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The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K 2nd Gen (2024) is here, and it promises to boost streaming with the integration of several new features. If you’re inexperienced in streaming, or just want to upgrade your system, this device claims to be able to handle 4K streaming without a problem. In this review, I will cover the most important features, unboxing, setting up the device, performance, and more so that you can decide if this device is right for you.
Key Features of the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K (Second Generation)
- Wi-Fi 6 Support
The second-generation Fire TV Stick 4K includes Wi-Fi 6 support, which offers faster and more reliable internet connectivity compared to the previous model’s Wi-Fi 5. While Wi-Fi 7 is already available, Wi-Fi 6 is still a very competent standard for most users. If you don’t have Wi-Fi 6 gear in your home yet, don’t worry—your current Wi-Fi 5 network will work just fine. However, Wi-Fi 6 future-proofs your device, ensuring better speed and stability as your network upgrades. - Improved CPU Performance
The Fire TV Stick 4K is powered by a quad-core 1.7 GHz CPU, which is 30% faster than the first-generation model. This means faster load times, smoother navigation, and more responsive apps. The device is built to handle 4K streaming seamlessly. - 4K Ultra HD and HDR10+ Support
The device supports up to 4K Ultra HD resolution with HDR10+ capabilities, which enhance the depth and vibrancy of the picture. If you have a 4K TV, you’ll enjoy sharp and rich visuals that are often comparable to higher-end streaming devices. - Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos
The Fire TV Stick 4K supports both Dolby Vision (for vivid visuals) and Dolby Atmos (for immersive sound). Whether you’re watching movies, TV shows, or gaming, these technologies ensure you get a top-tier audio-visual experience. - Bluetooth 5.2 and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
The device is equipped with Bluetooth 5.2, enabling faster, more stable connections to other Bluetooth devices. This is especially useful if you want to connect Bluetooth headphones, game controllers, or even compatible smart home devices. It also supports Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for power-efficient connections. - Portability and Flexibility
The Fire TV Stick is compact and easy to carry, making it a great option for travelers. You can easily plug it into a hotel TV or an office display and stream your favorite content wherever you go. It’s a perfect solution for dorm rooms, shared apartments, or temporary setups.
What’s in the Box?
Upon opening the box, you’ll find a neatly organized array of components. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect:
- Fire TV Stick 4K: The device itself is remarkably compact, with an HDMI connector on one end and a micro-USB connection on the other. It’s small enough to fit into your pocket, making it extremely portable.
- Remote Control: The remote control is sleek and minimalistic. It includes four preset buttons for easy access to popular streaming services, such as Amazon Prime, Netflix, Disney+, and Peacock (depending on your region). These shortcuts can save you time by letting you skip the app navigation process.
- Micro-USB to USB-A Cable: This cable is used to power the Fire TV Stick. However, be aware that it uses the older micro-USB standard, not USB-C, which feels outdated considering many modern devices have switched to USB-C. Still, it gets the job done.
- USB-A Wall Adapter: This standard adapter is used to power the device if your TV’s USB port doesn’t provide enough power. It’s not always necessary but can be helpful in specific situations.
- HDMI Extender: The Fire TV Stick 4K comes with a helpful HDMI extender, which can be used if your TV is positioned near a wall or if the device doesn’t fit directly into the HDMI port. It gives you some flexibility when installing the device.
- Batteries: The remote comes with two AAA batteries, which you can insert to begin using the remote immediately.
Setting Up the Fire TV Stick 4K
Getting the Fire TV Stick 4K up and running is a straightforward process, but there are a few important steps to keep in mind. Here’s how to do it:
- Plug the Fire TV Stick into Your TV
Simply plug the Fire TV Stick into an available HDMI port on your TV. If you have trouble fitting it into a narrow space, you can use the included HDMI extender to give the device more flexibility. - Power the Device
The Fire TV Stick doesn’t have a built-in power supply, so you’ll need to connect the micro-USB cable to the device and the USB-A end into your TV’s USB port (or use the included power adapter if needed). Many modern TVs offer USB ports that provide sufficient power for the Fire TV Stick. - Select the Input Source
Change the input on your TV to the HDMI port where you plugged in the Fire TV Stick. You should now see the Fire TV welcome screen. - Choose Your Language
The device will prompt you to choose a language. After selecting your preferred language, you’ll move to the Wi-Fi setup. - Connect to Wi-Fi
The Fire TV Stick will automatically scan for available Wi-Fi networks. Choose your network and enter the password to connect. - Software Update
Once connected to the internet, the Fire TV Stick will likely need to update to the latest software. This can take a few minutes, but the process is usually quick. - Sign Into Your Amazon Account
After the update, sign into your Amazon account to access all your purchased content, streaming services, and preferences. - Set Up Other Accounts
Once signed in, you’ll have the option to link other streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+. The device will also suggest content based on your previous viewing habits.
Performance and User Experience
Once the Fire TV Stick 4K is set up, you’ll be able to start streaming your favorite content. Here’s a look at the user experience:
- Speed and Responsiveness
The 1.7 GHz CPU and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity make the Fire TV Stick 4K fast and responsive. Navigation is smooth, and apps load quickly. Switching between apps and content is seamless, and there’s very little lag, even during 4K streaming. - Picture Quality
If you have a 4K television, you’ll notice a significant improvement in image quality. HDR10+ and Dolby Vision provide a rich, vibrant viewing experience with enhanced colors and contrast. Whether you’re watching action-packed movies or nature documentaries, the visuals look crisp and detailed. - Audio
The Fire TV Stick 4K supports Dolby Atmos, providing immersive sound that complements the high-quality video. If you have a soundbar or compatible speaker system, the audio will make your content even more enjoyable. - Alexa Integration
With built-in Alexa support, you can use voice commands to control your Fire TV Stick. You can ask Alexa to search for content, play shows, control volume, or even manage smart home devices. This hands-free convenience is a big plus for many users. - Portability and Travel-Friendly
The Fire TV Stick 4K is ideal for users who travel often or live in temporary spaces. Its compact size means it’s easy to carry, and all you need is an HDMI-compatible TV to enjoy your streaming services. Whether you’re in a hotel room, at a friend’s house, or at a coworking space, this device can transform any TV into a smart TV.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Portability: Its compact design makes it highly portable, perfect for travel.
- 4K Streaming: Enjoy sharp, vibrant 4K video with HDR10+ and Dolby Vision support.
- Alexa Integration: Easily control your TV and connected devices with voice commands.
- Fast Performance: A faster CPU and Wi-Fi 6 support make this device more responsive than earlier models.
- Affordable: At $49.99, the Fire TV Stick 4K is a reasonably priced option for 4K streaming.
Disadvantages:
- Micro-USB Power: The use of micro-USB for power feels outdated, especially with the widespread adoption of USB-C.
- Limited Storage: The Fire TV Stick has only 8GB of storage, which is fine for streaming, but it might not be ideal for heavy media downloads or local file storage.
- Wi-Fi 6 Future-Proofing: While Wi-Fi 6 is great, it might not be fully utilized unless you have Wi-Fi 6-compatible devices and routers.
Conclusion
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K 2024 is a wonderful streaming device that is relatively cheap compared to other options on the market. It performs well, has clear picture and sound, and is light weight, therefore making it good for traveling which sets it apart from other competitors in the streaming device industry. Although there are some complaints, such as the usage of micro-USB for power, the experience is definitely good.
The Fire TV Stick 4K is a marvelous choice for travelers, students, and anyone wishing to stream high quality content from the comfort of their home. Many users from different regions would appreciate it’s price, simplicity, and innovative features.
