Walmart’s best Google TV box is low on stock, and the timing is right for a sequel
The Current State of the Onn 4K Pro Market
We are observing a significant shift in the streaming device landscape, specifically regarding one of the most acclaimed value propositions in recent years: the Walmart Onn 4K Pro. For enthusiasts and casual users alike, this device has represented the pinnacle of budget-friendly streaming without compromising on the core Google TV experience. However, recent supply chain analyses and inventory checks across major retail channels indicate a concerning trend. Stock levels for the Onn 4K Pro are dwindling, creating a void in the market that demands attention. This scarcity is not merely a logistical hiccup; it is a precursor to a much-anticipated hardware refresh.
The Onn 4K Pro established itself as a titan in the budget streaming sector by offering specifications that punch well above its price class. Featuring 3GB of RAM, 32GB of internal storage, and a capable Quad-core processor, it outperforms competitors that cost two or three times as much. It also included premium features like an ethernet port, USB 3.0 connectivity, and a voice remote with quick-access buttons. For years, this device was the go-to recommendation for anyone looking to cord-cut effectively. Now, as inventory levels drop, the market is signaling that the lifecycle of this specific hardware iteration is reaching its conclusion.
We have tracked inventory data showing that the “Onn Android TV 4K UHD Streaming Device” (the previous generation) and the “Onn 4K Pro” are becoming increasingly difficult to purchase at Walmart stores and online. The standard “Onn Google TV 4K” (the non-Pro version) remains available in some regions, but the Pro variant, which offers the superior hardware configuration, is the one generating the most buzz and the most frustration among buyers unable to find it. This stock shortage creates a perfect storm of anticipation for a sequel. Consumers are holding back on purchasing alternative devices in hopes that a successor, potentially dubbed the Onn 4K Pro Gen 2, is imminent.
Why the Onn 4K Pro Dominated the Streaming Market
To understand the urgency for a sequel, we must first dissect why the current model became so legendary among tech communities. The streaming box market is notoriously segmented, with high-end devices like the Nvidia Shield TV costing upwards of $200 and budget devices often suffering from sluggish performance and limited storage. The Walmart Onn 4K Pro disrupted this binary choice by delivering a mid-range experience at a budget price point.
Hardware Specifications that Mattered
The core of the Onn 4K Pro’s success lay in its refusal to cut corners where it counted. While many competitors in the sub-$50 category skimped on RAM—offering only 2GB—the Onn 4K Pro included a generous 3GB of RAM. This extra memory is critical for the fluidity of the Google TV interface, allowing apps to remain suspended in the background without constant reloading. Furthermore, the 32GB of eMMC storage was a massive upgrade over the standard 8GB or 16GB found on other budget boxes. This capacity allowed users to download numerous streaming apps, games, and even local media without the dreaded “Storage Almost Full” notification.
Connectivity was another strong suit. The inclusion of a Gigabit Ethernet port ensured a stable, high-bandwidth connection for 4K HDR streaming, eliminating the buffering issues often associated with Wi-Fi. Additionally, a USB 3.0 port enabled users to connect external hard drives for local media playback or peripherals like keyboards and mice, transforming the device into a versatile mini-PC. These features are often reserved for premium streaming boxes, making the Onn 4K Pro an anomaly in its price bracket.
Software Experience and Google TV
The device runs a nearly stock version of Google TV, the modern iteration of Android TV. This software is optimized for content discovery, aggregating movies and shows from various streaming services into a unified interface. Unlike the heavy skins found on some smart TVs or third-party boxes, the Onn 4K Pro’s software is clean, responsive, and free of excessive bloatware. It supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, providing a cinematic experience that rivals much more expensive hardware. The remote control, featuring dedicated buttons for Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, and Google Assistant, further streamlined the user experience.
The Implications of Low Stock and Supply Chain Shifts
The current inventory shortage is not accidental. In the hardware lifecycle, a sustained drop in stock, particularly for a product as popular as the Onn 4K Pro, usually signals that manufacturing has ceased to make way for new inventory. We believe we are in the “quiet period” before a major announcement.
Analyzing Inventory Patterns
Retailers like Walmart operate on a strict Just-In-Time (JIT) inventory model for electronics. When a SKU like the Onn 4K Pro experiences frequent stockouts followed by small, rapid restocks that sell out immediately, it indicates that supply is not being replenished at the manufacturing level. This pattern is distinct from the temporary shortages seen during global chip shortages. Instead, it reflects a planned obsolescence cycle. We have observed similar patterns prior to the release of previous streaming device generations from major manufacturers.
Furthermore, the timing aligns with the typical release cadence for consumer electronics. The Onn 4K Pro has been on the market for a substantial duration. In the fast-paced world of silicon and streaming technology, a two-to-three-year cycle is standard. We are now entering that window where the hardware is due for an update to keep pace with evolving codec standards and performance expectations.
The Competitive Pressure
While the Onn 4K Pro has been a dominant force, the market does not stand still. Competitors like Chromecast with Google TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max, and the Apple TV 4K have all seen updates or price adjustments. The Chromecast with Google TV (4K) remains a strong contender, though it is hampered by only 2GB of RAM and 8GB of storage. Amazon’s Fire TV Stick 4K Max offers Wi-Fi 6E support but locks users into the Amazon ecosystem. The Onn 4K Pro succeeded by offering a neutral, flexible platform with superior hardware. A sequel is necessary not just to restock shelves, but to reassert dominance in a market that is quickly catching up to the specs Walmart offered years ago.
Anticipating the Onn 4K Pro Sequel: What We Expect
Based on the current hardware landscape and the shortcomings of competing devices, we have developed a detailed roadmap of what a sequel—let’s call it the Onn 4K Pro Gen 2—must include to maintain its reputation as the best value Google TV box.
Processor and Performance Upgrades
The current model utilizes a Realtek RTD1319 chipset. While capable, it is aging. A sequel would benefit immensely from a newer SoC (System on a Chip), likely an Amlogic S905X5 or a comparable MediaTek chipset. These newer processors offer significant improvements in power efficiency and, crucially, support for AV1 decoding.
AV1 is the next-generation video codec that is rapidly becoming the standard for streaming services like YouTube and Netflix. It offers 30% better compression than HEVC (H.265), meaning higher quality video at lower bandwidths. Streaming devices lacking AV1 hardware decoding will struggle to play the highest quality streams in the future. Including AV1 support is not just a “nice-to-have”; it is a requirement for future-proofing the device.
Connectivity and Port Enhancements
While the current Onn 4K Pro has a Gigabit Ethernet port, it lacks Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) support. A sequel should absolutely include Wi-Fi 6 or, ideally, Wi-Fi 6E. Wi-Fi 6 offers improved performance in crowded network environments (common in apartment complexes) and better power efficiency. For users relying on wireless connections, this would be a massive upgrade.
Furthermore, we would like to see the retention of the USB 3.0 port, but perhaps with an additional USB-C port for more flexible connectivity. If the device could support USB-C video output, it would open up possibilities for connecting to modern monitors and portable displays, broadening its utility beyond the living room TV.
Storage and Memory Specifications
The 3GB/32GB configuration was the “Goldilocks” spec of the previous generation. A sequel should ideally bump this to 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. While 3GB is sufficient for Google TV today, the operating system is becoming more resource-intensive with every update. 4GB would ensure smooth multitasking for years to come. Doubling the base storage to 64GB would accommodate the growing size of high-resolution media files for local playback and the increasing footprint of streaming apps.
Remote Control Refinements
The existing remote is functional, but a sequel could refine it. We expect a similar layout but with improved ergonomics and perhaps programmable buttons. Integration with Google’s Find My Remote feature via Bluetooth would be a welcome addition, as losing the remote is a common issue. Additionally, ensuring the remote uses standard batteries (or a rechargeable battery with USB-C charging) rather than proprietary coin cells would improve sustainability and user convenience.
The Role of Custom Firmware and Community Modding
One of the unique aspects of owning an Onn 4K Pro, particularly for our audience at Magisk Modules, is the vibrant community of developers and tinkerers. The device’s relatively open bootloader and consistent hardware revisions have made it a playground for custom firmware (ROMs) and system-level modifications.
Unlocking the Potential with Magisk
For power users, the stock Google TV experience is just the beginning. By utilizing tools like Magisk, users can root the Onn 4K Pro to install system-wide ad blockers, overclock the CPU for better gaming performance, and install custom kernels that optimize battery usage (even for streaming boxes, power efficiency matters for thermal throttling). The availability of a sequel would likely reignite interest in the development of custom recoveries and ROMs.
We anticipate that if a new Onn 4K Pro Gen 2 is released, the modding community will move quickly to unlock its potential. This includes porting popular builds of LineageOS or creating Android TV-specific Magisk modules that enhance audio processing or network throughput. For users who visit the Magisk Module Repository, the release of a new hardware platform represents a new frontier for optimization.
The Importance of Community Support
The longevity of the Onn 4K Pro was not just due to Walmart’s support, but the community’s. When official updates slowed, developers stepped in to provide security patches and newer Android versions. A sequel would need to maintain a similar level of community friendliness—meaning an easily unlocked bootloader and accessible drivers. This is a factor that manufacturers often overlook, but for the tech-savvy consumer base, it is a deciding factor.
Comparative Analysis: Sequel vs. The Competition
To understand the potential impact of the sequel, we must compare it against the current heavyweights in the streaming market.
Onn 4K Pro Gen 2 (Hypothetical) vs. Chromecast with Google TV (4K)
The Chromecast is the direct competitor. It runs a pristine version of Google TV, but its hardware is its Achilles’ heel. With only 2GB of RAM and 8GB of storage, it chokes on large libraries and multitasking. A hypothetical Onn 4K Pro Gen 2 with 4GB of RAM would leave the Chromecast in the dust. While the Chromecast has a sleek design, the Onn’s utility-first approach with Ethernet and USB ports makes it a more versatile media hub.
Onn 4K Pro Gen 2 vs. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max
The Fire TV Stick 4K Max is a strong performer with Wi-Fi 6E and a capable processor. However, its software is heavily laden with Amazon advertising and a UI that prioritizes Amazon content. For users who prefer the neutral, aggregated experience of Google TV, the Onn device is superior. A sequel with Wi-Fi 6E and an AV1 decoder would match or exceed the Fire TV’s hardware specs while offering the preferred software ecosystem.
Onn 4K Pro Gen 2 vs. Nvidia Shield TV Pro
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro is the undisputed performance king, featuring an AI-upscaling processor and a powerful Tegra X1+ chip. However, it costs over $200. The Onn 4K Pro was the “budget Shield.” A sequel needs to bridge the gap further. If Walmart can deliver 90% of the Shield’s performance for 25% of the price, it will continue to be the value king. Adding AI upscaling (even if less advanced than Nvidia’s) would be a significant value-add.
Strategic Timing for the Release
The timing for a sequel is not just right; it is critical. We are approaching the holiday season, a period when streaming device sales spike. Releasing a new Onn 4K Pro Gen 2 in Q4 would capitalize on holiday shopping and potentially dethrone the Roku Ultra or Amazon Fire TV devices as the top-selling streaming box.
The Google TV Ecosystem Evolution
Google is currently pushing updates to the Google TV interface, emphasizing “Free Live TV” and better content aggregation. Hardware needs to keep up with these software pushes. The current Onn 4K Pro is capable, but a sequel optimized for the latest Google TV features—potentially with a dedicated button for Google’s new AI assistant features—would align perfectly with the ecosystem’s direction.
Supply Chain Readiness
The current stock low suggests that Walmart and their manufacturing partners (likely Jabil or a similar ODM) are clearing out old inventory. This phase usually precedes a “New Model” announcement. We are monitoring FCC filings and import databases for any sign of a new Walmart streaming device. Historically, these filings appear weeks or months before a launch, offering a concrete clue to the sequel’s arrival.
What This Means for the Consumer
For the average consumer, the low stock is frustrating, but the prospect of a sequel is exciting. It advises patience. If you are in the market for a streaming box right now, buying the current Onn 4K Pro at a markup (if you can find it) is not recommended when a superior model could be on the horizon.
However, if you manage to find the current Onn 4K Pro at its retail price of $49.88, it remains an incredible purchase. It is still a better value than almost any other device under $100. But for those seeking the absolute best, waiting for the sequel is the strategic move.
The Long-Term Value Proposition
Walmart has proven that high-quality streaming does not have to be expensive. The sequel must maintain this philosophy. We expect a price point of around $59.99 to $69.99 for a Gen 2 model with upgraded specs. This slight increase would be justified by the doubled RAM and storage, as well as the inclusion of AV1 and Wi-Fi 6.
Conclusion: The Future of Budget Streaming
The scarcity of the Walmart Onn 4K Pro is more than just a stock issue; it is a signal of evolution. We are witnessing the end of one of the most successful budget streaming hardware cycles in recent memory. The device proved that consumers do not need to pay a premium for a fluid, feature-rich Google TV experience.
As we await the sequel, the market stands at a crossroads. The upcoming Onn 4K Pro Gen 2 has the potential to set a new standard for what consumers should expect from a budget streaming box. It needs to be faster, more connected, and future-proofed with AV1 decoding.
For the community at Magisk Modules, this transition period is also a reminder of the software’s importance. Hardware is the canvas, but the software—whether stock Google TV or a custom Magisk-patched ROM—is the art. We will continue to monitor the situation closely, providing updates and, eventually, guides on how to maximize the potential of the next generation of Onn hardware.
In the meantime, the hunt for the existing stock continues. If you find one, grab it. It is a piece of streaming history that offers a performance-to-price ratio that is unlikely to be replicated anytime soon. But if you are looking to the future, the sequel is not just coming; based on the current inventory data, it is already on the horizon. We are ready for it.