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

Description

Sleek Design and Compact Build

The Formuler Z11 Pro immediately caught my eye with its sleek black finish and compact form factor. It’s lightweight at just 1.72 pounds, which makes it easy to move around or even mount in tight spaces. Measuring 8 x 6 x 2 inches, it fits effortlessly on my entertainment unit without taking up much room. The inclusion of a bonus car mount was a pleasant surprise; I tried mounting the device in the car during a long road trip, and it stayed securely in place. The design feels modern but understated, blending well with other tech gadgets in my home setup. While the premium IR1 remote control has a sturdy build and ergonomic layout, I did find myself wishing it had backlit buttons for easier operation in low-light settings.

Performance That Delivers on Promises

I tested the 4K streaming capabilities extensively, and the results were impressive. The 3840 x 2160 resolution delivered crisp, vibrant visuals when streaming movies and shows. I paired it with my 5G Wi-Fi, and the dual-band 2×2 antenna ensured smooth streaming without buffering, even during peak internet usage. The Gigabit LAN 1000M connectivity is a fantastic feature, especially for those who prefer wired internet for a stable and fast connection. However, the 2GB RAM felt slightly limiting when multitasking between apps. For streaming alone, it works flawlessly, but more demanding tasks occasionally caused minor delays.

User-Friendly Interface and Android 11

Navigating through the Android 11 interface was straightforward, and it felt intuitive for someone like me who’s used to Android-based devices. The variety of apps available was a highlight, and the 16GB storage provided sufficient room for downloading my favorite streaming apps and some games. I particularly appreciated the quick setup guide, which made installation a breeze. That said, the lack of a headphone jack was a minor inconvenience, especially during late-night viewing sessions. I had to rely on Bluetooth headphones, which worked seamlessly thanks to the wireless connectivity, but having the option for wired headphones would have been nice.

Key Benefits

• 4K resolution support ensures stunning picture quality.
• Dual-band 5G connectivity minimizes buffering during streaming.
• Comes with valuable extras like a 3-color Dreamlink keyboard, enhancing usability.
• The compact design fits seamlessly into most setups.

Areas for Improvement

• 2GB of RAM feels underwhelming for heavy multitaskers.
• No headphone jack, which might bother some users.
• The remote control could use backlit buttons for convenience in dark environments.

Competitive Options

I also tested a few competitors, such as the Nvidia Shield TV and Amazon Fire TV Cube. The Nvidia Shield TV outperformed the Formuler Z11 Pro in terms of raw power, thanks to its higher RAM and faster processor, but it comes at a significantly higher price point. The Amazon Fire TV Cube impressed me with its voice control capabilities and integration with Alexa, but its user interface felt cluttered compared to the clean layout of Android 11 on this device. While both alternatives have their merits, the Formuler Z11 Pro strikes a great balance between performance and affordability, especially with its bonus accessories like the keyboard and charger.

Quality for Price

Considering its features, the Formuler Z11 Pro offers great value for money. The bonuses like the car mount, 3-in-1 charger, and keyboard add to its appeal without inflating the cost. While it might not be the most powerful media player on the market, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-packed streaming device without breaking the bank.

Additional information