Airtel has stepped up its digital ecosystem with the Smart Router Android TV Box—a fusion of a dual-band router and Android TV streaming device in one chassis. Designed for users who want both seamless connectivity and OTT/live TV access, this box attempts to replace multiple devices in your living room setup.
But is it truly a game-changer, or just another smart box in disguise? Let’s break it down from a technical perspective.
Core Hardware Specifications
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor (CPU) | Quad-core MediaTek 1.4 GHz (efficient for multitasking) |
| GPU | Mali-class GPU (handles 4K decode with moderate load) |
| RAM | 2GB DDR3 (good for streaming + multitasking, but not future-proof) |
| Storage | 8GB eMMC (4.7GB usable; expandable via USB/OTG) |
| OS | Android TV 10 (customized Airtel Xstream UI) |
| Networking | Built-in router with dual-band Wi-Fi + LAN port |
| Video Output | 4K @ 60fps (HDR10 support; SDR content sometimes oversaturated) |
| Audio | Dolby Digital & DTS passthrough supported |
Performance Benchmarks
- Boot Time: < 20 seconds — significantly faster than most Android TV competitors.
- UI Fluidity: Near-zero frame drops while navigating apps or switching between DTH and OTT.
- Streaming Quality:
- 4K playback supported, but some OTT apps default to 1080p, limiting resolution.
- YouTube runs at native 4K without issue.
- Voice Assistant: Airtel’s custom remote integrates Google Assistant with high recognition accuracy.
Pros & Cons for Power Users
Pros
- Dual functionality: router + Android TV box in one device.
- Reliable multitasking—installing apps while streaming 4K works smoothly.
- Voice command response is fast and accurate.
- Compact form factor, easy to set up.
Cons
- Limited onboard storage (8GB) restricts heavy app/game installations.
- HDR processing sometimes oversaturates SDR content.
- OTT platforms like Netflix/Prime Video cap at 1080p, not true 4K.
- DTH recharge is often mandatory for full feature unlock.
How It Compares to Competitors
- Vs. Mi Box S (Android TV 9): Airtel’s box wins on multitasking and router integration, but Mi Box delivers more consistent 4K playback across OTT apps.
- Vs. Fire TV Stick 4K Max: Fire Stick has better OTT app support and 4K optimization, but no router features. Airtel’s hybrid nature makes it unique.
- Vs. Jio Set-Top Box: Jio’s offering is more locked to its ecosystem. Airtel provides a more open Android TV experience.
Ideal Use Cases
- For heavy streamers: Perfect if you combine DTH + OTT and want a clutter-free setup.
- For smart home enthusiasts: Works seamlessly with Google Assistant and voice search.
- For data-hungry households: Built-in router ensures steady connectivity for both streaming and browsing.
Not ideal for purists who demand consistent native 4K across all platforms.
Airtel Smart Router Android TV Box vs Competitors
| Feature / Device | Airtel Smart Router Android TV Box | Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max | Mi Box S (Android TV) | Jio Set-Top Box |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android TV 10 (custom Airtel UI) | Fire OS (based on Android) | Android TV 9 | Android TV (locked UI) |
| CPU / GPU | Quad-core 1.4GHz / Mali GPU | Quad-core 1.8GHz / IMG GE8300 | Quad-core 2.0GHz / Mali | Quad-core 1.6GHz |
| RAM / Storage | 2GB / 8GB (4.7GB usable) | 2GB / 8GB | 2GB / 8GB | 2GB / 8GB |
| Networking | Dual-band Wi-Fi + Built-in Router + LAN | Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 | Dual-band Wi-Fi | Dual-band Wi-Fi + LAN |
| Video Output | 4K @ 60fps (HDR10, SDR oversaturation) | 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, HDR10+ | 4K HDR10 | 4K HDR10 |
| OTT Support | Netflix (1080p cap), Prime (1080p), YouTube 4K | Full 4K support across major OTT apps | Full 4K support | Limited OTT integration |
| Voice Control | Google Assistant (fast + accurate) | Alexa Voice Remote | Google Assistant | Google Assistant |
| Boot Time | < 20s (very fast) | ~30s | ~25s | ~28s |
| Extra Features | Router + TV box hybrid | Superior OTT app ecosystem | Affordable entry-level device | Bundled with Jio services |
| Price Point (Approx) | Mid-range | Mid-range | Budget-friendly | Budget-friendly (often bundled) |
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
The Airtel Smart Router Android TV Box is a solid all-in-one solution that merges internet + entertainment into one device. Its performance is snappy, the dual-use design saves space, and the voice assistant integration is top-tier.
However, if true 4K OTT streaming is your dealbreaker, you may want to look at alternatives like the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro or Fire TV Stick 4K Max.
👉 For most users, especially those tied to Airtel DTH, this box strikes a strong balance between convenience and performance.