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OpenELEC VS Android TV

Compare OpenELEC VS Android TV and see what are their differences

OpenELEC logo OpenELEC

OpenELEC, which stands for Open Embedded Linux Entertainment Center, is a Linux operating system that makes the host computer a Kodi media center. The software was the winner of the Swiss Opensource Award in 2014.

Android TV logo Android TV

Android TV is a version of Android made for TV's
  • OpenELEC Landing page
    Landing page //
    2019-01-29
  • Android TV Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-01-10

OpenELEC features and specs

  • Lightweight
    OpenELEC is a lightweight operating system that is designed to run Kodi on minimal hardware, making it ideal for older devices.
  • Ease of Use
    OpenELEC provides a simple user interface and straightforward installation process, which is appealing to users looking for an out-of-the-box media center solution.
  • Dedicated Media Center OS
    Being dedicated solely to running Kodi, OpenELEC offers optimized performance and a streamlined system for media playback.
  • Cost-Effective
    OpenELEC is open-source and free to use, which is beneficial for users looking for a cost-effective media center setup.
  • Strong Community Support
    OpenELEC has a robust community of users and developers who provide support, share knowledge, and contribute to its development.

Possible disadvantages of OpenELEC

  • Limited Functionality
    As a minimalistic operating system, OpenELEC may not support additional services or applications beyond its primary function as a media center.
  • Hardware Compatibility
    OpenELEC may have limited compatibility with certain hardware components or peripherals, which could require users to ensure compatibility beforehand.
  • Less Frequent Updates
    Compared to some other media center solutions or operating systems, OpenELEC may receive updates less frequently, potentially affecting access to new features or security patches.
  • Limited Customization
    Due to its focus on simplicity and ease of use, OpenELEC offers fewer customization options compared to other more flexible operating systems.
  • Potential Stability Issues
    Some users have reported stability issues, particularly when using newer versions or hardware, which may impact overall user experience.

Android TV features and specs

  • Extensive App Library
    Android TV supports a wide range of applications from the Google Play Store, providing access to a vast array of streaming services, games, and utilities.
  • Google Assistant Integration
    Android TV comes with built-in Google Assistant, allowing users to control their TV, search for content, and manage smart home devices using voice commands.
  • Chromecast Built-in
    Android TV includes Chromecast functionality, enabling users to cast content from their Android devices or Chrome browser directly to their TV.
  • Customization
    Android TV allows users to customize the interface, including the home screen layout and app settings, to better suit their preferences and needs.
  • Regular Updates
    Being part of the Android ecosystem, Android TV receives regular updates and security patches, keeping the system secure and up-to-date with the latest features.

Possible disadvantages of Android TV

  • Device Fragmentation
    The Android TV platform is available on various devices from different manufacturers, which can lead to inconsistencies in performance and user experience.
  • Hardware Limitations
    Some lower-end Android TV devices may have limited processing power and storage, affecting the performance and capability of running more demanding applications and games.
  • Learning Curve
    Compared to more simplified TV operating systems, Android TV can be more complex to navigate and set up, potentially posing a challenge for less tech-savvy users.
  • App Compatibility
    Not all apps available on the mobile Google Play Store are optimized for Android TV, which can limit the availability of certain apps and features.
  • Ad-Supported Content
    Some Android TV interfaces include recommendations and advertisements, which can detract from the user experience for those who prefer an ad-free environment.

OpenELEC videos

My HTPC Is Now Running OpenELEC

More videos:

  • Review - OpenELEC Installation Guide 2019

Android TV videos

Android TV - Is it better than Smart TVs in 2020 ? 4k TV Apps Reviews, TV Comparison and TV Guide

More videos:

  • Review - Hisense H8F Quick Look - Best 4K Android TV for the price!
  • Review - Review: 2019 Hisense H8F Android TV 4K HDR With Dolby Vision & HDR 10

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to OpenELEC and Android TV)
Video
42 42%
58% 58
Media Player
39 39%
61% 61
Watch Movies Online
43 43%
57% 57
Media Players And Streaming Platforms

User comments

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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, OpenELEC seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 2 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

OpenELEC mentions (2)

  • Does Kodi support HDR passthrough using an x86 processor or an nvidia/AMD dGPU on Linux now?
    Its all good. I use to run Kodi on a HTPC that I built with openelec and it was pretty stable. I am not sure if it is available anymore (openelec.tv) it was a linux distro. I switched to NVidia shield due to the accessibility to Netflix and Amazon and I have not looked back. Oh an its cheaper than a HTPC I think... Source: over 3 years ago
  • Got Jellyfin a few days ago and LOVE the web version, but bad Roku app is a dealbreaker. Before I can it, are there any work arounds you guys have found?
    I know there are various customized distros for the RasPi, such as OpenElec, but as a staunch Linux and FLOSS advocate I still don't think that's what most people are searching for when they look for a streaming device these days. Source: about 4 years ago

Android TV mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Android TV yet. Tracking of Android TV recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing OpenELEC and Android TV, you can also consider the following products

LibreELEC - LibreELEC is ‘Just enough OS’ for Kodi, a Linux distribution built to run Kodi on current and...

Kodi - Kodi is an award winning free and open source media player that got its start on the Xbox console.

GeeXboX - Dec 3, 2017 - . Author: Tomtom 1 Comment. Hi,.

OSMC - OSMC is a free and open source media center built for the people, by the people.

Emby - media server for personal streaming movies tv music photos in mobile app or browser for all devices android iOS windows phone appletv androidtv smarttv and dlna.

LinHES - ChiliProject