Amlogic S905 is the only low cost SoC on the market that can offer a future proof TV Box with HDMI 2.0 output compliant with HDCP 2.2, 10-bit HEVC video playback up to 2160p60, and DTS & Dolby audio pass-through. I had also been told the SoC was cheap, going for $4.50 per unit in largish quantities, and now MXQ Pro, one of the first Amlogic S905 TV Box, is available for pre-order for just $55 on GeekBuying.
MXQ Pro specifications:
- SoC – Amlogic S905 quad core ARM Cortex-A53 @ up to 2.0GHz with penta-core Mali-450MP GPU
- System Memory – 1GB DDR3
- Storage – 8GB NAND flash + SD card slot
- Video Output – HDMI 2.0, AV
- Video Codec – 4K@60 Hz video decoding 10-bit HEVC and AVS+ codec support; H.264 up to 4K 30 Hz
- Audio – HDMI, AV, coaxial S/PDIF
- Connectivity – 10/100M Ethernet, 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi,
Bluetooth 4.0 - USB – 4x USB 2.0 host ports
- Misc – IR receiver
- Power Supply – DC 5V/2A
- Dimensions – N/A
Please note that some specifications on GeekBuying are wrong such as HDMI 1.4b instead of HDMI 2.0 and the supported video codec are also incorrect, as they probably just copied and pasted the data from MXQ S85 based on Amlogic S805. So I corrected the specifications based on some other marketing materials I received.
The device runs Android 5.1 and ships with an IR remote control, an HDMI cable, a power adapter, and a user’s manual. I reviewed MXQ S85 last year, and it ended up being the best value for money TV box among the devices I had tested in 2014, so hopefully MXQ Pro will also offer great value with features working as expected. I’ve also been informed that the Antutu score was around 29,400 on another S905 device with 2GB RAM and 16GB eMMC flash.
While GeekBuying is taking pre-orders now, shipping is only scheduled for November 30, 2015, and you can find even cheaper prices on Aliexpress ($48 and up shipped).
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
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it’s good that it supports 10bit hevc.
1. but could this chipset run vp9?
this is essential for youtube at high resolutions (and later maybe also for lower ones).
2. does one of the usb ports have OTG support?
3. and is there information regarding the time of availability for a similar model, but with 2gb ram, 16gb rom, gigabit ethernet, AC wifi?
4. and information about the availability of devices based on the AMLogic S912 chipset?
the current availability of s905/s912 devices lags behind the previous announcements. we are at Q4, and there barely are s905 devices, and no s912 device yet – even though they were already supposed to be available…
5. based on AMLogic reputation, could we assume that s905/s912 devices from respectable OEMs would get an update to android 6 “Marshmallow”? (which I think that would bring better support for video playback on TVs, especially refresh rates)
A direct comparison against the S805 MXQ would be nice…
Apart from HDMI 2.0- + HDCP 2.2 is it the 10-bit HEVC the main improvement/additions over the S805 ?
Still no gigabit ethernet, which is a bit odd?
Does being Android 5.1 improve Google TV at all ? ie native refresh rate switching – which is the bane of all Android boxes.
Review soon ?
Hey guys don’t forget that for HDCP means that company must be licensee of HDCP, and it cost 25000 USD yearly plus HDCP 2.x keys for each device and honestly I doubt if this OEM producers will pay anything for license
These boxes that claim 4K are not accurate at all and you nailed itkusta even though your comment is 2 yrs old it still remains false advertisement.
@CNX-Software
Photo shown upper is S805 model as S905 is Quad Core but with Penta-core GPU
@ron
1. No, or at least its datasheet does not say anything about VP9. I will get a S905 motherboard next monday, maybe can have a try.
2. S905 supports 1 OTG (USB2.0) + 1 USB (2.0). Even they are probably using an USB Hub, it is natural one of the ports is OTG (I guess the one on the back). Do not include this port has no sense…
3. I guess most of vendors want to sell the cheapest TV Box possible, same as most S805 are 1/8 (Nand). Anyway, at least I already have seen a S905 motherboard with SATA port (from USB2.0 hub), then, maybe a 2/16 may be sold by some one.
4. Next year
5. I do not hope Android 6 until next year.
@FatMatt
No Gigabit Ethernet because vendors want a cheap product, S905 supports GB Ethernet.
I would wait for S912 if you want higher performance.
@cnxsoft
That link to Aliexpress does not report any S905… but I am sure 2 days ago some was there abailable.
Maybe vendors deleted these products as Amlogic will not provide bulk S905 until next month.
@Javi
Aliexpress may show different products depending on your country.
That page still redirects to two MXQ Pro pages, but they’ve increased the price to $52.
Direct links:
1. http://www.aliexpress.com/item/MXQ-Pro-Android-5-1-TV-Box-Amlogic-S905-Quad-Core-DDR3-1G-Nand-Flash-8G/32500912354.html
2. http://www.aliexpress.com/item/MXQ-Pro-Android-TV-Box-Amlogic-S905-Quad-Core-Android-5-1-DDR3-1G-Nand-Flash/32500107918.html
But if they won’t be available before the end of November, they’ll never be able to ship before Aliexpress delay’s expires.
@cnxsoft
I’ve asked a seller on Aliexpress about the box availability & she said that it is available.
@Gabe
Strange, even design houses just can get a limited quantity for testing now. I think after 1-2 weeks Amlogic will supply some more.
@cnxsoft
Yes, now I can see them by direct link. But there are some movements there because 2 days ago (china IP) I could see 2 sellers selling S905 in bulk only, now there is nothing there…
In Aliexpress they show 39 days, maybe they hope design houses will get some hundreds soon.
@Javi
Thanks. It’s nice to have some response concerning the issues that I have mentioned.
I hope that s912 devices would be available this year and not later, and I hope that s905/s912 devices would get Marshmallow next year.
Even though eventually I may be buying an Intel-based machine after all… Haven’t decided yet.
@ron
I think it is impossible a S912 available this year. Even there are not SoC samples yet.
You just can expect a lot of cheap S905 boxes mounting Netxeon’s or Orange’s motherboard. Maybe one a little higher on specifications by using Sunchip’s motherboard (SATA port)… and probably a middle option from Inphic (surprise coming!).
netxeon, oragne all small companies without own factory, also inphic. all of them make product based on refferent board design
@ron
@Javi
@Gabe
I’ve also had another contact who told me S912 was delayed, so products will probably show up in 2016.
They also only got the first quantity order of S905 last week, so I doubt MQX Pro is available right now, unless they just have 10 pieces or so made with engineering samples..
It’s interesting, but the specs have been shaved to get to the cheapest price point possible. I think it would be a better idea to wait for some better offerings. Guessing in a matter of 2 to 4 months at most.
@kusta
Small companies? No, no, no… They are the ones who designed most of TV box boards on the market.
Sunchip has around 200 people working there including engineering and assembly line.
Netxeon is a design house with also assembly line. From MK808 to MXQ (red line) was made by them.
INPHIC has near 300 workers (50 – 60 of them in the assembly line) and capacity to design motherboards. Actually the bigger customer of some of the SoC factories for TV Box.
@cnxsoft
Correct info
Shame that it only has 1GB RAM. Can it run Ubuntu or other flavor of Linux?
@Brad
For this one probably not, but if WeTek decides to make an S905 TV box, then there should be some Linux flavors, probably Lubuntu.
I heard that ENY Box will bulk produce soon,and I found a store cooperate with them,is now pre selling,the price is only US$48.99,free shipping.But it is better if this box is 2GB RAM.
http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/MXQ-Pro-Amlogic-S905-Android-5-1-OTT-TV-Box-Quad-Core-DDR3-1G-Nand-Flash/1261366_32531057629.html
@Boy Asian
do you have link for ENY Box ? I hear it EM95 .
I want have one for my personal use
hi,
In specs:
Connectivity – 10/100M Ethernet, 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0
Bluetooth 4.0 ? is true or not ? 100% correct?
Some says no bluetooth in settings ?
refer to the mxq pro sale on geekbuying.
Thx
@bluetooff
Better assume the info on GeekBuying is correct. I took my info from their website, but they may have changed it, or when I copied/pasted from another post I forgot to delete it.
@cnxsoft
Ok.
Too bad 🙁
Now we looking for another good box tv with bluetooth.
Thanks for reply.
I have got this s905 box and there is a major problem. Every 10 minutes or so, the whole TV screen will turn into blue/pink color making it unusable.
$41.63 on GearBest, but it looks like another version with Bluetooth -> http://www.gearbest.com/tv-box-mini-pc/pp_279497.html
@Jason88
You might have to look for a newer firmware.
I could just find stock firmware (29th of October 2015) @ http://chinagadgetsreviews.com/download-latest-android-lollipop-5-1-1-stock-firmware-for-mxq-pro-tv-box.html
Maybe ask on Freaktab forums if somebody has a solution for this.
would anybody recommend this over the normal mxq models ? i have a standard mxq book and im thinking of upgrading. if any one knows of any better cheep boxes i would love some recommendations
It doesn’t have bluetooth, don’t recommend it 🙁 It says it has, but you cannot turn it on. When trying to do OTA update it said software is broken and updates are off 🙁
It doesn’t have bluetooth, don’t recommend it 🙁 It says it has, but you cannot turn it on. When trying to do OTA update it said software is broken and updates are off 🙁
Hi, I have one of these and I have been trying to play emulator games with a controller. I have tried a Logitech F310 and a Wired Xbox 360 controller and I cannot get either to work. It seems as if the box does not provide power from the USB to use these controllers. Can anyone offer any assistance? Thank you!
Got second with bluetooth and even cheap android bluetooth controller from ebay works, but not all games support controller. Anyway, for serious use I recommend Nvidia Shield Android TV, it is waaaaaaay better, best android device now at all.
I purchased a MXQ pro TV Box Amlogic S905 off of Amazon and it did not work. Purchased it through “SmartLife Technology”. I think they changed their selling name to “Box King”. I have a smart TV, but my friend does not, so for Christmas I bought him this. Researched it and everyone said this was the one to get, as a “future” box, as in, it will only get better.
Here is the link to the video review I did: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AJGA1HQ?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00
His oldest son just purchased a New Vizio TV for him this last Christmas, but it wasn’t a smart TV.
I understand things happen, they on occasion happen to have a few bad apples, but I paid about $60 for mine and am now out that same $60. The product WOULD NOT allow ANYONE to sign into their WiFi…no wifi no connection no MXQ Pro…nothing working.
Their are so many of these out there now it is getting harder to tell which will work and which won’t. I want one that will have no troubles hooking up to a wifi and working.
I have to research more. I had wanted an ‘Android os’ instead of a KitKat, but for now maybe I’ll just go with a less expensive one like KitKat. Something is better than nothing 🙂
Anyway, I read the above reviews, I am not tech savy, but it sounds like Amlogic is selling these by the truck loads. So one person buys 100 of these then resells them…and then people like me get ripped off! Not cool, but the way of the world now…how sad.
Just my two-cents ‘-)
I wish mxqpro has easy reset button .since my mxqpro is stuck in mbox. Window .it has no. Such reset button. As in Roku
hi, anybody knows how to add bluetooth functionality to this box? i plug some old bluetooth dongle but nothing… 🙁
@radionko
This would require some support for USB Bluetooth dongles in the firmware. That would be quite complicated without the company’s help.
I’ve received MXQ Pro+ that has 2GB of RAM and 16GB of space ( available around 11 GB). Works ok until now with the exception that the Google Play Store is not working ( shows only 3 apps/games and that is all, even after a new apk still no functionality) and Kodi 16 is restating if you want to update any addon.
Otherwise is a good box for the money (48 USD).
What cable do I need for SPDIF ( 3.5mm to RCA ?)
@Kajman
Hi, can you post the link of the usb controller you use or maybe explain how you paired it with the box since it doesn’t have bluetooth
@Katalin
Where did you find the mxq pro with 2gb ram and 16gb storage??
@randi
This is the box I was told you.. It has 2Gb and 16Gb of storage. It is the + version. Still pro but plus.
1Channel and Exodus are working fine, do not update them. Kids are loving it.
Hi people
I just see on gearbest the MXQ Pro+ TV Box 64Bit 2gb/16gb -FREE SHIPPING-$41,99 ONLY .
my doub is where are the diferences MXQ Pro and Pro+??
i can not find MXQ Pro with 2gb DDrIII–will be??
this device it is cheaper on Gearbest… right??
Hi Katalin
where you buy your MXQ Pro+??
Have you reclam to seller??
The remote control have failed, DOWN and Power button are not working anymore, so I had to buy an wireless mouse to be able to use it..Also I’ve noticed that if I don’t use it for one day is loosing the network connection to my router and can’t get it back until unplug/plug the power supply. Checked the DHCP lease on router and is big enough. Maybe my unit has some problems but I’ve seen on other sites that remote has failed after few days and another one was complaining about the same network issue. If you manage to play the movie, then will play it nice. I was not able to make the Google Play to work even with the latest apk, so do not plan to play games or install other apps on it.
I’ve see that alse Gearbest is having it. http://www.gearbest.com/tv-box-mini-pc/pp_354313.html
Hello,
i know it’s off the subject, but this silly question have been bothering me for sometime now. Can you stream and play music from your android phone on a connected music system using this unit without turning on the television?
@Selvin
Yes you can. You’ll need a TV to configure the system accordingly, but once it’s setup you don’t need the TV, at least while using the analog audio port or S/PDIF.
It took me forever to find this information:
http://mediaplayer.store/mxq-pro-tv-box/
“It is to be noted that apparently there is no USB OTG.”
So, since many wired controllers I’ve looked at require OTG, what wired controllers work on the MXQ Pro 4k? I prefer a wired controller.
If that is not possible, what 2.4GHz controllers are known to work, controllers that cost less than the MXQ Pro 4k since I don’t want to pay as much or more for a controller than I did for the box.
@Winston
Wired controllers require USB OTG on phones, but TV boxes have proper USB host controllers, so it should not be an issue.
If for whatever reason it does not work, and you want a wireless controller, I’d recommend Tronsmart Mars G01 for $25 @ http://www.geekbuying.com/item/Tronsmart-Mars-G01-2-4GHz-Wireless-Gamepad-Support-Controller-for-Android-Cell-Phone—PS3—Tablet-PC—MINI-PC—TV-BOX—Black-329415.html
That’s the one I used for Android TV boxes review, and so far, it has worked on all of them.
@cnxsoft Thanks.
So, are most or all of the many problems I see in on-line comments about people having so many issues with this box and controllers most likely related to this?:
http://techiesexpedition.blogspot.fr/2016/01/adding-gamepads-support-to-mxq-s805.html
I see that the S905 has on-chip one USB OTG and one normal USB port output. I also see a “USB OTG” marking next to USB port 4 on this PC board of an older Android TV box, so why would that even be necessary?
http://www.cnx-software.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/HD18Q_Board_Large.jpg
@Winston
OK, I see that’s a problem with missing drivers. Actually, I have one guest post about that: http://www.cnx-software.com/2012/09/11/building-kernel-modules-for-allwinner-a10-devices-android/
That’s not a hardware issue, just a software one. So it depends on your gamepad models, and whether the drivers are compiled in the kernel.
The USB OTG port is there for USB firmware upgrade, so that you can connect the box to your computer as a USB device.
The gamepad should work in any of the USB ports, again provided the right drivers are there.
@ron
why no have bluetooth?
8I just bought mxq pro 4k. Please help me with this some questions
1. Why the miracast cannot connect? The tv box detect my android but my android does not detect my tv box.
2. The remote service does not show ip number when turn on.
3. After standby, my wifi disconnect and when i reconnect sometimes it’s failed. I must turn off and turn on it again.
4. How can i expand my storage to install more app
Thanks
Recently bought the MXQ Pro from a US vendor – the box arrived with Android 6.0.1 – this ought to be good news –
BUT Google Play Store says version of app is NOT compatible with the device, and asks to uninstall updates.
Uninstalling updates does manage to get Play Store to work –
BUT it is almost immediately automatically updated, so the next time I use it –
returns that not compatible and have to uninstall the updates again and opening the “Factory” version requires me to accept the Play Store conditions again as if I have never used this device before.
Play Store Factory version = 5.5.12
Updated Play Store at the time = 6.9.15
Partially solved by search “latest version of google Play Store” – and installing that version.
This held for a while (about 12 days) – but eventually Play Store got automatically updated, and the not compatible is shown again.
The temporary solution is again to uninstall updates, search for and installing “latest version”.
Inconvenient – but workable.
In terms of video use/functionality this MXQ Pro is a lot better than the R68 box based on the RockChip 3368 I bought 9.5 months ago.
Does this MXq Pro change my digital TV to a smart TV
@Ian
Yes, it will add Android to your TV, so you can play videos from YouTube, and other apps available in Android.