The Formuler Z mini is a new Android TV dongle tailored for users of IPTV services. This streaming device boasts 8GB internal storage, 2GB of RAM, a BT1 remote, and runs on Android 12.
In this detailed assessment, we will delve into the features of the Formuler Z mini while sharing my candid opinions on its strengths and shortcomings.
If you happen to be a TROYPOINT Patron, you can access my First Impressions Video and setup guide here.
I’ve had the chance to use this device for over two weeks now. Taking it along on our spring break trip, I found that this compact dongle fitted perfectly inside my carry-on bag. From my experience, I can confidently say that the more I use it, the more I appreciate its functionality.
Enhance Video Performance
The video below demonstrates how to address the primary limitation of the Formuler Z mini while offering tips and tricks to maximize the potential of this robust streaming dongle.
Links Mentioned in the Video
Obtain Surfshark VPN with a Generous Discount + 2 Free Months
Purchase Formuler Z mini IPTV Dongle
SanDisk USB 3.0 USB Flash Drive
How to Format USB Drive as FAT32
Key Features of the Formuler Z mini
- 8GB eMMC internal storage
- 2GB RAM
- Android 12 Operating System
- RealTek RTD1325 CPU
- Output Resolution: 4K
- HDR10+
- AV1 Codec
- MYTVOnline3 IPTV App
- BT1 Bluetooth Voice Remote
- Supports popular audio formats (further details below)
Unboxing Experience
Prior to unboxing the Z mini, I noticed the relatively small 8GB internal storage, which left me slightly disappointed. This mirrors a common critique regarding streaming dongles and sticks, which often suffer from limited storage capacity. I’ll explore the possibility of expanding internal storage with a USB drive as a potential solution to avoid restrictions on the number of applications that can be installed.
Upon unboxing the Formuler Z mini, I was pleased to discover the BT1 Bluetooth Voice Remote included in the package. This remote is quite impressive, especially with its voice assistant feature, a rarity among ‘off-brand’ Android TV systems.
The absence of a USB port poses another drawback for users who intend to record IPTV content with the MYTVOnline3 IPTV app. By connecting a USB C OTG Cable, I hope to utilize it for recording storage. It’s likely that the exclusion of a USB port is an intentional move by Formuler to steer customers towards their Z11 Pro Max model, which does feature USB ports. Presumably, the Z mini targets individuals seeking a portable device, aligning with my own experience of using it during spring break.
Assessment of the Formuler Z mini
During the past two weeks, I’ve meticulously evaluated all the key features showcased by the Formuler Z mini. Below, you’ll find detailed sections of this review covering various aspects of this streaming dongle.
Initial Setup
The setup process for the Formuler Z mini is incredibly straightforward. You begin by pairing the remote with the device and then follow a few on-screen prompts to establish an internet connection.
Sideloading Apps Using Downloader
One of the initial tasks I undertook was installing the free Downloader app through Google Play to sideload the necessary apps for this review. Leveraging the free TROYPOINT Toolbox, I swiftly downloaded my preferred applications. As expected, the installation of 3rd-party APKs operates seamlessly on the Formuler Z mini.
Launcher/User Interface
It’s crucial to mention that the Z mini utilizes the same launcher and IPTV application as their flagship Z11 Pro Max, which I find favorable. One of the primary selling points is their customizable launcher. A notable feature is the option to showcase your favorite channels and VOD within MYTVOnline3. I truly appreciate this functionality as it allows me to quickly access my preferred content directly from the launcher.
Similarly, I can effortlessly access my favorite movies and TV shows that I’ve marked as favorites. I attempted to install a third-party launcher on the Formuler Z mini, but unfortunately, it was unsuccessful. Nevertheless, for me, this isn’t a deal-breaker since I value the convenience of accessing my favorite channels directly from the default launcher.
I tested the download/upload speeds using the Analiti Speed test app. My internet plan offers a 1GB Fiber download speed. While conducting the WiFi tests, I am connected to the 5GHz band on my ASUS RT-AX86U Pro WiFi 6 Router, located approximately 20 feet away from the Android TV Box.
Additionally, I am utilizing Surfshark VPN on a Chicago server. When the VPN is off, I achieve 288 Mbps download and 228 Mbps upload speeds. With the VPN on, the speeds slightly decrease to 157 Mbps download and 115 Mbps upload. Despite expecting higher download speeds, the current speeds are adequate for streaming 4K media efficiently.
Storage
The Formuler Z mini successfully recognized the SanDisk 32GB USB Flash Drive connected via the USB C OTG cable. This acknowledgment is important as it likely allows for recording through the MYTVOnline3 IPTV application. Unfortunately, internal storage expansion is not supported, limiting the device to the existing 8GB internal storage capacity. However, it is possible to enlarge the storage with a few ADB commands, as elaborated in my Supercharge video.
The MYTVOnline3 IPTV app on the Formuler Z mini offers excellent performance and presents itself as highly polished. While I personally favor TiviMate as my preferred IPTV player, I must acknowledge that Formuler’s app ranks closely behind. Many users will likely find the Formuler IPTV app more appealing than TiviMate. Notable features include the ability to pause, rewind, and fast forward, which are not commonly found in other IPTV applications.
The inclusion of a time shift feature addresses a common concern for individuals transitioning from Cable/Satellite to IPTV. Moreover, the app allows users to schedule recurring reminders for automatic channel changes during favorite TV shows.
When setting up your IPTV details initially, you have access to an organization tool that allows you to declutter unwanted categories. Moreover, users can create multiple custom groups and pin them at the top of the channel list.
The BT1 remote, Purchase Formuler Z mini
Goes hand-in-hand with MYTVOnline3 and the colored buttons control various features within the app. I tested recording to the attached USB drive and I’m happy to report that it worked! I then expanded internal storage with a few ADB commands and recording to the USB drive worked in that case as well. You can see how I do this in the Supercharge video above.
One of the main reasons why the NVIDIA SHIELD is so popular is due to its video upscaling. It appears that Formuler has figured this out and they have also included this feature. The 4K streaming quality on the Formuler Z mini is exceptional and the video upscaling also seems to help for those videos with lower resolution.
The included BT1 Voice Remote is a welcome addition to this streaming dongle. This is a powerful remote that comes with tons of features and even includes its own application! The remote can also control a television, AV receiver, soundbar, or projector as well. I programmed mine to control the volume and power on my LG TV and it worked as it should. Again, these settings are found within the Formuler Remote app.
Network storage also helps in apps such as Kodi where it makes it a breeze to point to media on your home network. Formuler prides itself in the numerous updates that it pushes out to their streaming devices. The Formuler Z mini comes with a network storage setup utility. By adding network storage, users can direct their IPTV recordings to that instead of a USB drive.
What you Like
- Clear 4K streaming
- Custom launcher with favorite channels/VOD displayed
- Bluetooth Voice remote with custom shortcut buttons
- Formuler Remote App
- AV1 Codec
- HDR10+
- Popular audio formats supported
- Network Storage Manager
- MYTVOnline3 IPTV App with Recording
- Rewind, pause, and fast forward live TV
- Schedule recurring reminders so TV channels automatically switch
- Easy setup
- No bloatware
What you Dislike
- Small 8 GB internal storage
- No USB connection
- Can’t expand internal storage (adoptable storage) without ADB commands (see video above)
- No WiFi 6
- High price $119.99
Note: You no longer deduct points for no Netflix support or Ethernet connectivity, which this has neither.
Formuler Z mini Final Thoughts
If you chat with a Formuler fan boy/girl, you won’t hear too much complaining. Formuler is known for building quality streaming devices and the Z mini does not disappoint.
They are constantly pushing out updates to support their devices which is a rarity in this niche.
Yes, the price tag is high at $119.99 but it does come with a powerful Bluetooth remote with voice assistant and features that you won’t find on other streaming devices.
If you watch my Supercharge video above you will understand what sets this apart from other streaming solutions on the market today.
Some will argue, “Why don’t you just purchase the Z11 Pro Max?”
Z11 Pro Max?” My comment back to that is because you will pay an extra $90 for that device with the BT1 Remote. The main advantage of the Pro Max is the 32GB internal storage.
In my video above I show how to issue a few ADB commands which will allow you to add a USB drive with a USB C OTG Cable.
Now, the USB drive and cable will still cost $20 total but we are still $70 ahead.
Most of you have a USB flash drive sitting around that can be used and you can purchase the OTG adapter for $9 off Amazon.
The only big difference that I see between the new Z mini and Z11 Pro Max is that the mini includes AI video upscaling where the max does not.
This is due to the new chip being used in the mini and unfortunately an update can’t help the Max with that.
I’m still not 100% sold on the upscaling and how much of a difference that makes on this new dongle.
If you are only looking for something to travel with, I would suggest sticking with the Walmart oNN. 4K Google TV Streaming Box at $19.99.
If you want something a bit more that can be easily concealed behind the TV, then the Formuler Z mini may be for you.
My biggest complaint is the high price as I’m not sure most people will be willing to pay that sort of money for a streaming dongle.
If there were 32GB internal storage and WiFi 6 support then the price may be OK.
You are essentially paying extra for the MYTVOnline3 IPTV App, BT1 Bluetooth Voice Remote, and Launcher that integrates with MYTVOnline3.
The ability to rewind and fast forward with the built-in time shift feature (I really like this!) may be reason enough to purchase the Formuler Z mini.
I also really like the ability to schedule recurring reminders for my favorite shows so they automatically start playing when my TV is on.
This device isn’t for those who want to use Netflix as this isn’t certified for that.
The Z mini is designed for unverified IPTV services and 3rd party APKs such as Kodi and Syncler.
All-in-all the device performs extremely well and I rate it 4.5 out of 5 stars.