Announcement: 2023 BuzzTV X5 AX-C Now Available!
This BuzzTV X5 Review was written by Troy from TROYPOINT after using the Android TV Box on a regular basis for approximately one week.
This streaming device was provided free of charge to TROYPOINT by BuzzTV. However, this review is unbiased and you will see that I point out both the good and bad regarding this Android TV Box. BuzzTV did not have access to this post prior to publishing.
Below, you will find an in-depth review that will provide you with the information that you need prior to purchasing.
I’m extremely excited about this new device due to their outstanding XRS 4900 that I reviewed in the past.
BuzzTV is also releasing a portable counterpart called the HD5 which costs less and can be easily concealed behind a television.
BuzzTV is known for their Android TV Boxes that cater to those of us who use IPTV services. These devices come with a dedicated IPTV application and remote control that is specifically built for that app. These streaming devices also work great with side-loaded applications such as Kodi, Syncler, etc.
If you’re a TROYPOINT Patron or Founding Member, be sure to watch my BuzzTV X5 first impressions video on the TROYPOINT Insider!
BuzzTV X5 Android TV Box
There are five iterations of the BuzzTV X5, and all are enclosed in an aluminum case. The various models come with either 64GB or 128GB of eMMC internal storage. These BuzzTV models include future-proof features such as AV1 codec, Android 11, large internal storage, plenty of RAM, Gigabit Ethernet, and dual-band WiFi support. The newer devices (X5 128 AX-C, X5 64 AX-C, and X5 AX Special Edition) come with WiFi 6 compatibility, whereas the X5 128AI and X5 65AI do not. The systems come with a Bluetooth BT-400 Smart Remote with Smart Remote App, allowing customization of some remote buttons.
Here is a statement that BuzzTV released regarding the X5 Android TV Box:
The X5 introduces our All-in-One media access solution, giving you complete control of your setup right at your fingertips.
I’m happy to report that the BuzzTV is running Android TV 11 and not stock Android. Android TV provides a friendly remote control experience and access to applications optimized for the television through Google Play Store. Most off-brand Android TV Boxes are running a form of Android meant for phones and tablets, and I’m very happy to see that this isn’t the case for the X5.
Read about the differences between Android TV and Stock Android here
My favorite new feature on the BuzzTV X5 is the ability to rewind live TV. See my short video demonstrating this below.
BuzzTV X5 Purchase Links
Use Coupon Code TROYPOINT for 10% Discount
BuzzTV X5 128 AX-C 128GB – $199.99
BuzzTV X5 64 AX-C 64GB – $179.99
BuzzTV X5 AX Special Edition 128GB – $199.99
Powerful Components
These Android TV devices come with powerful components that make this a future-proof streaming system.
The first thing that I noticed when unboxing the X5 is the strong aluminum case. Most Android TV Boxes are made out of plastic, and it’s nice to see a durable case on the BuzzTV X5.
The biggest complaint that we often see from those who use streaming devices is the lack of internal storage. We don’t have that problem with the BuzzTV X5! All X5 models come with either 64GB or 128GB of internal storage. The large amount of internal storage should prove useful for recording live TV through the BuzzTV 5 IPTV application that we will discuss further in this review.
The BuzzTV X5 systems all come with 4GB of internal RAM Memory, which will ensure a snappy device. They also support Gigabit Ethernet and dual-band WiFi. I will test download/upload speeds as well, which you will see below. This Android TV Box is powered by the Amlogic S905Y4 Quad-Core Cortex A55 processor, providing power-saving capabilities yet still delivering great performance.
The BuzzTV X5 comes with USB 2.0, USB 3.0, micro SD card, optical digital audio, and 3.5mm audio ports.
BuzzTV X5 Remote Control
This streaming device features a Bluetooth remote with backlit buttons. You have the option to customize button functions for convenience.
Four colored buttons on the remote can be set to work within the BuzzTV 5 IPTV app or launch other applications.
Users can configure the remote to manage TV volume, inputs, and power buttons via the BuzzTV X5 Remote Control App.
Although the directional buttons lack tactile feedback, and voice assistant support is absent, these are minor drawbacks.
BuzzTV X5 Regular OTA Updates
BuzzTV distinguishes itself by providing regular over-the-air updates, showing its commitment to enhancing the user experience.
This proactive approach demonstrates BuzzTV’s customer-centric focus and continuous product improvement efforts.
BuzzTV X5 Launcher
The BuzzTV X5 launcher offers a user-friendly interface with customization options like choosing different layouts and background images, enhancing the viewing experience.
Though creating custom sections on the home screen would be a welcomed feature, the BuzzTV X5 launcher overall provides a smooth, ad-free experience.
BuzzTV X5 Purchase Links
Use Coupon Code TROYPOINT for 10% Discount
BuzzTV X5 128 AX-C 128GB – $199.99
BuzzTV X5 64 AX-C 64GB – $179.99
BuzzTV X5 AX Special Edition 128GB – $199.99
BuzzTV 5 IPTV Application
The BuzzTV X5, tailored for IPTV users, features the exclusive BuzzTV 5 application offering enhanced functionalities like live TV rewind and recording options.
Watch the informative video below showcasing the rewind feature in the BuzzTV 5 IPTV application.
Feature and how to set it up. Rewinding live TV is huge in my opinion. There are so many times that I’m watching an IPTV stream and I want to rewind and watch something again. We can now do that with BuzzTV 5! You must enable Timeshift within PVR settings to get this feature working. You can define the cache size that you want to allocate to this feature, and you can also use an external USB drive for this as well. The BuzzTV X5 also comes with powerful recording options. You can perform both one-time or multi-day recordings. I’m a big fan of this IPTV application, and the included Bluetooth remote makes it easier to navigate. AV1 Codec Support. The BuzzTV X5 supports AV1 Video (AOMedia Video 1) which will soon be the industry standard streaming format. Another great “future-proof” feature on the X5. Expand Internal Storage. Expanding internal storage allows us to add an external storage device such as a USB drive, and it is counted as internal storage. Yes, we can expand internal storage on the BuzzTV X5. I tested this with a SanDisk 256GB 3.0 USB drive and it worked as it should. Due to the large internal storage, I’m not sure if there would be a need to do this. Even with the smaller 64GB model, that should be plenty of space for applications and recordings. But, if you need it, it’s there! Sideloaded Apps Work Great. As with all of my reviews, I installed my favorite apps with the free TROYPOINT Toolbox.
I installed Synlcer and Kodi then paired my Real-Debrid account to both applications.
I streamed both public domain movies and TV shows in 4K quality and everything worked as expected.
BuzzTV X5 Download & Upload Speeds
I used Analiti Speed test app for the following tests.
I have 1 GB Fiber download speed plan through my Internet Service Provider.
During the WiFi tests, I am connected to the 5Ghz band on my Asus AC3100 Router which resides in the same room as my BuzzTV X5 (approximately 20 feet away from the wireless router).
I’m using IPVanish VPN as my VPN on Chicago Server 04 (chi-a04).
Gigabit Speeds
VPN Off: Download = 900 Mbps & Upload = 237 Mbps
VPN On: Download = 210 Mpbs & Upload = 155 Mbps
WiFi Speeds
VPN Off: Download = 376 Mbps & Upload = 197 Mbps
VPN On: Download = 163 Mbps & Upload = 125 Mbps
As you can see above, the download and upload speeds are fabulous! It’s exciting to note that the BuzzTV X5 comes with a Gigabit adapter, providing exceptional speeds.
BuzzTV X5 Purchase Links
Use Coupon Code TROYPOINT for 10% Discount
BuzzTV X5 128 AX-C 128GB – $199.99
BuzzTV X5 64 AX-C 64GB – $179.99
BuzzTV X5 AX Special Edition 128GB – $199.99
BuzzTV X5 Specs
Note: The BuzzTV X5 Special Edition comes with WiFi 6 and chameleon color on an aluminum case. The additional specs listed below are included on all BuzzTV X5 systems.
- Operating System: Android 11
- CPU: Amlogic S905Y4 Quad-Core Cortex A55
- GPU: ARM Mali-G31 MP2
- Memory: 4GB
- Internal Storage: 64GB eMMC or 128GB eMMC
- LAN/Ethernet: 100/1000 Mbps (Gigabit)
- WiFi: 2T/2R Dual Band
- USB: 1 X USB 2.0, 1 X USB 3.0
- Card Reader: 1 X TF microSD
- HDMI Output: 4Kp75 10bit: H.265/VP9 P-2/AVS2, 4Kp120 10bit: AV1 HDR10/10+
- Enhanced Audio Output: 1 X Optical Digital Audio
- Remote Control: BT-400 Smart Remote
- Power Supply: Standard Canada/USA or Universal Power Kit (EU/UK/AU/SA)
- BuzzTV App: BuzzTV5
BuzzTV X5 Images
Here are some pictures of the BuzzTV X5.
Click images to enlarge.
What’s In The Box?
- X5 AI Set Top Box
- BT-400 Smart Remote
- HDMI Cable
- Power Supply
- Setup/Help Card
- 2 X Premium AAA Batteries
Who Is The BuzzTV X5 For?
The BuzzTV X5 is designed for those who use IPTV services that allow for either XC API Login, M3U, or MAC Server setup.
If you’re using an unverified IPTV service, more than likely they they support one of the protocols mentioned above.
The X5 is also great for those of you who use free streaming APKs such as Kodi, Syncler, etc.
This Android TV Box is not meant for those who use Netflix. Netflix is not certified on the X5.
I did test Amazon Prime and that application is working as it should.
What I Like
- Android TV 11 OS
- Strong Processor with Good Power-Saving Capabilities
- 4GB of RAM
- Gigabit Network Adapter
- Dual-band WiFi
- USB 2.0 & 3.0 Ports
- Micro SD Card Slot
- Optical Audio
- Customizable Bluetooth Remote
- Bluetooth 5
- Launcher
- Can Expand Storage
- Great Download/Upload Speeds
- BuzzTV 5 IPTV App
- Rewind Live TV
What I Dislike
- No voice assistant on remote
- Directional buttons on remote should stick out more
Note: I no longer deduct points for no Netflix certification due to the numerous free streaming apps that are available.
Final Thoughts on the BuzzTV X5 Android TV Box
If you’re an IPTV user, and your in need of a new streaming device, I would definitely recommend the X5.
BuzzTV has done a great job of future-proofing this device, which should perform great for years to come.
Yes, it does cost more than a Firestick or Chromecast with Google TV but you need to look at what you’re getting with the X5.
The X5 alleviates all of the problems continually mentioned on the less expensive streaming devices from storage, RAM, Gigabit, ads, the list goes on and on.
You also need to remember that companies like Amazon can sell their devices at a loss due to the constant selling through the ads you see within their user interface.
This is why you can get their devices so cheap but you won’t have as much freedom as you do with the BuzzTV X5.
There are only two manufacturers making devices such as this that implement an exclusive IPTV application in combination with a full-featured remote. The other is Formuler.
The two devices are great at what they do but I give the BuzzTV X5 a slightly higher rating than the Formuler Z10 Pro Max.
Rewinding live TV within my IPTV application is big for me and the inclusion of a powerful Bluetooth remote is nice too.
Unfortunately, we can’t rewind live TV on the Formuler and their remote control is not Bluetooth, it’s IR.
Again, if you’re an IPTV user, I think you will be more than happy with the BuzzTV X5 Android TV Box and it’s going to last for a long time due to its future-proof design.
I rate the BuzzTV X5 4.7 out of 5.
BuzzTV X5 Purchase Links
Use Coupon Code TROYPOINT for 10% Discount
BuzzTV X5 128 AX-C 128GB – $199.99
BuzzTV X5 64 AX-C 64GB – $179.99
BuzzTV X5 AX Special Edition 128GB – $199.99