Want to stream your personal media collection straight to your TV? Or explore an open-source media player with endless customizable add-ons? A Kodi box could be exactly what you need.
Kodi boxes are fully legal devices. For a full explanation of what they are and their legality, check our detailed guide. Once you're ready to buy, the key is finding the right one for your unique setup—because no two users are alike.
With countless Kodi boxes on the market, each suited to different needs, choosing can feel overwhelming. As experts who've tested dozens of streaming devices, we're here to simplify it for you at MakeUseOf.
We've organized recommendations by user type. Skim the sections below to find what matches your experience level.
Just dipping your toes into Kodi? Skip the high-end features—you likely don't need advanced HD audio or AV receiver compatibility yet. Here are two solid starter options.
The Xiaomi Mi Box excels at Android TV apps, running Marshmallow for smooth 4K video playback. What's the difference between 4K and Ultra HD? It includes a Bluetooth voice remote for easy Google searches in your Kodi library and shines in performance benchmarks.
As a dedicated Kodi player, the WeTek Hub offers dynamic sync updates and HD deinterlacing. It stands out with 5GHz Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet, a serial port, and IR extender.
Seasoned Kodi desktop users: Replicate that seamless feel on your TV with a box that boots straight into Kodi—no Android menus required.
The ODROID-C2 is a powerhouse low-cost single-board computer with a quad-core Amlogic processor and Mali GPU, versatile enough for home automation too. Which Smart Hub for Home Automation is Best for You? Install LibreELEC on its eMMC storage for optimal Kodi performance.
The Vero 4K handles 4K playback, HD audio, Bluetooth/Wi-Fi peripherals, and boasts a rare 64-bit ARM architecture with 2GB RAM. Pair it with OSMC Kodi.
For an easy-to-use box that handles everything from apps to Kodi flawlessly, go with the Nvidia Shield.
Long hailed as the Kodi king by enthusiasts, the Shield runs Android apps and Kodi stably. It's nearly plug-and-play—just sideload the SPMC fork from Google Play. Supports 4K on Netflix/Prime and PVR deinterlacing.
Cord-cutters seeking ultimate power? Invest in an Intel NUC for Kodi at its finest.
This range spans budgets and specs. For top-tier performance, opt for 6th-gen Apollo Lake or 7th-gen Kaby Lake models. The NUC7I7BNH packs an i7, Iris Plus 650 GPU, 32GB RAM, HDMI 2.0, and USB-C—but expect $400+.
Budget alternative: NUC6I3SYH at ~$250 with 8GB RAM, four USB 3.0 ports, and HD Graphics 500.
Android TV smart TVs? Kodi's in the Google Play Store for instant setup (unlike iOS). But power limitations mean compromises:
Bottom line: Kodi works on Android smart TVs, but dedicated boxes deliver superior performance.
We've highlighted top picks from six brands, each excelling in its niche. Plenty more exist—MINIX U9, HiMedia Q5, Chromebox? Share your favorites below.
Ready to set up? See our beginner's guide to Kodi.
