Choose the Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen, 2022) if you want hands-free Alexa without a separate Echo, built-in Ethernet, or an HDMI input for a compatible device such as a set-top box. Choose the Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen, 2023) if you want a compact 4K streaming stick and are happy using its voice remote—or already have a linked Echo for hands-free voice control. Both offer 16 GB of storage, Wi-Fi 6E, and 4K streaming, so those features alone do not settle the choice.
At a glance: what separates the Cube and the Stick?
| Feature | Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen, 2022) | Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen, 2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Set-top box | HDMI streaming stick |
| Processor | Octa-core; Amazon says it is twice as powerful as the Stick 4K Max. This is a vendor comparison, not an independent benchmark. | Quad-core MediaTek MT8696T, up to 2.0 GHz |
| Voice control | Built-in far-field, hands-free Alexa and a voice remote | Voice remote; hands-free control requires a linked Echo |
| Connections | HDMI 2.1 input and output (output supports ARC), USB 2.0, IR extender port, and 10/100 Ethernet | HDMI output; wired Ethernet requires an external adapter |
| Wi-Fi and storage | Tri-band Wi-Fi 6E; 16 GB | Tri-band Wi-Fi 6E; 16 GB |
| Video and HDR | 4K up to 60 fps; Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG | 4K; Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG |
| Audio and home theater | Alexa Home Theater support with compatible Echo speakers and an HDMI ARC television | Amazon lists Dolby Atmos support; Alexa Home Theater works with compatible Echo speakers and an HDMI ARC television |
Hardware details are from Amazon’s Cube specifications and Stick specifications. Amazon’s Cube page calls it “2X more powerful” than the Stick, but that is the manufacturer’s claim; it does not establish a measured difference in app launch times or everyday speed.
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Choose the Cube for hands-free Alexa and more connections
You want voice control without picking up a remote
The Cube has microphones for far-field Alexa, so you can speak to it from across the room without a separate Echo. It also comes with a voice remote. The Stick has a microphone button on its remote; for hands-free control, it relies on a linked Echo rather than built-in far-field microphones.
You need HDMI input or built-in Ethernet
The Cube’s HDMI input can connect compatible equipment, including a supported set-top box. Amazon’s support instructions for connecting a cable or satellite box describe controlling a supported box with Alexa. For that setup, the Cube and set-top box need line of sight, and Amazon recommends a high-speed HDMI cable rated for 18 Gbps or higher. The Cube also has a USB 2.0 port, an IR extender port, and 10/100 Ethernet.
#1 Best Overall
- Our fastest-ever streaming media player - Brings lightning-fast app starts with an octa-core processor and is 2X as powerful as Fire TV Stick 4K Max.
- The newest Fire TV experience (2026) – Our biggest update to Fire TV has a new, modern design that gets you to your entertainment fast. Browse dedicated content categories, pin more of your favorite apps, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+. Spend less time scrolling, and more time watching.
- Smarter picks with Alexa+ – Getting to what you love has never been easier. Press the voice remote button and talk naturally to find what to watch across your apps, manage your smart home, or dive into virtually any topic.
- Hands-free Alexa with built-in mic and speakers - Control your compatible TV, soundbar, and receivers with your voice, even from across the room.
- Seamlessly navigate between your entertainment - Connect compatible devices and easily go from streaming to your cable box, game console, or webcam.
Those extra ports matter if they solve a real problem in your setup. If you only need to stream apps, the HDMI input and wired network port may go unused.
Choose the Stick for a compact streaming device
The Stick plugs directly into the TV’s HDMI port and provides 4K streaming, Wi-Fi 6E, and 16 GB of storage. Its voice remote handles Alexa, and an existing linked Echo can provide hands-free voice control. It does not have the Cube’s built-in HDMI input, Ethernet port, or native far-field Alexa.
Rank #2
- This bundle contains Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen) and Alexa Voice Remote Pro.
- The newest Fire TV experience (2026) – Our biggest update to Fire TV has a new, modern design that gets you to your entertainment fast. Browse dedicated content categories, pin more of your favorite apps, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+. Spend less time scrolling, and more time watching.
- Smarter picks with Alexa+ – Getting to what you love has never been easier. Press the voice remote button and talk naturally to find what to watch across your apps, manage your smart home, or dive into virtually any topic.
- Our fastest-ever streaming media player - Brings lightning-fast app starts with an octa-core processor and is 2X as powerful as Fire TV Stick 4K Max.
- Hands-free Alexa with built-in mic and speakers - Control your compatible TV, soundbar, and receivers with your voice, even from across the room.
If you want wired networking with the Stick, Amazon lists Ethernet as requiring an external adapter. That is an additional setup consideration, not a requirement for ordinary streaming.
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Do Wi-Fi 6E or storage make one faster?
Amazon lists tri-band Wi-Fi 6E and 16 GB of storage on both models. Neither specification distinguishes these generations. Wi-Fi 6E’s benefits depend on a compatible router and network conditions; the device specifications do not guarantee faster internet or smoother streaming in a particular home.
Rank #3
- Like-New Fire TV Cube is refurbished, tested, and certified to look and work like new and comes with the same limited warranty as a new device. Like-New Amazon devices may be packaged in generic Amazon-branded boxes.
- Our fastest-ever streaming media player - Brings lightning-fast app starts with an octa-core processor and is 2X as powerful as Fire TV Stick 4K Max.
- Hands-free Alexa with built-in mic and speakers - Control your compatible TV, soundbar, and receivers with your voice, even from across the room.
- Smarter searching starts here with Alexa – Find movies by actor, plot, and even iconic quotes. Try saying, "Alexa show me action movies with car chases."
- Seamlessly navigate between your entertainment - Connect compatible devices and easily go from streaming to your cable box, game console, or webcam.
The Cube has an octa-core processor and the Stick a quad-core MediaTek processor, but the available specifications do not provide independent comparative benchmarks. Treat Amazon’s “2X more powerful” description as a manufacturer claim, not proof of a particular speed advantage in daily use.
Can either device work with Alexa Home Theater?
Yes. Amazon lists both devices as compatible with Alexa Home Theater when paired with compatible Echo devices and a television that supports HDMI ARC. The Amazon setup guide says to connect the Fire TV device to the TV’s ARC-labeled HDMI port; HDMI-CEC may also need to be enabled. Alexa Home Theater plays audio through Echo devices, so compatibility with one of these Fire TV models does not mean every soundbar or receiver arrangement is supported.
Rank #4
- Ultra-speedy streaming: Roku Ultra is 30% faster than any other Roku player, delivering a lightning-fast interface and apps that launch in a snap.
- Cinematic streaming: This TV streaming device brings the movie theater to your living room with spectacular 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision picture alongside immersive Dolby Atmos audio.
- The ultimate Roku remote: The rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro offers backlit buttons, hands-free voice controls, and a lost remote finder.
- No more fumbling in the dark: See what you’re pressing with backlit buttons.
- Say goodbye to batteries: Keep your remote powered for months on a single charge.
Check the generation and local price before buying
This comparison is specifically about the Cube 3rd Gen (2022) and Stick 4K Max 2nd Gen (2023). Amazon’s device-specification page also lists the Stick 4K Max 1st Gen (2021), so check the generation on the listing before purchasing. Current prices, discounts, and stock vary by marketplace and are not established by these hardware specifications; compare local listings before deciding whether the Cube’s extra connections and hands-free control justify its price for you.
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Best Value
- Advanced 4K streaming - Elevate your entertainment with the next generation of our best-selling 4K stick, with improved streaming performance optimized for 4K TVs.
- The newest Fire TV experience (2026) – Our biggest update to Fire TV has a new, modern design that gets you to your entertainment fast. Browse dedicated content categories, pin more of your favorite apps, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+. Spend less time scrolling, and more time watching.
- Cloud gaming, no console required – Stream Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Hogwarts Legacy, Outer Worlds 2, Ninja Gaiden 4, and hundreds of games on your Fire TV Stick 4K Select with Xbox Game Pass and Luna via cloud gaming. Xbox Game Pass subscription and compatible controller required. Each sold separately.
- Smarter picks with Alexa+ – Getting to what you love has never been easier. Press the voice remote button and talk naturally to find what to watch across your apps, manage your smart home, or dive into virtually any topic.
- Wi-Fi 6 support - Enjoy smooth 4K streaming, even when other devices are connected to your router.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
