Laser 4K media player (first impressions)

Laser 4K ANdroid media player

If you have an older TV or monitor, Laser’s new 4K Android media player is an inexpensive and easy way to add smart TV and Android capability.

Technically it is an Android Media Player Streaming TV Box with Wi-Fi, up to 4K output, HDR support, 3D, Bluetooth, Ethernet, 2/8GB ram/storage – everything you need. https://www.laserco.com.au/MMC-X40-android-media-player-streaming-tv-box-wifi-4k-hdr-3d-bt-1gb-lan

It is easy to use – connect one end to the internet via Wi-Fi AC or Ethernet and the other to the TV via HDMI, or AV RCA, or Miracast/Apple Airplay and instantly you add Android functionality.

Remote control is via a wireless “air mouse” that places a cursor on the screen to access menus and a mini-keyboard – it has a mini USB dongle and 3 USB ports. You can also connect a Bluetooth or Wired keyboard and mouse such as the Logitech K830 https://www.logitech.com/en-au/product/living-room-keyboard-k830?crid=27 illuminated living room keyboard and trackpad.

Via Google Play Store you can access millions of apps – games, video players, web browsers, utilities, DLNA server, and so much more. In effect, you are turning your TV into a giant Android tablet.

It comes preloaded with Kodi XBMC, the world’s leading media centre software https://kodi.tv/, subscription apps from Netflix and Stan, free content from YouTube and catch up free to air stations, and will play HD movies and music in most formats from the internet, USB flash drive or microSD card. It will output up to 4K, HDR content.

It supports Dolby Audio 2.0 to 7.1 and there is an optical output if you want to use a separate AV amp and speaker system.

So easy to use

It comes with an HDMI Cable, Air Mouse with USB Dongle, 3.5mm to RCA Audio Visual Cable, External Power Supply, and a concise user manual. The menus are clear and easy to use.

You will need a Netflix or Stan (or other subscription) to access paid content otherwise the remainder is free.

It does not have a TV tuner and personal video recorder functions but you can use it to access content and direct it to an external DLNA device.

The best thing about this product is that it is from Laser, a leading and trusted Australian accessory supplier with extremely good after-sales support as well as backing from major retailers – it is going to work.

“We have received extensive feedback from our customers, who have told us that they are seeking a user-friendly player that delivers smooth playback of 4K content at an affordable price point,” says Chris Lau, Managing Director of LASER Corporation.

“The MMC-X40 continues our focus on delivering technology in an accessible and intuitive way that doesn’t break the bank. For those who are very happy with their existing non-Smart TV, it also provides a really easy step-up to access the streaming services that continue to permeate the Australian market.”

Price

$249.95 from leading retailers or online https://www.laserco.com.au/MMC-X40-android-media-player-streaming-tv-box-wifi-4k-hdr-3d-bt-1gb-lan