Yeah Xiaomi Box international edition seems to be one of the best choices if people want to use Netflix or high definition YouTube out of the box. Cheaper Android box may have more powerful hardware like processor (eg S912 vs S905X) but lack the necessary licence Xiaomi has.
As for those local Android boxes with questionable apps, it seems they still have values since people here compare the cost with Starhub/SingTel packages. It will not be easy for many to understand how to install all those apps or configure Kodi.
I just bought a few boxes to play with Armbian Linux, not a typical use case but they are cheaper compared to many maker boards. I do not care too much about GPIO either since I have two Raspberry Pi 3B+ there for that purpose.
As for those local Android boxes with questionable apps, it seems they still have values since people here compare the cost with Starhub/SingTel packages. It will not be easy for many to understand how to install all those apps or configure Kodi.
I just bought a few boxes to play with Armbian Linux, not a typical use case but they are cheaper compared to many maker boards. I do not care too much about GPIO either since I have two Raspberry Pi 3B+ there for that purpose.