Ugoos SK1 Review: An Ultra-Fast Kodi Android TV Box

Streaming on widely-used platforms such as Netflix

The Ugood SK1 boasts Widevine L1 Certification, but what does this certification truly signify?

Widevine is a cutting-edge digital rights management (DRM) system created by Google, designed to safeguard your media. By encrypting video content, Widevine ensures secure streaming across prominent platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, Peacock, and Amazon Prime Video. Having an L1 certificate essentially means you’ll be able to stream videos at a maximum resolution of 4K.

This universal encryption and security protection protocol offers three unique levels of security.

• L1 (High Security): This represents the highest level of quality. Devices boasting Widevine L1 certification can stream content in stunning HD, Full HD, and even 4K resolution.
• L2 (Medium Security): The L2 offers a satisfactory experience. It offers standard definition (SD) streaming capabilities.
• L3 (Basic Security): Economy class L3 devices offer streaming capabilities, but they are limited to a resolution of 540p.

Is the SK1 certified by Netflix, and what does that certification mean for you?

The answer is no; it is not included. Let’s examine the reasoning behind this. A certified Netflix device is one that meets specific criteria established by Netflix to provide a seamless and secure streaming experience. This certification is very crucial, as it ensures the device can stream Netflix content without any issues.

One of the key requirements for Netflix certification is that the Android TV box must be compatible with Google Widevine Level 1 DRM. So, why doesn’t the SK1 have this certification if Widevine Level 1 is already included? It’s probably due to cost, as not all set-top box manufacturers are willing to make the necessary investment.

However, the absence of certification does not imply that the device is incapable of playing 1080P videos flawlessly or even 4K videos. It’s a fact that the majority of content available on popular streaming services is in Full HD resolution, though some libraries do provide select titles in 4K. For the majority of users, this isn’t a dealbreaker; however, if you really need the 4K playback option, be ready to pay the price on more expensive Android boxes.

How does Netflix truly measure up in terms of playback quality?

Our testing has confirmed a maximum resolution of 540p. Regrettably, despite the device being listed as supporting Widevine Level 1 according to the DRM Info Checker app, the Netflix application only recognizes it as Level 3. Currently, Ugoos does not offer a certified device for Netflix, which could hinder your pursuit of a genuine Full HD experience.

Is it a dealbreaker? Probably, yes, but it depends on your relationship with Netflix. If you intend to use the box with apps like Stremio and Kodi you shouldn’t have any issues streaming content in 1080p quality or higher.

For those who prioritize high-definition, including ultra-high-definition playback, investing in an Intel-based X86 Mini PC can be a smarter choice. This configuration enables seamless streaming of Netflix on a Windows operating system, and you can easily install the official Netflix app to enhance your viewing experience.

Conclusions

Another excellent device by Ugoos. We found the device to be very responsive, delivering a great user experience. If you have second thoughts on whether to buy a 4 GB RAM or the 8 GBGB RAM model, the price gap is around $60. At present, 32-bit applications on the SK1 are unable to take full advantage of the 8 GB RAM capacity, and 64-bit APKs are not compatible. Will Amlogic provide the necessary support to make it work and support 64-Bit APKs? Probably yes, but the specific timeline for this remains unclear. Having said that, the bottom line is that we really liked the product. It performs very fast, so hell yeah, we highly recommend grabbing one!

Where can I buy the item, and are there other ways to get in touch?