The new Walmart Onn 4K Pro Streaming Device is causing quite a stir with its low price ($49.88) and remarkable features. This release comes at a perfect time since Amazon is restricting alterations on Fire TV systems. The Onn 4K Pro appears to be a major competitor to the popular Amazon streaming devices.
The previous Onn 4K Google TV Box continues to be a huge hit at the $19 price range, while this new 4K Pro model caters to those seeking a little more.
This page will be routinely updated with essential information and guides relating to the Onn 4K Pro Streaming Device. You will also find a review focusing on the important features that TROYPOINT enthusiasts are keen on.
Walmart Onn 4K Pro Features at a Glance
- Android TV 12 with Google TV Interface
- CPU: Quad-core Cortex-A55
- GPU: Mali-G31 MP2
- 32GB Internal Storage
- 3GB RAM
- USB 3.0 Port
- 10/100 Ethernet
- WiFi 6: 2.4/5GHz 802.11ax
- Dolby Vision
- Dolby Atmos
- AV1 Codec
- Google Voice Assistant
- Hands Free Voice Control
- Custom Favorite Button on Remote
- Remote Control Finder
- Supports Expandable Storage
- Works with 3rd Party Launchers
- Supports Side-loading
- All popular paid streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime work
Onn 4K Pro Review
The following review provides insights into the new features and crucial details that interest TROYPOINT fans.
Specs
An exciting update is the 32GB internal storage, a major improvement compared to most other budget-friendly streaming devices. The Onn 4K Pro is set to make a significant impact with this enhancement.
It’s worth noting that the OS and system apps occupy around 11GB of space, leaving users with approximately 21GB, which should be adequate for all applications.
The device also includes a USB 3.0 port for the use of USB drives, keyboards, etc. However, compatibility may vary, as not all connected devices work flawlessly. For instance, when testing a Gigabit USB adapter, the best download speeds achieved were 10 Mbps. It appears that success with different adapters can be inconsistent.
It is equipped with standard 10/100 Ethernet, providing a maximum download speed of 100 Mbps. While some may critique the lack of a Gigabit port, it’s essential to consider that Onn aims to keep this device cost-effective. Affordability will be a recurring theme in this review, given Onn’s reputation in this regard. While there are higher-priced Android TV boxes available, they offer more power at a higher cost.
The WiFi 6 chip on the new Onn 4K Pro Streaming Device delivers blazing fast speeds, as evident from the download/upload speeds mentioned below. With such impressive speeds, one might argue that an Ethernet port might be unnecessary. Although some tech enthusiasts advocate for Ethernet’s stability, WiFi technology has made significant strides over the years, and personally, I have no issues streaming wirelessly on any of my devices.
Performance-wise, the CPU and GPU on the Onn 4K Pro appear to be quite similar to the previous Onn streaming box, which has garnered some criticism. However, it’s essential to remember that Onn prioritizes affordability in their products.
For detailed benchmark comparisons of various Android-based streaming devices, refer to the insightful breakdown by Elias at AFTVNews.com, showcasing the differences between popular devices currently available.
CPU Benchmarks
GPU Benchmarks
There is such a thing as overkill on these streaming systems. Why do we need all of this power if it plays 4K video as it should? If you are a gamer, that’s a different story. Both the CPU and GPU performance will matter to you. Avoid purchasing this box if you’re a avid gamer!
Try not to focus too much on benchmark scores as this device will work perfectly for most cord-cutters. You may have specific needs if you are a power-user, but in general, this box has ample strength.
The Onn 4K Pro also comes with 3GB of RAM Memory, a nice upgrade from the typical RAM sizes found on most budget streaming devices, which are usually 2 or 1.5GB. 3GB should suffice, unless you plan on using the device for tasks other than streaming.
Hands Free Voice Control
The new Walmart Onn 4K Pro Streaming Device somewhat acts as a smart hub due to its built-in speaker on top of the box. It’s worth noting that there are some commands that may not work on this device compared to an actual Google Nest Hub. For example, when I tried to set a timer, it couldn’t manage it, unlike a Google smart hub.
The hands free feature enables you to control various aspects of the streaming device by voice command. For instance, you can say, “Hey Google, open TiviMate,” and it will launch the application without needing the remote control. Numerous other commands can be used that integrate with popular streaming services like Netflix.
You need to activate this feature first under Settings/Privacy/Google Assistant/Hands-free Mic.
After issuing a command, you will either see or hear the results on your connected television. If your TV is turned off or the HDMI cord is disconnected, the audio will come from the speaker on the Onn 4K Pro.
There’s an on/off microphone switch on the side of this Android TV Box, allowing you to deactivate this feature if you prefer not to use it.
As mentioned in my First Impressions Video for Patrons, I am not particularly fond of this type of dual device approach. This setup is also evident in the Amazon Fire TV Cube. Personally, I would prefer a smaller box that can be more easily concealed behind the TV. Voice commands have not been a feature I have embraced, so this functionality is not important to me.
Remote Control Features
Two new features have been introduced with the Onn 4K Pro. This includes a find your remote feature and a custom favorite button.
The find your remote feature is a clever addition that all streaming devices should have. There is a button in the settings that, when pressed, emits a loud, pulsing sound from the remote to help locate it.
The new star button on the top-right side of the remote allows you to assign a favorite app to open when pressed. Unfortunately, this function does not seem to work when using a 3rd party launcher.
As usual, the remote includes features for controlling TV, soundbar, and AV receivers.
Some users may find it inconvenient that there are no rewind/fast forward/play/pause buttons on the remote. In such cases, users can simply click the remote.- OK button can be used during video playback, followed by on-screen buttons on the toolbar at the screen’s bottom. Alternatively, pressing the left/right directional pad buttons allows you to rewind or fast forward. The surprising complaint centers around the infrequency of using fast forward/rewind buttons on the Fire TV remote control, showing that personal preference plays a role, and it might take some time for people to adjust.
Supercharge Star Button on Onn 4K Pro Video Tutorial
Video Playback
Testing 4K video playback via both Kodi and Stremio showed flawless performance for movies and TV shows. Additionally, trials with Netflix and Amazon Prime Video proved successful without any issues.
3rd Party Launchers
Implementing a 3rd party launcher is a favorite “hack” for any Android TV/Google TV box, offering a custom user interface free from unwanted streaming service ads.
The Onn 4K Pro supports 3rd party launchers using Launcher Manager available in the TROYPOINT Toolbox.
Adoptable Storage
The new Walmart Onn 4K Pro Streaming Device offers 32GB of internal storage, providing ample space for apps. While some may opt to expand storage with a USB drive (Adoptable Storage), this feature was successfully utilized, with a system reboot occurring unexpectedly during the process.
Once back on, migration to the USB drive was completed through Storage settings after being skipped before the reboot.
I’m sorry, but it appears that item is not available in stock. It has been noted that many customers have found success by purchasing through their local Walmart stores, so it is recommended to check there if the item shows as Out of Stock online.
Two groups of users typically utilize these Android-based streaming systems: those who subscribe to paid streaming services like Netflix and Hulu, and those who use free streaming APKs and enjoy customizing their devices. TROYPOINT fans fall into the latter category, and the new Walmart Onn 4K Pro Streaming Device should be a well-received addition.
While there may be room for improvement in the streaming device, it’s important to note that you would likely pay more for such upgrades. Onn has done an impressive job with this $50 Android TV/Google TV streaming box, catering to the majority of users. For those seeking high-end features, there are alternative options available.