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vpnMentor was established in 2014 as an independent site reviewing VPN services and covering privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize the independent, professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.
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vpnMentor was established in 2014 as an independent site reviewing VPN services and covering privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize the independent, professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

10 Best Kodi Builds in 2024 — Tested and Safe to Use

Kelvin Kiogora Updated on 8th December 2023 Cybersecurity Researcher

Installing a Kodi build saves you the hassle of tweaking settings and searching for and installing addons. However, finding the perfect build to help you get started with Kodi can be challenging — there are too many to choose from.

My team and I tested over 50 Kodi builds and compiled a shortlist of the 10 best ones. All the builds included in this list are 100% safe to use, user-friendly, and feature a selection of exciting content and skins.

Short on Time? Here Are the Best Kodi Builds for Live TV and Sports in 2024

  1. Route 66 — A no-frills, lightweight build with classic Americana-themed skins.
  2. Xenon — Features popular addons and binge-worthy content.
  3. Atomic Matrix — Simple interface and integrates with the Real Debrid.
  4. No Limits Magic Build — Stylish skins with a large selection of available content.
  5. Equinox — Easy to install and has a great selection of movies and shows.

Plus 5 more Kodi builds you can trust

Important. Kodi builds are not illegal, but specific addons may contain dodgy links that don't have the legal rights to share certain content. My team and I do not condone breaking any copyright laws. Always check the rules and regulations in your country (and the streaming service you're using) to ensure that you're not in violation.

Pro Tip: Use Kodi Builds With a VPN

No matter the Kodi build you use, your online activity and internet history are still trackable. For this reason, it’s advisable to take extra precautions to protect your online privacy from snoops and hackers when using Kodi builds. A VPN conceals your real IP and encrypts your internet traffic, so no one can tell who you are or what you’re watching on Kodi.

 

As an added benefit, VPNs allow you to access geo-blocked content like your Netflix’s US library or Hulu account when traveling abroad.

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What is a Kodi Build?

A Kodi build is a pre-configured version of the Kodi media player with a customized interface, pre-installed addons, and a specific set of settings. It's designed to offer a ready-to-use Kodi experience with various features and a specific theme or layout.

A build typically includes a selection of popular addons for streaming movies, TV shows, live TV, sports, and other media content. These addons allow you to access various multimedia sources and enhance your Kodi experience. The build creator often selects and installs the addons they believe will provide the best streaming options for users.

Besides addons, it also includes custom skins, wallpapers, menus, widgets, and other visual elements to provide a unique look and feel. Some builds also come with pre-set configurations for specific streaming services or media libraries.

While builds offer a convenient Kodi experience, they have some potential risks. Some unofficial addons could contain vulnerabilities that can compromise your device's security. Others prioritize unauthorized streaming sources, putting you at risk of infringing copyright laws.

To avoid these risks, I recommend using a reputable VPN, like ExpressVPN, with Kodi to protect your online privacy. ExpressVPN has hundreds of fast servers in 105 countries for watching videos in full HD without buffering and military-grade encryption to protect your data.

10 Best Kodi Builds Full Analysis (Updated in 2024)

1. Route 66 — Responsive, Speedy Interface for Watching Shows

  • Content featured: Live TV, movies, sports, documentaries, and more
  • Supports addons: Yes
  • Available from: The Arc Wizard

Route 66 is fast and responsive to use, thanks to its lightweight design. It also comes with a “themeless” mode which reduces its demand for processing power and speeds up performance. This makes Route 66 a great choice if you’re running Kodi on a streaming device like FireStick.

If you’re into customization, then this build definitely won’t disappoint. It gives you a variety of skins — from breathtaking photographs along the famous Route 66 highway to classic Americana imagery. All of which is more than enough to transform your Kodi viewing experience.

Plus, while the build may be light on additional features, it’s heavy on content. I could watch plenty of movies, live TV, sports, and more — all without any buffering. Everything is easily accessed and well-organized into its respective categories for quick viewing. That way, you can spend more time watching and less time searching.

2. Xenon — Good Looking Build With Great Up-To-Date Content

A screenshot showing some of the categories available on Xenon Kodi buildYou can install Xenon from the Diggz Matrix repository
  • Content featured: Live TV, movies, sports, documentaries, anime, music, and more
  • Supports addons: Yes
  • Repository URL: http://grumpeh.aion.feralhosting.com/repo/

Xenon (also called Diggz Xenon) is a great Kodi build for streaming devices such as Firestick and android TV boxes.

It gives you access to some of the best movies and TV shows, including The Terminal List, Black Bird, and The Orville. Other categories include documentaries, anime, music, and sports. It comes with addons such as Seren, Asgard, and Black Lightning that let you explore more content.

I loved its easy-to-use interface; I could find the content I wanted in just a few steps. It’s easy to install, and I love how it keeps its binge-worthy content up-to-date.

3. Atomic Matrix — Awesome Design and More Streaming Sources

Screenshot Atomic Matrix Kodi build has an appealing green color designAtomic Matrix has plenty of movies and TV shows
  • Content featured: Movies, TV shows, documentaries, and more
  • Supports addons: Yes
  • Repository URL: http://misfitmods.com/mmwiz/repo/

Atomic Matrix comes preloaded with popular addons, including The Crew, Magic Dragon, Seren, and Asgard. Plus, it makes it easy to install additional addons.

It’s a great build for movies. As soon as you install it, you’ll have access to plenty of great content. I loved how its simple interface and Search Movies option made it easy for me to find the best titles.

It keeps its content up-to-date, and you can integrate it with hosters such as Premiumize and Real Debrid to access more streaming sources. You can easily install it from the Misfit Mods Repository, and I love how the developer maintains a green color design.

4. No Limits Magic Build — One of the Most Trusted Kodi Builds

Screenshot showing No Limits Magic Kodi build had different categoriesNo Limits Magic Build has a great lineup of popular addons
  • Content featured: Live TV, movies, sports, documentaries, and more
  • Supports addons: Yes
  • Repository URL: https://www.nolimitswiz.appboxes.co

The No Limits Magic Build improves your Kodi interface and makes adding and removing addons a breeze. With this build, you get access to a wide variety of content ranging from live TV and sports to TV shows, movies, and so much more. I was impressed by the range of content No Limits allowed me to watch.

There are 2 versions of the No Limits Magic Build — the Lite and Full versions. No Limits Lite is intended as a lightweight option for FireStick, whereas the Full version is meant for non-FireStick users. Also, do note that both Lite and Full variants come with options for Adult entertainment — so you might want to disable that if you have kids.

Installing the build is simple and straightforward. I only had to download the No Limits Wizard and choose the version I wanted. One unique feature this build has is that it allows you to install another build on top of it. That can sometimes cause issues with Kodi though, so I recommend you perform a fresh install instead. That way, you can prevent any conflicts from occurring.

As for skins, this build runs on the Aeon Nox SiLVO skin, which is quite stylish and can be downloaded separately from its developer.

5. Equinox — Visually Appealing Interface With Decent Addons

Screenshot showing Equinox has a heap of movies and showsClick on any movie or show to start streaming immediately
  • Content featured: Live TV, movies, sports, documentaries, and more
  • Supports addons: Yes
  • Repository URL: http://grumpeh.aion.feralhosting.com/repo/

Equinox is home to great TV shows and movies such as Black Wood, The Resort, and Unboxed. The interface is visually appealing and comes bundled with popular addons, such as Patriot, The Crew, and Chains.

I love how it nicely organizes its content into easy-to-use categories like movies, live TV, and documentaries. You can easily install it from the Diggz Matrix Repository — I just followed the on-screen instructions. But it’s quite heavy, so it’s not suitable for streaming devices like Firestick.

6. Misfits Mod Lite — Specializes in Sports and Live TV Content

A screenshot showing Misfits Mod Lite Kodi build has multiple categories including movies, sports and musicThere are multiple categories, including Movies, TV shows, sports, music, and kids' zone
  • Content featured: Live TV, movies, sports, documentaries, and more
  • Supports addons: Yes
  • Repository URL: http://misfitmods.com/mmwiz/repo/

Misfits Mod Lite is a great Kodi build for fans of sports and live TV.

While Misfit Mods has a regular version, I definitely prefer using Misfits Mod Lite. The Lite version is optimized for devices with less processing power. That makes it smooth and responsive, which is great if you’re running it on the Amazon FireStick.

The build also has a stylish theme with a well-optimized display that lets you effortlessly browse through the available content.

If you’re going to be using Misfits Mod together with its plugins, then you may want to consider using a VPN. That’s because most of the build’s addons feature copyrighted content which can get you in legal trouble. A VPN keeps you protected in case you accidentally access any of this content.

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7. Bio-Hazard — Simplistic Design With Decent Performance

  • Content featured: Live TV, movies, sports, documentaries, and more
  • Supports addons: Yes
  • Available from: The AVP Wizard

Bio-Hazard is a fast and responsive Kodi Build that takes a minimalist approach to things.

I like how simple and lightweight this build is, as it works well even on low-powered devices like the Amazon FireStick. Navigating the interface is easy, and I definitely enjoyed the fact that there is zero lag.

The build features a wide variety of content, including movies, TV shows, and live sports streams. I should point out here that Bio-Hazard particularly excels when it comes to watching live sports (such as soccer) because you’ll encounter no delays while using it.

8. Silvo — Rich Selection of Content to Choose From

A screenshot showing Silvo Kodi build has a simple interface with descriptive menusYou can use Silvo to stream TV shows, movies, sports, and more
  • Content featured: Live TV, movies, sports, documentaries, and more
  • Supports addons: Yes
  • Repository URL: http://multibuild.info/mbwiz

When it comes to stable and reliable performance, you can’t go wrong with Silvo.

Using this build is easy, thanks to the neat and descriptive menu that makes navigation simple. From live TV and sports to movies and kids’ shows, I could easily search for and watch the content I wanted without any fuss.

As a lightweight build, it also performs well on devices like FireStick. I like how loading times were kept to a minimum, and there was no lag.

9. Envision MQ7 — Futuristic Build With Intuitive Features

  • Content featured: Live TV, movies, sports, documentaries, and more
  • Supports addons: Yes
  • Available from: The EzzerMacs Wizard

Envision MQ7 comes packed with a variety of features specially designed to improve your streaming experience. Installing this Kodi build gives you access to all types of content, such as live TV and sports, along with movies and TV shows.

I like how the build has an attractive skin. The futuristic feel of its themes made me feel like I was in the StarCraft universe. So if you’re a fan of that aesthetic, you can use this build for the SciFi experience.

What I didn’t like about the Envision MQ7 build is that its interface sometimes feels slow and sluggish. This is because of the large amount of unnecessary addons the build offers. But on the bright side, you can choose the best addons that work for you.

10. Innovation Colors — Extensive Library and a User-Friendly Interface

  • Content featured: Live TV, movies, sports, documentaries, and more
  • Supports addons: Yes
  • Repository URL: https://kepler-22.github.io
A screenshot showing Innovation Colors Kodi addon is compatible with Kodi 17 and 18Install the adult version to watch mature content

Innovation Colors gives you access to movies, shows, documentaries, and even live TV on all types of devices. This build comes with a Family and Adult build which lets you stream mature content. So, keep this in mind if you’ve got kids in the house.

This Kodi build features a smooth, well-designed interface for easy navigation. I like how its library made it easy to sort through the different types of content offered. All shows are clearly named and organized, which makes it simple to find what you want to watch.

Although I wasn’t too impressed with the build’s skin design, it more than makes up for it with its responsive interface and user-friendly design.

Dangers of Kodi Builds

Kodi builds sometimes come with potential dangers that you should watch out for, including:

  • Security risks. Kodi builds often contain third-party addons and repositories that might not be vetted or approved by the Kodi development team. These addons can introduce security vulnerabilities and malicious code that could potentially compromise your device and personal data.
  • Legal issues. While Kodi itself is a legal open-source media player, some third-party addons included in certain Kodi builds may provide access to copyrighted content without proper authorization. Engaging in copyright infringement by using such addons can lead to legal consequences.
  • Unstable performance. Kodi builds often bundle numerous addons and customizations, which can lead to performance issues. These builds may consume more system resources, such as CPU and memory, resulting in slower performance, crashes, or freezes. Additionally, compatibility issues can arise when Kodi updates are released, causing the build to become unstable or incompatible with the latest version.
  • Lack of control and updates. When using a Kodi build, you rely on the developer to maintain and update the build regularly. However, developers may abandon their builds over time, leaving you with an outdated version of Kodi and potentially outdated addons. This lack of updates can expose your device to security vulnerabilities and compatibility issues.
  • Bloatware and unwanted addons. Kodi builds often come with pre-installed addons, some of which you may not need or want. These unnecessary addons can clutter your interface and consume additional resources, potentially affecting the performance of your Kodi setup.
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How To Use Kodi Builds Safely

Luckily, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself when using Kodi builds.

1. Perform virus scans

When you download a Kodi build, the first thing you want to do is to perform a virus scan. Doing so allows you to identify if there are any viruses, malware, or unwanted addons present. Downloading and installing Kodi builds raises the risk of accidentally infecting your device.

screenshot from forum describing how the user's kodi build has a virusAlways better to be safe than sorry

2. Use Kodi with a VPN

When using Kodi and its builds, always remember that your ISP and other third parties can track and monitor your data and browsing activity. This means that not only can your data be collected and sold, but it can also be handed over to the authorities.

That’s why you should always use Kodi with a VPN. A VPN passes your data through a private, encrypted tunnel, making your streaming activity unreadable.

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3. Perform a fresh install

To maximize the chances of your Kodi build working, you should always perform a fresh install first.

By doing this, all previous add-ons are eliminated, facilitating a smooth new installation process. It also serves as an excellent method to prevent any possible conflicts during installation.

After that, reset your Kodi to its default settings and install the new build. This step frees up space and reduces the likelihood of a bad install.

4. Delete all unwanted addons

Some Kodi builds come with unwanted addons that take up space and slow down your device. Fortunately, you can get rid of these unwanted files fairly easily by following these steps:

  • Find out the name of the addon and right-click it.
  • Left-click on Information.
  • Click on “Uninstall.”

And you’re done — you’ve successfully removed the addon.

Remember, the addon remains on your system even after uninstallation. To thoroughly eliminate it, navigate to the zip file containing your Kodi build and remove the plugin from that location.

Tips on Choosing the Best Kodi Builds

While all of the Kodi builds listed in this article are safe to use, here are a few more tips to help you get the best out of your Kodi experience:

  • Only use builds from verified sources. Only install plugins from trusted sources. These are less likely to contain malware or viruses.
  • Perform virus scans. Sometimes, hackers may try to infect your device by packaging a Kodi build with malicious software. This is why it’s important to scan the file before installing it to ensure that you don’t accidentally damage your device.
  • Disable installation from unknown sources. After you’ve installed your selected Kodi builds, don’t forget to disable this option in the “addons” tab. This protects you from accidentally downloading and installing unwanted or dangerous addons.

How to Install a Kodi Build In 8 Easy Steps

While it may initially seem complicated, installing your chosen Kodi build is easy. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Start Kodi and click on the gear symbol to access the Settings menu.
  2. Click on the “File Manager” tab, select “Add Source,” then input the path for your addon.
  3. After that, go back to Kodi’s home screen and click on “addons.”
  4. Click the open box icon on the left to access the “addons/addons browser.” The Addons Browser allows you to install addons and builds.
  5. Select “Install from zip file” and click “Yes” when the warning message pops up.
  6. Locate and click on the name of the build you want to install. This will initiate the installation process for the selected build.
  7. Return to the home screen and click on "addons.”
  8. Your chosen addon should be displayed there. Click on it to begin exploring and using your new Kodi build.

Best VPNs for Kodi Builds in 2024

  1. ExpressVPN — High-speed servers for streaming on Kodi without buffering and top-class encryption to avoid snooping by your ISP and other third parties. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  2. CyberGhost — Specialized servers in multiple countries that allow you to reliably stream international content on Kodi.
  3. Private Internet Access — Excellent security features to keep you safe from hackers and malware while using Kodi builds.

FAQs on Best Kodi Builds

Are Kodi builds legal?

Yes, Kodi builds are legal. However, it’s important to protect yourself with a VPN when you use Kodi, as some builds may cause you to access copyrighted content accidentally. Additionally, your Kodi streams and activities are vulnerable to tracking and monitoring by snoops and hackers. A VPN encrypts all of your online traffic, keeping your streaming habits private.

Is Kodi safe to use?

Yes, Kodi is safe to use. However, some unofficial builds can contain malware and viruses that may harm your device or compromise your online privacy. This is why you should always take steps to keep yourself safe when using Kodi.

What devices can I use Kodi with?

Almost all devices are compatible with Kodi. Additionally, you can easily install Kodi builds on any supported device. Kodi-compatible operating systems include:

  • Windows
  • Mac
  • Android
  • iOS
  • Linux
  • Amazon FireStick
  • NVIDIA Shield TV
  • Smart TVs
  • tvOS
  • Raspberry Pi

Will I lose my addons when installing a new Kodi build?

Yes, installing a new Kodi build may result in the loss of your existing addons. Each build typically comes with its own pre-configured set of addons, so the installation process can overwrite or replace previously installed addons. However, this depends on the specific build you install. Some Kodi builds allow you to retain your existing addons, while others won’t.

If you have specific addons that you want to keep, it's advisable to make a backup of your Kodi configuration, including your addons, before installing a new build. This way, you can restore your addons after the build installation if needed.

How do I remove a Kodi build?

Removing a Kodi build from your device is easy. Navigate to the Kodi Settings menu, access the File Manager, and locate the source directory containing the build. Find the build file or folder and delete it. Return to the Kodi home screen and select addons, followed by My addons or Add-on Browser. Look for any addons associated with the removed build, select each one, and uninstall or remove them. Remember, if you choose the right Kodi build, you probably won’t need to remove it.

Conclusion

Trying to get the right Kodi build can take time and effort. Some builds need to be updated or contain broken or non-functional addons. There is also the risk of installing builds from unofficial or questionable sources, which can pose security risks or include malicious content. I tested all the Kodi builds in this list and found them reliable and secure.

However, your personal information and streaming history can be tracked. Plus, the risk of accidentally streaming copyrighted content without authorization can get you in trouble. Because of this, I recommend using Kodi with a VPN to protect your online privacy.

Privacy Alert!

Your data is exposed to the websites you visit!

Your IP Address:

Your Location:

Your Internet Provider:

The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online.

VPNs can help you hide this information from websites so that you are protected at all times. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we've tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it's currently offering 49% off.

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We review vendors based on rigorous testing and research but also take into account your feedback and our affiliate commission with providers. Some providers are owned by our parent company.
Learn more
vpnMentor was established in 2014 as an independent site reviewing VPN services and covering privacy-related stories. Today, our team of hundreds of cybersecurity researchers, writers, and editors continues to help readers fight for their online freedom in partnership with Kape Technologies PLC, which also owns the following products: ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, and Private Internet Access which may be ranked and reviewed on this website. The reviews published on vpnMentor are believed to be accurate as of the date of each article, and written according to our strict reviewing standards that prioritize the independent, professional and honest examination of the reviewer, taking into account the technical capabilities and qualities of the product together with its commercial value for users. The rankings and reviews we publish may also take into consideration the common ownership mentioned above, and affiliate commissions we earn for purchases through links on our website. We do not review all VPN providers and information is believed to be accurate as of the date of each article.

About the Author

Kelvin is a writer and cyber-safety researcher at vpnMentor, whose expertise in the latest online security tools aids readers in keeping them safe from hackers and online snoops.

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