Streaming has become the heart of home entertainment. However, not all streaming devices are created equal. Imagine buffering issues ruining your movie night or an unresponsive interface disrupting your binge-watch sessions. Cue the Dynalink GT36 Android TV Box, a device designed to deliver superior streaming performance seamlessly and reliably.
This review covers everything you need to know about the Dynalink GT36. From unboxing dimensions to features, performance, and pricing, we’re covering it all to help you decide if this is the right streaming companion for your home.
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Dynalink GT36 arrives in sleek, minimal packaging—clean and fuss-free, much like the device itself. Unboxing reveals a compact, understated Android TV box with a matte black finish that blends well into any modern home entertainment setup.
Inside the box, you’ll find:
- The Dynalink GT36 device
- A power adapter
- An HDMI cable
- A multi-functional remote control
- A user manual
The Dynalink GT36 is easy to set up. To configure, plug the device into your TV using the HDMI connection, turn it on, and follow the on-screen directions. In our test, establishing Wi-Fi took less than two minutes.
The design? Small and stylish. Because of its small size, it is a practical but stylish addition to your entertainment center, fitting perfectly next to your TV or into a cabinet.
Performance and Features
- High-performance and portability
- Plug and play, out of the way
- Newest Android TV™ 10.0 OS
- Google assistant built-in
- Voice Bluetooth® remote with TV controls
- Access 700,000+ movies and shows, play music and games
The Dynalink GT36 performs excellently. The device is designed for simple and continuous streaming and is powered by a powerful quad-core processor and 2GB RAM.
With clean images, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast levels, it carefully presents the material in a 4K HDR.
For Full HD and standard-definition streams, the GT36 offers upscaling capability, so your visuals always look their best.
Key Hardware Highlights:
- Processor: Quad-core for fast responsiveness
- RAM: 2GB for smooth multitasking
- Storage: 16GB (expandable via USB)
Connectivity:
The GT36 supports dual-band Wi-Fi and a LAN port for wired connections, which is ideal for ensuring reliability during high-bandwidth activities like 4K streaming.
Streaming Services Compatibility:
Google TV OS is installed on the Dynalink GT36, giving you instant access to well-known apps like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, and Hulu. You can download it if it’s valid on the Google Play Store.
Noteworthy standout features include:
- HDR Support (High Dynamic Range): For enhanced color and contrast.
- Dolby Audio Support: For immersive sound quality.
- Built-in Google Assistant for voice commands and hands-free navigation.
- Chromecast Integration: Easily cast content from your phone to the TV.
User Experience
Thanks to Google TV OS, the GT36’s interface feels polished and intuitive. Navigating menus, apps, and searches is smooth, with no noticeable glitches or lag. The included remote control is ergonomic and packed with functionality. Shortcut buttons help you jump straight into popular apps, while the integrated microphone seamlessly enables voice search with Google Assistant.
One underrated aspect is customizability. With Google TV, you can organize your apps and tailor recommendations based on your preferences—perfect for personalizing your viewing experience.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a quick breakdown of what makes the Dynalink GT36 excel—and where it could improve.
Pros
- Affordable pricing for a 4K streaming device.
- Preloaded with Google TV OS and compatible with major streaming platforms.
- Compact and sleek design for easy placement.
- Excellent connectivity options, including dual-band Wi-Fi and LAN.
- Solid HDR visuals and Dolby Audio for superior home entertainment.
Cons
- Limited built-in storage (16GB), though expandable via USB.
- Remote lacks backlighting, which could be a minor annoyance in dimly lit rooms.
Comparison with Similar Devices
It’s always good to compare, so how does the Dynalink GT36 compare to competitors like the NVIDIA Shield TV or Chromecast with Google TV?
| Feature | Dynalink GT36 | NVIDIA Shield TV | Chromecast with Google TV |
| Price | Budget-friendly | Significantly higher | Mid-range |
| 4K HDR support | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Storage | 16GB (expandable) | 8GB (expandable) | 8GB |
| Advanced Audio | Dolby Audio | Dolby Atmos | No |
| User Interface | Google TV OS | Android TV OS | Google TV OS |
Given that the NVIDIA Shield TV has Dolby Atmos and exceptional gaming features, users with limited funds might not find its high price attractive. Like the GT36, Chrome with Google TV offers a high-end experience but does not allow audio or additional storage. Overall, the Dynalink GT36 strikes an impressive balance between affordability and well-rounded streaming performance.
Pricing and Value
The Dynalink GT36, priced between $60 and $80, is ideal for anyone who needs a high-end watching experience without breaking the bank. This device is a great deal, especially for movie fans and binge-watchers, considering its durability, streaming capabilities, and ease of use.
While it lacks the high-end components of more expensive devices, the GT36 performs excellently for daily streaming. For those new to the world of Android TV boxes, it is specifically well-suited.
FAQs
Which is better, an Android TV or an Android box?
An Android TV is better for a seamless and integrated smart TV experience. An Android box offers more flexibility and customization options for streaming and gaming. Choose based on your preferences and needs.
Does the Android TV box have free channels?
No, the Android TV box does not have free channels.
Can I use an Android TV box on a regular TV?
Yes, you can use an Android TV box on a regular TV. It enhances your viewing experience with intelligent features and access to various streaming apps.
How do I choose a good Android box?
When choosing an Android box, consider performance, features, and affordability. Look for 4K support and ample storage, and read reviews for user feedback.
Should You Buy the Dynalink GT36?
Performance, functionality, and price are all effectively combined in the Dynalink GT36 Android TV Box. The GT36 provides excellent value for money, with no issue whether you want to improve your streaming setup or experience 4K streaming for the first time.
The device’s overall functionality makes it a good choice for most home entertainment requirements, but it has minor limitations like its lack of a lighting remote and short internal storage.
Why wait? Elevate your streaming experience with the Dynalink GT36 today. It’s time to stream smarter!
