If you're looking to enhance your older TV's capabilities without upgrading to a smart TV, a Fire TV stick might be just what you need. Amazon's Fire TV range offers various options tailored to different needs, from 4K streaming devices perfect for watching shows like House of the Dragon to budget-friendly options ideal for revisiting classics like The Sopranos. We're here to help you choose the best Fire TV device for your needs.
What Fire TV Device Is the Best for Most People?
Best for Streaming### Fire TV Stick 4K (2023)
Supports 4K and Xbox Game Pass streaming. $49.99 at Amazon
Among the various Fire TV sticks, the Fire TV Stick 4K (2023) stands out as the best option for most users. Priced at $49.99, it offers modern streaming features such as HDR and Dolby Atmos sound support, making it a versatile choice. It's also compatible with the Xbox app, so with a Game Pass Ultimate membership and a controller, you can dive into Xbox's extensive game library without the need for a console.
Every Fire TV Streaming Device Available in 2025
Best Overall### Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max
$59.99 at Amazon
Best for Streaming### Fire TV Stick 4K (2023)
$49.99 at Amazon
Best Budget Option### Fire TV Stick Lite
$29.99 at Amazon
Best for Smart Home Integration### Amazon Fire TV Cube
$139.99 at Amazon
Best Last-Gen Option### Amazon Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen)
$39.99 at Amazon
Fire TV Stick 4K Max - Best Overall
Best Overall### Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max
Supports 4K and Xbox Game Pass streaming. $59.99 at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Picture Quality: 4K UHD
- HDR Support: HDR10, HDR 10+, HLG, Dolby Vision
- Audio: Dolby Atmos
- Voice Support: Amazon Alexa
- Ports: HDMI, micro USB (on remote)
- Storage Capacity: 16GB
PROS
- 16GB of storage is beneficial for power users
- Wifi 6E support ensures a speedy connection
CONS
- Amazon Fire OS can feel clunky
The Fire TV Stick 4K Max offers a top-notch streaming experience without breaking the bank. It features a Quadcore processor and 16GB of storage, allowing you to download multiple apps without compromising performance. Its Wifi 6E support provides lower latency and higher speeds for content streaming, though you'll need a compatible router to fully benefit from this feature. Additionally, you can play Xbox games through the Xbox Cloud Gaming service, making it an excellent choice for gamers looking to explore titles like Starfield without investing in a console.
Fire TV Stick 4K (2023) - Best for Streaming
Best for Streaming### Fire TV Stick 4K (2023)
Supports 4K and Xbox Game Pass streaming. $49.99 at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Picture Quality: 4K UHD
- HDR Support: HDR10, HDR 10+, HLG, Dolby Vision
- Audio: Dolby Atmos
- Voice Support: Amazon Alexa
- Ports: HDMI, micro USB (on remote)
- Storage Capacity: 8GB
PROS
- Support for HDR 10, HDR 10+, HLG, and Dolby Vision
- Xbox App compatibility allows for cloud gaming
CONS
- 8GB of storage can fill up fast
The Fire TV Stick 4K (2023) is the perfect choice for those seeking an affordable yet powerful streaming device. For just $20 more than the Fire TV Stick Lite, it offers a wealth of features, including smart home control through Alexa and quick access to key apps. It streams at up to 60fps and supports various HDR formats, making it ideal for enjoying shows like the Fallout TV show and games like Fallout 76 and Fallout 4 through the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate library. Although the 8GB storage may fill up quickly, it's sufficient for most streaming needs.
Fire TV Stick Lite - Best Budget Option
Best Budget Option### Fire TV Stick Lite
Does not support 4K or Xbox Game Pass streaming. $29.99 at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Picture Quality: 1080p
- HDR Support: HDR10, HDR 10+, HLG
- Audio: Dolby Audio
- Voice Support: Amazon Alexa
- Ports: HDMI, micro USB (on remote)
PROS
- Approachable price point
- Alexa voice control simplifies the search for streaming content
CONS
- No 4K streaming
- Not compatible with Xbox Game Pass
Priced at $29.99, the Fire TV Stick Lite provides an entry point into Amazon's streaming ecosystem, delivering essential streaming capabilities for a budget-friendly price. It's ideal for smaller screens or secondary TVs, offering 1080p streaming and HDR support. The included Alexa voice search simplifies content discovery, and while the remote lacks TV control functionality, it features quick-access buttons for popular apps like Netflix and Prime Video.
Amazon Fire TV Cube - Best For Smart Home
Best for Smart Home Integration### Amazon Fire TV Cube
Does not support Xbox Game Pass streaming. $139.99 at Amazon
Product Specifications
- Picture Quality: 4K UHD
- HDR Support: HDR10, HDR 10+, HLG, Dolby Vision
- Audio: Dolby Atmos, 7.1 surround sound, 2-channel stereo, HDMI pass-through
- Voice Support: Amazon Alexa
- Ports: HDMI Input, HDMI Output, IR Extender, USB-A, Ethernet
PROS
- Octa-core processor ensures smooth searching
- Amazon Home support keeps you on top of your tech
CONS
- No Xbox app compatibility at this time
- Expensive
The Fire TV Cube combines robust streaming capabilities with advanced smart home integration. Its Octa-Core processor and Alexa Voice Remote provide seamless navigation through Fire OS. It offers multiple connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6 and Ethernet. For those already using Amazon's home ecosystem, it acts as an effective hub, allowing control over devices like Ring Cameras and smart lighting. It supports a wide range of HDR formats and audio options, making it an excellent choice for a home theater setup, perfect for enjoying films like Furiosa.
Amazon Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen) - Best Last-Gen Option
Best Last-Gen Option### Amazon Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen)
Does not support 4K streaming or Xbox games streaming. $39.99 at Amazon
Amazon's Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen) is still available, but with newer models offering enhanced features like 4K streaming and Game Pass compatibility, it's generally not recommended. If budget is your main concern, consider the Fire TV Stick Lite instead, which is more affordable and better suited for current streaming needs.
Fire TV Stick FAQs
Do you need a Fire TV stick if you have a Fire TV?
If you already own an Amazon Fire TV or a new smart TV, there's typically no need for a Fire TV stick. These devices already provide access to streaming apps. The only exception is if you want to use the Xbox Game Pass streaming app, which is only available on the latest Fire TV sticks.
What Fire TV devices are compatible with the Xbox app?
Only the Fire TV Stick 4K and Fire TV Stick 4K Max are compatible with the Xbox app, thanks to a recent partnership between Amazon and Xbox. Older Fire TV sticks and the Fire TV Cube do not support this feature.
When do Fire TV devices go on sale?
Amazon Fire TV devices frequently go on sale, so you should rarely have to pay full price. Prime Day and Black Friday are prime times for discounts, but holiday weekends like Presidents' Day, Labor Day, and Memorial Day also offer good deals. Check our guide to upcoming sales events for the best shopping opportunities.
