The streaming device market continues to evolve rapidly. Consequently, consumers demand better quality and official certifications. In response, the Ugoos SK2 enters this competitive space with impressive credentials.
Moreover, this new model represents a strategic shift for Ugoos. Specifically, they’ve moved from mobile Android versions to full Google TV OS certification. Therefore, let’s explore what makes this device worth considering.
What Makes the Ugoos SK2 Stand Out
First and foremost, the Ugoos SK2 runs on a Realtek chipset with full Google certification. As a result, this means proper Netflix support in HD and 4K quality. Additionally, it includes Dolby Vision with all required licenses.
Most streaming enthusiasts know the frustration of unofficial boxes. Unfortunately, they often can’t play premium content properly. However, the SK2 eliminates this problem completely.
Furthermore, the device comes with everything you need to start streaming. In fact, you get the box itself, a Bluetooth voice remote, an HDMI cable, and a power supply. Meanwhile, the user manual helps with initial setup.
Ugoos SK2 Design and Connectivity Options
When it comes to design, the box features a glossy plastic shell with subtle Ugoos branding. Clearly, it looks modern without being flashy. In addition, the compact design fits easily into any entertainment center.
On the rear panel, connectivity includes one HDMI 2.1 port for video output. Similarly, there’s a non-gigabit LAN port for wired connections. Besides these, you also get optical audio output and the DC power input.
Meanwhile, side ports offer practical expansion options. Specifically, a USB Type-C port and USB 2.0 port allow external storage connections. Conveniently, the reset button sits easily accessible.
On the front, the device displays a simple LED power indicator. At the same time, the base includes four rubber feet for stability. Unfortunately, there are no ventilation holes underneath.
Technical Specifications That Matter
Under the hood, the Ugoos SK2 runs Android TV 12 with Google TV OS. Impressively, it packs 4GB of DDR4 RAM and 32GB of internal storage. In addition, Bluetooth 5.2 provides wireless connectivity options.
At its core, the heart of the system is the Realtek RTD1325 processor. Notably, this quad-core Cortex A55 CPU runs at 1.7GHz. Furthermore, it operates in 32-bit mode for compatibility.
For graphics, the device features the Mali G57 GPU with OpenGL ES 3.2 support. Equally important, the network adapter supports Wi-Fi 6 dual-band connectivity. Consequently, both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies work smoothly.
In terms of output, video reaches 4K at 60Hz with proper HDCP support. Fortunately, most modern TVs handle this without issues. However, capture cards might face limitations due to HDCP encryption.
Display Features and Video Quality
When examining display capabilities, the device supports HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision formats. Helpfully, you can set priority modes to auto, input, or SDR. Additionally, adaptive HDR enhances compatible content automatically.
Beyond that, AISR image upscaling improves lower-resolution content. Similarly, frame rate switching ensures smooth playback. Together, these features create an excellent viewing experience.
Furthermore, the box includes HDMI CEC for simplified control. As a result, your TV remote can control basic functions. Indeed, this convenience factor shouldn’t be underestimated.
During testing, 4K HDR10 HEVC playback works perfectly. Likewise, AV1 format videos play smoothly. On the other hand, Dolby Vision content displays correctly, though Netflix 4K Dolby Vision needs firmware updates.
Audio Capabilities on the Ugoos SK2
Impressively, audio performance excels across all formats. Specifically, the SK2 supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, and Dolby Digital Plus. In addition, DTS HD Master Audio and DTS X also work flawlessly.
Notably, Dolby MAT (Metadata-Enhanced Audio Transmission) provides lossless PCM transmission. As a result, this preserves Dolby Atmos metadata for superior sound quality. Certainly, audiophiles will appreciate this attention to detail.
However, proper audio output requires HDMI pass-through configuration. First, connect the box to your sound system. Then, connect your sound system to your TV.
Interestingly, different media players handle different formats best. For instance, VLC player works excellently for DTS formats. Conversely, Nova Media Player optimizes Dolby format playback.
Streaming Services and Certification Benefits
Thanks to Google certification, the device brings legitimate streaming service support. Specifically, the Netflix ESN license enables HD streaming with Dolby Vision. Meanwhile, YouTube videos play in 4K with HDR support.
Additionally, Google Home casting works in full HD 1080p quality. Similarly, official Chromecast functionality works with YouTube and Netflix. Ultimately, these features justify the certification trade-offs.
Moreover, the Google Play Store provides access to countless apps. Nevertheless, gaming options face limitations. Unfortunately, the Android TV OS restricts some game installations.
Furthermore, sideloading apps encounters compatibility issues. Particularly, the lack of Vulkan support limits gaming potential. Therefore, this box prioritizes media playback over gaming performance.
Performance Benchmarks and Real-World Speed
In benchmark testing, RAM transfer speed reaches 3047 MB/s. Meanwhile, internal storage reads at 119 MB/s and writes at 41 MB/s. Overall, these speeds handle media streaming comfortably.
Regarding wireless performance, Wi-Fi 6 maxes out most home networks. Specifically, the 5GHz band delivers maximum available speeds. Comparatively, the 2.4GHz band averages around 114 Mbps.
On the other hand, the non-gigabit LAN port averages 94 Mbps. Unfortunately, this might disappoint users with high-speed connections. Surprisingly, Wi-Fi 6 actually performs better than wired connectivity.
In CPU testing, Geekbench 5 scores 136 single-core and 472 multi-core. Additionally, the Mali G57 GPU scored 959 in Slingshot testing. Finally, AnTuTu benchmark v11 produced 169,369 points.
Ugoos SK2 Ranking and Value Assessment
Overall, the device ranks 15th on performance charts. Notably, this ranking considers AnTuTu benchmark version 11 scores. Consequently, older boxes might show different relative performance.
In summary, the overall rating stands at four out of five stars. Clearly, Google certification and premium codec support justify this score. Indeed, audio and video decoder capabilities exceed expectations.
That said, the trade-off involves losing some mobile Android features. Specifically, root access and Samba server aren’t available. Nevertheless, these sacrifices enable official streaming service support.
Ultimately, market demand drove this strategic direction. Furthermore, Google requirements also influenced the design choices. As a result, the outcome benefits users wanting legitimate streaming options.
Final Verdict on the Ugoos SK2
In conclusion, this box delivers what certified streaming enthusiasts need. Remarkably, Dolby Vision works with premium services. Additionally, all surround sound formats function correctly.
Strategically speaking, the shift to Google TV OS makes sense. Obviously, customers increasingly demand official certifications. Therefore, premium service compatibility outweighs custom firmware features.
From a practical standpoint, setup remains straightforward with the included accessories. Moreover, the Bluetooth remote simplifies navigation. Likewise, Google TV interface feels familiar and intuitive.
At its price point, the Ugoos SK2 offers solid value. Essentially, it combines certification with capable hardware. Furthermore, streaming quality meets modern expectations consistently.
Ultimately, consider this device if you prioritize legitimate streaming services. Particularly, Netflix, YouTube, and other premium platforms work perfectly. In addition, the comprehensive codec support ensures future-proof entertainment.
All things considered, the Ugoos SK2 represents the future of Android TV boxes. Specifically, full certification, quality codecs, and reliable performance combine effectively. Without a doubt, it’s a worthy addition to any home theater setup.