With the Fire TV Cube's launch, Amazon offers four ways to access its Fire TV platform: the Fire TV Stick, Fire TV, Fire TV Cube, and Fire TV Edition smart TVs.
Ready to buy a streaming device and set on Fire TV? Our hands-on testing of these models helps you pick the right one for your setup.
Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote, Live Streaming Media Player. Buy Now on Amazon $39.99
The Fire TV Stick is Amazon's affordable entry-level streamer. Ideal for adding smart features to secondary TVs. For your main TV, consider upgrading for better performance.
Availability varies by region: The 2nd-gen model (late 2016) with Alexa voice remote is sold in the US, UK, Germany, Japan, and India. The Basic Edition (2017) covers most other countries but lacks voice search, Alexa, app recommendations, and full search.
Both share 1080p at 30fps max, 8GB storage, 1GB RAM, and a 1.3GHz quad-core ARM CPU. If Basic Edition limitations bother you, explore higher-end options.
Fire TV with 4K Ultra HD and Alexa Voice Remote (1st Gen), Streaming Media Player. Buy Now on Amazon
The Fire TV is a big upgrade—up to 4x more powerful than the Stick, per Amazon. Its standout feature: true 4K at 60fps with HDR10 for sharper contrasts and vivid colors.
Note: Netflix 4K requires the $13.99/month Premium plan. How much does Netflix cost per month? How much does Netflix cost per month? How much is Netflix? What plans are available? Here's how much money Netflix can cost you each month. Read more.
It packs 8GB storage, 2GB RAM, and a 1.5GHz quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 CPU—great for gaming. No built-in Ethernet, but Amazon's official adapter ($14.99) delivers smoother streaming on weaker Wi-Fi. Amazon Ethernet Adapter for Amazon Fire TV Devices. Buy Now On Amazon $14.99
No Miracast support. What is Miracast? How to use Miracast for wireless media streaming What is Miracast? How to use Miracast for wireless media streaming HDMI may be the standard for connecting media devices, but it has many drawbacks. Here's how to use Miracast instead. Read More. For heavy mirroring, the Stick might suit better.
Fire TV Cube | Hands-free with Alexa and 4K Ultra HD | Streaming Media Player. Buy now on Amazon
The Fire TV Cube combines Fire TV power with Echo Dot smarts: hands-free Alexa, built-in speaker, and far-field mics. Like the Fire TV, it handles 4K at 60fps, HDR10, and Dolby Atmos. Includes Ethernet adapter.
Same 1.5GHz quad-core CPU and 2GB RAM as Fire TV, but doubles storage to 16GB. No Miracast.
If you own an Echo or Fire TV already, skip it. A Comparison Guide to Amazon Echo Devices:Which is Best for You? A Comparison Guide to Amazon Echo Devices:Which is Best for You? Which Amazon Echo Device is Right for You? We compare the Plus, Dot, Tap, Show, Spot, Look and Fire TV Cube to help you decide. Read More. New to streaming and voice assistants? It's an excellent all-in-one starter.
Toshiba 43LF621U19 43-Inch 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV - Fire TV Edition Toshiba 43LF621U19 43-Inch 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV HDR - Fire TV Edition Buy Now On Amazon $329.99
Fire TV Edition TVs from partners like Toshiba integrate Fire TV—no dongle needed. This 43-inch 4K model offers solid value in multiple sizes.
Matches Fire TV's 4K at 60fps and HDR10, with 2GB RAM and 8GB storage. Lacks Dolby Atmos and Miracast.
Unique perk: No Amazon account required for basic use—access Netflix, Hulu, Spotify easily. Alexa voice control included for TV and smart home.
Not shopping for a TV? Skip. But if replacing one and love Fire TV, these are reliable, affordable choices.
Fire TV isn't for everyone. No native YouTube (browser workaround only) due to Amazon-Google tensions. Limited to Amazon Appstore—fewer apps than Android TV, though sideloading works.
Check Out The Essential Amazon Fire Stick Channel List The Essential Amazon Fire Stick Channel List The Essential Amazon Fire Stick Channel List What are the best apps for watching videos and listening to music? Here's our full list of Amazon Fire Stick channels. Read More
