How to Identify a Fake Android Box: 10 Warning Signs

As the popularity of streaming TV and movies continues to grow, so does the demand for devices that enable these services. One such device is the Android box, which allows users to watch their favorite shows and movies on their TV.

With so many different brands and models of Android boxes on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. And with prices ranging from $30 to $100, it’s important to make sure you’re not getting ripped off.

In this blog post, we will show you how to identify a fake Android box. We will also provide you with a list of 10 warning signs that should help you avoid being scammed.

What is an Android box? 

 An Android box is an all-in-one entertainment system that runs the Android operating system and enables users to stream content to their TV. An Android box comes with a range of features, including the ability to install apps, browse the web, and access streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. Unlike Smart TVs, which come with their own operating systems and are usually proprietary, Android boxes run on the Android operating system, which allows them to be fully customizable. This makes them a great choice for those who want access to the latest streaming services, but don’t have a Smart TV. However, Android boxes can also be a bit of a minefield, with fake products being sold as genuine ones. To help you avoid being caught out by hoaxers, we have listed 10 warning signs that could indicate your Android box is fake.

9 Warning Signs that Your Android Box is a Fake

1. Price: The price of the Android box is too good to be true. While you can find models for less than $50, if you’re being offered one for well below that price, there’s a good chance it’s a fake.
2. Poor Quality: Fake Android boxes are typically made with inferior components, such as low-quality processors and memory chips, and can be quite slow and buggy.
3. Lack of Documentation: Fake boxes often don’t come with manuals or guides, as manufacturers typically make no effort to document their products.
4. Poor Build Quality: Fake boxes can have shoddy build quality, with parts that don’t fit properly or are incomplete.
5. Fake Apps: Fake boxes usually come with pre-installed apps that are either poorly designed or are pirated versions of legitimate apps.
6. Poor Customer Support: Fake boxes typically don’t come with any customer support, so if you do have an issue with your Android box, it’s unlikely to be resolved.
7. No Brand Name: If there’s no brand name, logo, or identifying markings on your Android box, there’s a good chance it’s fake. But, there are a lot of replicas scattered in the market, even for a well-known brand.
8. No Updates: Fake boxes don’t get firmware updates, so they can become outdated very quickly. This means they can become insecure and are more likely to be vulnerable to viruses and malware.
9. Poorly Written User Interface: Fake boxes typically have a poorly written user interface, making it difficult to access features and settings.
10. No Warranty: Fake boxes don’t come with any kind of warranty, so you can’t rely on the manufacturer to provide support if something goes wrong.

Where to buy a legitimate Android box?

 If you want to make sure you’re getting a genuine Android box, it’s best to buy it from a reputable retailer, so you can be sure you’re getting a legitimate product direct from the manufacturer itself and not source elsewhere like China 1688 or Philippines 168 store. Check online reviews and make sure the Android box is using genuine processors and memory. Make sure that you’re buying the latest version of the Android box, as it will come with the latest software and security updates and must allow OTA(over-the-air) updates. Android boxes that don't allow OTA updates are most likely fake as they are hiding the real specification of the box. Modifying the software, or installing 3rd party android operating systems in the box will reveal the real hardware specification of the unit, as such a fake Android TV Box prevents operating systems modifications.

Q1. How do I know if my Android box is genuine?
A. The best way to make sure your Android box is genuine is to buy it from a reputable retailer. Check reviews and do your research. Know where they source the TV Box, if the item was sourced from 1688/168, you better back off as it's mostly fake. Lack of Warranty is also a major factor, as the retailer itself is not confident of the product.

Q2. Is an Android box better than a Smart TV?
A. That depends on your needs. An Android box is more flexible and customizable than a Smart TV, and it allows you to access more streaming services. However, Smart TVs come with their own operating systems and will typically be easier to use but some Smart TVs come with very limited applications that you can install.

Q3. What is the best Android box?
A. The best Android box for you depends on your needs and budget. You can reach out to us via our contact page if you need some recommendations, our store is always here to assist you.

To wrap things up, it's still up to you if you still want to patronize the fake ones due to a lack of budget(your money, your rule), but investing in a real one will give you much more benefits and free from any frustrations in the long run. Just imagine watching or streaming movies with your family, eating popcorn beside you, and suddenly your TV Box crushes down. You just let your Fake TV box ruin the moment because you bought a ripoff box from 1688/168. These circumstances aren’t inevitable; in fact, you can prevent them from happening firsthand by supporting real and authentic products, and as always if you don't know what to do, we are here to assist you. At MackTech we bring smart things for a smarter you.