This post will compare the Fire TV devices currently available in the market: FireStick Lite vs. Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen) vs. FireStick HD (2024) vs. FireStick 4K vs. FireStick 4K Max vs. Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen). The review will help you choose the best Fire TV streaming device.
FireStick is one of the most widely used streaming devices worldwide. The first generation FireStick was released in November 2014.
Over the years, Amazon introduced several variants and new-generation Fire TV devices.
The gradual change has brought better features, performance, and functionality variants. As I write this guide, there are six Fire TV devices on the market:
- FireStick Lite (2nd Gen)
- Fire TV Stick (3rd Gen)
- Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen)
- FireStick 4K (2nd Gen)
- FireStick 4K Max (2nd Gen)
- FireStick HD (2024)
Note: Amazon released the FireStick HD as the newest model in October 2024. It will replace the discontinued FireStick Lite and 3rd Generation Fire TV Stick. The two models are still on sale at Amazon, but the company stopped production to focus on the FireStick HD.
We prepared this FireStick comparison guide to help you decide the best streaming option.
Attention FireStick Users
Governments and ISPs across the world monitor their users' online activities. If you use third-party streaming apps on your Fire TV Stick, you should always use a good FireStick VPN and hide your identity so your movie-viewing experience doesn’t take a bad turn. Currently, your IP is visible to everyone.
I use ExpressVPN, the fastest and most secure VPN in the industry. It is very easy to install on any device, including Amazon Fire TV Stick. Also, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you don't like their service, you can always ask for a refund. ExpressVPN also has a special deal where you can get 4 months free and save 61% on the 2-year plan.
Read: How to Install and Use Best VPN for FireStick
FireStick Lite vs. Fire TV Stick vs. FireStick HD vs. FireStick 4K vs. FireStick 4K Max vs. Fire TV Cube
In the following sections, we will evaluate the five devices based on:
- Speed and Performance.
- Storage.
- Resolution and Video Quality.
- Audio Support.
- Alexa Integration & Voice Support.
- Remote Controller Support.
- Pricing and Value for Money.
We aim to help you choose the best streaming device by evaluating this FireStick comparison.
1. Speed and Performance
| Device / Specs | Processor | CPU Width | RAM / Memory |
|---|---|---|---|
| FireStick Lite | Quad-core 1.7GHz & GPU 650 MHz | 64-bit | 1 GB DDR3 |
| FireStick 3rd Gen | Quad-core 1.7GHz & GPU 650 MHz | 64-bit | 1 GB DDR4 |
| FireStick 4K (2nd Gen) | Quad-core 1.7GHz & 650 MHz | 64-bit | 2GB LPDDR4 |
| FireStick 4K Max (2nd Gen) | Quad-core 2.0 GHz & GPU 850 MHz | 64-bit | 2GB LPDDR4 |
| Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen) | Quad-core 2.2GHz + 2.0 GHz & GPU 800MHz | 64-bit | 2GB LPDDR4/x |
| FireStick HD (2024) | Quad-core 1.7 GHz | 64-bit | 1 GB DDR3 |
The FireStick Lite is slower than several current FireStick devices. It is powered by a Quad-Core 1.7GHz processor with 1GB RAM and takes about a minute to power on. The navigation is usually smooth, but you may experience occasional lagging.
Next is the standard Fire TV Stick, which has features and specs similar to the FireStick Lite except for the remote. The Fire TV Stick has a Quad-Core 1.7GHz processor and 1GB RAM. Unlike the FireStick Lite, it powers fast and has a good app loading time. However, as expected, it is slower than the Fire TV Cube and the 4K & 4K Max devices.
FireStick HD is the newest addition to the Fire TV Stick family, set to replace the Lite and 3rd Generation FireStick. It is similar to the discontinued duo in speed and performance, powered by a Quad-Core 1.7 GHz processor with 1GB RAM.
The FireStick 4K retains the Quad-core 1.7GHz processor, but its bigger RAM makes it faster and smoother than the FireStick Lite and FireStick 3rd Gen.
The 2nd Generation FireStick 4K Max offers several significant performance upgrades over the previous generation. The most notable include the advanced 2.0 GHz Quad-Core processor and 2GB RAM from the Quad-Core 1.8 GHz processor.
These upgrades have resulted in a 30% overall improvement in responsiveness and navigation. App loading time is quick, outperforming the previous Fire TV devices except for the Fire TV Cube.
The 3rd Generation Fire TV Cube, released in October 2022, is smooth and seamless. This device features a 2.2 GHz + 2.0 GHz octa-core processor, up from the previous generation’s Hexa-core processor (2.2 GHz + 1.9 GHz).
This powerful processor makes the Fire TV Cube snappy and responsive. When you power it on, the OS only takes a few seconds to launch. Additionally, apps load fast, and navigation is breezy without lag or freezing.
Verdict: The 3rd Gen Fire TV Cube is the clear winner in speed and performance, with the FireStick 4K Max coming in a close second. The rest fall behind because of the Quad-Core 1.7GHz processor cap.
2. Storage
| Device | Storage |
|---|---|
| FireStick Lite | 8 GB |
| FireStick HD (2024) | 8 GB |
| FireStick 3rd Gen | 8 GB |
| FireStick 4k (2nd Gen) | 8 GB |
| FireStick 4K Max (2nd Gen) | 16 GB |
| Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen) | 16 GB |
One of the most admirable features of a FireStick is its ability to be jailbroken. Jailbreaking the device allows you to install third-party apps to stream various content, from movies and shows to sports and live TV.
When choosing a streaming device, considering storage is essential as it dictates how many apps you can download without deleting others. Let’s run down a FireStick comparison based on the storage abilities of each Fire TV model.
The FireStick Lite, Fire TV Stick, FireStick HD, and FireStick 4K have 8GB of storage (with a third reserved for pre-installed apps and the OS), so there’s no clear winner from above.
On the other hand, the FireStick 4K Max and the Fire TV Cube have 16GB of storage, enough to download and even sideload apps without affecting performance.
Verdict: With 16 GB of storage, the FireStick 4K Max and the Fire TV Cube are the ultimate choices.
3. Resolution and Video Quality
| Device | Output Resolution |
|---|---|
| FireStick Lite | Up to 1080 (Full HD) |
| FireStick HD (2024) | Up to 1080 (Full HD) |
| FireStick 3rd Gen | Up to 1080 (Full HD) |
| FireStick 4K (2nd Gen) | Up to 2160 (4K) |
| FireStick 4K Max (2nd Gen) | Up to 2160 (4K) |
| Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen) | Up to 2160 (4K) |
Video quality is crucial to any streaming experience as clarity, color contrast, and vibrancy define the device’s cinematic appeal. Here are details of how different Fire TV devices compare in resolution and video quality.
The FireStick Lite, 3rd Gen Fire TV Stick, and Fire TV Stick HD have similar video quality and resolution. The trio supports 720p and 1080p, with up to 60fps. Supported video formats across the three models include HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG. Although these are the entry-level FireSticks, I find their video quality decent, with high-quality images.
The FireStick 4K, 4K Max, and the Fire TV Cube have a maximum 4K Ultra HD resolution. These Fire TV versions support various video formats, including Dolby Vision, plus HDR, HDR 10, HDR10+, and HLG. If you have a 4K-compatible TV, these devices offer significantly better video quality than FireStick Lite, 3rd Gen FireStick, and FireStick HD.
Verdict: As far as resolution is concerned, there isn’t much to choose between FireStick 4K, 4K Max, and Fire TV Cube. On the other hand, FireStick Lite, FireStick 3rd Gen, and FireStick HD are limited to 1080p.
4. Audio Support
| Device | Audio Support |
|---|---|
| FireStick Lite | Dolby HDMI Passthrough Only |
| FireStick HD (2024) | Dolby HDMI Passthrough Only |
| FireStick 3rd Gen | Dolby Atmos |
| FireStick 4K (2nd Gen) | Dolby Atmos with 7.1 surround sound |
| FireStick 4K Max (2nd Gen) | Dolby Atmos with 7.1 surround sound |
| Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen) | Dolby Atmos with 7.1 surround sound |
Like video quality, audio quality can significantly enhance your streaming experience.
The FireStick Lite and FireStick HD have the lowest audio quality among the Amazon streaming devices. They support HDMI audio passthrough of Dolby-encoded audio. The Fire TV 3rd Gen comes in at a close second with Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, and Dolby Digital+ audio formats.
The Fire TV Cube, FireStick 4K, and 4K Max offer superior audio quality with refined, well-balanced sound. These devices support Dolby Atmos audio format with 7.1 surround sound. Additionally, they have an HDMI audio pass of up to 5.1 and 2-channel stereo.
However, you can feel the difference in audio only if your FireStick is connected to a supported audio output. If you have speakers with Dolby Atmos support, the quality improvement of the 7.1 surround sound will be tangible.
Verdict: There isn’t much to compare here. The FireStick Lite and FireStick HD have the lowest audio quality, followed closely by the 3rd Gen FireStick. The FireStick 4K, FireStick 4K Max, and Fire TV Cube have the same audio quality. This means you’ll have to consider other factors besides audio when selecting the best Fire TV product.
5. Alexa Integration and Voice Support
| Device | Alexa | Voice Support |
|---|---|---|
| FireStick Lite | Yes | With Alexa-enabled voice remote and Fire TV app (free to download on iOS, Android, and Fire OS) |
| FireStick 3rd Gen | Yes | Same as FireStick Lite + Volume and power control functions and IR-enabled device control |
| FireStick HD (2024) | Yes | Same as FireStick Lite + Volume and power control functions and IR-enabled device control |
| FireStick 4K (2nd Gen) | Yes | Same as FireStick Lite + Volume and power control functions and IR-enabled device control |
| FireStick 4K Max (2nd Gen) | Yes | Same as FireStick Lite + Volume and power control functions and IR-enabled device control |
| Fire TV Cube | Yes | Same as FireStick Lite + Hands-free, Near-field, and far-field voice support with Echo speaker |
Alexa integration is part of every Fire TV device. You can use the Alexa voice assistant to navigate FireStick. Examples of Alexa-assisted commands for Fire TV include showing you the weather report, finding nearby restaurants, and opening apps downloaded from the Amazon Store.
You can also stream movies by titles, create a shopping list, and even ask her to tell a joke. Even though all Fire TV devices have Alexa, the level of integration varies from one version to the other, as detailed below:
The FireStick Lite has the lowest level of Alexa integration among the current Fire TV products. It performs basic voice command functions, such as opening apps.
The Fire TV Stick and Fire TV Stick HD have similar Alexa abilities. However, these sticks have additional Alexa integration, allowing you to perform more tasks besides opening apps and giving weather report commands. You can also control other remote functions like volume and power and other Alexa-compatible devices like sound bars and TVs.
The FireStick 4K and 4K Max take Alexa integration to the next level. The voice assistant picks up sound fast and responds equally well. In addition to performing basic functions like searching for content and answering questions, these devices’ integration level lets you control compatible doorbells and cameras and bring up live feeds and videos.
The Fire TV Cube is the most integrated entertainment system with the Alexa voice assistant. It combines the best streaming capability with the Amazon Echo speaker and offers near-field and far-field support unavailable on other Fire TV devices.
This means you can give Alexa hands-free commands without using the remote. Additionally, the Echo speaker picks sound over loud noise.
Another highlight of the Alexa integration level in Fire Stick Cube is the ability to control various smart devices, such as smart lights, cameras, and TVs. The Fire TV Cube Echo speaker works with IoT (Internet of Things) gadgets.
Fire TV Cube also has a built-in speaker, which allows one to use it independently of a TV.
Verdict: The Fire TV Cube has impressive voice support, which picks up sound in a noisy room, and better Alexa integration, which lets you control more gadgets.
6. Remote Controls
| Device | TV Controls | Preset App Buttons |
|---|---|---|
| FireStick Lite | No | Yes |
| FireStick 3rd Gen | Yes | Yes |
| FireStick HD (2024) | Yes | Yes |
| FireStick 4K (2nd Gen) | Yes | Yes |
| FireStick 4K Max (2nd Gen) | Yes | Yes |
| Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen) | Yes | Yes |
Remote control is an essential component of FireStick, a black, lightweight, compact product designed for a minimalist setup.
The remote controls for the various Fire TV variants are almost similar. However, there are slight differences in size, key/button placement, and functionality. Let’s compare the remote controls below.
All FireStick device remotes have the Alexa button at the top and the round navigation pad slightly below it. The center of the remote has the home, select, back, menu, rewind, play/pause, TV guide, and fast-forward buttons, and the bottom has four preset app buttons.
The FireStick Lite is the least functional of the five Fire TV devices as it lacks the other remotes’ power, mute, and volume control buttons. The Fire TV Cube and FireStick 4K Max remotes are 6.2 inches long compared to the rest at 5.6 inches. These remotes have additional channels, settings, and recent buttons.
The new FireStick HD remote is more compact, slimmer, and has rounder edges. It also includes TV power and volume buttons that were absent from previous entry-level models. The new Alexa Voice remote has pre-programmed app buttons for Netflix, Prime Video, and other top streaming apps.
Verdict: The FireStick 4K Max and Fire TV Cube remotes offer excellent functionality and convenience thanks to the additional buttons.
7. Pricing and Value for Money
| Device | Price |
|---|---|
| FireStick HD (2024) | $19.99 |
| FireStick Lite | $29.99 |
| FireStick 3rd Gen | $34.99 |
| FireStick 4K (2nd Gen) | $27.99 |
| FireStick 4K Max (2nd Gen) | $39.99 |
| Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen) | $109.99 |
Note: The prices mentioned here are retail prices. However, they are subject to change during promotional periods.
A FireStick comparison isn’t complete without a pricing examination. Most users consider the pricing and value for money before making a purchase.
The FireStick Lite costs $29.99, and the Fire TV Stick costs $39.99. Despite performing equally, the Fire TV Stick offers more value for money if you consider the Dolby Atmos audio support and improved Alexa integration.
The new Fire TV Stick HD costs $34.99. This is a great price for an entry-point device now that the Lite and 3rd-Gen FireStick are being phased out. It combines the best of Lite and 3rd-Gen FireStick with advanced capabilities like Alexa and TV controls.
The FireStick 4K and 4K Max cost $49.99 and $59.99, respectively. The main difference is that the 4K Max has 16GB storage, while the 4K has the standard 8GB storage.
The 4K Max also has the Fire TV ambient experience feature that uses an AI-powered smart display to turn your TV screen into a gallery by displaying artwork, music, photos, etc.
Finally, there’s the Fire TV Cube, which is the most expensive of the Fire TV devices at $139.99. However, the price difference is worth it if you have Amazon eco-system-compatible devices that benefit from advanced Alexa integration and hands-free navigation.
FireStick Comparison Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
Choosing the best Fire TV product depends on your unique needs and budget. For example, you might be looking for a streaming device that perfectly balances functionality, performance, and audiovisual quality.
In such an instance, the perfect choice would be the FireStick 4K Max. It has a powerful 2GHz Quad-Core processor for snappy and smooth navigation, and it is a fraction of the price of a Fire TV Cube.
The Fire TV Stick HD is also ideal for those on a tight budget who still want smooth navigation, good video quality, and Dolby-encoded audio support.
I recommend Fire TV Cube for advanced voice support and AI. It allows you to control smart devices and use the Echo speaker independently of a remote controller or TV. If you want that, Fire TV Cube is a clear choice.
I hope I was able to help you choose the best streaming device. Of course, you can buy any or all of these devices from Amazon.com. For all your cord-cutting and troubleshooting requirements, bookmark our post, FireStickTricks.com.
More interesting topics:
- How to Jailbreak a FireStick
- How to set up and use a VPN on FireStick
- Best apps for FireStick
- Best tips for FireStick cord-cutters
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I cannot get installation to proceed past the English , skip , next page …it locks there
Hi Betty,
Which Fire TV device are you attempting to install? If you are installing a FireStick, I recommend checking out our article detailing how to set up your FireStick for the first time. It sounds to me like your device may not be connected to a working internet connection during the time that you’re attempting the installation. Ensure that you have a working internet connection when attempting to install your device. Please let me know if you continue having this issue after following the linked article’s instructions.
Great Article you wrote, you kept it: simple and clear, Great Job, thanks for your Article, wish to see more your good writing !!
This article was super helpful! I appreciate the information being presented in an easy-to-understand format and with straight forward advice. Thank you!
Just mute your fire cube cause mine was doing the same thing and just push the top of the fire cube on the back side are however you have it turned. There’s a round circle on the top of the fire cube which just push it down and a line will show up on it which that’s how you know you have muted your fire cube. I know that was so annoying that I love not having the problem anymore. I hope I’ve helped you and just now saw your cmmt r wldve answered right off. Have a blessed day
Do you think the cube would be appropriate for someone who is quadriplegic and relies entirely on voice commands? Like, would he need to use any buttons for anything? Or could he control Netflix and what-not with his voice?
Thanks for the super informative article!
JP
Nice comparison. No love for the Fire TV ‘pendant’ device? I moved from that to a 4K stick. The 4K is better but the pendant is no slouch..
The thing I hate about the Cube is that when an alarm goes off, she answers a question, etc., a lot of the time she just takes over your TV screen no matter what is playing. I was watching a football game, and right in the middle of a critical play, a timer went off and just took over the screen and I missed it. Very frustrating and I can’t find any way to turn it off.
The non 4k stick also does not support linking an echo device for surround audio.
How does the Fire TV 4K unit compare to the Fire stick 4K, and the Fire TV cube?
I can’t find much info on stats, but it seems like the model I want, since it does 4K/HDR, has an ETHERNET PORT (why most of these sticks persist in WiFi connections only is beyond me…) and it doesn’t have all the Echo Dot stuff built-in the Cube that I don’t care about…