The new TV BOX A95X MAX II is a continuation of the legendary A95X MAX (S905X2) set-top box. However, the second version only differs by an improved performance processor. Comparing both versions, the new device is more responsive in interface operation and faster at playing video content. But due to the increased power of the chip, another issue has arisen. But let’s go through everything in order.
TV-BOX A95X MAX II – overview of specifications
| Manufacturer | Vontar |
| Chip | Amlogic S905X3 |
| Processor | 4x ARM Cortex-A55 (up to 1.9 GHz), 12nm process |
| Video adapter | Mali-G31 MP2 (650 MHz, 6 cores) |
| RAM | 4 GB (DDR4, 3200 MHz) |
| Flash memory | 64 GB (eMMC Flash) |
| Storage expansion | Yes, SSD and microSD |
| Operating system | Android 9.0 |
| Wired network | Yes, RJ-45 (1 Gbps) |
| Wireless network | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac 2.4GHz/5GHz (2×2 MIMO) |
| Bluetooth | Yes, version 4.2 |
| Interfaces | 3x USB 3.0, 1x USB 2.0, HDMI 2.1, AV-out, SPDIF, RJ-45, DC |
| Removable storage | SSD or HDD up to 4 TB, microSD up to 32 GB |
| Root access | No, but can be flashed |
| Digital panel | Yes |
| External antennas | No |
| Remote control | IR, voice control |
| Price | $80-100 |
The initial impression before unboxing was tolerable – this is a mid-2020 set-top box. They took an old model, installed a new chip, and put it up for sale at a higher price. But one detail was overlooked. The more powerful processor has increased heat dissipation.
Disassembling and comparing two different versions revealed that the heatsink remained the same. This indicates that the TV BOX A95X MAX II was assembled hastily and did not undergo laboratory testing. Although, this process takes only 10-15 minutes. The company’s priority seems to be making money rather than device performance. This is enough for many buyers to draw their own conclusions.
Review of TV BOX A95X MAX II – unboxing
The device arrived from China in a crumpled box. Clearly, this is the fault of the delivery service. But, for example, Ugoos or Beelink devices always arrive in perfect packaging. It could be blamed on the seller. However, there are plenty of complaints about this on other shopping platforms. Fortunately, inside one box, we found another package. When removing the A95X MAX II, we saw that the device was intact and undamaged.
The package contents are standard: the TV box, HDMI cable (no name, 1 meter), power supply, and remote control. One of the pleasant aspects is the remote control itself, which comes with an easy-to-follow manual on how to program it. The box with the device did not include batteries for the remote, but that’s a minor detail.
The TV BOX A95X MAX II itself is well-made. Looks inexpensive, but nothing creaks, and the edges of removable components are free of visual defects. The device does not appear bulky, as it might seem in store photos. The presence of ventilation holes on the bottom of the device was very pleasing. A powerful chip requires proper cooling.
TV BOX A95X MAX II – poor cooling implementation
Despite everything seeming fine, there is one point of dissatisfaction. After removing the top cover, we saw a compartment for installing a 2.5 mm disk. The bottom has ventilation holes, and near the edges of the device, there are ribbed ventilation slits. The problem is as follows:
- The basket is made of plastic and painted yellow (mimicking copper).
- Closing the top cover completely blocks airflow through the basket.
- The ribs (supposedly for ventilation) on the front panel are decorative.
- It’s better not to remove the basket – underneath, you will see the chip with a glued foil radiator.
It’s simply unclear what the manufacturer expects to earn $100 for. For a piece of plastic that could potentially overheat the system under prolonged load. It’s a pity that there are no alternatives in this price segment. The company Vontar definitely takes advantage of this. The nearest decent competitor at a similar price is Zidoo Z9S for $150.
Set-top box A95X MAX II – system performance
The device demonstrated very interesting results in operation. Even more – excellent for its modest technical specifications:
- Gigabit LAN port operates at its maximum capacity – up to 950 Mbps in both directions.
- Wi-Fi 4 GHz provides over 60 Mbps, while 5.8 GHz shows up to 300 Mbps in both directions. This is normal for DLNA networks and similar tasks.
- The TV BOX A95X MAX II has a genuine SATA 3 controller, which shows nominal values. But with microSD cards, something is unclear, possibly due to outdated storage standards.
- The set-top box (out of the box) plays 4K videos from a hard drive, USB flash drives, torrents, and network NAS without issues. However, it doesn’t stream more than 720p on Netflix.
- Additionally, it handles all dynamic games well. It heats up to 82°C, throttles (core frequency drops to 1 GHz), but does not shut down randomly.
How to improve the TV box A95X MAX II
The most important point for A95X owners is to avoid updating the device after connecting to the internet. The new firmware removes support for 5.1 sound and many necessary codecs. Most likely, the modules installed from the factory are unlicensed. The manufacturer may want to block them remotely. But firmware rollback is always possible. You can also upgrade the TV BOX A95X MAX II to maximize its potential:
- Hardware upgrade. Replace the heatsink – preferably with a copper one. You can take it from an old graphics card, for example. The goal of the upgrade is to improve heat dissipation. You can also make heat pipes from wire or foil and extend them outside the case. Ugly, but the throttling will disappear forever.
- Software upgrade. Install an alternative firmware with ROOT rights. This will give full access to the system. Not only Auto Frame Rate, but the device can also function as a Samba server or NAS. In simple terms, a firmware upgrade can turn a $100 gadget into a device worth $200-300.
In conclusion about the A95X MAX II set-top box review
If the buyer does not plan to modify the device themselves and wants a good set-top box, the TV BOX A95X MAX II is a poor choice. For a decent device with a 2.5-inch disk, add $50 and buy Zidoo Z9S. It’s the best mid-range solution.
If you want an inexpensive gadget and are willing to upgrade it, the A95X MAX II will be an excellent project for a DIY enthusiast. You will need to consider proper cooling and study forums to install alternative firmware.
