Hey everyone! Nick here from TV Box Stop. Since it has been a while since Monsterbox released a new model, I’m thrilled to review the Monsterbox X2 Pro. So, let’s get started right away!
Unboxing the Monsterbox X2 Pro
First of all, when you open the box, you will find everything you need. To begin with, there is the new X2 Pro model. In addition, you will see a Bluetooth voice remote. Moreover, the box includes an HDMI cable for easy connectivity. Furthermore, a 5V 2A DC power adapter is provided to ensure a reliable power supply. Lastly, you will find a user manual to guide you through the setup process.
Because everything you need comes in the package, you can start using it immediately.
Design and Ports
The design of this model stands out with an attractive all-plastic shell, complemented by dual Wi-Fi 6 antennas positioned at the rear.
For connecting peripherals, it includes one HDMI 2.1 port, one Ethernet LAN port, one optical audio port, one AV port, an IR extender port, and a DC input jack.
When it comes to external storage, the device offers two USB 2.0 ports and a microSD card reader. Additionally, the reset button is conveniently located in this area.
At the front, you’ll find an LED display, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
Meanwhile, the base features rubber feet along with ventilation holes, ensuring stability and efficient airflow.
Furthermore, the front showcases an LED display, while the bottom features rubber feet and ventilation holes for better cooling.
First Startup and Interface
To begin with, setting up the Monsterbox X2 Pro is straightforward. After pairing the Bluetooth remote by holding the home and volume down buttons, you will proceed through the startup wizard. Eventually, you will reach the Grape Launcher.
Upon checking the settings menu, I discovered that it runs Android 12 TV OS. However, since developer options are not accessible, customization remains limited.
Monsterbox X2 Pro Live TV and VOD Features
Once you connect to the internet, you will be prompted to install live TV and VOD apps. As a result, you will gain access to thousands of live TV channels, movies, and TV series. Nevertheless, due to YouTube guidelines, I am unable to showcase them here.
Even so, you can explore the full channel lineup on my TV Box Stop Odyssey channel. Therefore, just search for TV Box Stop on Odysee.com. After watching, remember to return using the link in the video description.
Firmware Features
When it comes to firmware, the Monsterbox X2 Pro supports:
- 4K 60Hz resolution for crisp visuals
- HDR support (HDR10 only) for better colors
- 10-bit color depth for smoother gradients
- Auto framerate switching for optimal playback
- HDMI CEC options for device control
- Audio passthrough support for enhanced sound
However, it does not support Dolby Vision, AV1, or HLG. Moreover, the built-in screen rotation feature does not work.
System and Hardware Info
As for the internal specs, the Monsterbox X2 Pro includes:
- Allwinner H313/H616 chipset for processing
- Quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU (1.5GHz, 32-bit mode) for basic computing
- Mali G31 GPU (OpenGL ES 3.2, Vulkan 1.1) for graphics
- 4GB DDR4 RAM for smooth multitasking
- 32GB internal storage for apps and files
- Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless peripherals
- Wi-Fi 6 (Dual-band 2.4GHz + 5GHz) for fast connectivity
Although the firmware is not rooted, the temperature sensor is disabled, which means you should be cautious about overheating.
Monsterbox X2 Pro DRM and Streaming Limitations
Due to the lack of Google Widevine DRM, streaming services such as Netflix will be limited to 480p. Even with a 4K subscription, this limitation remains.
Voice Control and Miracast
On the plus side, the Bluetooth voice remote includes Google Assistant for voice commands. However, since the built-in Miracast feature does not work, you will need to use the Airscreen app to cast your phone’s display instead.
4K Video Playback
Now, let’s talk about what works and what doesn’t:
- HDR10 videos play perfectly
- AV1 videos do not play
- Dolby Vision videos play as HDR10
- HDR10+ videos play without audio
- HLG videos only trigger HDR10
Surround Sound Audio
Even though the box includes passthrough support, it does not process any surround sound audio formats. Therefore, all audio is limited to PCM output.
Android Gaming Performance
Since the Monsterbox X2 Pro supports Vulkan, gaming performance is decent. Nevertheless, its 1.5GHz CPU limits high-end gaming. Furthermore, due to Google Play Store restrictions, the available game selection is smaller.
After testing Dead Effect 2 with a Bluetooth gamepad, I found that it runs fine. However, because there is no temperature sensor, overheating remains a concern.
Monsterbox X2 Pro Benchmark Performance
RAM and Storage Speeds:
- RAM Copy Speed: 2850MB/s
- Read Speed: 113MB/s
- Write Speed: 54MB/s
Internet Speed Test:
- 5GHz Wi-Fi: 310Mbps (Max speed)
- 2.4GHz Wi-Fi: 212Mbps (Very high for 2.4GHz)
- Gigabit LAN: 310Mbps (Max speed)
CPU & GPU Benchmarks:
- Geekbench 5: 96 (Single-core), 260 (Multi-core)
- 3DMark Wildlife: 125 score, 0.80 FPS average
- Antutu Benchmark: 68,467
Where Does It Rank?
After adding the Monsterbox X2 Pro to my rankings chart, I found that it lands at position 128 with a 3/5 star rating.
If you would like to compare its benchmarks with other TV boxes, see my TV Box rankings chart.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the Monsterbox X2 Pro?
Ultimately, the Monsterbox X2 Pro performs similarly to vSeebox models. Since it’s not a high-performance Android TV box, hardware enthusiasts may not find it appealing. However, its true value lies in its live TV and VOD services.
Therefore, if you prioritize hardware specs, this may not be the right choice. On the other hand, if you want one of the best streaming services, then the Monsterbox X2 Pro is definitely worth considering.
Get It at a Discount!
Most importantly, I’ve included a $50 off coupon in the description. If you want to grab this box at a lower price, make sure to act quickly before stocks run out.
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Thanks for reading! See you in the next one!
