If you've been waiting for a really ambitious Android TV box for a while, the Ugoos AM9 It's one of those models that arrives to raise the bar. It relies on the new Amlogic SoC, a good set of ports, Wi-Fi 6, and a firmware with advanced extras that few brands offer as standard. It's not a minimalist stick, but in return, you get a device designed for intensive use in home theaters, gaming, and multimedia management.
In this analysis we tell you in detail its Technical specifications, performance, video and audio compatibility, connectivity, software, and differences compared to direct rivals. We also review several nuances that you'll see in different sheets (such as chip lithography, BT 5.2/5.3 or 4K at 60/75 Hz), so you have the complete and nuanced photo before deciding.
Hardware and design
The heart of the Ugoos AM9 is the Amlogic S905X5, a quad-core processor with Armv9 architecture with cores Cortex‑A510 and GPU Mali-G310. Some sources cite it as Mali‑G310 MP2 or even V2, a sign that there may be variants, but in any case we are looking at a Current iGPU with modern support for decoding next-generation codecs.
Regarding the lithography there is a point to clarify: you will see references to 4 nm and others to 6 nm. Most spec sheets talk about 6 nm (second generation), while some lists mention 4 nm; in any case, the jump compared to previous generations is noticeable in the efficiency and temperatures, with reports of keeping the SoC below ~65°C under sustained loads.
In memory, the AM9 comes with 4GB of LPDDR4X RAM y 64GB eMMC 5.0 storage. It is a capacity much higher than usual in consumer TV boxes (which usually move in 8-16 GB), which allows you to install heavy apps without having to immediately pull out a microSD, although yes it supports expansion via card.
A welcome physical detail is the replaceable external antennas, which help improve coverage in large homes. Regarding the chassis, there are mentions of design metallic with passive cooling and others to a plastic case, which suggests product revisions; in both cases, the focus is on containing noise and maintaining a stable thermal profile.
Video: 4K, HDR and next-generation codecs
In video playback, the Ugoos AM9 aims high: it handles 4K fluently, and according to the consulted records it reaches 60 Hz or even 75 Hz at 10 bits depending on the source. Be that as it may, high dynamic range support is well covered with Dolby Vision, HDR10+ y HLG, ensuring a high-contrast image on compatible panels.
The list of hardware codecs is extensive: decodes H.266/VVC y AV1 natively, in addition to the classics HEVC/H.265, H.264/AVC and VP9. There are also references to AVS2 y AVS3, standards that are increasingly present in certain catalogues. This places the AM9 with a very complete format coverage for the next years.
The video output uses HDMI 2.1b with the latest features: EARC for high-rate audio to AV receivers, VRR y allm to improve the gaming experience and QMS to minimize flickering when changing fps. At the protection level, it is mentioned HDCP 2.2 and 2.3. Some lists show HDMI 2.0 up to 4K@60; this cross-referencing indicates that there are either mixed marketing materials or variations by firmware/editions.
Audio: formats and outputs
If your priority is sound, you can pass tracks with HDMI. Dolby Atmos and DTS‑HD MA to a compatible soundbar or AVR. Additionally, the unit integrates an optical output S / PDIF for those who prefer that route. The presence of eARC adds reliability for uncompressed audio from the TV/receiver in modern configurations.
Beyond codecs and channels, the device supports profiles Advanced HDR and deliver clean bitstream via HDMI or S/PDIF achieves an experience cinematographic also in conventional LED panels, as long as the rest of the chain accompanies it.
Connectivity and ports
This is a differential point compared to sticks: we have three USB 3.0 type A, USB‑C OTG (USB 2.0) which also serves for the power supply 12 V/1,67 A, reader microSD, Exit S / PDIFconnector RJ‑45 Gigabit and the aforementioned HDMI. It is a feature that allows uses of Lightweight NAS, external storage and various peripherals.
In wireless it incorporates Wi ‑ Fi 6 with 2×2 MIMO configuration (up to ~1201 Mb/s) and Bluetooth. Here again there are two notes: you will see specifications with BT 5.2 and others with BT 5.3; in any case, we're talking about modern connectivity with good range thanks to external antennas. The wired network Gigabit It is ideal for heavy streaming without bottlenecks.
- Wi‑Fi 6 ax 2T2R (IEEE 802.11ax) up to ~1201 Mb/s
- Ethernet 10/100/1000 Mb/s (RJ‑45)
- Bluetooth 5.2/5.3 according to the data sheet
- 3 × USB 3.0 + 1× USB‑C OTG
- HDMI 2.1b with eARC, VRR, ALLM, QMS
- Optical S/PDIF output and microSD reader
Software, Android 14 and Ugoos tools
The system runs Android 14 in 64 bits, with access to Google Play and the ability to install APKs. Some tabs refer to a layer Google TV, although what is relevant here is the customization of Ugoos: an advanced settings app that adds level functions “power user”.
Among these utilities are the SAMBA server, customers NFS and CIFS, remote control from the smartphone via server, extended management of HDMI‑CEC, fine control of USB and, very especially, root access with Magisk using a software switch (root switch). This is a very attractive approach for anyone who wants to customize or automate without having to flash.
The manufacturer offers OTA updates, with the option to download the firmware manually from the official website if you prefer to update on your own. The included controller is bluetooth with microphone for Google Assistant and gyroscope mode air mouse, making it easier to navigate apps not designed for traditional remote controls.
AI and video upscaling
One of the new features of the S905X5 is to integrate a 4 TOPS NPU which enables functions such as AI Super ResolutionThis technology applies AI models to improve video sharpness and detail in real time, especially useful in sub-4K content that you want to watch on a 4K TV.
In addition to scaling, the NPU helps with specific system operations and compatible apps. This isn't an accelerator for heavy PC-type AI workloads, but on a TV box the gain in clarity and cleanliness of image It is noticeable in compressed sources and regular streams.
Performance and temperatures
According to reference data, the AM9 exceeds the 40.000 DMIPS and in AnTuTu 10 scores have been seen in the range of 234.789In practice, this translates into fluid interfaces, quick zapping between apps and scope for Android games or emulation, accompanied by the 4 GB of RAM that prevent aggressive closings when multitasking.
In long sessions, the SoC stays below the 65 ° C according to released tests, aided by efficient lithography (6 nm on most chips) and the passive dissipation of the chassis. Compared to compact sticks, it consumes a little more, but compensates with sustained stability and additional ports.
Streaming and DRM compatibility
Although the hardware is powerful, there are the following to consider: DRM and certificationsSeveral sources indicate that it does not have full certificates for payment platforms such as Netflix in 4K. This does not mean that you cannot use the services, but there may be resolution limitations or HDR according to the app.
If your priorities are Plex, Kodi, IPTV and local playback with demanding codecs, the AM9 fits the bill very well. If, on the other hand, your primary use is Netflix/Disney+ 4K with all the badges, a device with official certification It could be more direct, although you would sacrifice ports and system openness.
Advanced connectivity for the digital home
With Ethernet Gigabit and Wi‑Fi 6 2×2, this TV box serves as the hub of an enthusiastic living room: share folders by SAMBA, mounts NFS/CIFS clients, and its trio of USB 3.0 allows you to attach storage and turn it into a Lightweight NAS for copies or media library.
The brand mentions OEM options such as modules LTE 4G or even SSD according to markets and B2B agreements. Although this part is not standard in retail, it gives clues to the manufacturer's professional approach and the modularity that chases
Comparisons with known rivals
In front of Xiaomi TV Box S (3rd Gen), the Ugoos AM9 doubles the RAM (4 GB vs 2 GB) and adds USB 3.0 and Gigabit EthernetIn return, the Xiaomi boasts of streaming certifications more robust for 4K. It depends on whether you value the openness and ports or the DRM-ready seal of approval.
If we look at Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen), Amazon's wins in Wi-Fi 6E and integration with its ecosystem, but falls short in storage (16 GB), sustained power and physical connectivity. The AM9, with 64 GB and its arsenal of ports, offers a serious leap in versatility.
Ports, controls and accessories included
In the box you will find the actual Ugoos AM9 (black color), a HDMI cable, the power cable/charger and a Bluetooth remote with microphone and gyroscope in air mouse mode, plus the user manual. It's a complete pack for start using it right out of the box.
Feeding is done by USB‑C with entrance of 12 V / 1,67 A, an unusual detail in TV boxes and which gives room to feed it with sources with protections and stability higher than the typical 5V.
Technical details and highlighted specifications
In addition to what has already been mentioned, it is worth highlighting some points due to the disparity of chips. Some people list the exit as HDMI 2.0 up to 4K@60, and others like HDMI 2.1b with eARC/VRR/ALLM/QMS; likewise, you'll see BT 5.2 or 5.3. These variations are usually the result of hardware/firmware revisions or pre-launch marketing material.
- CPU: Amlogic S905X5 (Armv9, Cortex‑A510, quad‑core)
- GPU: Mali‑G310 (MP2/V2 mentions on some sheets)
- RAM: 4GB LPDDR4X
- Storage: 64 GB eMMC 5.0, expandable via microSD
- Institutional: 4K at 60–75 Hz according to the data sheet, HDR10+/Dolby Vision/HLG
- Codecs: AV1, H.266/VVC, HEVC/H.265, H.264/AVC, VP9, AVS2/AVS3
- Audio: Atmos and DTS‑HD MA via HDMI; S/PDIF optical output
- Red: Wi-Fi 6 2×2, BT 5.2/5.3, Gigabit Ethernet
- Ports: 3× USB 3.0, 1× USB‑C OTG (power and data), HDMI, S/PDIF
- Software: Android 14, Google Play, OTA, Ugoos app (SAMBA, NFS/CIFS, root, CEC, remote control)
Chromecast, CEC, and ambient control
The team supports chromecast to send content from your mobile and offers management HDMI‑CEC more granular than average. This makes it easier to turn the TV and amplifier on/off, adjust volumes, and synchronize entries with less friction.
If you add the command with air mouse and remote control from your smartphone, you have several ways to interact with the system depending on the type of app. Navigate through interfaces designed for mouse stops being a pain.
Games and emulation
The S905X5 and Mali‑G310 profile allow you to play Android titles with moderate graphics and retro emulation with solvency. Ugoos adds a keymapper to improve touch game controller compatibility, and the functions of VRR and ALLM HDMI helps reduce latency and stuttering on compatible displays.
It doesn't replace a console or a gaming PC, but it does serve to arcades, 16/32 bits and part of the current mobile catalog with smooth performance. The 4GB of RAM and ample storage avoid the bottlenecks typical of basic TV boxes.
Prices, promotions and availability
In international stores it has been seen around 140 USD (approx. €136) and on other platforms around 160 USD (about €156). Some stores list them promo codes to lower the starting price, and it is not uncommon to see forms for report lower prices in order to maintain competitive rates.
As usual, prices vary depending on campaigns and stock. The manufacturer's B2B focus can also influence how quickly certain regions receive units or reviews with small differences in connectivity.
S905X5 SoC and Family Context
El S905X5 debuted publicly in prototypes by SEI Robotics a couple of years ago, but detailed information was slow to emerge. Its prototype is housed alongside the S905X5M, based on Armv8 with Cortex‑A55 cores, which has been seen in boards such as ODROID‑C5 or Ugoos X5M ProThe AM9 benefits from the architecture Armv9 more modern, with its NPU and G310 GPU.
The fact that, to date, there are few commercial devices with this SoC makes the AM9 an interesting proposition for enthusiasts who want test AV1 and VVC with ease, AI scaling and all the benefits of HDMI 2.1b in a single unit.
Clear pros and cons
Among the strong points are the compatibility of next-generation codecs, the set of ports (USB 3.0 and Gigabit Ethernet), the 64GB storage, Android 14 with pro features (SAMBA, NFS/CIFS, root) and a very capable controller for everyday life.
As cons, besides the slightly higher consumption in front of a stick, the lack of full DRM certifications for 4K on certain platforms may be relevant for some users. Also keep in mind the discrepancies of chips (HDMI 2.0 vs 2.1b; BT 5.2 vs 5.3; 4K@60 vs 4K@75) typical of ecosystems in full transition.
Who is the Ugoos AM9 for?
This model fits with users who prioritize versatility and power: Home theater with advanced HDR, heavy local library, light NAS, some gaming/emulation and a taste for tinker and adjust the system. If you're looking for a plug-and-play player exclusively for apps with the highest level of DRM, a certified model may be more straightforward.
If, on the other hand, you value environmental control more, physical ports, the constant Gigabit bandwidth and the possibility of activating root with one click, the AM9 is one of the most interesting in its range.
The Ugoos AM9 combines a Modern SoC (S905X5 with NPU), a full port base, top-notch connectivity, and a firmware with tools that we rarely see outside of this manufacturer. With points to consider such as DRM certifications and certain data discrepancies, it offers an outstanding balance between features, opening and price which makes it a very tempting alternative to the most basic sticks and TV boxes.