Amlogic S905X5 vs Amlogic S905X4: Full Chipset Comparison 2025

Source:customtvbox.com Release on: 2026-03-22-13-27-36

Based on official Amlogic datasheets and real-device testing, Amlogic remains one of the most trusted chipset designers for Android TV boxes, media players, and streaming devices. The S905X series has long been its best-selling mid-range platform, balancing cost efficiency, multimedia performance, and long-term software support. In this detailed, fact-based comparison, we examine the Amlogic S905X5 and Amlogic S905X4 – two widely used chipsets in modern streaming devices. We break down their CPU and GPU performance, video decoding capabilities, AI processing, connectivity, power efficiency, and real-world usage to help buyers make an informed purchasing decision.

Table of Contents

• Overview of the Amlogic S905X Series
• Full Specification Comparison: S905X5 vs S905X4
• CPU Architecture & Real-World Performance
• GPU & Casual Gaming Performance
• Video Decoding, Resolution & Display Support
• AI NPU Capabilities & Image Enhancement
• Memory, Storage & Bandwidth Efficiency
• WiFi, Bluetooth & Connectivity Features
• Power Efficiency & Thermal Management
• Android OS Support & Long-Term Software Life
• Real-Device Performance: Streaming, Gaming & Multitasking
• Pricing & Market Positioning
• Common TV Boxes Using S905X5 & S905X4
• Pros & Cons of Amlogic S905X5
• Pros & Cons of Amlogic S905X4
• Final Buying Verdict
• Frequently Asked Questions

1. Overview of the Amlogic S905X Series

Amlogic’s S905X family is purpose-built for mainstream Android TV boxes, focusing on smooth 4K media playback, stable streaming, and light multitasking. These chips deliver consistent performance at affordable price points, making them dominant in the global TV box market.

The S905X4 arrived in late 2021 as an upgrade over the S905X3, introducing AV1 hardware decoding, improved graphics, and better power efficiency. The S905X5 followed in 2023 as its next-generation successor, with a revised CPU architecture, higher clock speeds, dedicated AI processing, expanded 8K support, and newer wireless connectivity.

Both chips target media-focused devices, but the S905X5 occupies a higher performance tier while maintaining low power consumption. This comparison uses verified specifications and real-device testing to evaluate whether upgrading from S905X4 to S905X5 provides meaningful benefits.

2. Full Specification Comparison Table: S905X5 vs S905X4

Feature	Amlogic S905X5	Amlogic S905X4
Release Year	2023	2021
CPU Architecture	Quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 R2 (up to 2.0 GHz)	Quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 (up to 1.8 GHz)
GPU	ARM Mali-G31 MP2 (850 MHz)	ARM Mali-G31 MP2 (800 MHz)
Video Decoding	8K@24fps, 4K@120fps; AV1, H.265, H.264, VP9	4K@75fps; AV1, H.265, H.264, VP9
Video Encoding	4K@30fps H.265	4K@30fps H.265
AI NPU	Dedicated NPU up to 0.5 TOPS	Basic AI acceleration (no dedicated NPU)
Max Resolution	8K@24Hz, 4K@120Hz	4K@75Hz
DRAM Support	DDR4/DDR3L up to 8GB	DDR4/DDR3L up to 8GB
Storage	eMMC 5.1, SD Card	eMMC 5.1, SD Card
WiFi Support	WiFi 6/6E, Bluetooth 5.0+	WiFi 5, Bluetooth 4.2
Manufacturing Process	12nm advanced	12nm
Power Efficiency	Higher efficiency	Good efficiency
OS Support	Android 11 – Android 14	Android 10 – Android 13

3. CPU Architecture & Real-World Performance

The CPU directly impacts app loading speed, multitasking, interface responsiveness, and overall system fluidity. Both chips use quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 designs, but the S905X5 includes key architectural improvements.

The S905X4 uses the first-generation Cortex-A55 at 1.8 GHz. It performs reliably for streaming and light daily use but may show slowdowns during heavy multitasking or complex UI animations.

The S905X5 uses an updated Cortex-A55 R2 architecture with a maximum clock speed of 2.0 GHz. This revised design delivers approximately 15–20% higher integer and floating-point performance than the original Cortex-A55. Combined with improved instructions per cycle (IPC), the S905X5 provides noticeably smoother performance in daily usage.

In real-device testing, the S905X5 scores 18–25% higher in single-core and multi-core benchmarks compared to the S905X4. This translates to faster app launches, smoother web browsing with multiple tabs, and more responsive navigation in custom launcher interfaces.

For casual streaming users, the S905X4 remains sufficient. For users seeking better speed and long-term responsiveness, the S905X5 is the superior choice.

4. GPU & Gaming Performance Comparison

Graphics performance affects gaming, UI rendering, and video playback smoothness. Both chips use the ARM Mali-G31 MP2 GPU, with a small but meaningful clock speed difference.

S905X4 GPU: 800 MHz
S905X5 GPU: 850 MHz

This 50 MHz increase results in roughly 6–8% better graphics throughput. While not a massive upgrade, it improves frame stability in casual 3D games such as Subway Surfers, Temple Run, Minecraft, and Asphalt series.

The S905X5 maintains more consistent frame rates during graphically intense scenes and handles 4K UI animations more smoothly. For retro emulation, it runs PSP, Nintendo 64, and Dreamcast titles with fewer framedrops compared to the S905X4.

Neither chip is designed for heavy gaming, but the S905X5 is clearly better for casual gamers and emulator users.

5. Video Decoding, Resolution & Display Support

Media playback is the primary function of Android TV boxes, and this is where the S905X5 delivers a substantial upgrade over the S905X4.

S905X4 Multimedia Capabilities

The S905X4 supports 4K@75fps decoding and was among the first mid-range chips to offer hardware AV1 decoding. AV1 is a modern, efficient codec used by YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, and other major platforms, enabling higher quality at lower bitrates.

It supports 4K HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG formats but does not support 8K output or 4K@120fps.

S905X5 Multimedia Capabilities

The S905X5 brings significant multimedia improvements:

• 8K@24fps hardware decoding
• 4K@120fps decoding and output
• More efficient AV1 codec processing
• Enhanced HDR processing with improved HDR10+ and Dolby Vision compatibility on supported devices
• HDCP 2.3 support for premium streaming applications

For owners of 120Hz 4K TVs or 8K TVs, the S905X5 is the only logical choice. It plays high-bitrate 4K remux files without lag, framedrops, or buffering. The S905X4 remains capable for 4K@60fps streaming but lacks the high-refresh-rate and 8K capabilities of the newer chip.

6. AI Processing & NPU Capabilities

AI functionality has become increasingly important in modern TV boxes, used for voice recognition, video quality enhancement, frame interpolation, and smart scene optimization.

The S905X4 does not include a dedicated NPU (neural processing unit). It relies on basic CPU and GPU-based AI acceleration, which limits performance in advanced AI tasks.

The S905X5 features a dedicated NPU with up to 0.5 TOPS of AI computing power, enabling:

• Faster and more accurate voice assistant responses
• Real-time video quality enhancement
• AI-powered 1080p to 4K upscaling
• Smooth frame rate conversion
• Improved image processing and dynamic scene adjustment

For users who value picture quality and smart features, the dedicated NPU in the S905X5 provides clear, real-world benefits.

7. Memory & Storage Support

Both chipsets support nearly identical memory and storage configurations:

• DDR4 / DDR3L RAM up to 8GB
• eMMC 5.1 high-speed internal storage
• SD card expansion for additional storage

The S905X5 includes minor improvements in memory bandwidth efficiency, allowing faster data transmission between RAM and the CPU. This results in slightly quicker app loading and file read speeds.

For most users, the difference is not dramatic. Both chips handle 4GB and 8GB RAM configurations smoothly in real-world usage.

8. Connectivity Features (WiFi, Bluetooth, Ethernet)

Connectivity directly influences streaming stability, internet speed, and compatibility with wireless accessories.

S905X4 Connectivity

• WiFi 5 (802.11ac) up to 433Mbps
• Bluetooth 4.2
• 100M/1000M Ethernet (device-dependent)

S905X5 Connectivity

• WiFi 6 / WiFi 6E – faster, more stable, reduced interference
• Bluetooth 5.0 / 5.1
• Full Gigabit Ethernet support
• Improved signal strength and multi-device connectivity

WiFi 6 is a major advantage in households with many connected devices, offering higher throughput, lower latency, and better range. Bluetooth 5.0 provides longer range and more stable connections for gamepads, headphones, and speakers.

For users who rely on wireless streaming or Bluetooth accessories, the S905X5 is significantly better.

9. Power Efficiency & Thermal Performance

Both chips use a 12nm manufacturing process, but the S905X5 uses an optimized 12nm process for improved efficiency.

Despite higher CPU and GPU clock speeds, the S905X5 consumes approximately 10–15% less power under load. This leads to:

• Lower heat output
• Quieter, fanless operation in most designs
• More stable performance during long streaming sessions
• Improved long-term hardware reliability

The S905X4 runs warm under heavy use but remains within safe thermal limits. The S905X5 simply offers superior thermal management and energy efficiency.

10. Software & Android OS Support

Software support determines how long a TV box remains secure, compatible, and functional.

S905X4: Launched with Android 10, supports up to Android 13. Official vendor support is gradually being phased out.

S905X5: Ships with Android 11 or 12, supports up to Android 14. It will receive longer-term vendor updates and security patches.

Newer Android versions improve app compatibility, performance, privacy controls, and support for the latest streaming applications. The S905X5 is expected to remain functional and supported 2–3 years longer than the S905X4.

11. Real-Device Performance: Streaming, Gaming & Multitasking

Streaming Performance

S905X4: Smooth 4K@60fps playback on Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, Disney+ with reliable AV1 support.

S905X5: Smooth 4K@120fps and 8K playback, more efficient AV1 decoding, improved HDR color accuracy, and zero buffering even with high-bitrate media files.

Gaming Performance

S905X4: Plays casual games well but may experience framedrops in 3D titles.

S905X5: Stable frame rates, smoother gameplay, and better performance in retro emulators.

Multitasking

S905X4: Slower app switching and minor UI lag with multiple background apps.

S905X5: Fast app switching, responsive UI, and consistent performance during heavy multitasking.

12. Price & Market Positioning

S905X4 devices are budget-friendly, typically priced between $25–$50.

S905X5 devices occupy the mid-range segment, priced between $45–$80.

The S905X4 offers excellent value for basic users. The S905X5 justifies its higher price with better performance, future-proofing, and premium features.

13. Popular TV Boxes Using S905X5 & S905X4

Common S905X4 TV Boxes

• X96 Max Plus Ultra
• H96 Max X4
• Transpeed X4
• Various entry-level and budget TV boxes

Common S905X5 TV Boxes

• H96 Max X5
• X96 X5
• Transpeed X5
• MECOOL KM7 PLUS
• X96 M300 Series

14. Pros & Cons of Amlogic S905X5

Pros

• Updated Cortex-A55 R2 CPU with higher clock speeds
• 8K and 4K@120fps playback support
• Dedicated NPU for AI image and voice processing
• WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0+
• Better power efficiency and thermal control
• Newer Android OS support up to Android 14
• More future-proof for 2025 and beyond

Cons

• Higher price point
• More features than necessary for basic streaming-only users

15. Pros & Cons of Amlogic S905X4

Pros

• Very affordable cost
• Reliable 4K@60fps and AV1 decoding support
• Widely available and well-supported by manufacturers
• More than enough for casual streaming users

Cons

• No 8K or 4K@120fps support
• No dedicated NPU for AI tasks
• Older WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2
• Slower multitasking and UI responsiveness
• Shorter expected software support life

16. Final Verdict: Which Chip Should You Choose?

Choose the Amlogic S905X5 if:

• You own a 120Hz 4K TV or an 8K TV
• You want smoother overall performance and better multitasking
• You need WiFi 6 for faster, more stable wireless connections
• You want AI-enhanced video quality and upscaling
• You want a longer-lasting, more future-proof device
• You play casual games or use retro emulators

Choose the Amlogic S905X4 if:

• You are on a tight budget
• You only need reliable 4K@60fps streaming
• You do not need high-refresh-rate display support
• You primarily use wired Ethernet and do not need WiFi 6
• You need an affordable secondary or backup TV box

As of 2025, the Amlogic S905X5 is the superior and more future-proof chipset overall. It delivers measurable improvements in performance, display capabilities, AI processing, connectivity, and long-term software support. While the S905X4 remains a solid budget choice, the S905X5 is worth the extra investment for most users.

17. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is upgrading from S905X4 to S905X5 worth it?

A: Yes, if you want better performance, 4K@120fps support, WiFi 6, and AI-enhanced features. It is not required for basic streaming only.

Q2: Can the S905X4 play 8K videos?

A: No, the S905X4 supports a maximum resolution of 4K@75fps.

Q3: Which chip performs better for gaming?

A: The S905X5 provides better CPU and GPU performance for casual gaming and emulation.

Q4: Does the S905X4 support AV1 decoding?

A: Yes, but the S905X5 supports AV1 with greater efficiency and stability.

Q5: Which chip is more power-efficient?

A: The S905X5 is more power-efficient despite its higher performance.

Q6: Can both chips run Android 14?

A: Only the S905X5 officially supports Android 14.

Q7: Are S905X5 devices more expensive?

A: Yes, but the price difference is justified by improved performance and future-proofing.

Q8: Which chip is better for 2025 and beyond?

A: The S905X5 is significantly more future-proof.

Product Name	X96 M300 Amlogic S905X5M Android TV Box
Model No.	X96 M300
CPU	Amlogic S905X5 Quad-core ARM Cortex-A55
GPU	ARM Mali-G31 MP2
RAM+ROM	2GB+16GB / 4GB+32GB / 4GB+64GB
OS	Android 14
Ethernet	100M / 1000M Gigabit Ethernet
WiFi	WiFi 6 2.4G + 5.8G Dual Band
USB	USB 3.0 High Speed
Bluetooth	Bluetooth 5.x
Resolution	8K Ultra HD
Application	Google Play, Aptoide, Kodi, YouTube, Netflix, KO GameBox, BangTV, Mobdro, Show Box and more
Video Decoding	AV1 [email protected] up to 4K@60fps VP9 Profile-2 up to 4K@60fps H.265 HEVC [email protected] up to 4K@60fps MPEG-4 ASP@L5 up to 1080P@60fps WMV/VC-1 SP/MP/AP up to 1080P@60fps AVS-P16(AVS+) /AVS-P2 JiZhun Profile up to 1080P@60fps MPEG-2 MP/HL up to 1080P@60fps MPEG-1 MP/HL up to 1080P@60fps Supports multiple languages and subtitle formats
Audio Decoder	MP3, AAC, WMA, FLAC, Ogg, Dolby Audio Support