The Amazon Fire TV Cube combines 4K Fire TV streaming with hands-free Alexa, compatible-device control and an HDMI input. A Fire TV Stick is a smaller, HDMI-connected streamer that typically uses its remote for voice control. To make the comparison precise, this article compares the Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen, 2022) with the Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen, 2023); features differ across Stick generations.
What can the Fire TV Cube do?
The 3rd-generation Fire TV Cube is a streaming player and a far-field Alexa device in one set-top box. It connects to a TV over HDMI and can stream supported content up to 4K. Whether you get 4K or another format depends on the app, title, display and network supporting it.
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- Take voice requests hands-free: Amazon lists a four-microphone array and far-field Alexa support, so you can use supported commands from across the room without picking up the remote.
- Control compatible home-entertainment equipment: You can use supported Alexa commands to operate compatible TVs, soundbars and receivers. Compatibility depends on the equipment and the command; the Cube does not guarantee control of every device.
- Pass a compatible device through its HDMI input: Amazon gives a cable box, game console and webcam as examples of devices that can connect to the Cube’s HDMI input. This is not a built-in TV tuner, and not every connected device or use is guaranteed to work.
- Use a wired network: Its built-in Ethernet port is rated at 10/100 Mbps. It also supports Wi-Fi 6E.
Amazon’s specifications also list HDMI output with ARC, USB 2.0, an IR extender connector and a built-in speaker. These are hardware features, not guarantees that every accessory or setup will be compatible.
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How does the Cube differ from a Fire TV Stick?
“Fire TV Stick” covers multiple generations and models. The table compares the Cube with the 4K Stick named above, rather than implying that every Stick has the same specifications.
#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.
| Feature | Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen, 2022) | Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Gen, 2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Design and connection | Set-top box with HDMI output and an HDMI input for compatible external devices. | Compact stick that connects to the TV by HDMI. |
| Voice control | Far-field microphones enable hands-free Alexa commands; it has a built-in speaker. | The remote has a microphone. Amazon lists hands-free control through a linked Echo device. |
| Wired networking | Built-in 10/100 Ethernet port. | Ethernet requires an Amazon adapter on supported models; check the exact Stick and adapter. |
| Wireless networking and storage | Wi-Fi 6E and 16 GB storage. | Wi-Fi 6E and 16 GB storage. |
| Processor | Octa-core. Amazon calls it “2X more powerful” than the Fire TV Stick 4K Max. | Amazon’s cited specifications list 16 GB storage and Wi-Fi 6E; they do not provide a directly comparable processor benchmark here. |
| Best suited to | A setup where hands-free voice, HDMI input or built-in Ethernet is useful. | A simpler streaming setup where a compact HDMI stick and remote-based voice control are enough. |
The processor comparison is Amazon’s manufacturer claim, not an independent benchmark. It should not be read as a measured promise that every app or task will run twice as fast.
Which one should you choose?
Choose the Cube if you want hands-free Alexa or HDMI input
The Cube is the more suitable fit if you want to speak to Alexa without reaching for a remote, connect compatible external gear through an HDMI input, or plug in Ethernet without buying an adapter. Its set-top form also makes room for the built-in speaker and additional ports.
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.
Choose a Stick if you want a compact streamer
A Stick is a straightforward choice when you mainly want Fire TV streaming through the TV’s HDMI port and are comfortable using the remote for voice requests. The 4K Max (2nd Gen) offers Wi-Fi 6E and 16 GB storage, so the Cube is not the only option in this comparison for those features.
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Quick Recap
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.
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.
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.
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