Custom firmware often removes bloatware, making older devices faster.

: Manages core OS functions and initial startup. A stable bootloader is essential for flashing new ROMs or performing system recoveries.

To avoid bricking your device, gather this information:

Plug-and-play and highly stable, though rarely updated by manufacturers. CoreELEC / LibreELEC

If you need Android apps, search for a custom Android 5.1.1 ROM for your board. If you only use Kodi, switch to LibreELEC .

Despite the hardware's age, there were concerted efforts to port Android 5.1.1 Lollipop