Originally published at: Ugoos AM9 64bit Android Box Review - Powerful Video Up-scaling
The Ugoos AM9 is a high-end Android Box released in July of 2025, powered by the Amlogic S905X5 CPU. It’s designed for 4K streaming, media playback, and light gaming, with a focus on advanced codec support and AI enhancements. It runs a stock Android 14 AOSP build (not certified Android TV), includes Google Play Store…
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Many thanks for your comprehensive review, especially your explanation of the upscaling process and how this device’s O/S differs from Android TV. The AM9 is more of an”empty cupboard” that you can freely load up with your preferred open source apps. The thing is, once people go through the process of setting these devices up, installing their apps, and picking a customized homescreen launcher, there is very little difference in operation compared with Android TV. One other thing, there is a reseller from Delaware on Amazon that is selling the AM9 with an $18 discount coupon, which brings the price down to $162.
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The only app I downloaded from the Play Store was Downloader. After that the TP Toolbox and Aptoid took over.
I think many new to AOSP are scared of messing up changing the launcher, but Ugoos having a built-in selector makes it almost error proof.
Ugoos boxes keep getting better and better.
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Troy, thank you so very much for the great review on this box. Since I am strictly a streamer, this unit is probably the best choice out there right now for my needs. Being an ASOP system would make it future-ready if Google does lock down various side-loading operations. And with 64mb of memory I would be able to load both Kodi and Stremio for maximum streamability! It’s kind of a bummer that it doesn’t support Dolby Vision since I recently bought a DV ready TV. But I’m having troubles with buffing when streaming DV. (Of course this is an issue for another thread).
My only concern is actual US based support. It appears that both Buzz TV and Formular have an actual US based support group. Even though my Shield Pro has never required a need for customer support, it’s been comforting to know that Nvidia is there for support.
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Ugoos has online support and good response in providing firmware updates when needed. In the android settings they also have a bug report option.
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Nice review and this looks like a good option if Google becomes a bad actor. But for now I love my ONN 4K Pro
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Recently I purchased on AliExpress the Ugoos X4Q Extra for less than $100. Installed Tivimate and Projectivy and the device is excellent and works great. I’ll wait a few years if I choose to upgrade.
Hi, Im going to be in the market for a new box soon, can/has anyone done a comparison between the AM9 and the SK1. tHANKS.
I have both devices. Both are excellent but the AM9 has the newer S905X5 chip and the AI and Amlogic upscaling is better, resulting in a clearer, higher resolution picture on lower resolution videos.
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Well,taken the plunge & ordered the AM9.
Where is the best place for advice re setting up/using the box ? Cheers.
This is a start.>
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PM me if any questions or issues arise.
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Something I forgot to ask (ive not seen mentioned) which might be beneficial for people to know - does the AM9 come with a dedicated app from ugoos for recording from live tv eg like I have on my existing Buzz box. Not a dealbreaker obviously ( Tivimate etc) but can be useful.
Thanks.
No app for IPTV preinstalled
Troy in his Ugoos AM9 Android Box First Impressions Video installed Tivimate
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Hi all, I have just ordered the AM9 to replace firestick.
I noted it can handle an external SSD of up to 2.5tb, I am just wondering if anyone has used a larger drive, I am not a tec person so wondering why the limit is 2.5tb drive.
I noticed it has 3 x USB 3 ports, so is it possible to plug in 3 x 2.5tb SSD
Many thanks to all for advice
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I feel like my IPTV buffers way less and my Stremio rarely gets “death kitty” now with my AM9 vs. my old tired, antiquated, sluggish Fire TV Cube 2nd generation. Will the AM9 truly lessen buffering and eliminate so many death kitties on Stremio? Thanks.
I have noticed the AM9 is very trouble free also.
Probably just the fresh OS install instead of one that has been updated over time and had apps installed and uninstalled but it could be the Android 14.
I like Android 14, even though it gets criticism. For my use, it is completely trouble free and fast.
Well, despite extreme recent Vet bills($1k)
and a new dental bill ($1k) I pulled the trigger on the AM9. Amazon listed it with a $27 off coupon so I pulled the trigger. It should be arriving today and I am looking forward to it, since I am still smarting from the unexpected bills just before the holidays.
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The AM9 is pretty much “bare cupboard” when you get it. After getting what you need for apps off Google PlayStore and Troypoint, I would suggest getting the IBO Pro Player off the PlayStore to try it out with your iptv service. If you like it, a lifetime subscription after a 7 day trial is only $12 USD.
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