Description

Compact Design and Build Quality

The Formuler Z10 SE Android 10 is a compact and lightweight streaming box, and I immediately appreciated its simplicity in design. Measuring just 88mm in length and 16mm in thickness, it doesn’t take up much space on my TV stand. It’s sleek, black, and understated, blending seamlessly with other electronics. The build quality feels sturdy, despite its small size. I liked how the device doesn’t scream for attention but still manages to look modern. However, I did notice that the lack of physical buttons could be a downside for some, as everything relies on the remote.

The ports are neatly placed, and with just one USB 2.0, HDMI, and LAN input, it keeps things minimal. While this simplicity is appealing, I found myself wishing for an additional USB port for more flexibility. The power input is straightforward, and the setup was as easy as plugging it in and connecting it to my TV.

Performance and Streaming Capabilities

This streaming box handles 4K resolution at 60fps effortlessly, and the inclusion of HDR 10 support made the viewing experience incredibly vivid. I tested it with a mix of streaming apps, and the colors popped beautifully on my screen. The 2GB DDR RAM combined with the ARM G31 MP2 GPU ensures smooth performance. I streamed high-definition content without any buffering issues, even when fast-forwarding or rewinding.

However, the internal 4GB eMMC storage feels limiting. While it’s sufficient for running apps, downloading larger apps or saving offline content quickly eats up the space. It’s something worth considering if you’re a heavy user. The Android 10 operating system is intuitive and responsive, and I appreciated the clean interface compared to some overly complicated competitors.

Key Benefits

Supports 4K resolution with HDR10, delivering crisp and vibrant visuals.
Compact and lightweight design, ideal for small spaces.
Android 10 OS offers an intuitive and user-friendly interface.
Stable performance with 2GB RAM, ensuring smooth streaming.

Single-Band Wireless and Connectivity

The single-band 2.4GHz WiFi connectivity felt a little outdated, especially in a world where dual-band WiFi is pretty standard. I noticed slight connectivity hiccups when streaming in areas farther from my router. That said, the Ethernet 10/100M port saved the day for me. Once I connected the device directly via LAN, the streaming was rock-solid with no interruptions.

Considering the importance of reliable internet for 4K streaming, this could be a deal-breaker for users who rely solely on WiFi. The lack of 5GHz WiFi support was disappointing, as it could have significantly improved wireless performance.

Adverse Aspects

Limited to single-band 2.4GHz WiFi, which could affect streaming in some scenarios.
Internal 4GB storage feels insufficient for heavy users.
Lack of additional USB ports limits peripheral connectivity.

User Experience and Remote Control

The included remote control is simple and functional, though it doesn’t offer anything groundbreaking. It’s lightweight and fits comfortably in hand, but I did find the button layout to be a bit cramped. The response time when navigating menus was quick, which I value since I’ve used streaming devices with laggy remotes in the past.

I also liked the universal compatibility of the system. It easily ran all major streaming apps without any issues, and the voice search feature was a nice touch. That said, the lack of Bluetooth support means you can’t pair wireless headphones or speakers, which could be a major downside for some users.

Product Rivals

Comparing the Formuler Z10 SE to other streaming devices like the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K or the Roku Streaming Stick 4K, it holds its ground in terms of performance but falls slightly behind in features. Both competitors offer dual-band WiFi, which greatly enhances wireless connectivity, especially for 4K content. However, where this device excels is its clean Android OS interface, which offers more flexibility than the often-restrictive ecosystems of its competitors.

Unlike the Roku, which emphasizes simplicity, this device feels more like a mini-computer with enhanced control over apps and settings. Fire TV Stick users might appreciate Amazon’s deep integration with its ecosystem, but I personally enjoyed the freedom of installing third-party apps on the Z10 SE.

Price Performance

The cost-efficiency of this device is pretty decent. It’s not the cheapest streaming box out there, but for what it offers—4K HDR support, Android 10, and decent performance—it feels like a fair deal. If you’re someone who values a customizable experience over brand-specific ecosystems, this is worth considering.

However, it’s important to weigh the lack of advanced connectivity options like dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth against its price. For users who don’t mind sticking to Ethernet for stable streaming or don’t need much internal storage, it delivers solid value.

Final Thoughts on the Formuler Z10 SE

Overall, I enjoyed using this compact and capable streaming device. Its 4K performance and intuitive Android interface make it a solid choice for casual streamers. The limited storage and single-band WiFi are its main weaknesses, but these might not matter much if you’re using it for basic streaming. It’s a good pick for anyone who loves a straightforward, no-frills experience.

Additional information

Brand Name	Formuler
Item Weight	0.705 ounces
Product Dimensions	8 x 6 x 2 inches
Item model number	Z10 SE
Batteries	2 AAA batteries required.
Color Name	Black
Special Features	Wireless