This review of the MECOOL KM7 Android TV Box was composed by Troy from TROYPOINT after using the Android TV Box regularly for a week.
TROYPOINT received this streaming device at no cost from MECOOL. However, this evaluation is impartial, highlighting both the positives and negatives of this Android TV Box. MECOOL had no prior access to this post before its publication.
Below is a detailed review to equip you with essential information before making a purchase.
MECOOL KM7 Android TV Box
The latest MECOOL KM7 Android TV Box is available in two configurations. The $86.99 option offers 4GB RAM and 64GB ROM, while the $66.99 option provides 2GB RAM and 16GB ROM.
I was sent the KM7 with 4GB RAM and 64GB ROM by MECOOL.
It is important to note that this device operates on Android TV 11, not the stock Android commonly used by generic boxes.
Explore the distinctions between Android TV and Stock Android here
MECOOL labels the KM7 as an Android TV Google certified TV box because it seamlessly integrates with Google features like voice control and Google Cast.
MECOOL has experience with Android TV Boxes, and there are several aspects that distinguish the KM7 from their previous models.
The MECOOL KM7 runs on Android TV 11, boasts a new low-power CPU, and includes an Android TV remote control.
Regrettably, the MECOOL KM7 does not support Netflix HD out of the box, but surprisingly, it does support Amazon Prime Video in HD quality!
The device comes pre-installed with a Netflix application but lacks support for HD video.
MECOOL KM7 Features at a Glance
The MECOOL KM7 is powered by the Amlogic S905Y4 chipset, with a 64-bit quad-core ARM Cortex A35 CPU and ARM G31 MP2 GPU processor, supporting both 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies, along with a 10/100 Ethernet LAN for a stable network signal. It also supports AV1 decoding and operates on the latest Android 11 OS, providing users with a faster streaming experience and enhanced performance.
- Operates on Android 11 using Amlogic S905Y4, ensuring high speed and smooth performance for various uses like home entertainment, home theater, and business applications.
- Includes the new AV1 video decoder.
- Utilize the voice remote control to access entertainment swiftly, get answers, and manage home devices with Google Assistant.
- Easily cast media from your phone, tablet, or laptop to your TV with Chromecast built-in for enhanced entertainment.
- Supports HDR10+, HDR10, HLG HDR processing for vivid scenes and characters with enhanced contrast, color, and clarity.
- Google certified ATV Player with integrated streaming media content such as YouTube, Prime video, Google Play.
- Regular automatic upgrades are supported.
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MECOOL KM7 Official Website & Purchasing Options
New Low-Power Amlogic S905Y4 Processor
A notable distinction in the MECOOL Android TV Boxes is the incorporation of the new Amlogic S905Y4 Processor.
While it is considered a budget CPU, its advanced power-saving capability is noteworthy.
This new processor is recognized for its strong performance coupled with low power consumption, resulting in cost savings on electricity.
AV1 Supported
The MECOOL KM7 supports AV1 Video (AOMedia Video 1), a feature also present in their other products listed below.
This format is an open, royalty-free video coding format developed for video transmission over the Internet.
Several online streaming apps now deliver content in this format, which can be played on this Android TV Box.
In the future, more streaming apps are likely to adopt AV1 as the industry standard over formats like H.265.
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MECOOL KM7 Running Android TV 11
The Android TV operating system is designed for television use, and it’s pleasing to observe MECOOL integrating this system.
Android TV is notably present on devices such as the NVIDIA Shield, Chromecast with Google TV, Dynalink Android TV Box, and TiVo Stream 4K.
Most generic Android TV Boxes typically run Stock Android, which may not be optimized for TV screens. However, through Android TV Google Play Store, users can access all applications specifically designed for television viewing.
Featuring Android TV on its devices is a standout feature of the MECOOL KM7, providing users with similar benefits to the NVIDIA Shield but at a more affordable price point.
With Google Assistant integrated into Android TV, users can enjoy hands-free access to various features on the Android TV Box.
Support for Google Cast enables easy streaming of content from phones, tablets, or computers to the larger screen.
Expand Internal Storage
Given the ample internal storage capacity (either 64GB or 16GB) of the MECOOL KM7, the need to expand internal storage may not be significant, but I decided to test its functionality.
To explore this, I enabled Developer Options by navigating to Settings / Device Preferences / About / and tapping the Build menu item seven times. Subsequently, I accessed Developer options and activated “Force allow apps on external storage.”
Upon inserting a 256GB SandDisk 3.0 USB Drive into the unit and formatting it as internal storage, I confirmed that it functioned seamlessly, akin to the experience on the NVIDIA Shield.
All subsequently installed applications will now be stored on the USB drive. Users have the flexibility to manage app storage locations by moving them between the USB drive and internal storage via the settings of individual applications.
A similar feature can be achieved with the Fire TV Stick 4K, although the process is less streamlined.
In the Apps section of the Settings panel, users can specify whether apps should run from internal or external storage. Typically, resource-intensive apps like a VPN or Kodi are run from internal storage.
Netflix & Amazon Prime Video
Most generic Android TV Boxes lack support for HD video streaming on platforms like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video.
“`Amazon Prime Video functions in full HD on the MECOOL KM7 Android TV Box. However, it does not support Netflix playback in HD. The device includes a Netflix app, but it may not provide an optimal viewing experience for Netflix users. Avoid purchasing the KM7 if you heavily rely on Netflix.
If you’re a regular Netflix viewer, this Android TV Box may not be the ideal choice for you.
Use coupon code TROYPOINT at checkout for a 10% discount.
MECOOL KM7 Official Website & Purchasing Options
MECOOL KM7 Remote Control
The quality of the remote control is crucial for these streaming devices. While unboxing the MECOOL KM7, I was impressed by the Google/Android TV remote; however, it failed to meet my expectations. My disappointment stems from the noticeable lag after pressing a button on the remote. There seems to be a half-second delay after each button press, affecting the overall user experience.
To confirm this observation, I had my daughter test the remote and compare it to a wireless 2.4Ghz remote I had on my desk. She agreed that the 2.4Ghz remote was more responsive than the KM7 remote. Unfortunately, the 2.4Ghz remote doesn’t fully support Android 11. One positive aspect of the MECOOL KM7 remote is its ability to pair with your television. The Remoter Config app facilitates the connection between the remote control and your TV.
