Formuler Z11 Pro 4K Streaming Media Player review with Android 11 and bonus accessories

Description

First Impressions and Design

Upon unboxing the Formuler Z11 Pro 4K Android 11 device, I immediately noticed its sleek black slate form factor. It’s compact and lightweight, weighing just 1.72 pounds, making it incredibly easy to integrate into any entertainment setup. The 8 x 6 x 2-inch dimensions make it unobtrusive, and I could easily tuck it into my TV console without it looking out of place. The package includes all essentials: the main unit, HDMI cable, power adapter, and even a remote control extender, which is a thoughtful addition for those with more concealed configurations.

One small but appreciated touch is the inclusion of the Dreamlink 3-color keyboard. This keyboard is not just functional but also adds a splash of fun with its color options. Additionally, the bonus car mount and 3-in-one charger were unexpected yet welcome inclusions, though I found those slightly unrelated to the core purpose of the product.

Performance and Features

The performance of this streaming media player blew me away. Running Android 11, the interface felt modern and snappy. With 2GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage, the device handled multitasking and app installations without a hitch. Streaming in 4K resolution (3840 x 2160) was smooth, and the colors were vibrant on my screen. I tested it with various streaming apps, and it handled everything from HD to UHD content seamlessly.

Another standout feature is the dual-band 5G Gigabit LAN connectivity. The inclusion of a 6th generation AX wireless antenna ensures stable and fast internet speeds even in congested networks. I’ve had my fair share of buffering issues with older devices, but this one delivered a lag-free streaming experience consistently. The 2×2 dual antennas seem to make all the difference, especially if you’re streaming from rooms farther away from the router.

Highlights

• 4K Streaming Quality: The visuals are stunning, and the device seamlessly handles high-resolution content.
• Stable Connectivity: The dual-band 5G wireless feature ensures uninterrupted streaming.
• Compact Design: Its small size and lightweight build make it ideal for any setup.
• Bonus Accessories: The included keyboard, car mount, and charger are fantastic extras that add value.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its impressive performance, there are a couple of shortcomings I noticed during usage:

• The 2GB RAM might feel limiting if you’re a heavy multitasker or plan to use resource-intensive apps.
• It lacks a headphone jack, so private listening isn’t an option unless you connect Bluetooth headphones or use a workaround.
• No USB-C support was a bit surprising, considering how common it’s become for modern devices, and it would’ve been a nice touch for faster data transfer.

Competing Products

Comparing the Formuler Z11 Pro to its direct competitors like the Nvidia Shield TV and Amazon Fire TV Cube, a few things stand out. The Nvidia Shield TV offers more RAM and a dedicated GPU, making it better suited for gaming enthusiasts. However, it’s also significantly pricier. The Amazon Fire TV Cube, on the other hand, integrates Alexa functionality seamlessly, which might appeal to users heavily invested in the Amazon ecosystem.

Where the Z11 Pro shines is in its value-packed extras and streaming reliability. While it doesn’t have the gaming horsepower of the Shield TV or the voice integration of the Fire TV Cube, it delivers a stable 4K media experience and bonus accessories that many competitors simply don’t offer.

Value for Money

In terms of price to quality ratio, the Formuler Z11 Pro offers incredible value. It’s not the cheapest streaming device out there, but it justifies its cost with impressive performance, a comprehensive accessory bundle, and modern connectivity features. The inclusion of extras like the Dreamlink keyboard and car mount adds a layer of versatility that’s hard to find in similar products.

For users who prioritize smooth streaming, future-proof connectivity, and a user-friendly interface, this device ticks all the right boxes. It may not be the ultimate powerhouse for gamers or those seeking advanced smart assistant capabilities, but it excels in delivering a premium streaming experience without breaking the bank.

Additional information