Amlogic S905X5 vs Amlogic S905X4: Which Chipset is Better

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

Amlogic remains one of the most dominant chipset manufacturers for Android TV boxes, media players, streaming sticks, and smart display devices. The S905X series has long been the company’s most popular mid-range lineup, balancing cost, performance, and multimedia capabilities. In this ultra-detailed guide, we compare the Amlogic S905X5 and Amlogic S905X4 – two of the most widely used chips in modern TV boxes. We break down their specifications, CPU/GPU performance, video decoding, gaming ability, AI features, power efficiency, software support, and real-world use cases to help you decide which chipset is worth buying.

Table of Contents

• Introduction to Amlogic S905X Series Chipsets
• Full Specification Comparison Table: S905X5 vs S905X4
• CPU Architecture & Performance Differences
• GPU & Gaming Performance Comparison
• Video Decoding, Resolution & Display Support
• AI Processing & NPU Capabilities
• Memory & Storage Support
• Connectivity Features (WiFi, Bluetooth, Ethernet, Ports)
• Power Efficiency & Thermal Performance
• Software & Android OS Support
• Real-World Performance: Streaming, Gaming, Multitasking
• Price & Market Positioning
• Which Devices Use S905X5 and S905X4?
• Pros & Cons of S905X5
• Pros & Cons of S905X4
• Final Verdict: Which Chip Should You Choose?
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Introduction to Amlogic S905X Series Chipsets

Amlogic’s S905X series targets the mainstream Android TV box market. These chips are designed for 4K/8K media streaming, light gaming, web browsing, and smart home integration. They deliver solid performance at affordable price points, making them the first choice for budget-to-mid-range streaming devices.

The S905X4 launched in late 2021 as an upgrade over the S905X3. It brought AV1 decoding support, improved GPU, and better efficiency. The S905X5 arrived in 2023 as the next-generation successor, featuring a newer CPU architecture, higher clock speeds, enhanced AI performance, and better 8K capability.

Both chips are built for media-centric devices, but the S905X5 targets a higher performance tier while maintaining energy efficiency. This comparison will help you understand whether the upgrade from S905X4 to S905X5 is meaningful or if the older chip still offers enough value.

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	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	Good
OS Support	Android 11–Android 14	Android 10–Android 13

3. CPU Architecture & Performance Differences

The central processing unit (CPU) is the brain of any chipset, and it directly affects system speed, app loading time, multitasking, and general responsiveness. Both the S905X5 and S905X4 use quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 designs, but there are critical upgrades in the newer chip.

The S905X4 uses a first-generation Cortex-A55 clocked at 1.8 GHz. It offers reliable performance for streaming and light tasks but can struggle with heavy multitasking or 4K heavy UI animations.

The S905X5 uses an updated Cortex-A55 R2 architecture with a maximum frequency of 2.0 GHz. This revised architecture delivers approximately 15–20% better integer and floating-point performance than the original A55. Higher clock speeds and better IPC (instructions per cycle) make the S905X5 noticeably snappier in daily use.

In benchmark tests like Geekbench 6 and Antutu, the S905X5 scores roughly 18–25% higher in single-core and multi-core performance compared to the S905X4. This improvement is visible when opening large apps, switching between tasks, browsing the web with multiple tabs, and running advanced launcher interfaces.

For typical TV box users, the S905X4 is still sufficient, but power users who want smoother performance will prefer the S905X5.

4. GPU & Gaming Performance Comparison

Graphics processing is essential for gaming, UI rendering, and video playback. Both chips use the ARM Mali-G31 MP2 GPU, but the S905X5 has a higher clock speed.

S905X4 GPU: 800 MHz
S905X5 GPU: 850 MHz

This 50 MHz increase translates to about 6–8% better graphics performance. While not a massive leap, it helps with frame rates in casual 3D games like Subway Surfers, Temple Run, Minecraft, and Asphalt.

The S905X5 maintains better frame rate stability during intense graphics scenes. It also handles 4K UI animations more smoothly without stuttering. For retro gaming (using emulators), the S905X5 can run PSP, Nintendo 64, and Dreamcast titles more reliably than the S905X4.

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

5. Video Decoding, Resolution & Display Support

Media playback is the most important function of Android TV boxes, and this is where the S905X5 shows a major upgrade over the S905X4.

S905X4 Multimedia Features

The S905X4 supports 4K@75fps decoding and was one of the first mid-range chips to support AV1 decoding. AV1 is a modern, efficient codec used by YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, and other streaming platforms. It allows higher quality at lower bitrates.

It supports 4K HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG. However, it cannot output 8K video or 4K@120fps.

S905X5 Multimedia Features

The S905X5 is a significant leap forward:

• 8K@24fps video decoding
• 4K@120fps decoding and output
• Full AV1 codec support with better efficiency
• Improved HDR processing (HDR10+, Dolby Vision compatibility on supported devices)
• HDCP 2.3 support for premium streaming apps

If you own a 120Hz 4K TV or an 8K TV, the S905X5 is the only logical choice. It plays high-bitrate movies without lag, dropped frames, or buffering. Even with large 4K remux files, the S905X5 maintains perfect playback.

The S905X4 remains great for 4K@60fps usage but lacks the high-refresh-rate and 8K capabilities of the newer chip.

6. AI Processing & NPU Capabilities

AI has become a key selling point in modern TV boxes. AI is used for voice recognition, image enhancement, frame interpolation, and smart scene detection.

The S905X4 does NOT have a dedicated NPU (neural processing unit). It relies on basic CPU/GPU AI acceleration, which is slow for advanced AI tasks.

The S905X5 includes a dedicated AI accelerator NPU with up to 0.5 TOPS of performance. This enables:

• Faster voice assistant response
• Real-time video quality enhancement
• AI-powered upscaling from 1080p to 4K
• Smart frame rate conversion
• Better face recognition and user behavior analysis

For users who care about picture quality and smart features, the NPU in the S905X5 provides tangible benefits.

7. Memory & Storage Support

Both chips support nearly identical memory and storage configurations:

• DDR4 / DDR3L RAM up to 8GB
• eMMC 5.1 internal storage
• SD card expansion

The S905X5 has slightly improved memory bandwidth efficiency, allowing faster data transfer between RAM and the CPU. This makes app loading and file reading quicker.

For most users, there is no major practical difference here. Both chips can handle 4GB/8GB RAM configurations smoothly.

8. Connectivity Features (WiFi, Bluetooth, Ethernet, Ports)

Connectivity determines how well your TV box connects to the internet, controllers, and external devices.

S905X4 Connectivity

• WiFi 5 (802.11ac) – max 433Mbps
• Bluetooth 4.2
• 100M/1000M Ethernet (depending on device manufacturer)

S905X5 Connectivity

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

WiFi 6 is a huge advantage for homes with many connected devices. It provides faster streaming, lower latency, and better range. Bluetooth 5.0 offers longer range and more stable connections for gamepads, headphones, and speakers.

If you use wireless streaming or Bluetooth accessories often, the S905X5 is far superior.

9. Power Efficiency & Thermal Performance

Both chips use a 12nm manufacturing process, but the S905X5 uses an optimized 12nm process that delivers better efficiency.

Despite higher CPU and GPU clocks, the S905X5 consumes 10–15% less power under load. This means:

• Less heat generation
• Quieter operation (no need for loud fans)
• More stable performance during long streaming sessions
• Longer lifespan for hardware components

The S905X4 runs warm under heavy use but remains within safe temperatures. The S905X5 simply does better in thermal management.

10. Software & Android OS Support

Software support determines how long your TV box remains useful and secure.

S905X4: Launched with Android 10, now supports up to Android 13. Official support is slowing down.

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

Newer Android versions offer better app compatibility, improved performance, privacy features, and support for the latest streaming apps.

The S905X5 will remain functional for 2–3 years longer than the S905X4.

11. Real-World Performance: Streaming, Gaming, Multitasking

Streaming Performance

S905X4: Smooth 4K@60fps streaming on Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, Disney+. AV1 works well.

S905X5: Smooth 4K@120fps and 8K playback. AV1 decoding is more efficient. HDR colors are more vibrant. Zero buffering even on high-bitrate files.

Gaming Performance

S905X4: Plays casual games well but struggles with frame drops in 3D games.

S905X5: Stable frame rates, smoother gameplay, better emulator performance.

Multitasking

S905X4: Slow when switching between multiple apps.

S905X5: Fast app switching, responsive UI, no lag.

12. Price & Market Positioning

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

S905X5 devices are mid-range, priced between $45–$80.

The S905X4 offers excellent value for money. The S905X5 is worth the extra cost for better performance and future-proofing.

13. Which Devices Use S905X5 and S905X4?

Popular S905X4 TV Boxes

• X96 Max Plus Ultra
• H96 Max X4
• Transpeed X4
• Many generic budget TV boxes

Popular S905X5 TV Boxes

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

14. Pros & Cons of Amlogic S905X5

Pros

• Newer CPU architecture with higher clocks
• 8K and 4K@120fps support
• Dedicated NPU for AI enhancement
• WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0
• Better power efficiency
• Newer Android OS support
• Future-proof design

Cons

• Higher price
• Overkill for basic streaming users

15. Pros & Cons of Amlogic S905X4

Pros

• Very affordable
• Great 4K@60fps and AV1 support
• Reliable and widely available
• Sufficient for casual users

Cons

• No 8K or 4K@120fps
• No dedicated NPU
• Older WiFi and Bluetooth
• Slower performance in multitasking

16. Final Verdict: Which Chip Should You Choose?

Choose Amlogic S905X5 if:

• You own a 120Hz 4K TV or 8K TV
• You want the best performance and smoothness
• You need WiFi 6 and better connectivity
• You want AI-enhanced picture quality
• You want a longer-lasting, future-proof device
• You play casual games or use emulators

Choose Amlogic S905X4 if:

• You’re on a tight budget
• You only need basic 4K@60fps streaming
• You don’t need high-refresh-rate display
• You use wired Ethernet and don’t need WiFi 6
• You need an affordable secondary TV box

In 2025, the S905X5 is the better overall chip. It offers meaningful improvements in performance, display support, AI, connectivity, and longevity. The S905X4 is still a good budget choice, but the S905X5 is worth the extra investment for most users.

17. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is S905X5 worth upgrading from S905X4?

A: Yes, if you want better performance, 4K@120fps, WiFi 6, and AI features. It’s not necessary if you only use basic streaming.

Q2: Can S905X4 play 8K videos?

A: No, it only supports up to 4K@75fps.

Q3: Which chip is better for gaming?

A: S905X5 has better GPU and CPU performance.

Q4: Does S905X4 support AV1 decoding?

A: Yes, but S905X5 supports it more efficiently.

Q5: Which chip is more power-efficient?

A: S905X5 is more efficient despite higher performance.

Q6: Can both chips run Android 14?

A: Only S905X5 officially supports Android 14.

Q7: Are S905X5 devices more expensive?

A: Yes, but the price difference is justified by better features.

Q8: Which chip is better for 2025 and beyond?

A: S905X5 is more future-proof.

Product Name	X96 M300 amlogic S905X5M android tv boxes
Model No.	X96 M300
CPU	amlogic S905X5 Quad core ARM Cortex-A53
GPU	ARM G310 V2
RAM+ROM	(2G+16G) (4G+32G) (4G+64G)
OS	Android 14
Ethernet	support 100M/1000M
WIFI	WIFI6 2.4G/5.8G
USB	USB3.0
Bluetooth	bluettooth 5.x
Resolution	8K
Application	Google Play, Aptoide, Kodi 16.1, YouTube, Netflix, Game app (KO GameBox) BangTV, Mobdro, Show Box etc.
Video decoding	AV1 [email protected] up to 4Kx2K@60fps VP9 Profile-2 up to 4Kx2K@60fps H.265 HEVC [email protected] up to 4Kx2K@60fps MPEG-4 ASP@L5 up to 1080P@60fps (ISO-14496) 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 (ISO-13818) MPEG-1 MP/HL up to 1080P@60fps (ISO-11172) Multiple language and multiple format sub-title video support
Audio Decoder	Supports MP3, AAC, WMA, FLAC, Ogg.