2024 Ugoos AM8 Pro vs 2023 Ugoos AM8 TV Box - Shocking Results

Hey, everyone! I'm Nick, and today we're diving into the exciting realm of TV box technology with a detailed review of the Ugoos AM8 Pro. If you're familiar with Ugoos and their earlier AM8 model, you're in for a treat. They've rolled out an upgraded version, the AM8 Pro, boasting enhanced features and performance. Stick around as we recap the highlights and compare it to its predecessor.

Unboxing and Design

As we unbox the AM8 Pro, it's a déjà vu moment. The contents mirror the first AM8 - the box itself, a Bluetooth voice remote, HDMI cable, power supply, dual antennas, and a user manual. The design remains unchanged, featuring an aluminum body with I/O ports including HDMI 2.1, gigabit LAN, optical audio, USB C OTG port, USB C power delivery port, 3 USB 3.0 ports, and a microSD slot.

Software and Launchers

Upon startup, the familiar Ugoos launchers greet us. I personally prefer Launcher 3 for its mobile phone-like navigation bar and full status bar. Running on Android 11, the AM8 Pro stands out with its firmware version 1.3.3, offering an array of unique features.

Unique Firmware Features

Ugoos continues to impress with an extensive list of firmware features. A new addition is the 'Color' section, showcasing Dolby Vision display. The 'Frame Buffer Size' and 'Orientation Features' allow for a sharper UI and versatile display orientations. Auto framerate switching, audio options, button management, and Bluetooth remote functionalities enrich the user experience.

USB Innovation

A groundbreaking feature surfaces under the USB options - control over USB port speed, sleep mode, and the ability to transfer files between the TV box and a PC or laptop. This USB file transfer capability, a first in the industry, enhances the AM8 Pro's versatility.

Panel and Interface Customization

The panels and interface settings offer extensive customization. Users can disable the navigation and status bars, change volume bar positions, tweak recent app layouts, and even adjust the UI's animation speed. The built-in hardware monitor receives new additions, including HDMI audio mode and HDMI color mode.

Power and Storage Management

Under the power section, options to control the power LED, define power key features, set sleep timers, and maximize CPU scale governor provide users with granular control. The storage segment introduces client and Samba server features for seamless integration into wireless and LAN networks.

System and Hardware Information

Moving into the system and hardware information, the AM8 Pro shines. With 8GB of DDR4 RAM and 64GB of internal storage, it outpaces its predecessor's 4GB RAM and 32GB storage. The CPU, a penta-core Amlogic S928X-J processor, boasts a quad-core cortex A55 and a single-core cortex A76.

Benchmarking Performance

Performance benchmarks become the litmus test for the AM8 Pro. RAM and internal storage transfer speeds showcase slight improvements, while Wi-Fi and Ethernet speeds remain consistent. Gaming performance witnesses a notable leap, thanks to the 8GB RAM, as indicated by Antutu benchmark scores.

Conclusion

In summary, the Ugoos AM8 Pro retains the premium features of its predecessor while elevating performance with increased RAM and storage. However, the disappointment lingers as the 8GB RAM model operates in 32-bit mode rather than the expected 64-bit, limiting its full potential.

Digibox D3 plus Live TV Android 12 TV box Review

Unboxing and Design: Digging into the DigiBox D3 Plus

Hey everyone, welcome back to my channel for another thrilling TV box review. Today, I'm diving into the world of the Digibox D3 Plus live TV and video-on-demand Android TV box. Let's unbox this and explore its design to uncover what sets it apart.

Unboxing Experience

Opening up the package, I found the essentials neatly packed. The D3 Plus model, a Bluetooth voice remote, an HDMI cable, a 5V 2A DC power adapter, and a user manual. Standard fare, but the real surprise lies within the features of the device itself.

Design Evolution

Taking a closer look at the design, it seems like a blast from the past with echoes of layouts seen in early 2016 TV boxes. However, the DigiBox D3 Plus has evolved, boasting a plastic body adorned with Digibox branding on top. The rear side hosts an array of ports, including HDMI 2.1, non-gigabit LAN, optical audio, AV port, IR extender, DC power socket, and external antennas. On the side, discover four USB 2.0 ports and a microSD card reader. The front features an LED power light, while the base rests on four rubber feet without ventilation holes.

The First Bootup: Navigating the Digibox Launcher

Upon the initial bootup, the Digibox animation plays, followed by Bluetooth remote pairing and a startup wizard. The Digibox launcher, custom-made for this model, takes center stage. Navigable via a direction pad or mouse pointer, it offers a multi-layer shortcut bar, date and time widget, and various special features. From customer service QR codes to speed tests, this launcher is feature-rich, though lacking a navigation bar or status bar with system controls.

The Core Attraction: Live TV and Video-on-Demand

The standout feature of the D3 Plus is its capability to install a live TV and video-on-demand service, offering thousands of channels and a vast library of movies. This service, not included out of the box, requires installation from an external source via a built-in APK app store. With 1141 live TV channels in HD 1080p, over 9000 movies, 2000 TV series, and 300 anime titles in HD and 4K, the D3 Plus promises an extensive entertainment experience. All services are complemented by a full EPG guide.

Testing the Waters: Live TV Quality

In testing the live TV service, I observed a curated lineup of essential channels with a focus on HD quality. While a live demonstration isn't possible due to YouTube's guidelines, rest assured, the D3 Plus delivers an exceptional viewing experience. Additionally, its global compatibility ensures uninterrupted service anywhere with an internet connection, catering to outdoor enthusiasts and avid campers.

Peeking into Firmware Features

Running on Android 12 TV OS, the D3 Plus features a hybrid firmware, combining elements of the mobile version of Android. Displaying up to 4K resolution at 60 Hz, it supports HDR with options for HDR always on, SDR, and auto HDR. The firmware also includes HDMI CEC options, language preferences, audio output source selector, audio passthrough, and access to the mobile version of the Google Play store without restrictions.

Hardware Insights: Powering the D3 Plus

Under the hood, the DigiBox D3 Plus is fueled by an Allwinner chipset, offering 4 GB of DDR4 RAM and 64 GB of internal storage. Bluetooth 5.0, an Allwinner H616 quad-core processor, Mali G31 GPU, and a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 adapter contribute to its hardware prowess. Despite the absence of certain audio decoders and limited DRM support, the D3 Plus holds its ground in the hardware department.

DRM Dilemma: A Hurdle for Premium Streaming

However, the D3 Plus faces a limitation in its DRM capabilities. With only Google Widevine level III, watching premium movie streaming services in HD and 4K becomes restricted. This setback may disappoint users looking for a comprehensive streaming experience, especially when it comes to platforms like Netflix.

Performance Metrics: Benchmarks and Rankings

Diving into performance benchmarks, the D3 Plus exhibits varying results. While its CPU and GPU performance may not top the charts, the device's real-world usability shines through. Geekbench 5 scores, GPU performance in 3DMark, and Antutu benchmarks place the D3 Plus in a respectable position, balancing functionality and performance.

A Closer Look at Gaming: Root Access and Limitations

Exploring gaming capabilities, the D3 Plus disappoints with its Allwinner H616 chipset. Despite root access, the device struggles with 3D gaming due to throttling and heat issues. The inability to utilize its DigiPlay mobile app for gaming further highlights the limitations of the chipset in the gaming arena.

Final Verdict: A Mixed Bag of Brilliance and Setbacks

Summing up, the DigiBox D3 Plus impresses with its feature-rich launcher, versatile mobile remote control, and high-quality live TV and video-on-demand service. However, the choice of the Allwinner H616 chipset hinders its potential for a seamless Android box experience. The DRM limitations and gaming struggles further add complexity to the decision-making process.

Where to Find the DigiBox D3 Plus

If you're intrigued and want to explore the D3 Plus, links to the official website and Amazon page. Take advantage of reduced prices and delve into the details of this unique TV box.

SuperBox S5 Max Android 12 TV Box - Wow! 1000s Of Live Channels

I'm thrilled to bring you my first TV box review for 2024, and it's none other than the SuperBox S5 Max. SuperBox is renowned for its live TV models, offering premium live TV channels and on-demand movies. Let's dive into the details of this brand-new model.

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Aesthetics and Connectivity

The S5 Max boasts an elegant design with an aluminum body, chrome polished edges, and prominent Superbox branding. Connectivity options include HDMI 2.1, RJ-45 gigabit LAN, optical audio, AV port, IR extender port, and a well-equipped USB section. Wi-Fi 6 technology is incorporated, ensuring high-speed wireless connectivity.

First Impressions and Setup

Upon startup, a captivating SuperBox animation greets you, followed by a disclaimer about streaming apps not being preloaded. The initial setup includes a brief wizard and launcher introduction. Bluetooth pairing is recommended for the remote, which comes included along with an HDMI cable, DC power adapter, and a user manual.

Exploring the Launcher

The SuperBox launcher, updated regularly, features large main icons and a convenient shortcut bar. The app store, accessible through the launcher, facilitates the installation of live TV and video-on-demand applications.

SuperBox Applications

The SuperBox ecosystem includes Blue TV, offering 1603 live TV channels, and Blue VOD, providing over 6618 movies and 1410 TV series. The Blue Playback app allows playback from major networks over the past seven days, totaling 85 channels.

Remote Features and Firmware Details

The Bluetooth remote offers IR learning, voice search, and Google Assistant integration. The firmware runs on Android 12 TV OS, supporting up to 4K resolution at 60 Hz with HDR capabilities. However, Dolby Vision and HDR 10+ are not supported.

System and Hardware Information

The Allwinner H616 quad-core processor powers the S5 Max with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. It operates on Android 12, and the firmware is rooted. While it supports H.264, HEVC, and VP9 decoding, it lacks AV1 decoding for 4K HDR videos.

Streaming and Multimedia Experience

Digital rights limitations restrict streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney Plus to 480p resolution due to Widevine Level 3 with no HDCP protection. The SuperBox apps, however, offer an extensive array of content without the need for a VPN or monthly subscription.

Performance and Benchmarks

The S5 Max performs decently in benchmarks, scoring 78,325 in Antutu. Wi-Fi speeds, CPU performance, and graphics capabilities are satisfactory, making it a contender in the TV box market. It ranks at position 70 on my ranking chart at the point of this review.

Gaming and Multimedia Playback

The Allwinner chipset struggles with high graphics Android gaming, but multimedia playback is robust. The device supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, and DTS Neural X for audio, enhancing the overall entertainment experience.

Unboxing the SuperBox S5 Max Live TV Model

In conclusion, the SuperBox S5 Max offers a sleek design, improved hardware, and a rich multimedia experience. The inclusion of SuperBox apps enhances content consumption, although the device's gaming capabilities are limited. For those interested in purchasing, check out the exclusive $50 off coupon in the video description.

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