CloudnetGo CR18
CloudnetGo CR18 is a new fresh Android Set-Top Box based on the latest solution from Rockchip that offers new, improved hardware specifications vs. the Previous RK3288 Soc Solution. Specifications include an RK3368 64-bit octa-core processor running at a clock speed up to 1.5 GHz along with GPU PowerVR G6110, capable of playing videos in 4K at 60 fps supporting hardware decoding for H.265 codec.
With a powerful 2 GB RAM, spacious 8/16 GB eMMC internal storage, lightning-fast Dual-band Wi-Fi, and the convenience of Bluetooth 4.0, this device is a technical marvel. It is also equipped with two USB 2.0 ports, an OTG port, a connector CVBS output, coaxial SPDIF, HDMI 2.0, and Gigabit Ethernet for seamless connectivity. Get ready for a world of endless possibilities.
Main Highlights:
- Model: CloudnetGo CR18
- Optional Colors: Black, Silver, Gold.
- Casing Material: Aluminum.
- CPU: RK3368 Octa-Core(TWO CPU clusters) 64-bit.
- Main Frequency: ARM Cortex-A53 (ARM MP Core processor Up to 1.5 GHz).
- OS: Android 5.1 Lollipop.
- 2GB RAM + 8GB/16GB ROM.
- GPU: 3D/2D Graphics Engine OpenGL ES3.1/2.0/1.1(600 MHz GPU).
- Wifi: Support BCM AP6330 (2.4G and 5.8 GB dual Mode)
- Camera: External USB camera
- XBMC KODI pre-installed.
Interface:
- HDMI Output: 1 x HDMI2.0 4K*2K@60fps display.
- 2 x USB2.0 Host,1*USB Host OTG.
- 1 x Optical output.
- 1 x MicroSD card.
- 1 x RJ45 10M/100M/1000M.
- Power Supply DC 5V/2.5A.
- 1 x Coaxial output.
- 1 x AV output.
Items in Package:
- x1 HDMI cable
- x1 USB Cable
- x1 Power supply
- x1 Remote control
- x1 User Manual
- x1 USB Power Cable
Dimensions:
- Unit Size: 170*115*25mm
- Net Weight 0.65KG
CloudnetGo CR18 Unpacking
Items inside CR18 Package
- 1x CR18 TV Box.
- 1x IR Remote Control.
- 1x HDM Cable.
- 1x USB Cable (OTG Cable for Firmware Updating).
- 1x 5V 2A Power Adapter.
- 1x Power Supply Cable.
- 1x User Manual.
Accessories
Design & Quality
From my impression, build, design, and general quality are superb. The CR18 Case is entirely constructed from aluminum. The company also provides black and golden colors in mass quantity orders, according to customer needs. For this review, I received their silver-colored model. On the base cover of the units, you have a series of ventilation holes for getting the extra heat out. Also, I noticed that the average operation unit doesn’t seem to heat much, Indicating the product design is good.
System
The overall user experience was good, and the device was straightforward. UI uses a Rockchip interface, designed in a Windows Tiles Style. The device comes with a fully rooted system, installed with the latest Android OS Lollipop version 5.1.1 running under kernel version 3.10.0.WA
Pre-Installed Applications
The company included essential pre-installed Apps such as Netflix, Twitter, Facebook, Skype, a few non-needed Chinese apps you can easily uninstall, and a special customized Kodi version called TVMC, based on Isengard 15.1, which includes all popular add-ons for streaming movies, listening to music and so forth.
Kodi/XBMC
Performance & Benchmarks
The unit is equipped with the latest Rockchip RK3368 64-bit ARM Processor that looks very promising, especially with the new HDM version 2.0 standard support and fast Octa-core (8 Cores CPU). In terms of performance, the device ranked between 34829 – 35931 (second Test) in two AnuTuTu Benchmark tests, with slightly higher scores than other products based on Amlogic S812 Hardware.
After playing with the Box, the Rockchip solution looks highly energy efficient, with minimal heating. RK3368 Processor Cores operate at clock frequencies ranging from 312 MHz Up to 1.2 GHz (Peak); in normal operation mode, without overloading the system, all 8 CPU cores typically work at speeds between 312 MHz – 600 MHz.
Main UI & Kodi/XBMC Playback Demo
CloudnetGo CR18 Review: Final verdict
The CR18 is an excellent, well-designed Android Set-Top Box with the highest build quality. I didn’t find any disadvantages with the product. It could have been nicer if there had been an analog audio jack-out connection. Kodi/XBMC Playback performance under RockChip’s RK3368 hardware was surprisingly good playing high quality video files.
Company Website: www.cloudnetgo.com
