And once again, a product from the Mecool brand has appeared on the TV box market. This time, the manufacturer offers a cut-down version of the famous KM1 console. The Mecool KM1 Classic TV Box falls into the mid-price segment, but in terms of functionality and performance, it can outdo even more expensive counterparts. But let’s take it step by step.
Mecool KM1 Classic TV Box: Specifications
| Chipset | Amlogic S905X3 |
| Processor | 4x Cortex-A55, up to 1.9 GHz |
| Graphics Adapter | ARM Mali-G31MP |
| RAM | DDR3, 2 GB, 1800 MHz |
| Internal Storage | EMMC Flash 16 GB |
| Storage Expansion | Yes |
| Memory Card Support | up to 32 GB (SD) |
| Wired Network | Yes, 100 Mbps |
| Wireless Network | Wi-Fi 2.4/5 GHz |
| Bluetooth | Yes, version 4.2 |
| Operating System | Android 9.0 |
| Update Support | Yes |
| Interfaces | HDMI, RJ-45, 1x USB 2.0, 1x USB 3.0, AV, DC |
| External Antennas | No |
| Digital Panel | No |
| Price | $55-60 |
The typical technical specifications for a budget Chinese device – says the buyer. But don’t jump to premature conclusions, as the TV box is not as simple as it seems. The manufacturer has worked very well on both the hardware and software parts of the gadget. And there is something to be surprised about.
Appearance and Connection Interfaces
A small, non-standard box looks funny even in a child’s hands, but even here, the manufacturer managed to achieve some perfection. It is evident that designers worked on creating the console. This concerns high-quality plastic, assembly, and even connectors.
The only drawbacks can be attributed to the lack of a digital output for SPDIF sound. Fortunately, HDMI can transmit 5-channel sound to audio equipment. Also, the old wired RJ-45 interface at 100 Mbps can be mentioned. But users will not encounter problems in operation, as everything is considered and resolved through wireless connectivity.
Mecool KM1 Classic TV Box: Network Capabilities
The most pleasant aspect of the console is the operation of wireless interfaces. Both standards – 2.4 and 5 GHz. After testing, the need for wired internet disappeared, as wireless transmission is much faster.
| Mecool KM1 Classic | ||
| Download, Mbps | Upload, Mbps | |
| LAN 100 Mbps | 85 | 90 |
| Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz | 80 | 80 |
| Wi-Fi 5 GHz | 250 | 260 |
Moreover, Wi-Fi at 2.4 GHz, with expensive semi-professional routers, such as Cisco, delivers data transfer speeds of 240/270 Mbps. But these are exceptions, considering most users have budget routers.
Performance of the Mecool KM1 Classic Console
It may seem that 2/16 is a cut-down version of the TV box with 4/64 GB. But considering Android 9.0’s feature to automatically unload junk from RAM (with 2 GB), performance significantly improves. And this is noticeable in all multimedia applications and games.
The console quickly and smoothly plays videos from external storage and from the internet (IPTV and torrents). It can handle files of 50-80 GB without delays. This is pleasing. No delays are expected in games either. Connecting a gamepad allows you to immerse yourself in the storyline of your favorite game. The Mecool KM1 Classic TV Box even runs PUBG.
If we talk about drawbacks, the first flaw can be the absence of Root rights. Due to this, it is impossible to install some applications for fine-tuning and detailed temperature monitoring of the chipset. The console lacks auto frame rate. That is, when playing 4K@60 movies, you will need to manually set the desired playback frequency in the TV settings. If the user does not want to bother with this, it is better to set 24 Hz immediately or buy another console.
