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REVIEW: X96 X4, a TV-Box with the powerful Amlogic S905X4 SoC and Android 11

Kim by Kim
09/29/2021
25

X96 X4 is the new Android TV-Box that we will see today its analysis or review. A device with the classic features of the Chinese TV-Box that has the powerful SoC S905X4 but does not have certificates for streaming.

The Android TV-Box X96 X4 surprises us with its colored LED lights and has the latest Amlogic SoC, the S905X4, a chip with which we can run Android without problems. A hardware far superior to the Xiaomi Mi Box for example and has support for the new AV1 codec. This TV-Box has Android 11 operating system although it is not intended for paid streaming systems, but we have much more freedom to install and manage apps of all kinds.

Let’s see in our review how the X96 X4 behaves and what it offers compared to its current rivals.

  • The X96 X4 Smart Box with 4/32 GB can be purchased on Aliexpress or Geekbuying only for $57 (€49) including shipping.

x96 x4 review f08 min

Table of Contents

  • PRODUCT DETAILS
    • Unboxing
    • Description
  • SYSTEM AND PERFORMANCE
    • Environment and Android system
    • System
    • Network, storage, RAM and ports
    • Power and performance
  • VIDEO AND AUDIO TEST
    • Video playback test
    • Streaming services
  • CONCLUSIONS AND BUY LINKS
    • Score
    • Opinion
    • Where to buy

PRODUCT DETAILS

X96 X4
SoC: Amlogic S905X4 Quad Core 4x ARM-A55 @ 1.8GHz (64bit) / GPU Mali-G31 MP2 / 12nm.
System: Android 11 (32bit).
Components: 4GB RAM DDR3 / 32/64/128GB eMMC / Wifi ac + Bluetooth 4.1 (AM7256).
Ports: HDMI 2.1 / USB 3.0 / USB 2.0 / AV / SPDIF / microSD.
Extras: IR Remote / HDMI Cable / Manual / Adapter DC 5V 2A (10W).
Materials and dimensions: Plastic / LED Panel / LED RGB LED top / 112 x 135 x 24 mm / 250 gr.

Unboxing

The new Android TV-Box X96 X4 comes in a generic cardboard box with a image of the device in the top, inside we found the TV-Box, BT remote, HDMI cable 4K@60fps compatible, Manual and a DC 5V 2A adapter.

x96 x4 review f01 min

Description

This X96 X4 has a square design, on the sides we have a 10/100 Ethernet connector, USB 2.0, AV jack, HDMI 2.1, SPDIF, power connector, a USB 3.0 and microSD reader to expand the internal storage. We also have a fairly basic IR remote control that may not be worth changing for a wireless PC mouse to operate it more comfortably with a pointer.

x96 x4 review f02 min

x96 x4 review f04 min
x96 x4 review f05 min

This TV-Box has a Wifi aC + Bluetooth 4.1 (AM7256) with two internal wifi antennas. The passive cooling system is very basic but effective. On the audio jack it has a reset button to reboot the system if it suffers a software catastrophe and be able to reset it. The LED lights can not be disabled with its control app and we will have to physically disconnect them by opening it.

  • Remote Control: Basic IR remote / Compatible with keyboard and mouse / App control for Android TV.

x96 x4 review f03 min

x96 x4 review f06 min
x96 x4 review f07 min

SYSTEM AND PERFORMANCE

Environment and Android system

We turn on the X96 X4 and it starts automatically, after a few seconds we get to the new launcher installed which is based on rows with different shortcuts. In general this launcher is quite uncomfortable and we can change it for another that we like more from Google Play. The performance is good, we can move smoothly and quickly between menus. Unfortunately we do not have navigation bars or notification area. The Google Play store has limited app selection, it has some firmware problem.

  • Launcher: We can use another launcher installed from Google Play / Android UI rendering at 1080p.
  • Multitasking and access: Multitasking NOT available / Notifications not available.
  • Languages and Google Play: All the international Android classics / Android store installed.

x96 x4 review s01 min

x96 x4 review s02 min
x96 x4 review s03 min

System

We check the system data and the options included in terms of root, we also observe that power systems allows us this device. If we find any firmware we will publish it on our website, usually only updated by OTA.

  • Power on/off: Power off and sleep mode / Additional options in settings.
  • Version and root: Android 11 (32 bit) / NO Root  / NO Root selector / CPU r2p0 (S905X4) / Model ohm.
  • Support: Only OTA support / NO website for support.

x96 x4 review s04 min

x96 x4 review s05 min
x96 x4 review s06 min
x96 x4 review s07 min
x96 x4 review s08 min

Network, storage, RAM and ports

The TV-Box X96 X4 has 4GB of RAM and for storage we have 32 GB eMMC that we can expand with a USB memory. In the network section we find a wireless adapter Wifi ac + Bluetooth 4.1 (AM7256) that as we can see in the test the average results and the network connector is only Ethernet 10/100, a pity.

  • Network: Two internal Wifi antennas / Range 47 dBm / Link 5G 866 Mbps / Bluetooth OK.

x96 x4 review s10a min

The performance of the internal storage is quite good and moves the system without problems, on the other hand the RAM memory offers data in the line of these devices. The port with the highest speed is the USB 3.0 which behaves normally.

  • Storage: Total 32GB  – Free 27GB / Expandable with a USB or SD external memory.
  • RAM: Total 4GB – Free 3GB / DDR3.
  • Read/Write Ports: USB 3.0 OTG / On external USB drives it is only possible to read data.
  • We recommend reading our Tutorial SAMBA on Android networks if we are going to use files from our network PC.

x96 x4 review s09 min

Power and performance

In terms of raw performance the TV-Box X96 X4 has a Quad Core SoC Amlogic S905X4 with ARM Cortex-A55 processors and in the graphics section a Mali-G31 MP2 GPU which is in the mid-range, this version have license for Dolby sound. In performance we have good figures similar to any other conventional S905X4 box, is evenly matched against the new Googlecast TV and far outperforms the Xiaomi Mi Box, which is already somewhat outdated in comparison.

  • CPU performance: Min 500 MHz / Working  1.0 GHz / Max 1.8 GHz
  • Check our Amlogic S905X4 SoC Comparison against all SoCs in the sector for more details.

X96 X4 test eng 06 GeekBench min

X96 X4 test eng 05 PCMark min
X96 X4 test eng 04 3DMark min

In the games section we can run PUBG in medium/low quality and also cloud gaming services such as NVIDIA GForce Now. In the emulators section we can get at most run some Wii titles, but we will not have problems with 2D games from classic consoles with emulators like Retroarch or from KODI, the EmuELEC system can not be run, as it is not yet compatible.

  • Games and emulators:  IS possible to play titles such as PUBG / Emulators up to Wii / YES Vulkan support.
  • Controls: Compatible with Gamepads BT or cable.

x96 x4 review s11 min

This SoC S905X4 of the X96 X4 is manufactured in 12nm, has a very low power consumption, the cooling system works well and temperatures are not very high in basic use. The SoC manages speeds well so as not to overheat.

  • Thermals: Min. 62ºC / Working 70ºC / Max. 85ºC / Maintains performance up to 80% / Heat zone on the top / Noise 0db
  • Consumption: Off 0.5W / Min 5.5W / Working 8W / Max. 9.5W
x96 x4 review s31 min
x96 x4 review s12 min

VIDEO AND AUDIO TEST

Video playback test

We tested the video playback section and the X96 X4 is compatible with most modern video formats such as h.265, VP9 with native 4K@120fps HDR resolution support, AV1 codec have problems with the firmware. It even supports 8K@60fps, this device doesn’t have a video quality settings and don’t have auto refresh rate switching. In the base firmware of this SoC S905X4 we do not find the settings for Dolby Vision, it is possible that it lowers the quality of this system to normal HDR10.

We can use players like KODI or PLEX without the slightest problem by installing them directly from the Android TV store. As for audio we can play DD and DTS up to 5.1 through its HDMI port.

  • Video Settings:  NO image quality settings / RGB and SDR / HDMI-CEC available, see manual / Automatic refresh no available.
  • Audio Settings: HDMI 5.1 / SPDIF 5.1 / Stereo Jack / No USB audio settings.
  • Color and HDR: 10Bit / RGB / HDR 10 / HDR can be disablet in settings.
  • Media sharing: GoogleCast YES / Miracast No / DLNA with BlubblePnP / Airplay No.
  • LibreELEC: NO compatible with LibreELEC or CoreELEC for now.
  • Tutorials: Install add-on in KODI / Judder effect, how to fix it / Multi-channel audio guide / Correct dark video playback in Android.
  • We recommend reading the Setup Guide of our TV to get the best picture quality.

video sample test n08 min

x96 x4 review s13 min
x96 x4 review s14 min

Video and audio results

Formats Result
h.264 / 1080i / 8bit OK
h.264 / 1080p / 4K / 8bit OK
h.264 / 1080p / 10bit (anime) Frameskip (SW)
h.265 / 1080p / 8bit OK
h.265 / 1080p / 10bit (anime) OK
h.265 / 4K@24fps / 8bit OK
h.265 / 4K@60fps / 10bit HDR OK
VP9 P1 / 4K@24fps / 8bit OK
VP9 P2 / 4K@60fps / 10bit HDR OK
VP9 P2 / 8K@60fps / 10bit HDR OK
AV1 / 4K@24fps / 10bit Not compatible, firmware issues.
Max. Bitrate 100 Mbps = 12,5 MB/s.
  • The maximum bitrate depends on the port used to connect or the limitations of SAMBA Networks.
  • SW = does not have hardware acceleration and may have have some frameskip in very heavy files.
Support Format
Native Dolby 5.1 – Plus / DTS 5.1 – Master Audio
Core Dolby HD – Atmos / DTS HR – X
PCM All
  • Native – Supports the format directly in our AV receiver or similar / More info.
  • Core – Only the 5.1 core of the format is played so we go to the Dolby or DTS base system / More info.
  • PCM – Only stereo downmixing from DD or DTS.

Streaming services

We performed several tests on the streaming services to check how the most popular services work. The X96 X4 presents us with the classic configuration without certificates which limits us in quality in several services. We can use it with many of these services, but always in basic quality.

  • DRM: Google Widevine L3.
  • Audio certification: No.
  • Tutorials: Change the size of the captions and the mouse pointer on Android / Install Addons in KODI in a simple way
Streaming service Calidad / Audio*
Youtube HD (720p) / Stereo
Google Play Movies HD (720p) / Stereo
Netflix SD+ (540p) / Stereo / Netflix Guide
HBO HD (720p) / Stereo / HBO Guide
Disney+ HD (720p) /Stereo / Disney+ Guide
Amazon Prime Video SD (480p) / Stereo / Prime Video Guide
Apple TV+ No compabile / Apple TV+ Guide
DAZN HD (720p) / Stereo
IPTV FullHD (1080i) / Stereo
  • Multichannel audio only available via HDMI connection in streaming services, via SPDIF stereo only.

prime video eng n01

mecool kt1 review te016 min
x96 x4 review s15 min

CONCLUSIONS AND BUY LINKS

Score

X96 X4

0.00
X96 X4
6.6

Design

6.0/10

Hardware

7.5/10

Conectivity

7.0/10

Software

5.5/10

Price

7.0/10

Pros

  • Cheap
  • Powerful
  • Ok for KODI and media
  • Wifi OK
  • Not very hot

Cons

  • Ethernet 10/100
  • No android navigation bars
  • Poor firmware, no root, limited Google Play
  • App cannot turn off the LEDs
  • AV1 codec don't work

Opinion

After testing the new X96 X4 we can say that its main interest is the new SoC Amlogic S905X4, a chip with good performance that allows us to run any app fluently and includes Android 11. The IR remote control included is very basic and possibly we will have to opt for another control if we want to get more usability. The LED lights cannot be deactivated from the app and we will have to open it to disconnect them manually.

In terms of connectivity the X96 X4 integrates a Wifi aC adapter that does not give problems but has a not very high range, we have a USB 3.0, another USB 2.0 extra and unfortunately only Ethernet 10/100. As operating system we have Android 11 but we miss the root permissions to use AFR or other advantages of this type of permissions, also unfortunately the S905X4 is not yet compatible with LibreELEC even though we can run emulators and other games from Android. Google Play have limitations with a limited app compatibility.

This device allows us to play our content in 4K HDR quality. We can also use other apps such as IPTV players, PLEX or KODI to watch local content. We have the classic limitations of Amlogic SoCs such as the lack of image quality control or automatic refresh rate change. Firmware have problems with AV1 codec, can’t playback this files or youtube videos (use vp9).

After testing the X96 X4 we can say that the TV-Box is suitable if we are looking for a device of this type but with firmware issues, if we are not interested in paid streaming services is ok but we have better options.

Where to buy

  • The X96 X4 Smart Box with 4/32 GB can be purchased on Aliexpress or Geekbuying only for $57 (€49) including shipping.

x96 x4 review f09 min

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Chris
Chris

Is there a user manual for it.
Like for functions and remote button functions (not installation instructions)

Reply
Kim
Kim
Author
Reply to  Chris

Hi. No.

Reply
analdo
analdo

my one came rooted

Reply
Jamaica
Jamaica

What size SD card does the device recognize? I assume with the SD memory you can read or write?? I don’t what to buy something that has more gb than the device can recognize. Using for TV and would like the ability to record to an external drive.

Reply
Kim
Kim
Reply to  Jamaica

This is very relative, SD type, format, compatibility… usually 64gb works.

Reply
Jamaica
Jamaica
Reply to  Kim

Do you have specific details on SD type, Format, Compatibility. 64gb is a good start

Reply
Xsoft
Xsoft

Hi,
my have root access also (fw from 10/2022). Strange is that nobody mentioned those cracked apps inside (they goes off when you update them via Play Store). Nothing hard to spot if you know where to look. Just funny detail.

Reply
Mori
Mori

Hello to all
I wanted to say that I bought this Android box, it has root access, and its LED light can be controlled and turned off (but it is not monochromatic, it is always moving or off), its AV1 port is also working, these things are in Checking this site is not working.

Reply
Kim
Kim
Reply to  Mori

Hi, thanks for the info.
AV1 codec when we do this review are in early access, maybe is working now.
Firmware evolve too.

Reply
Mori
Mori
Reply to  Kim

Hi Again,,, I faced by new problem :
In the image size settings section, I have no options and there is no way to change the image dimensions, what should I do? On the other hand, all the software that can be installed on Android cannot be installed on this device, such as Google play or Office Suite and many other software, is it possible that there is a software problem?
What can i do for fix these???

Reply
Cazz
Cazz

Hi everyone, can you confirm this box still doesn’t have the “power definition” feature. Each time I press the power button, the box turns off and it has to boot when turning it on (won’t go to standby). I updated to latest firmware (Dec 2021) and this almost mandatory option still not available.

Reply
Mori
Mori
Reply to  Cazz

Hi, I have this device, it does not have a button on it to turn it on and off, only on the remote control.

Reply
Dimi
Dimi

Hi , does anyone have also issues with remote control? I am trying to open the subtitles menu on Netflix and goes away …the same issue have with Disney plus. I am using the remote Woche comes with the box and my old one a finger remote Wechip

Reply
Noro
Noro

Hello, somebody like me is having the same problem? When i click turn off on remote, it only restart the device… i only can turn it off by unplugin it from power. Did somebody solve this? Thanks

Reply
Bert
Bert

Cant turn off sound if u scroll true apps. In configuration its not possible to turn this off. It stays on even when u turn it on/off. I tryed several times no results it keeps on clicking and keeps on producing the sound click click very irritating.

Last edited 11 months ago by Bert
Reply
Bert
Bert
Reply to  Bert

Solved the problem

Reply
Noro
Noro
Reply to  Bert

Hello, how did you solve the problem with restarting device? I mean, when i click turn off on remote, it keeps startng the box. Thanks

Reply
JoBo
JoBo
Reply to  Bert

How did you solve the clicking sound issue?

Reply
BlueBox
BlueBox

Which is better this one or the A95X F4
Please
Thanks

Reply
Steve
Steve

You can turn off the LED lights in the LED settings. Keep scrolling down. It’s at the bottom. Not all options are on the screen when you go into the settings first.

Reply
Ron.
Ron.

Seems to me 90 percent of devices being released lately are 10/100 lan. What happened to gigabyte ?

Reply
Cazz
Cazz

Hi guys,
Thanks for this review, I’d like to highlight two points here. First one is a suggestion, and this is if you can show the WIFI Link Speed on the review. This’s shown on AIDA Network session and I think it’s very important since you have expensive boxes with worst link speed than cheapest ones. Second point is that you didn’t mention current firmware issues this box has with power/restarts/front-led-time. I don’t know your tester, but I know many people are experiencing issues.

Reply
Kim
Kim
Reply to  Cazz

Hi. Link speed is 866 Mbps. My unit don’t have problems with the from power/restarts/front-led-time.
A95X F4 is better than this box in my opinion.

Reply
Cazz
Cazz
Reply to  Kim

Thanks Kim, good to know the Link Speed on future reviews. My unit may be bad or something, and even de F3 is better I think. A box that will power off instead of sleep when pressing power button won’t work in today life LOL.

Reply
Kim
Kim
Reply to  Cazz

Link speed added.

Reply
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