Introduction
Android TV boxes have become a staple in many homes, offering a convenient way to stream content, play games, and access a plethora of applications on the big screen. Among the myriad of options available, the Beelink GT1 Ultimate, with its intriguing combination of specifications, once held a prominent position. This device, boasting the capable S912 processor and a generous helping of three gigabytes of RAM, was marketed as a powerhouse for both media consumption and light gaming. However, technology evolves at a rapid pace, and the question arises: in today’s competitive landscape, is the Beelink GT1 Ultimate still a viable contender? This review dives deep into the performance, features, and user experience of this device, focusing on its key components including the central processing unit and ram configuration to provide a comprehensive assessment.
Design and Build Quality
The Beelink GT1 Ultimate presents itself in a compact and understated design. Its form factor is a simple square, a common design choice among many Android TV boxes, which allows it to blend seamlessly into any entertainment setup. The box is primarily constructed from a matte black plastic, which resists fingerprints fairly well, and this contributes to a clean and professional appearance.
The physical ports are strategically located around the device, providing convenient access. You’ll find multiple USB ports for connecting peripherals like external hard drives or game controllers. There’s an Ethernet port for a stable wired network connection, an HDMI port for connecting to your television, and a microSD card slot for expanding the storage capacity. The power input, along with an optical audio output, completes the array of available connectivity options.
In terms of build quality, the Beelink GT1 Ultimate feels reasonably solid. The plastic casing feels sturdy, and the ports appear to be well-secured. The construction feels like it can withstand the rigors of everyday use. Though, it is important to note that the device is not intended to be a ruggedized device. The overall impression is that Beelink prioritized functionality over fancy aesthetics, and that’s a good thing.
Hardware and Performance
At the heart of the Beelink GT1 Ultimate lies the Amlogic S912 processor. This chipset, a significant player in its time, is built around an architecture consisting of eight cores, and it is a significant contributing factor to the performance of the device. The processing power provided by the Amlogic S912 translates into quick loading times for apps and smooth navigation through the user interface.
Complementing the central processing unit, the three gigabytes of DDR4 RAM provides ample memory for multitasking and running demanding applications. This is a notable amount of memory, even by today’s standards, which is usually more than enough to ensure that the device can handle even the most demanding tasks without significant lag.
The internal storage comes with enough memory to get you started. While the precise amount can vary depending on the specific model, it usually provides adequate space for installing applications and storing media files. The inclusion of a microSD card slot further enhances storage flexibility, allowing users to expand their storage capacity with relative ease.
The Beelink GT1 Ultimate boasts a decent array of connectivity options. The Gigabit Ethernet port ensures fast and reliable network connections for streaming high-definition content. For wireless connectivity, it often supports both dual-band Wi-Fi, which enables users to connect to both the two point four GHz and five GHz frequencies. Bluetooth is included to connect devices like wireless headphones or a Bluetooth-enabled keyboard. The USB ports offer versatility for connecting various peripherals and external storage devices.
Performance Tests
To get a better understanding of the raw performance, we can evaluate the device based on specific performance metrics that include the real world experiences and the performance tests. The device excels when it comes to its multimedia capabilities, easily handling high definition video playback. The video content is clear and the frame rates are smooth.
Gaming performance on the device is acceptable, although the capabilities are limited by the power of the graphics processor within the S912. It can play the games without any issues, although demanding, graphically intensive games might require a reduction in graphics settings or a lower resolution to maintain a smooth frame rate.
We would also like to point out that while the device is capable, the user experience may be somewhat constrained by the operating system. This brings us to the next section of the review.
Software and User Experience
The Beelink GT1 Ultimate operates on Android six point zero Marshmallow. It’s crucial to acknowledge the age of this operating system. In today’s world of Android operating systems, it is important to consider whether it has a significant impact on user experience and app compatibility.
The user interface on the Beelink GT1 Ultimate is relatively clean and straightforward. The stock launcher typically presents a customizable home screen with app shortcuts, settings, and content recommendations. Navigation is responsive, and the interface generally feels intuitive to use. There are some minor optimizations that could be performed, but overall, the experience is pleasant.
The Beelink GT1 Ultimate often comes with a selection of pre-installed apps, including media players, streaming services, and other utilities. Users can also install additional applications from the Google Play Store. The flexibility and adaptability of the device means that it can be tailored to fit the individual needs of each user.
The compatibility of this device with modern applications and services is a critical consideration. It is essential to consider whether this device is still compatible with the latest versions of popular streaming services. Although, most streaming platforms are able to run on this device, there may be some limitations due to the age of the operating system.
Regarding over-the-air updates, the update situation can vary. It’s unlikely that the device will receive any major Android updates from Beelink given its age. Users may have to rely on third-party custom ROMs or other software solutions to experience a more modern Android experience.
The device is relatively easy to set up and use, even for those who are not particularly tech-savvy. The user interface is straightforward, and the remote control is relatively intuitive. However, some users may find that the need to sideload apps or troubleshoot compatibility issues detracts from the ease of use.
Streaming Performance
Testing the streaming performance is a key area to evaluate. This will examine the overall streaming performance with the various media streaming services.
The device is typically able to handle high-definition content from the popular streaming services such as Netflix and YouTube. The video playback is generally smooth, and the picture quality is acceptable. However, it is important to consider that, as the device has an older operating system, some modern features, such as support for the latest video codecs or high dynamic range may be unavailable.
The streaming services may require users to install and run the latest versions of the applications. It is also important to consider that some streaming services will only be able to run at a certain quality.
Buffering issues are generally minimal, provided that the internet connection is stable. Video quality is good, though the limitations imposed by the operating system and video codecs must be taken into account. The device provides support for basic audio codecs, providing a basic audio listening experience.
Remote Control
The remote control included with the Beelink GT1 Ultimate is a basic but functional device. It usually includes standard buttons for navigation, volume control, power on and off, and other functions. The remote is generally responsive, and the buttons are well-spaced and easy to press.
It is also important to note that the device may be compatible with other remote options, like air mice or universal remotes. These are all a great upgrade.
Good Points and Drawbacks
Good Points
The Beelink GT1 Ultimate has several positive aspects. It delivers decent performance for the price, particularly when considering its past value. The 3GB of RAM contributes to smooth multitasking and a responsive user experience. The device boasts good media playback capabilities, easily handling high-definition video and streaming content. The design is compact and unobtrusive, fitting in easily with any home entertainment setup. The price point, even today, might make it attractive for those on a budget.
Drawbacks
Several drawbacks need to be considered. The most significant is the operating system. The device runs on Android six point zero, which is considerably outdated and lacks support for the latest features and security updates. Some applications might be incompatible, and users might miss out on the latest features and optimizations. Furthermore, the video playback capabilities may have limitations.
Comparison
Comparing the Beelink GT1 Ultimate to other Android TV boxes in its price range is essential to understand its position in the current market. When the device was new, it was a strong contender, offering impressive performance for its price. While some of its original rivals have been discontinued, it’s useful to consider the specifications of newer entry-level devices to provide context for this review. The presence of the older operating system is a strong disadvantage when compared to newer, more affordable options that provide updated features and more recent security updates.
Conclusion
The Beelink GT1 Ultimate, even after all this time, remains a functional device. The S912 processor combined with the generous three gigabytes of RAM offers a solid performance. For basic streaming and media playback, it performs well. However, the key drawback lies in its operating system. The outdated Android Marshmallow can lead to compatibility issues with newer apps and potentially compromises security. The lack of updates is a significant factor to consider.
Recommendation
The Beelink GT1 Ultimate may still be an option for someone who is looking for a simple device to stream content and does not require all the latest features. However, the risk of app incompatibility and lack of future support need to be taken into account. If you want the latest Android experience, enhanced security, and more extensive app support, it may be a better option to consider a more modern device.
Final Rating
Given the age of the device, and the ever-changing landscape of technology, the Beelink GT1 Ultimate may not be the best choice. It is suitable for basic use, though. While the hardware is still relatively capable, the software limitations restrict the experience, which is why this device is recommended with a few caveats.
This device rates a 3 out of 5 stars.
Final words
The Beelink GT1 Ultimate was a fine product in its time. But with the rapid advancements in technology, the device has failed to adapt to the changes that have occurred. There are better options available, even in the low-priced segment of the market.
