Looking for a powerful but affordable Android TV Box ? In today’s video, we are taking a close look at the X96 Max Plus Ultra (4GB RAM / 64GB ROM version). Powered by the next-gen Amlogic S905X4 processor , this box is a massive step up from older budget models. It features hardware AV1 decoding, which means smoother 4K streaming, less buffering, and better picture quality on apps like YouTube. Whether you are using it for IPTV, local media playback, or retro gaming, that massive 64GB of storage gives you plenty of room to download all your favorite apps without worrying about running out of space. In this video, I break down the design, the ports (yes, it has USB 3.0!), the specs, and what you can expect when you hook this up to your TV. Watch the full review and extreme stress test below: 📺 Click here to watch the full X96 Max Plus Ultra review on YouTube! 🚀 Performance & Deep Dive Testing: How Does it Hold Up? To see what the X96 Max Plus Ultra is truly capable of, I put it...
Looking for a powerful but affordable Android TV Box? In today’s video, we are taking a close look at the X96 Max Plus Ultra (4GB RAM / 64GB ROM version).
Powered by the next-gen Amlogic S905X4 processor, this box is a massive step up from older budget models. It features hardware AV1 decoding, which means smoother 4K streaming, less buffering, and better picture quality on apps like YouTube. Whether you are using it for IPTV, local media playback, or retro gaming, that massive 64GB of storage gives you plenty of room to download all your favorite apps without worrying about running out of space.
In this video, I break down the design, the ports (yes, it has USB 3.0!), the specs, and what you can expect when you hook this up to your TV. Watch the full review and extreme stress test below:
🚀 Performance & Deep Dive Testing: How Does it Hold Up?
To see what the X96 Max Plus Ultra is truly capable of, I put it through a rigorous series of real-world tests—from heavy 4K streaming to retro gaming. Here is exactly how it performed:
1. UI Navigation & User Experience
Out of the box, the device boots up quickly, though it comes with a rather basic and outdated stock launcher. For a much smoother and modern experience, I highly recommend installing a custom launcher (like Productivity Launcher), which makes navigating through your apps infinitely better. The system itself is snappy, and the remote handles basic navigation without issues.
2. 4K Streaming on YouTube & SmartTube 🟢
This box shines when it comes to high-resolution video. I tested standard YouTube and switched the quality to 2160p (4K). The video started instantly, and checking the "Stats for Nerds" showed exactly 0 dropped frames. I also tested SmartTube (the ad-free alternative). After a quick update, it loaded 4K 60fps nature videos flawlessly. You can even navigate the menus while the 4K video plays in the background without any freezing or stuttering.
3. IPTV & Live TV 🟢
If you plan to use this for IPTV, you won't be disappointed. Channel zapping was incredibly fast. I tested standard definition channels and a live 4K Nature channel—the playback was instant, proving the S905X4 processor handles live video streams exceptionally well.
4. Heavy Kodi Streaming (27GB 4K Movie Test) 🟢
To really push the hardware, I installed Kodi via Aptoide TV, set up the Elementum add-on via my USB stick, and tried to stream a massive 27 GB 4K movie file. Impressively, the box pre-buffered the file very quickly and played it smoothly without any major lags or buffering interruptions. If you love streaming heavy torrent files, this box can absolutely handle it.
5. Android & Retro Gaming 🟡
Gaming on a budget TV box can be hit or miss, but the X96 Max Plus Ultra held its own.
Bluetooth Connectivity: I easily paired a cheap wireless Bluetooth gaming controller.
Android Games: I fired up Beach Buggy Racing. The game ran smoothly with responsive controls (acceleration, steering, and power-ups worked perfectly). You could easily bump up the resolution settings for this game.
Retro Gaming: Using Kodi's Internet Archive Game Launcher (IAGL), I loaded up the classic SEGA game Golden Axe. It ran flawlessly, proving this box is an excellent, cheap retro-gaming console.
6. Network Speed & Thermals 🟡
Internet Speed: Keep in mind that this box has a 100 Mbps LAN port (not Gigabit). During my speed test, it maxed out perfectly at around 95-100 Mbps for both download and upload. While it's not Gigabit, 100 Mbps is still more than enough for stable 4K streaming.
Thermals: Heating is a common issue with budget boxes. During casual use and streaming, the temps hovered around a very safe 65–70°C. After pushing it with heavy Kodi streams and gaming, it peaked at about 80°C. It’s not terrible, but if you are a heavy user, getting an external cooling fan is always a smart idea.
Note on Screen Mirroring: During my tests, the built-in Miracast and screen mirroring apps struggled to connect to my phone. If casting is your #1 priority, you might need a third-party app to get it working reliably.
👉
⚙️ X96 Max+ Ultra Main Specs:
Here is exactly what is under the hood of this powerful streaming device:
🔹 CPU: Amlogic S905X4 Quad-Core Cortex-A55
🔹 GPU: ARM Mali-G31 MP2
🔹 RAM / ROM: 4GB / 64GB eMMC
🔹 OS: Android 11
🔹 Network: Dual-Band Wi-Fi (2.4G/5G), 100M LAN & Bluetooth
🔹 Video Output: 4K @ 60fps, AV1 Decoding, HDR10+ support
👇 UPGRADE YOUR SETUP: MY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TV BOXES 👇
If your old device is beyond saving and you want a smooth, reliable streaming experience, stop buying unverified boxes. I personally test and highly recommend these proven Android TV models:
📺
🔒 ESSENTIAL FOR ANDROID TV USERS
Don't stream without protection! Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can see everything you watch and often slows down your internet (throttling) when you stream HD movies. Also, many apps are blocked based on your location.
✅ Unlock hidden movies, stop buffering, and protect your privacy with NordVPN.
👉
🔥 UPGRADE YOUR SETUP (Recommended Accessories):
Maximize your Android TV Box experience with these essential upgrades:
⌨️
Mini Keyboards & Air Remotes (Much better than the stock remote!)
🗣️ Let's Discuss!
Question for the viewers: Are you still using an older TV box, or have you upgraded to a device with the new S905X4 chip and AV1 decoding? Let me know your experience in the comments below!
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Tags: #X96MaxPlusUltra #AndroidTVBox #TechReview #AmlogicS905X4 #BudgetTech #4KStreaming #TVBox #SmartTV #TechHustle
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