In the last couple of years, Kodi boxes have gained a lot of popularity and have come a long way. These media streaming devices not only allows you to stream large content but also acts as a storehouse through the various Kodi add-ons. But while investing in such devices people come up with a lot of questions like- which is the best Kodi Box? Should one get a pre-loaded Kodi Box? And which Kodi Boxes provide the best value for their price? So today we are going to answer all such questions. If you are thinking of getting a Kodi box for yourself, then check out this list of 12 Best Kodi Boxes 2019 before you invest your money in one.
What is a Kodi Box?
The Kodi users might be knowing what a Kodi Box is, but for those who don’t, Kodi box can be defined as a small streaming device that you can connect to your television set and run Kodi on it. While most of the Kodi boxes run on an Android OS, some of them are also compatible with Linux. Ios devices like the Apple TV, are also considered sometimes as Kodi boxes. So a Kodi box basically allows a person to listen to music, stream and watch TV shows and movies, and enjoy various other content on their television. If you do not have a Kodi box, then you will be able to watch TV only on your computers, laptops or mobile. If you wish to stream your favorite content on the big screen, then you will need a Kodi Box.
The new users often get confused with what is called as “fully-loaded Kodi boxes.” But we would recommend you not to go with the sellers and purchase these pre-loaded boxes. One might face the issue of outdated apps and add-ons with boxes that come with pre-installed add-ons. Also, a lot of add-ons might be broken or potentially malicious.
Best Kodi Boxes 2020
After doing extensive research we have curated this list of Best Android TV Box 2019 that belongs to different budget category and needs.
1. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
Go on a 4K ride with the new version of Amazon Fire TV Stick at an affordable price. The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is the best Kodi box option for the users who love watching 4K Kodi content. It is the prime choice of Kodi users as it offers more than you actually pay for. Designed commercially for Netflix and Amazon Prime, you can also play the Ultra HD content. In short, it means that you can stream Kodi and the 4K sources smoothly through the Fire TV 4K.
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K, just like the previous versions doesn’t feature the Kodi app in the official App Store. So you will have to sideload it to install it.
PROS: Powered by Fire OS, 4K playback, Easy setup.
CONS: Kodi needs to be sideloaded.
You can buy Amazon Fire Stick 4K from the given link.
2. Nvidia Shield TV
Nvidia Shield might look a bit outdated, with various upgrades releasing into the market by Amazon. However, with Nvidia Shield, you can stream 4K content of all types. It is compatible with all the premium services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. Along with it you can also enjoy the super strong Geforce NOW with which you can run an array of video games smoothly.
Just like installing any other app, you can install the Kodi app on an Android device. The procedure is quite easy. You can search the latest version on Google Play Store and install it. The installation and configuration process of Nvidia Shield is also the same.
Recovering from the standby state takes just a minute, all thanks to its strong, impressive processor. The performance of the device is exceptional and easily streams the 4K and 1080p content. Its built-in 802.11ac Wi-Fi feature is commendable along with an Ethernet port for the weaker Wi-Fi connections.
PROS: Powered by Android TV, great for gaming, native Kodi support, includes Google Assistant, and fast access to the Kodi updates.
CONS: Expensive.
To get the Nvidia Shield from Amazon, click here.
3. Xbox One X
When talking about the best Android Boxes 2019, the Xbox One X has to be in the list. It is one of the best Kodi players. Installing the Kodi suite on Xbox One X is very easy. Just open the App Store and search for the latest version. It is much easier than side-loading that is necessary for Amazon devices. This media streaming device runs like a dream and all thanks to its strong processor and abundant memory.
Xbox One X is almost a perfect Kodi media streaming device, however, the one thing that holds it back is that some of the Kodi add-ons are not optimized for the software yet.
PROS: Easy Installation, Dolby Atmos support, and 4K HDR-ready.
CONS: It doesn’t support some add-ons.
4. Asus Chromebox 3
With Kodi boxes like Amazon Fire TV Stick and Nvidia Shield and Xbox in the market, Asus Chromebox faces some struggle in its position. But with what it has to offer, Asus Chromebox 3 is a great device. It is one of the underappreciated Kodi boxes that goes unnoticed even after the consistent positive mentions in the Kodi community and forums.
It uses a very simple process to install Kodi and runs the Chrome OS. The device features an Intel Celeron CPU (3865U) with 4GB of RAM and SSD drive of 32GB. It comes with 2 USB ports that allow you to connect the external hard drives and peripherals. Asus Chromebox 3 also supports Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth 4.0, and Ethernet connectivity.
One of the mega features of the device is the 7.1 Dolby Digital, so you can fill up even a hall. It undoubtedly has great potential and a bright future.
PROS: Easy installation, acts as a media hub for your family, incredibly powerful features
CONS: Kodi needs to be sideloaded, the device size is a bit large
5. Raspberry Pi 3
If you are the one who likes challenges or has interest in assembling your own unit, then you should try the starter kit of Raspberry Pi 3. While all the Kodi boxes come ready and require you to just power them and import the media collection, the Raspberry kit gives you an interesting task of assembling your Kodi Box on your own.
While installing the Raspberry Pi 3, you will note that you can actually pick components of your choice. So from different motherboards, memory cards, cases, and much more, you can pick your component. However, if you are not sure of the components then you can go with the CanaKit, which is an affordable option. So in this package, you are offered the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B board, premium Raspberry Pi case, 32GB memory card, USB power supply, and other components required to build the Kodi box.
Lastly, we would like to tell you that it seems like a tough job but it isn’t you do not need to be a pro or hacker to assemble the kit. In fact, you will love the project and if you are looking for an affordable option then can go with the starter kit.
PROS: Educational and interactive, easy to fine-tune, fast performance
CONS: Self- assembling.
List of 12 Cheap and Top Kodi Boxes
Apart from the above 5 Kodi Boxes, there are many other cheap kodi boxes that you can buy to enjoy a full fledged Kodi Experience. Here are 12 Kodi Boxes that you should be knowing about.
- Amazon Fire TV Stick
- nVidia Sheild TV
- XBox
- Asus Chromebook 3
- Rasberry pi
- Amazon Fire TV Cube
- Dolamee D3 Smart TV Box
- GooBand Doo Abox A1
- EZ-Stream Ti8
- MI Box
- Seguro Trongle X4
- Emtec GEM Box
Wrapping Up
There are a few things like the processor, remote system before buying a Kodi box for your house. There are a huge number of media streaming devices available and so we have tried to compile the top 12 for you. If you are still confused, then write your queries in the comment section. Also if we have missed out on your favorite Kodi box, then feel free to share it with us.