The best android TV stick

Turn Your Old TV into a New Android Wi-Fi TV

Insert the TV Stick: Plug the TV stick into your TV’s HDMI port.

Power the Stick: Connect the stick to a power source, either by using a charger or by plugging it into the TV’s USB port.

Set Your TV to HDMI: Turn on your TV and set it to the HDMI input from the media settings.

Start the Stick’s Setup: Once the stick is connected, the setup process will begin.

Connect to Wi-Fi: Go to the Wi-Fi settings and connect the stick to your internet.

Install Apps: Create an account and start installing the apps of your choice.

If your TV doesn’t have an HDMI port, you’ll need an AV to HDMI adapter. 

With this adapter, you can still connect the TV stick and turn your old TV into a smart Android Wi-Fi TV.

Choosing the Right TV Stick

There are various TV sticks available on the market, so you’ll need to choose one based on your needs and budget. Not all users have the same requirements, and not all devices are created equal. Everyone buys according to their needs and budget, but finding the best option without research can be challenging—sometimes a device offers more features but comes at a hefty price, while others may be affordable but lack essential functionalities.

Here are some of the best options:

1. Best Overall: Nvidia Shield TV

Although the Nvidia Shield TV is a 2019 model, its features like Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and AI upscaling still make it a top Android TV option.

Despite being three years old, the Nvidia hardware continues to receive regular updates, ensuring compatibility with all your favorite streaming services. This makes the Shield TV a great choice for both binge-watchers and gamers.

Strengths: Best in class for features and performance.

Drawbacks: In Pakistan, the price for the Nvidia Shield TV ranges from 50,000 to 70,000, which is higher than other brands.

2. Best for General Streaming: Google Chromecast with Google TV

First, let’s clarify the difference between Google TV and Android TV. The key difference lies in the operating system: Android TV runs on Android, while Google TV uses ChromeOS. Although Google TV's interface is distinct from Android, it runs almost the same apps.

Google Chromecast with Google TV is a strong competitor to Nvidia Shield TV, but comparing it to Nvidia’s Shield TV 4K is like putting a junior champion in the ring with a heavyweight. Both are excellent Android TV boxes for their respective prices. Chromecast offers a versatile OS and AI tricks, while Nvidia Shield has game-changing upscaling technology, more ports, and a stronger processor.

Features	Chromecast with Google TV	NVIDIA Shield TV
Size	6.4" x 2.4" x 0.5"	6.5" x 1.57" x 1.57"
Colors	Snow, Sunrise, Sky	Black
Remote control	Yes	Yes
Processor	Amlogic S905X3 SoC (quad-core) 2GB RAM	NVIDIA Tegra X1+ (quad-core) 3GB RAM
Video formats	4K, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision at 60FPS	4K, HDR, HDR10, Dolby Vision at 60 FPS
Audio formats	DTS, Dolby Digital (Plus), Dolby Atmos	DTS, Dolby Digital (Plus), Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
Ports	HDMI, USB-C	HDMI, Ethernet, microSD, Power
Wireless	802.11ac (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz)	802.11ac 2x2 MIMO (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz)
Ethernet	Requires adapter for PoE	Gigabit port
Bluetooth	Only for supporting remote control	5.0 & LE
Casting	Yes	Yes
AI upscaling	No	Yes
Expandable storage	No (except via USB-C hub)	Yes (microSD)
Voice controls	Built-in Google Assistant	Built-in Google Assistant, Works with Alexa
Gaming	Stadia will be added in 2021	Works with NVIDIA GeForce Now or Android TV apps

Decision Point: If you want to save money, go for Google TV; if you're willing to pay more for features like upscaling and faster menus, opt for Nvidia Shield.

3. A Solid Streaming Device: Xiaomi Mi TV Stick

Xiaomi is no stranger to the Android TV world.

While earlier versions of Xiaomi’s Mi TV Stick were limited to 1080p resolution,

the newer version has been upgraded to support 4K, along with Dolby Atmos, DTS HD, and Dolby Vision. It runs on Android 11, which offers one of the best user interfaces on the market. Xiaomi has addressed past performance issues by upgrading the RAM to 2GB, improving app loading speeds, and enhancing Bluetooth from 4.2 to 5 for better range and quality.

Conclusion: The Xiaomi TV stick offers excellent quality for its price, making it a strong competitor to Google TV in this budget range.

4. Best for Live TV: TiVo Stream 4K

The TiVo Stream 4K is a great alternative to Google TV, offering similar features but at a lower price. One of its standout features is its remote control, which is arguably the best among all the devices listed here.

5. Apple TV 4K (2022)

Apple TV 4K is powered by the A15 Bionic chip, providing the fastest performance for loading menus and apps. Whether you're using Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, or Spotify, Apple TV 4K outpaces competitors like Fire TV Cube and Roku Ultra.

Drawback: Its higher price is the only downside.