As streaming media has grown to dominate home entertainment, Amazon‘s Fire TV platform has earned a top spot providing access to all the most popular services. With Fire TV models ranging from affordable HD streaming sticks to high-end 4K cubes, it can get overwhelming determining what device best suits your preferences and budget.
In this comprehensive guide from a long-time Fire TV user, I’ll explain exactly what these products can do, how they differ, and provide clear advice tailored to a variety of buyer needs and priorities when choosing a Fire TV Stick versus Fire TV Cube.
What is Fire TV? A Background
Launched in 2014, Amazon’s Fire TV streaming devices aim to be a portal to accessing all your favorite movies, shows, apps and games on the biggest screen in your house. They connect to your TV via HDMI and connect wirelessly to the internet through WiFi, creating a smart TV experience.
The Fire TV platform runs on a version of Android optimized for the living room experience. The simple home screen UI shows rows of movies and shows from various streaming services alongside the most popular apps. You can download additional apps and games from Amazon‘s app store.
Navigation is handled with the included Alexa Voice Remote which has shortcut buttons for major streaming services along with a microphone to issue voice commands and search for content. Basic models ship with a remote lacking channel and TV controls while higher-end options include advanced remote capabilities.
Over the years we’ve seen Amazon release various Fire TV models as streaming capability and technology has improved. Let’s break down those different product lines available now:
Fire TV Sticks – Dongle-style devices that directly plug into an open HDMI port on your TV with the processing box hanging behind the screen. Offer base to high-end streaming in affordable packages.
Fire TV Edition smart TVs – Televisions with Fire TV software and capabilities built-in so no additional purchase is required. Removes the need for a streaming device.
Fire TV Cubes – Box-style streamers designed to sit on a shelf under the TV like a cable box replacement with the most powerful processors and additional smart controls.
For this comparison between the Fire TV Stick 4K Max and Fire TV Cube, we’ll be focusing specifically on standalone streaming devices you connect to your existing TV.
Fire Stick Models and Comparison
The Fire TV Stick line features 4 models differentiated mainly by video resolution, processing power, and included remote. Let’s contrast the key specs:
Fire TV Stick Lite – Only 1080p HD resolution with older processor. Cheapest at $29.99 but feels sluggish. Remote lacks TV controls.
Fire TV Stick – Same resolution but improved processor keeps navigation smooth. TV controls on Alexa Voice Remote. Great value at $39.99.
Fire TV Stick 4K – Bumps up video quality to 4K Ultra HD resolution. Responsive interface with more storage. Priced at $49.99.
Fire TV Stick 4K Max – Additional processing boost with WiFi 6 and longest range Alexa remote sporting channel buttons. Delivers top-tier performance only trailing behind Fire TV Cube. Usually $54.99 but often on sale for $10-20 off.
While all models provide access to the vast Fire TV apps library, purchasing power dictates extras like storage space, UHD compatibility, and premium remote. But paying up for those bonuses may not fit everyone‘s budget.
The standard HD Fire Stick strikes an excellent balance of affordability and function for casual streamers. Power users wanting best bang for buck will prefer the Fire Stick 4K Max. I‘d only consider entry Lite model if keeping costs minimal outweighs mild performance frustrations.
What is the Fire TV Cube?
Evolving from the beloved Fire TV box, the cube-shaped Fire TV Cube launched in 2018 with beefed up hardware and some Echo-inspired smart features that opened opportunity for wider whole-home integration.
Spec-for-spec, Fire TV Cube outclasses any Fire Stick model. Key hardware advantages:
- Faster hexa-core CPU keeps interface navigation and streaming app launching rapid
- 16GB onboard storage for more apps before needing expansion
- Long-range IR blaster to control TV/soundbar/AVR with included IR extender
- Built-in Alexa far-field microphones enabling complete hands-free voice control
- Together, integrated IR and Alexa allow seamless voice-driven TV and smart home control
This gives Fire TV Cube capabilities more aligned with premium rivals like Apple TV 4K while maintaining wider Fire TV ecosystem compatibility. It brings Prime Video-centric setups closer to high-end home theater hub status.
However, that power comes at a cost. Fire TV Cube carries a $139.99 MSRP, over double the Fire Stick 4K Max price. Sales often discount $20-40 off but value-focused buyers get reluctant approaching the $100+ range for dedicated streaming.
Let‘s analyze where that extra investment goes and whether worthwhile.
Fire Stick vs Fire TV Cube: In-Depth Comparison
With background established evaluating Fire TV options available, we finally reach the main event – an in-depth, spec-by-spec breakdown between Amazon‘s top standalone streamers Fire Stick 4K Max and Fire TV Cube.
Price
- Fire Stick 4K Max – $54.99
- Fire TV Cube – $139.99
Obviously the Cube commands a sizable $85 premium. As we investigate closer, I‘ll determine areas that justify the gap along with weaknesses making the sticker price hard to swallow.
Video and Audio Support
- Max Resolution: 3840 x 2160 UHD on both
- HDR: HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision
- Audio: Dolby Atmos immersive surround sound
Streaming performance sees no compromise between the Stick and Cube. They play highest quality content – 4K, HDR, Dolby Vision video with Dolby Atmos audio. You must own a compatible TV and sound system to leverage these upgrades but the Fire devices unlock that full potential.
That contrast sharply from Roku where only priciest models enable Dolby Vision. Fire TV experience stays consistent regardless of which high-end model purchased.
Hardware and Connectivity
- Processor: Quad-core vs Hexa-core
- GPU: 750MHz vs 800MHz
- Wi-Fi: WiFi 6 on both
- Ports: HDMI only (Stick) / HDMI + mUSB + IR (Cube)
- Expandable Storage: MicroSD card on both
This category reveals the Cube‘s more robust core components. Experience shows in smoother navigation and faster streaming/interface response thanks to the hexa-core CPU and beefier GPU.
Common pain points like delayed app openings or stuttering Prime Video streams happen less frequently. Actual real-world boost feels subtle but demonstrates refinement lacking on underpowered budget rivals.
Both models include important WiFi 6 support aiding 4K streaming stability. Wired connections remain unavailable without Amazon‘s discontinued Ethernet adapter so WiFi speed matters.
Additional ports allow Fire TV Cube integration into surround sound setups. But casual users need only the lone HDMI. MicroSD card slot helps expand internal storage either way.
Fire TV Cube Outperforms on Hardware
Credit: CordCutters News
Smart Features: Alexa and Voice Control
All Fire models feature microphone-enabled remotes for Alexa assistance searching content or answering requests like weather, sports scores, etc.
Exclusive Cube Abilities:
-
Hands-Free Alexa thanks to far-field mics. Access Alexa completely without remote. Huge for smart home control, kitchen viewing, etc.
-
Infrared Blaster sends signals controlling TVs, sound bars, cable boxes, A/VRs. Enable expansive voice-driven AV equipment management.
-
Cube acts as an Alexa smart speaker accessing 100,000+ skills like other Echo devices. Makes perfect whole-home assistant.
Alexa functionality pushes the Cube way ahead for those desiring maximum voice integration. I utilize hands-free commands daily to check security cams, weather, sports highlights without grabbing remote. IR blaster also seamlessly switches TV inputs on command.
If already enjoying Echo devices around your home, the Cube perfectly complements that ecosystem. Stick models still offer strong Alexa support through remote. But Cube brings additional interoperability.
Dimensions and Design
- Fire Stick – 3.9 x 1.2 x 0.5 inch (99 mm x 30 mm x 14 mm)
- Fire TV Cube – 3.4 x 3.4 x 3 inches (86 mm x 86 mm x 76 mm)
True to namesake, compact Fire Stick shape effortlessly plugs directly into TV HDMI input hiding behind the screen. Its tiny size goes completely unnoticed.
Conversely, the Cube‘s squared shape resides front and center like a cable box. Far larger than palm-sized stick with required power cable. Demands own space on TV stand rather than disappearing from view.
If keeping entertainment center tidy ranks high personally, better integrated Fire Stick design excels. Understated looks blend better in living room versus another visible black box. Minimalists take note.
Additional Streaming Capabilities and Limitations
Beyond core video and voice command performance, what else can these Fire TV models do? Any major streaming service offers support like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, etc alongside thousands of lesser-known apps.
Common secondary use cases:
- Web Browsing – Silk browser available but clunky navigation without mouse. Better options exist.
- Gaming – Access Amazon‘s Fire TV Gaming service providing cloud streamed titles. Also download mobile games directly from Amazon App Store. Paired Bluetooth controllers work nicely.
- Live TV Streaming – Many live channel apps like Sling, YouTube TV, or antenna streaming through Fire TV Recast DVR box.
- Music Streaming – Support most services like Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, Tidal, etc. Lacks lossless tier access on Spotify/Tidal.
- Picture-in-picture – Useful feature allowing content view while accessing home screen persists across models.
Frustrations dealing with the Fire TV OS manifest through clunky navigation requiring many clicks reaching sub-menu options. Many screens occupied by giant advertisements and rows promoting Amazon content.
Getting situated streaming your paid services requires filtering past upsells first. Understandable given Amazon’s commerce roots but wears thin long term.
Also missing access to lossless music found on Apple TV/Roku devices. Niche annoyance but audiophiles be warned. Unavailable despite mixing Fire TVs nicely with Echo Studio speaker supporting hi-res playback.
Finally, while Alexa performs wonderfully for voice commands, those without Amazon ecosystem investment may feel restricted. Lacks native HomeKit or Google Assistant support beyond basic smart home control. But convenience gaining quick access to Amazon content remains the priority.
Which Fire TV Device Should You Buy?
We’ve covered many angles highlighting benefits and limitations inherent to both the Fire Stick 4K Max and Fire TV Cube. With old gen models still available too, what buy makes sense for common buyer archetypes?
Budget-Focused Shoppers
Best Bet: Fire TV Stick – Hits the streaming essentials like 4K, HDR, Dolby Atmos at reasonable $39.99 price. Performance reliable for most. Easy choice for high-quality frugal streaming.
Streamers Wanting Best Features Without Breaking Bank
Best Bet: Fire Stick 4K Max – Packs future-proofed WiFi 6 and 30% faster processor over normal Fire Stick without hiking cost too far. May spend $15 extra but gets you closer to Cube speeds. Wonderful middle ground.
Smart Home Owners Deeply Invested Into Alexa Ecosystem
Best Bet: Fire TV Cube – Complete smart home control point. Hands-free voice, extensive AV equipment compatibility, brilliant Alexa integration. The central hub Alexa-first households dream of. Justifies higher price tag through unmatched utility and role serving broader connected home. Must-have for avid Echo device users.
First-Time Streamer Device Shoppers Prioritizing Easy Setup
Best Bet: Fire Stick – Avoid potential remote pairing issues that occasionally trouble new Cube owners. Simple plug-and-play shape also makes port swapping effortless. While Cube offers greater long-term potential, first-timers better served starting cheaper. Can always upgrade down the road once accustomed to Fire TV platform.
Hopefully these recommendations provide helpful direction guiding your Fire TV purchase decision process. I‘m happy to address additional questions in comments!
The Last Word
While on the surface Fire TV models share core capabilities delivering apps, movies and shows to your screen, looking closer reveals meaningful differences that might push buyers toward one over the other.
Fire TV Stick makes accessing Fire TV platform extremely affordable but comes saddled with performance frustrations. Latest Fire Stick 4K Max impresses keeping pace with pricier Cube model for less. But Fire TV Cube shines brightest for Prime Video super fans wanting ultimate future-proof experience tightly integrated with Alexa voice control throughout their abode.
My choice falls to the 4K Fire Stick hitting my must-haves without overspending. But equally valid reasons exist going other directions to better match individual viewing habits and smart home infrastructure. Carefully weigh personal priorities before hitting buy. Contentment awaits!
