Formuler Z10 Streaming Media Player review featuring Android 10 and bonus accessories

Description

Sleek Design and Compact Build

The Formuler Z10 Android 10 streaming device is surprisingly sleek for what it packs inside. It’s about the size of a coaster, measuring 3.7 x 3.7 x 0.63 inches, and its black finish is understated yet modern. I found its compact size incredibly practical, especially when setting it up in my already-crowded entertainment unit. It doesn’t scream for attention, but it also doesn’t feel cheap. The minimalist design blends seamlessly with other gadgets, and the small footprint makes it portable if you’re someone who likes versatility.

The inclusion of an extra magnetic car mount is a curious but thoughtful addition. While I didn’t imagine using a streaming box in my car, I could see how someone on the go, like a frequent traveler, might appreciate this. The mount feels sturdy, and the magnet is strong enough to hold the device in place.

Performance That Impresses

This streaming box punches above its weight with its 2GB DDR RAM and 8GB eMMC storage. It runs on Android 10, which makes navigation smooth and intuitive. I tested several apps, switching between streaming platforms, and didn’t experience any lag. The 4K output resolution is a massive win. Shows and movies streamed in 4K looked stunning on my TV, with vibrant colors and crisp details.

What truly stood out to me was the dual-band 2×2 AC WiFi. In my home, where every gadget seems to fight for bandwidth, this device held its own. Streaming over 5G WiFi was seamless, and even on Ethernet, it maintained stable speeds. The device also features BT 5.0, which allowed me to pair it with my wireless headphones for late-night binge-watching sessions.

Bonus Accessories Add Value

One of the key benefits of this product is the inclusion of the extra air remote keyboard with backlight. This little gadget is a game-changer. Typing out search queries on a standard remote is usually a pain, but with this keyboard, the process became far less tedious. The backlit feature is particularly helpful during nighttime use, and it feels well-built with responsive keys.

The box also comes with an HDMI cable, a practical addition that ensures you’re ready to go straight out of the box. Little things like this save you from running around for accessories.

• Compact design that’s perfect for tight spaces or portability.
• 4K resolution ensures stunning visuals.
• Dual-band WiFi provides stable and fast streaming.
• Air remote keyboard adds convenience and functionality.

Areas for Improvement

While the Formuler Z10 delivers on many fronts, there are some shortcomings worth noting. The storage capacity, for instance, is limited to 8GB. If you’re someone who downloads apps frequently, you might find yourself running out of space quickly. Expanding storage via USB is possible, but it feels like a workaround.

Another issue is the 100M Ethernet port, which feels a bit outdated considering that many streaming devices now support gigabit Ethernet. For most home users, this might not be a dealbreaker, but it’s worth mentioning for those with ultra-high-speed internet.

The remote control that comes with the device, aside from the air remote keyboard, feels a bit clunky. It works fine for basic navigation, but the build quality doesn’t match the sleekness of the main unit.

• Limited onboard storage can be restrictive for heavy users.
• Ethernet port isn’t gigabit, which may bottleneck speeds for some.
• Standard remote could use a design upgrade.

Competing Products

Comparing the Formuler Z10 to other streaming devices like the NVIDIA Shield TV and the Amazon Fire TV Cube, I noticed both strengths and weaknesses. The Shield TV is a powerhouse with more storage and better processing power, but it’s significantly more expensive. If you’re not gaming or using heavy apps, the Z10 delivers similar streaming performance at a fraction of the cost.

The Fire TV Cube, on the other hand, has Alexa integration and arguably a more user-friendly ecosystem. However, it doesn’t come with extras like the air remote keyboard or the magnetic car mount, both of which add a level of versatility that competitors lack. In terms of 4K streaming, the Z10 holds its ground well, producing visuals on par with these more established names.

Value for Money

For those who don’t want to break the bank but still demand a feature-packed streaming device, this product offers affordable quality. The inclusion of extras like the air remote keyboard and magnetic car mount makes the package feel thoughtful and complete. While it may not have the raw power or ultra-modern features of more expensive rivals, it’s a solid choice for everyday streaming needs.

If you’re looking for a reliable and functional device with excellent 4K capabilities, stable dual-band WiFi, and thoughtful accessories, this one’s worth considering. It’s not perfect, but it’s hard to beat in terms of price-to-quality ratio.

Additional information