stable and smooth system.
● 2GB DDR3 + 8G eMMC Flash Memory: It gives you more space to download your favorite apps and caches to browse websites, play games, run apps, watch movies more smoothly.
● 2.4GHz WiFi (10 / 100Mbps Ethernet): It offers a more stable WiFi signal for you to enjoy higher quality video experience.
● Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity: Easy pairing with most Bluetooth-enabled devices (computer, mobile phone, keyboard, and others).
● Supports H.265 video code, enjoy the high-resolution video even at a low-internet-speed environment.
● Supports 4K HD video, which brings us clearer image quality and 3D vision enjoy.
● HDMI 2.0 connector: You can directly connect your TV to Sunvell T95M TV box through an HDMI cable and set up your home cinema for the best 4K x 2K HD multimedia experience.
● Supports 2.4GHz wireless mouse and keyboard via 2.4GHz USB dongle.
● Supports multiple languages and multiple formats video.
● Time and work status of the box are displayed.
● Network functions: VUDU, Miracast, XBMC, Airplay, Skype chatting, Youtube, Flicker, Facebook, online movies, etc..
● Free Internet searching, thousands of android applications, many kinds of games, etc..
● Infrared remote control let you enjoy your wonderful life which the wireless brings to you.
Top comments
the__cat
14 Jun 1610#28
For anyone that doesn't work in an office, going forward = in the future :wink:
justinlinham
14 Jun 167#6
I just wish i understood what half of it meant....
beastman
14 Jun 163#22
Not obvious this but this box seems to have an AV out port, which if its like mine (I have a similar S905 based box) it will feed out analogue audio. This is actually potentially very handy as it appears many of these boxes don't have this and it allows playback of music into an older/less spec hifi system without the need for the TV to be switched on. So if you add loads of music to your KODI and you want that music played via older hifi system with an AUX L/R input you wouldn't need that Chromecast Audio for example.
All comments (185)
BuzzDuraband
14 Jun 16#1
TwistedNerve
14 Jun 161#2
the S812 is a better choice, but this is canny for a cheap box, especially if it really does support ac3 audio and the rest
jacksonliam to TwistedNerve
14 Jun 161#15
Why?
"The main advantage of Amlogic S905 over S812 is support for HDMI 2.0 ports allowing 2160p @ 60 Hz video output, and 4K H.265 hardware video decoding up to 60 fps, while both are limited to 30 Hz on S812.
danfr to TwistedNerve
14 Jun 16#20
s905 is better than s812
BuzzDuraband
14 Jun 16#3
Ignore that, found one at £55.99. Mind was blown with all the options. I really did like the look of this one, though.
dudwood_fudwood
14 Jun 161#4
Good spot. Queue people buying them in bulk, adding a new build and selling on eBay for £70!
Heat added.
chantelle310
14 Jun 161#5
Which is the best method of postage to choose with GearBest?
justinlinham
14 Jun 167#6
I just wish i understood what half of it meant....
Don't be gutted, gearbest are ****. Id happily pay twice the price for Amazon fulfilled
trojan34
14 Jun 16#17
ordered. cheers
Rbluesy123
14 Jun 16#18
Do I really need this? Will this be much better over an Amazon fire stick running kodi?
danfr
14 Jun 16#19
gearbest have been banned from freaktab.com. says it all really.
mebzz
14 Jun 16#21
I've had bad experiences with gearbest....rather pay extra and get something within days as opposed to waiting 3 months then getting PayPal to get me a refund
beastman
14 Jun 163#22
Not obvious this but this box seems to have an AV out port, which if its like mine (I have a similar S905 based box) it will feed out analogue audio. This is actually potentially very handy as it appears many of these boxes don't have this and it allows playback of music into an older/less spec hifi system without the need for the TV to be switched on. So if you add loads of music to your KODI and you want that music played via older hifi system with an AUX L/R input you wouldn't need that Chromecast Audio for example.
snappyfish
14 Jun 161#23
i gave up with droid t8 for not supporting ac3 etc... and nothing ever streams properley on kodi
Wapht
14 Jun 161#24
Thanks for that info, my old receiver doesn't have HDMI.
friar_chris
14 Jun 16#25
They are total ****. I had to get PayPal involved to get my money back for a cheap copy of a carcamera I bought after the vast majority of people on this site said that gearbest didn't sell fakes. I sent gearbest video footage to prove my claims of stuttering, unbalanced colour, lack of claimed function, at their request I might add at which point they just ignored me. My advice: Buy through PayPal.
GrantG182
14 Jun 16#26
2.4ghz or 100Mb Ethernet? Yuck :-(
JohnnyUtah
14 Jun 16#27
bet you still want one! :smile:
the__cat
14 Jun 1610#28
For anyone that doesn't work in an office, going forward = in the future :wink:
I wouldn't base that on the rendered images. I bet the LCD looks pretty tacky in real life, sadly.
STi_prodrive
14 Jun 16#36
to confused ?!
nige182
14 Jun 16#37
Quite likely actually.
beastman
14 Jun 16#38
sorry, misread you post!
backtothecaves
15 Jun 16#39
What if my life is not wonderful? I won't enjoy it!
gozo
15 Jun 16#40
I just need someone to tell me which one of these boxes to get.. I'm going to have an aneurysm trying to work this stuff out. I feel like an old guy, I hate feeling like an old guy.. :man:
marcinredwelski
15 Jun 16#41
you can install kodi into this box mate.
Deeco
15 Jun 16#42
Anyone know of a good Android box with DVB-S2 (CCCAM)?
SamuraiHQ
15 Jun 161#43
I actually purchased this via eBay for around £24. It has since gone up to £30~ but it was constantly sold out when I wanted to place an order. I finally managed to get it at the right price (before the hike). It took about 10 days to arrive which wasn't too bad. The box itself is lovely. By that I mean it looks amazing, the specs are decent, and surprisingly has a little weight to it. Pretty decent wwhen you have a power cable, ethernet cable and a hdmi cable all coming out of the back. Usually these cables are enough to start moving a normal box, but not this.
It's a lot more easier to use than my last box I'm still using in the living room (MXQ?) and it fills the whole screen (55").
Personally I'd go for the Beelink. I'm very happy with my purchase!
SIDE NOTE: Any apps that people would recommend?
tim30485
15 Jun 161#44
I was new to all of this and ended up buying quite a few of these android boxes (T95 with antenna, MX3, MXQ, MXQpro, M8s, M8s+) all 2G/8G variations and was completely disappointed, frequent crashing and freezing (resulting in power cable out to reset).
I then got the Q box 2G/16G and I have had no problems for over six weeks now, connects nicely to my 5GHz dual band router too. It did however cost £40 but I'd spent around £35 on the others anyway so an extra £5 for reliable box and an extra 8GB storage made perfect sense. The colour change LED strip across the top is a nice touch I think too, mood lighting in the dark... Haha.
Kodi is the main one to be fair, then just load the plugins, though most boxes come with the popular plugins already installed.
amour3k
15 Jun 16#45
But 1GB RAM, and 8GB eMMC Memory? .. instead of 2GB RAM, and 16GB eMMC Memory instead?.
Not the same Specs, etc?, lol.
louiselouise
15 Jun 161#46
I'm also a Beelink purchaser (Mini MXIII) and it rocks. Using it a lot more than I thought I would, adding Wookie and all manner of repositories has astonished me - I couldn't get along with Kodi in the beginning on my PC/tablet and no streams seemed to work, but I'm starting to love it.
Watched carpload of comedy streams earlier, blimmin' brilliant.
SamuraiHQ
15 Jun 16#47
What would you recommend the best app to use if I wanted to stream movies / tv shows from my laptop to my android box?
MaximusRo
15 Jun 16#48
What's freaktab? Says nothing to some of us
MaximusRo
15 Jun 16#49
Nice, definetely worth it
Wibblefish
15 Jun 16#50
Got a link to one at £40 please? TIA
AndyRoyd
15 Jun 161#51
No, just no. Don't consider the MXQ Pro Plus unless you want a battle with near-useless firmware. The hardware spec is comprehensive, the firmware is utter trousers. Fortunately a firmware port from a Tronsmart box has become available, but obviously further updates may be problematic. The firmware installation is quite simple with access to a windows machine and a 99p USB A-to-A cable. I speak from experience as I bought two of those MXQ Pro+ boxes - both now donated to relatives for non-demanding uses. Even the seller Gearbest says don't buy it: "better to buy a tv-box that is not so cheap. Some manufacturers play tricks with the updates even though they promise they will have technical support. I feel the beelink tvbox is nice." If you want to contemplate the firmware installation faff, read the ramble at http://freaktab.com/forum/advertisers-and-vendor-support-area/gearbest-com/575760-mxq-pro-firmware-download/ . Gearbest's "don't buy" comment is post 197.
stav
15 Jun 16#52
I think we established that in posts 8 and 9 :wink:
Not sure what Gearbest has been "banned" from on FT, but they have been unrestictedly posting as user "Gearbest" and answering customer queries for quite some time, most recently only a few hours before this comment.
Rickardo
15 Jun 16#55
I think they understand that, I suppose they're looking for justification to purchase this box, when they're probably already fairly happy with their Fire stock running KODI (just like me). As in is the experience vastly improved? I suppose as the Fire stick doesn't support 4k, that is one major difference.
kaiser051
15 Jun 16#56
Would this be better than a amazon firestick mine is really slow and sluggish despite having 150 mg broadband,do i just install kodi from the play store and then a build like pulse ?
Thanks
freestyle
15 Jun 16#57
Tempted to get myself another one of these boxes as already have the Mini M8S which is slightly cheaper, does this box have any advantage over that one?
AndyRoyd
15 Jun 16#58
The item you mention uses the Rockchip RK3229 chipset rather than OP item's S905 chipset. The S905 is generally regarded as more flexible and better supported; for example, the S905 can play 10bit x265/HEVC content without issue, whereas the Rockchip is fussy with 10bit. The Rockchip may have a niche benefit, but I am not aware of it.
paggy123
15 Jun 16#59
where can i check what all apps are supported on this box? i am after "YUPP TV" app...is it supported on this box?
Bare in mind these boxes are totally useless if you want 4k from services like Amazon or Netflix because it ain't going to happen.
GS01
15 Jun 16#65
Only if you don't want 10 bit HEVC, otherwise this is a better choice as a TV box.
brookysm
15 Jun 16#66
You're pretty much limited to the Amiko Alien 3 ATM which is average at best tbh.
celticbull2008
15 Jun 161#67
Purchased lots from Gearbest over the last few years, I've never had an issue once... they have been fantastic and delivery speedy.
lordpt
15 Jun 16#68
If I have a USB drive / External HDD, is it just easy to plug it in with videos and watch them straight off the bat?
Thank you.
MaximusRo
15 Jun 16#69
Thanks.
Beelink in that case? i think 16gb is mandatory (along with 2 gb ram) and the beelink seem to have both
emtunc
15 Jun 161#70
Hello my knowledgeable friends!
I am looking for an Android TV box that will run Kodi smoothly with a bunch of add-ons. Running Amazon Prime TV is a plus but not something I do right now.
Updates are important - I want a box that will continue receiving updates and prefer for it to not become a door-stop in a year's time because Kodi doesn't work on a particular version of Android anymore.
This product has a lot of positive reviews but I'm not too familiar with Android TV tech so not sure if it's a good buy or not.
A lot of people also recommend the Minix Neo-U1 - especially for supportability and updates but you'll probably laugh at the price tag.
What do you guys recommend?
hackerace
15 Jun 16#71
looks good, ive got few firesticks and pi, was thinking of another box to replace the pi, would this be ok, also does anyone know what the remote is like on this one?
wpj
15 Jun 161#72
The Beelink M18 is very nice, but is about £45-50 (Uk sellers on ebay). There are OTA updates and a lot of support. The 905 chip and the 2Gb make a lot of difference.
Qas2K9
15 Jun 16#73
s905 or Q box or any in that same price range is better? Needing one for the mother :smiley: thanks in advance
olly_g
15 Jun 16#74
If price isn't an issue would you go with an nvidia or stick with one of these
HD audio passthrough is what I'm looking for over HDMI, I know kodi can't do this yet so I run files in mkv format locally
bintasaurus
15 Jun 16#75
ok,for someone who's hugely experienced in these type of boxes,i personally would avoid them.Bad firmware,bad support,poorish hardware...stated fully loaded,which means bloated with crap.
if you can pay more then do it,but go for in low end to high in order.
fire stick,nexus player(still available at Argos),Fire TV box 1/2,Wetek core,Apple TV 4 and by far the best but most expensive Nvidia Shield TV.
if I was forced to buy a cheap box,the only one I've used that has run well was the Q box,which I believe is from £40. Obviously this is just my own opinion,and experiences
gjgbarclay
15 Jun 16#76
SPMC can do this. http://spmc.semperpax.com/
"HD Audio passthrough (Shield + some aml, Minix U1 & Wetek Core at least)"
"Add possibility to choose IEC or RAW passthrough (via passthrough device)"
clint thrust
15 Jun 161#77
What does it do again?
Feeble
15 Jun 16#78
Does the Q Box do that? Also, can you attach a USB DVD reader to it to play video or audio files from disk?
hcc27
15 Jun 16#79
Well it depends on what you need. If you're keen on getting Netflix at 1080p or higher, forget using an unbranded Android box - Netflix have a pre-approved list of devices to which its servers will deliver an HD stream and it is a pretty narrow list. No matter what anyone says, any devices outside of this list will be fed a 720p signal.
(you can check the Netflix site for the latest updated list)
Amazon devices are in this list. I'd say an Amazon Fire 4K box will be a much better solution for Netflix. For other sources e.g. BBC IPlayer, other catch-up TV channels, or watching your own Full HD rips or Kodi, these boxes will be equally good.
I'd say the best box to buy - notwithstanding the cost - is the Amazon Fire TV 4K. Will deliver upto 4K from both Netflix and Amazon, has all the terrestrial catch up services, and can side-load Kodi with minimal know-how. It's double the price of these though.
tim30485
15 Jun 16#82
I can play files from a USB/SD card but I don't have an external DVD drive to try sadly but I'm guessing it will be the same as plugging in an external hard drive? Unsure about the HD audio passthrough, if it's SPMC controlled I can't see why not?
gjgbarclay
15 Jun 16#83
Doubt it for the Q Box, don;t know it to be honest, but the SPMC fork of Kodi is focussed on Android TV devices, particularly the Nvidia Shield.
matty9815
15 Jun 161#84
You obviously like to touch base with people and think outside of the box...
jkcool
15 Jun 161#85
I did do some google searches and turns out Android ecosystem does not support USB DVD Drives as the audio video inputs can't be read by it.
Nomnomchoons
15 Jun 16#86
Does anyone know if the optical audio output will give full optical bandwidth for 7.1/5.1 DTS or DD? Or for music 24bit 192khz?
amour3k
15 Jun 16#87
Your like the second or third person over x-months on an Android Box Product that's come out with a similar comment to this?, hmmmmmmm, interesting .....
no requirement for 4k for some time on these boxes... by the time the content is there, the boxes will offer better support
dereklogan7
15 Jun 16#90
Let's run it up the flagpole....... :laughing:
jaymzie007
15 Jun 16#91
Could I ask what the display is like? The image looks rendered so in real life is it like a customer display (VFD) style or is it more like a white on black calculator display, looking nice and flat?? Thanks in advance.
jaymzie007
15 Jun 161#92
I concur. Thanks for reaching out to us with your thoughts!
fraaser_s
15 Jun 16#93
Can you load Kodi onto this?
BuzzDuraband
15 Jun 16#94
It comes pre-installed with Kodi.
Nomnomchoons
15 Jun 16#95
Yes
golo83
15 Jun 16#96
Can you install/run kodi on this?
WAWG
15 Jun 16#97
What are the advantages of these boxes?
freddy871
15 Jun 16#98
Seems everyone has an opinion which is good, does anyone have a link to a site that can recomend in simple terms which device would be decent to buy that would include xbmc.?
TwistedNerve
15 Jun 16#99
that's the one I've ran for about 9 months now and never missed a beat
p.s. I don't use a "build" I just have exodus, phoenix and sportsdevil installed in kodi and that has everything I need
fuzzy_logic
15 Jun 16#100
Am I right in saying these boxes will not run Amazon Video or Now TV?
torby
15 Jun 16#101
Get your box and install ares wizard....gives you so many more options wen things go wrong.
skusey
15 Jun 16#102
Anybody tell me why I should buy this? What does it do?
BuzzDuraband
15 Jun 161#103
Well, my box has arrived today.
Although still quite sleek, I can confirm that the display on the product image is a little out from the actual item. The remote is extremely clicky and inserting my email address and password was some what of a nightmare to log in to the Google Store.
The overall performance of the UI is extremely quick (when comparing to the previous Amazon Fire Stick). Kodi did in fact come installed with it, I installed Ares Wizard and downloaded the Pulse build, which took almost an hour to download (290mb) over LAN.
Any questions, please feel free to ask.
danfr
15 Jun 16#104
freaktab is a website about cheap Chinese tablets and TV boxes with help and support to get them working better, with several manufacturers having a presence there, and the main Chinese website retails, like gearbest. gearbest are banned due to so many issues, and the website is in the process of removing their official subforum.
brookysm
15 Jun 16#105
Xbmc doesn't exist anymore, it's called Kodi now and available from the play store however if you want one loaded with the add ons no legitimate company will sell one because that would be illegal to do so!
hcc27
15 Jun 16#106
Thanks for this quick review Buzz! If you don't mind me asking, would you be able to upload a pic of the front with the display working just to have an idea of how it looks under ambient light please? For a remote, I'd suggest an Air Mouse, these are fantastic and you have ones which have the remote control buttons on one side and a full sized compact keypad on the other. They have both a gyroscope and gravity sensor, when you turn it over to the keyboard the mouse is automatically disabled and it really does help control these units a lot better. I have this from Amazon which works perfectly:
Does anyone use it for Skype ?? Which webcam will go well with it ??
Nujol
15 Jun 16#108
Ordered it with the discount codes remark have come up at £22.60. Let's see!
BuzzDuraband
15 Jun 16#109
Of course. I'm out at the moment, when I return in around an hour I will attempt my best photography skills :smiley:
Hotshot1969
15 Jun 161#110
Always use gearbest and never had a prob with delivery
_hukdealer_
15 Jun 16#111
For under £30 you can get Beelink miniMXIII on ebay(paypal protection), same specs but larger 16GB ROM. Beelink is very good with updates, google it. Here you will end up with rom which was factory flashed, no big chance of any future update. I managed to get one 2 weeks ago from fleabay for £20 and it's flying!
nige182
15 Jun 16#112
Thanks, I have been tempted to try an Air Mouse, I currently use a Logitech K400r for my media PC. This one looks the same as the Amazon one and is also labelled as a C120: http://www.gearbest.com/mice-keyboards/pp_179267.html
From reading about the TK668 is the upgraded version of the C120, the O and P keys have been moved to be more natural.
hcc27
15 Jun 16#113
Thanks. Could you kindly post a link? I could find only the Beelink 1GB/8GB model for under 30 quid on ebay.
KopCity
15 Jun 16#114
Someone please let me know if you see a decent IPTV Box... not ANDROID but an IPTV Box, similar to Mag254...
thanks
n1ghtman
15 Jun 16#115
is this better than the mini m8s
hcc27
15 Jun 16#116
Yes I believe it's the same or upgraded version. It's a great air mouse. Battery lasts ages (I've only charged it twice in about three months), just plug it into any powered USB port. The air mouse functionality is spot on, gyro and gravity sensor work perfectly. As you say the ''P'' and the ''O'' buttons are in a weird position on the bottom right of the keyboard but I don't use the keyboard often so this isn't an issue for me.
It does have an IR LED but I have no idea how to programme the IR side of things. Would be great if I can get this working as right now, I switch the box on with the native IR remote that came with the box (or power cycle it from the wall) and switch it off with the air mouse (this has an on-off switch but obviously doesn't work to switch the device ''on'' as the wifi dongle is not powered in the ''off'' state).
skykid3
15 Jun 16#117
Keep an eye on eBay seller "yc821019" I bought a Brand New Genuine MAG 254 IPTV BOX for £11.99 delivered from China,just waiting for delivery.
GAVINLEWISHUKD
15 Jun 16#118
Specs for new S905x and S912. Highlights S905x adds VP9 support and HDR. S912 Octa core CPU and MaliT830 GPU.
ACunningPlan
15 Jun 16#119
As someone with no experience of these devices (even though I work in IT!). What do you actually get when you plug this unit in. Is it as simple as plugging in, setting it up and watching movies - do you need to install extra apps etc etc, are there any subscription fees?
Sorry for my ignorance!
AndyRoyd
15 Jun 162#120
It's basically an Android tablet without a screen and optimised for media playback on TV with some media apps and content sources pre-installed - usually Kodi or similar. You can watch movies & TV via sources from the web, most of which require no subscription and provide no support when a stream source disappears (use your own means to find repalcement sources, probably via a forum of like-minded enthusiasts). Some describe them as a comprehensive Sky subscription replacement, although that is probably a little colourful.
deanochips
15 Jun 161#121
the WETEK PLAY has two DVB Tuners i have not used it..........
but why not get a zgemma 2s of ebay for £60 ?
and if you still want a android kodi box, there is a plugin that connects from kodi to enigma2 (the os of the zgemma) that will allow you to watch it through kodi's interface
but honestly i think you would prefer the zgemma interface if you load a nice skin on it, google "blue HD vix" and look at the images to see what it looks like.
BuzzDuraband
15 Jun 16#122
Apologies for the late reply. I've managed to take one now :smiley:
Carlyle
15 Jun 16#123
Hi,
I'm looking to get a TV box but after reading this thread I'm confused whether to use Gearbest or eBay or even if this is the box to get. Could someone explain to my noob self whether this is a good deal or not? Or what I should get instead?
Thanks
KopCity
15 Jun 16#124
£12?? Ye right! howw??
salahwrexham
15 Jun 16#125
I'm with you on this one. Everything is great with any supplier until you have a problem. Amazon customer services is outstanding.
what are people running on these? I use raspberry pi 2's at the moment running osmc, not sure if there would be any advantage moving to this setup?
AndyRoyd
16 Jun 16#138
Not sure if changed recently, but RPi was/is unable to play x265/HEVC and certainly not same at 10bit, and x265 is brilliant to half the bandwidth requirement whilst maintaining same quality - essential in any environment / household where the network is being battered by multiple users, and obviously only requires half the comparable media storage requirement (effectively doubles the capacity of existing storage compared to previous formats).
Cepultura
16 Jun 16#139
Much chance of this getting caught by customs?
dtokez
16 Jun 16#140
good point, I can only decode 264. I use yatsee remote for kodi, are here any options for similar on this setup? Cheers :smiley:
After watching a few video reviews of these boxes on youtube, is it possible to customise the homescreen on this? - they don't mention it in any reviews... It doesn't look anything like what I know as android from phone or tablet?...
AndyRoyd
17 Jun 16#143
The homescreen is optimsed for use via the supplied remote control, but you can install any Android launcher you wish.
Andaho
17 Jun 16#144
Ahh cool! Thank you, that makes sense :smiley: Is there any launcher anyone recommends for android TV?
But to further question, without using a different launcher, can this screen be customised (below)? e.g. Would I be able to replace the tiles with apps like iplayer, netflix etc?
AndyRoyd
17 Jun 161#145
I haven't seen a budget S905 box that gave option for swapping tiles, although the "usual" budget box homescreen allows addition of around nine user-specified homescreen shortcuts to the lowest row (the row ending with the "+" icon where that icon allows selection of installed apps to be added to that row). Example from ebay listing for a T95M box: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/182143913504
Dougal1948
17 Jun 16#146
Oh dear! It's all too much for me. Better stick to my BBC1 and ITV methinks.
Dougal1948
17 Jun 16#147
Thankyou AndyRoyd. Your help is appreciated
golo83
17 Jun 16#148
these streaming sources...are they actually legal? i.e. could you be done for streaming from illegal sources in your home (bit like downloading movies/music illegally)? or would that be the source who is at risk?
AndyRoyd
17 Jun 161#149
Can'o'worms, legal minefield... but bottom line: I do not know, I am not a legal expert. Vague recollection that "streaming" where the recipient does not permanently store the media is not classed as theft. I cannot recall the source of that statement so it could be repeated heresay and utterly incorrect! Consider though that the user is not sharing the content with other users so it is not comparable to p2p which is far more defined legally. If it concerns you, simply do not stream from non-recognised sources; you can still use the box to play / watch / do whatever is permitted with subscription content or your own content - I use mine for surfing web, messaging and watching my own media.
golo83
18 Jun 16#150
not really concerned but wanted to check people's thoughts...as not really seen anything saying streaming not allowed unlike p2p file download etc.
- Telegraph
However, further down that same page: Then further down again there is a section headed "If I stream copyright material - knowingly or not - what's the worst that could happen to me?" which covers things like computer viruses and harm to the industry but nothing about prosecution for doing it.
Ultimately it is a grey area and down to the individual whether they feel comfortable doing so.
illusion786
18 Jun 161#152
Ordered this box on the 14th, its the 18th now and my order status is still processing.
I enquired as to why its taking too long. They now tell me the item is not in stock and has been backorderd and will be despatched around 19th July. Funny thing is they are still selling it like its still in stock, with 516 pieces left in stock and its a flash sale....
Not happy as its the second time its happend to me with gearbest.. Asked for a full refund....
Expect your orders to be delayed...
darknoiz
19 Jun 16#153
To be fair to them dispatch date on website does say 9-20th July albeit in small print
Andaho
19 Jun 16#154
Having seen above about the long dispatch time for the T95 (that I also didn't notice when I ordered), I'm looking to buy a different one now... As you said, I googled looking for beelink updates, and I didn't find anything...
Is there a particular box that has a well supported custom ROM? - I can't find much reliable info on custom roms for android boxes in general.
Sorry for late reply, I managed to get one from ebay (item no: 282018614795), it was for the same price but delivery was free at the time of ordering, now seller charges for delivery so it comes slightly above £30.
Nice review here with discussion about ota updates below it(use "find in page": firmware)
It's basically the same beelink mx with lower specs in reviews. My one is mx3 and arrived swiftly within week (from china) and had fresh firmware on it, but I already received small ota update. It's very fast and for £23 I can't fault it, I just do not really use it that much as I planned to.
depens on exchange rate oc, try to make offer too! as it's buy it now with best offer. good luck
darknoiz
26 Jun 16#157
Anyone recommend a good replacement remote for this , one that either does not have an air mouse or the cursor can be turned off the included remote has terrible range and needs line of sight which is a shame because layout is perfect
darknoiz
26 Jun 16#158
Also has anyone managed to get the google android tv remote app to work, its only really used for kodi and i want to make it a simple to use for the wife ad kids when i am not there, also have a Shield which they have no problems with but the remote for that is simple.
I got an email yesterday as well. The dispatch date on the page has now changed to today as well. I'm sure when I check it before it said 27th. Strange. Can't really complain for these prices.
Nomnomchoons
28 Jun 16#161
I cancelled my order due to the expected dispatch date which I hadn't noticed. Annoying now that it looks like they are shipping!
i'm in no hurry...my main problem is that my TV has 3 hdmi connections and i already have an hdmi 3-1 splitter, but now i have:
this tv box,
a blu ray player,
a ps3,
sky+ box,
BTTV box,
chromecast,
and home cinema system... :confused::|:confused:
darknoiz
2 Jul 16#163
This box is great but the remote is so bad that its going back to amazon, for me its no problem but for the technophobe family its a problem, going to get another shield as the remote on this is so good and the shield works perfectly.
golo83
6 Jul 16#164
delivered today 6th Jul. haven't tested it out yet
golo83
7 Jul 16#165
remote is....TERRIBLE :confused:
NigelASmith
7 Jul 16#166
Hi golo83. Still waiting for mine. Perhaps a further week based on your timings. Please let me know if you source an alternative remote. Ta.
malnuman
7 Jul 161#167
My box arrived yesterday, great box, got Kodi up and running no probs, and yeah the remote you get with these is almost useless, I already had an alternative remote from my old Android box, which was recommended to me form someone off Hotdeals, is 100% better, just plug the dongle into the usb on the Andoid box and your good to go, it is off ebay and does come from china, but well worth it, you may find one by a UK seller.. anyhow ebay link is below...
my link doesn't seem to be working for some reason, search for a 2.4G Wireless Mouse Remote Control Keyboard Air Mouse For XBMC Android TV Box, they are all pretty much the same
csi_guy
7 Jul 16#168
Mine arrived, the world's smallest power lead. :confused:
golo83
7 Jul 16#169
lots of the add-ons don't seem to work...i've had a rate of 2 in 10 working add-ons...
any recommendations for kids cartoons add-ons (english/french)?
golo83
7 Jul 16#170
I was reading this article and was considering the mele 10 remote...until i remembered i had a logitech bluetooth keyboard from like 8 years ago currently sitting on top of my sky box..so i paired it, and it works perfectly!
Mines arrived too. Same issue with the add ons, also doesn't seem to want to play all the streams available.
Basics are very easy to use though and set up. You don't even need to use the manual, (thank goodness!)
BuzzDuraband
8 Jul 16#172
I purchased mine from Amazon. When it arrived I immediately installed the Nemesis Build on to it [Link]. You need to install the Ares Wizard using the instructions in the link and then download Nemesis. Everything is on there from Movies to Live TV, kids programmes, sport, YouTube and Music.
I've had no issues with any streams (using SALTS). I have tried a few builds on various different devices over the past year or so, and I find Nemesis the most aesthetically pleasing. Hope you sort it :smiley:
csi_guy
8 Jul 16#173
I just used the My Videos or whatever it's called on the main screen and everything works great.
golo83
8 Jul 16#174
i get lots of errors please check log etc
DS5
8 Jul 16#175
Same as me. I quite like the stock firmware, it's very simple to navigate, just seems to have compatibility problems. Could that be the hardware though?
golo83
8 Jul 16#176
i get to the step "Select script.areswizardx.x.xx.zip" but i dont get the add-on enabled notification... says couldnt run script :confused:
BuzzDuraband
8 Jul 16#177
Reboot your box and try again.
golo83
8 Jul 16#178
still didnt work. however, after googling a bit, i went through this LINK and it installed fine.
paddynoone
26 Jul 16#179
I still haven't received mine from Gearbest. Got an email on 27th June saying dispatched.
Tracking information on the order now says "2016-07-13 00:00:00 The consignment was posted."
Says shipped from Czech Republic on the photo proof they provided on 27th June.
Anyone know avg. of how long that would take to arrive in UK/Ireland?
Cepultura
26 Jul 16#180
sure its not being held in customs?
paddynoone
27 Jul 16#181
Ha, got a letter about it a couple of hours after I posted that. Being sent to me tomorrow, it's below value threshold. :smiley:
warlock09
18 Aug 16#182
all i can say on these box T95M 2g8g ..just arrive about less than 2 weeks.....so far so good..worth the money for basic needs ..runs everything good on ...a good media streaming device..
Spudboy
2 Sep 16#183
I just bought one of these today as a replacement to my ageing MXQ box which has started buffering a lot lately with 1GB RAM. £26.37 for me at today's exchange rate - discount code must have expired - but still very happy with the price. Thanks OP ! :smiley:
Spudboy
5 Sep 16#184
Does anyone know if this will take a 64gb micro sd card ? Thinking of getting this posted yesterday:
![Fresh Breakfast Meat Box (Using code) @ Campbells Meat [Haggis / Lorne Sausage / Bacon / Black Pudding & More]](/images/topics/208684_1.jpg)
![[Xbox One] Q. u. b. e: Director's Cut on Deals with Gold](/images/topics/208716_1.jpg)
Opening post
A little search around has shown me that GearBest currently have it for £26 (gutted). But I'm happy to receive mine tomorrow. If you're looking for a new Android box and don't mind waiting, this looks like a tidy little option. I was particularly drawn to its metal finish and LCD display.
Sunvell T95M TV Box Amlogic S905 Quad Core 64Bit Android 5.1 Smart 4K HD Media Player 2GB 8GB 2.4GHz WiFi Bluetooth 4.0
Main Features:
● Amlogic S905 quad-core CPU is rapid and stable which can give you high-speed feedback and smooth response.
● Mali-450 as GPU of this TV Box which gives you the high definition pictures and videos.
● With 64bit Android 5.1 stable and smooth system.
● 2GB DDR3 + 8G eMMC Flash Memory: It gives you more space to download your favorite apps and caches to browse websites, play games, run apps, watch movies more smoothly.
● 2.4GHz WiFi (10 / 100Mbps Ethernet): It offers a more stable WiFi signal for you to enjoy higher quality video experience.
● Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity: Easy pairing with most Bluetooth-enabled devices (computer, mobile phone, keyboard, and others).
● Supports H.265 video code, enjoy the high-resolution video even at a low-internet-speed environment.
● Supports 4K HD video, which brings us clearer image quality and 3D vision enjoy.
● HDMI 2.0 connector: You can directly connect your TV to Sunvell T95M TV box through an HDMI cable and set up your home cinema for the best 4K x 2K HD multimedia experience.
● Supports 2.4GHz wireless mouse and keyboard via 2.4GHz USB dongle.
● Supports multiple languages and multiple formats video.
● Time and work status of the box are displayed.
● Network functions: VUDU, Miracast, XBMC, Airplay, Skype chatting, Youtube, Flicker, Facebook, online movies, etc..
● Free Internet searching, thousands of android applications, many kinds of games, etc..
● Infrared remote control let you enjoy your wonderful life which the wireless brings to you.
Top comments
All comments (185)
"The main advantage of Amlogic S905 over S812 is support for HDMI 2.0 ports allowing 2160p @ 60 Hz video output, and 4K H.265 hardware video decoding up to 60 fps, while both are limited to 30 Hz on S812.
Heat added.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Arrivals-DIDUBUY%C2%AE-Android-Amlogic-Streaming/dp/B01FCFLV6E/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1465937352&sr=8-1-fkmr1&keywords=sunvell+t95m
*** Update ***
The review is for the 1gb version
It's a lot more easier to use than my last box I'm still using in the living room (MXQ?) and it fills the whole screen (55").
Personally I'd go for the Beelink. I'm very happy with my purchase!
SIDE NOTE: Any apps that people would recommend?
I then got the Q box 2G/16G and I have had no problems for over six weeks now, connects nicely to my 5GHz dual band router too. It did however cost £40 but I'd spent around £35 on the others anyway so an extra £5 for reliable box and an extra 8GB storage made perfect sense. The colour change LED strip across the top is a nice touch I think too, mood lighting in the dark... Haha.
Kodi is the main one to be fair, then just load the plugins, though most boxes come with the popular plugins already installed.
Not the same Specs, etc?, lol.
Watched carpload of comedy streams earlier, blimmin' brilliant.
Thanks
If you want improved performance via 2GB RAM and don't mind Gearbest / Chinese source: £26 OP item.
2GB RAM model (no front LED display) ex-UK £27.65 http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/172227804868
Fully featured 2GB/16GB but with rubbish firmware almost definitely requiring firmware flash to make it useable, £29 box ex-China plus £1 USB cable ex-UK http://www.gearbest.com/tv-box-mini-pc/pp_359008.html plus http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/251052828132
check out the NVidia shield
Thank you.
Beelink in that case? i think 16gb is mandatory (along with 2 gb ram) and the beelink seem to have both
I am looking for an Android TV box that will run Kodi smoothly with a bunch of add-ons. Running Amazon Prime TV is a plus but not something I do right now.
Updates are important - I want a box that will continue receiving updates and prefer for it to not become a door-stop in a year's time because Kodi doesn't work on a particular version of Android anymore.
This product has a lot of positive reviews but I'm not too familiar with Android TV tech so not sure if it's a good buy or not.
A lot of people also recommend the Minix Neo-U1 - especially for supportability and updates but you'll probably laugh at the price tag.
What do you guys recommend?
HD audio passthrough is what I'm looking for over HDMI, I know kodi can't do this yet so I run files in mkv format locally
if you can pay more then do it,but go for in low end to high in order.
fire stick,nexus player(still available at Argos),Fire TV box 1/2,Wetek core,Apple TV 4 and by far the best but most expensive Nvidia Shield TV.
if I was forced to buy a cheap box,the only one I've used that has run well was the Q box,which I believe is from £40. Obviously this is just my own opinion,and experiences
"HD Audio passthrough (Shield + some aml, Minix U1 & Wetek Core at least)"
"Add possibility to choose IEC or RAW passthrough (via passthrough device)"
http://www.digitaltrends.com/home-theater/why-android-and-other-devices-cant-stream-hd-netflix/
(you can check the Netflix site for the latest updated list)
Amazon devices are in this list. I'd say an Amazon Fire 4K box will be a much better solution for Netflix. For other sources e.g. BBC IPlayer, other catch-up TV channels, or watching your own Full HD rips or Kodi, these boxes will be equally good.
It's gone up to £41.29 now though.
http://www.digitaltrends.com/home-theater/why-android-and-other-devices-cant-stream-hd-netflix/
I'd say the best box to buy - notwithstanding the cost - is the Amazon Fire TV 4K. Will deliver upto 4K from both Netflix and Amazon, has all the terrestrial catch up services, and can side-load Kodi with minimal know-how. It's double the price of these though.
Can be a wee problem that?.
green is a win for the 812
no requirement for 4k for some time on these boxes... by the time the content is there, the boxes will offer better support
http://m.gearbest.com/tv-box-mini-pc/pp_339985.html
comes with 16GB now too
p.s. I don't use a "build" I just have exodus, phoenix and sportsdevil installed in kodi and that has everything I need
Although still quite sleek, I can confirm that the display on the product image is a little out from the actual item. The remote is extremely clicky and inserting my email address and password was some what of a nightmare to log in to the Google Store.
The overall performance of the UI is extremely quick (when comparing to the previous Amazon Fire Stick). Kodi did in fact come installed with it, I installed Ares Wizard and downloaded the Pulse build, which took almost an hour to download (290mb) over LAN.
Any questions, please feel free to ask.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00RMX9H7A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
http://www.gearbest.com/mice-keyboards/pp_179267.html
Alternatively, this one looks very similar, the picture matches one on Gearbest referred to as TK668:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/282050156485
From reading about the TK668 is the upgraded version of the C120, the O and P keys have been moved to be more natural.
thanks
It does have an IR LED but I have no idea how to programme the IR side of things. Would be great if I can get this working as right now, I switch the box on with the native IR remote that came with the box (or power cycle it from the wall) and switch it off with the air mouse (this has an on-off switch but obviously doesn't work to switch the device ''on'' as the wifi dongle is not powered in the ''off'' state).
Sorry for my ignorance!
but why not get a zgemma 2s of ebay for £60 ?
and if you still want a android kodi box, there is a plugin that connects from kodi to enigma2 (the os of the zgemma) that will allow you to watch it through kodi's interface
but honestly i think you would prefer the zgemma interface if you load a nice skin on it, google "blue HD vix" and look at the images to see what it looks like.
I'm looking to get a TV box but after reading this thread I'm confused whether to use Gearbest or eBay or even if this is the box to get. Could someone explain to my noob self whether this is a good deal or not? Or what I should get instead?
Thanks
With a seller rating of 2, I am convinced that will be honoured. :man:
http://yatse.tv/redmine/projects/yatse
But to further question, without using a different launcher, can this screen be customised (below)? e.g. Would I be able to replace the tiles with apps like iplayer, netflix etc?
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/182143913504
- FACT - The Federation Against Copyright Theft
Nothing about the person streaming the content here.
- Telegraph
However, further down that same page:
Then further down again there is a section headed "If I stream copyright material - knowingly or not - what's the worst that could happen to me?" which covers things like computer viruses and harm to the industry but nothing about prosecution for doing it.
Finally:
- The Register
Ultimately it is a grey area and down to the individual whether they feel comfortable doing so.
I enquired as to why its taking too long. They now tell me the item is not in stock and has been backorderd and will be despatched around 19th July. Funny thing is they are still selling it like its still in stock, with 516 pieces left in stock and its a flash sale....
Not happy as its the second time its happend to me with gearbest.. Asked for a full refund....
Expect your orders to be delayed...
Is there a particular box that has a well supported custom ROM? - I can't find much reliable info on custom roms for android boxes in general.
EDIT: Ok, I decided to go for the Beelink MiniMXIII for $39.99 http://www.gearbest.com/tv-box-mini-pc/pp_349813.html (~£28)
Nice review here with discussion about ota updates below it(use "find in page": firmware)
http://www.cnx-software.com/2015/12/04/beelink-mini-mx-review/
and here in this one he mentioned couple of updates too:
http://androidtvbox.eu/beelink-mini-mx-review-android-tv-box-with-kodi-jarvis-and-support-4k60fps-powered-by-s905/
It's basically the same beelink mx with lower specs in reviews. My one is mx3 and arrived swiftly within week (from china) and had fresh firmware on it, but I already received small ota update. It's very fast and for £23 I can't fault it, I just do not really use it that much as I planned to.
edit: for anyone interested, you can still get it below £30 on ebay here:
http://m.ebay.com/itm/Mini-Smart-Android5-1-Amlogic-S905-Quad-Core-TV-Box-FHD-4K-Media-Center-WiFi-US-/231975726704?nav=SEARCH
depens on exchange rate oc, try to make offer too! as it's buy it now with best offer. good luck
They refunded the next day and I ordered a Beelink MiniMXIII. £30 but has 16GB storage and 1000M LAN if anyone is looking for an alternative. http://www.gearbest.com/tv-box-mini-pc/pp_349813.html
Thanks OP
this tv box,
a blu ray player,
a ps3,
sky+ box,
BTTV box,
chromecast,
and home cinema system...
:confused::|:confused:
my link doesn't seem to be working for some reason, search for a 2.4G Wireless Mouse Remote Control Keyboard Air Mouse For XBMC Android TV Box, they are all pretty much the same
any recommendations for kids cartoons add-ons (english/french)?
http://androidpcreview.com/best-air-mouse/2920/
Basics are very easy to use though and set up. You don't even need to use the manual, (thank goodness!)
I purchased mine from Amazon. When it arrived I immediately installed the Nemesis Build on to it [Link]. You need to install the Ares Wizard using the instructions in the link and then download Nemesis. Everything is on there from Movies to Live TV, kids programmes, sport, YouTube and Music.
I've had no issues with any streams (using SALTS). I have tried a few builds on various different devices over the past year or so, and I find Nemesis the most aesthetically pleasing. Hope you sort it :smiley:
:confused:
Tracking information on the order now says "2016-07-13 00:00:00 The consignment was posted."
Says shipped from Czech Republic on the photo proof they provided on 27th June.
Anyone know avg. of how long that would take to arrive in UK/Ireland?
http://www.hotukdeals.com/deals/2-x-toshiba-exceria-64gb-microsdxc-card-class-10-with-sd-adapter-multi-pack-2-x-2506391
Thanks.
is this store is good or Please recommend me another one.