Our verdict: best for alexa homes
Alexa in the remote and a home screen built around Prime Video. A natural fit for Echo and Ring owners.
What we like
- Alexa built into the remote
- Excellent Prime Video integration
- View Ring cameras and control smart devices on the TV
- Frequently discounted
Things to consider
- Home screen leans heavily on promoted content
- No built-in Google Cast or AirPlay
- Recommendations favour Amazon services
Home screen and ease of use
Fire TV's home screen is content-first: a large banner, rows of recommendations and a strip of your apps. It's great for discovering things to watch, especially on Prime Video, but people who prefer a plain list of apps may find it busy.
Remote and Alexa
The Alexa Voice Remote is the headline feature. You can search across apps, control playback, check the weather and control compatible smart-home devices by voice. The Fire TV Cube adds hands-free Alexa, so you can speak without picking up the remote.
Casting from your phone
Fire TV doesn't include Google Cast or AirPlay. Many Android phones can mirror their screens to Fire TV, and some apps support their own casting, but iPhone users will find it less seamless than Apple TV or many Roku models.
Apps and content
All the major services are available. Prime Video, free ad-supported content and live TV integrations are prominent, and the live guide can pull in channels from several apps.
Smart home features
If you have Echo speakers, Ring doorbells or other Alexa devices, Fire TV ties them together. You can view camera feeds on the TV and use routines that include the TV.
Who should buy Fire TV
Choose Fire TV if your home already runs on Alexa or you watch a lot of Prime Video. If you want the cleanest interface or easy iPhone casting, look at Roku or Apple TV instead.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need Amazon Prime to use Fire TV?
No. You need a free Amazon account to set up a Fire TV device, but Prime isn't required. Prime members get easier access to Prime Video content.
Can I cast from an iPhone to Fire TV?
Fire TV doesn't support AirPlay. Some apps offer their own casting, but iPhone users generally get a smoother experience with Apple TV or an AirPlay-compatible Roku.
What is the difference between a Fire TV Stick and Fire TV Cube?
The Cube is a more powerful box with hands-free Alexa and more ports. The stick is smaller and cheaper and is enough for most people.
Related reviews
Our reviews are based on manufacturer specifications, publicly available information and the features of each platform at the time of writing. Features, models and prices change; confirm details with the manufacturer before buying. Fire TV is a trademark of its owner. JZX Stream is not affiliated with or endorsed by the manufacturer.
We don't offer technical support. For account, billing, sign-in or repair issues, use the official website or app of your device maker or streaming service. Setting up a streaming device never requires paying a fee to a third party, calling an unknown number or allowing remote access to your computer.