Amazon Fire TV Cube vs Firestick: Which Is Worth It?
Amazon Fire TV Cube vs Firestick: Which Is Worth It?
Everything you need to know before choosing between the two
Step 01
Compare Size and Setup
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Firestick is a compact dongle that plugs directly into your TV's HDMI port and is powered through USB
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Fire TV Cube is a larger box that requires a constant wall outlet connection
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If space is limited or you want something discreet, Firestick is the easier fit
Step 02
Compare Picture Quality
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Both Fire TV Cube and Firestick 4K support 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, and HDR10
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Fire TV Cube 3rd Gen adds Super Resolution upscaling which sharpens HD content to near 4K quality
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If picture quality is your priority, Fire TV Cube has a slight advantage with upscaling
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Step 03
Consider Alexa and Voice Control
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All Firestick models have Alexa via the remote but require you to hold a button to activate it
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Fire TV Cube is a full Alexa speaker so you can speak commands freely without touching the remote at all
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If you want completely hands free control, Fire TV Cube is the better choice
Step 04
Think About Connectivity and Value
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Fire TV Cube has a built in Ethernet port for a wired connection while Firestick requires an adapter
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Firestick is significantly more affordable and suits most casual streamers perfectly well
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Fire TV Cube is worth the extra investment if you want a hands free Alexa speaker, wired internet, and upscaling all in one device
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amazon Fire TV Cube faster than Firestick?
Yes, Fire TV Cube has a significantly more powerful processor than any Firestick model. App loading, switching between streams, and running cloud gaming all feel noticeably faster on the Cube.
Does Firestick have Alexa like Amazon Fire TV Cube?
Both have Alexa but in different ways. Firestick requires you to hold a button on the remote to activate Alexa while Fire TV Cube works as a full speaker letting you speak commands freely from across the room.
Is Firestick easier to set up than Amazon Fire TV Cube?
Yes, Firestick is simpler to set up as it plugs directly into your HDMI port and draws power through USB. Fire TV Cube requires a dedicated power outlet and more desk or shelf space to sit comfortably.
Which streams better on a weak WiFi connection, Firestick or Amazon Fire TV Cube?
Amazon Fire TV Cube has a clear advantage here as it includes a built in Ethernet port for a wired connection. Firestick relies solely on WiFi and requires a separate adapter if you want a wired connection.
Should I upgrade from Amazon Fire TV Stick to Amazon Fire TV Cube?
If your Firestick is running smoothly for basic streaming there is no urgent reason to upgrade. However if you want faster performance, a wired connection, and true hands free Alexa control throughout your room, Fire TV Cube is a meaningful step up.
Is Amazon Fire TV Cube worth the higher price over Firestick?
For casual streamers, Firestick delivers excellent quality at a much lower price. Fire TV Cube is worth the investment if you want hands free Alexa control, wired internet, and superior processing power all in one device.
In an Amazon Fire TV Cube vs Amazon Fire TV Stick comparison, which is better for a home theater setup?
Amazon Fire TV Cube is purpose built for home theater in this comparison. Its HDMI input lets you run other devices through it and its IR blaster controls your entire entertainment system from one place.
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