Believe it or not, the only way to get a Smart TV is not to buy one. You can also choose to buy a device that allows you to integrate some of the main features of a Smart TV into your TV. And, so that you have a clear idea of what features to look out for when comparing different options, we show you an analysis of the performance of three of the most popular models: Fire TV Stick vs Stick 4K vs Stick 4K Max. Are you ready? Here we go!
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Fire TV Stick vs Stick 4K vs Stick 4K Max: how to choose the best device
In this section, we are going to explain the most important differences between the purchasing aspects that may condition your decision. We will also compare the main similarities.
Compatibility with different resolutions
The three models we have chosen are compatible with the Full HD resolution of 1080 pixels, so they can reproduce images in this format. On the other hand, when it comes to Ultra HD 4K resolution, Dolby Vision and HDR, only the Fire TV Stick 4K and 4K Max models are compatible.
Processor characteristics
We can also analyse the processor that each Fire Stick has. Both the Fire TV Stick and the Stick 4K feature a quad-core, 1.7 GHz processor and a 650 MHz GPU.
The Fire TV Stick 4K Max is equipped with a 1.8 GHz quad-core processor and a 750 MHz GPU. This makes the 4K Max model up to 40% more powerful than the 4K model.
Internal memory
Another factor to look at is the storage capacity and internal memory that each fire stick has, and there’s one interesting thing to note. All three models have the same storage capacity of 8GB.
On the other hand, the internal memory follows an increasing trend: the Fire TV Stick has 1 GB, the Stick 4K, 1.5 GB, and the Stick 4K Max reaches 2 GB.
Playback of various content
One of the most notable differences between the three fire sticks is the range of content they are capable of playing. While the Fire TV Stick is perfect for HD streaming playback, the Stick 4K plays streaming 4K cinematic content with Dolby Vision.
In the case of the Stick 4K Max, it adds WiFi 6 synchronisation to this functionality. In addition, this fire stick allows live video playback with image overlay.
Accessibility to content platforms
The main purpose of converting a standard TV into a Smart TV is to be able to access content from different platforms from a single device, as well as to find out which one is broadcasting your favourite film or series.
In this sense, the three protagonists of our review can access Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO and other leading content platforms in the market.
Alexa and WiFi integration
Any of the three devices reviewed are compatible with a WiFi network, but in the case of the Fire TV Stick and Stick 4K, they support up to WiFi version 5, while the 4K Max goes up to version 6.
Another special feature of all three Fire Sticks is the integration of the virtual Alexa device, through which you can select the content you want using your voice.
Value for money
The three controllers do not have the same price, of course, as they do not have exactly the same functionalities. However, the difference is not very great. Without taking into account possible bargains, they range from around 35 to 65 euros.
Amazon: these are the best selling Fire Sticks
Before we finish, we show you the ranking of the Fire Sticks most in demand by users on Amazon, so you can check what opinions they have about each one:
Fire TV Stick vs Stick 4K vs Stick 4K Max: conclusion and verdict
Now that you’ve seen the similarities and differences between the two devices, it’s time to choose the one that suits us best. Bearing in mind that we are not talking about large financial investments, we consider that price is not a criterion that carries as much weight in the decision as others. Therefore, our recommendation is to go for the most complete, the Fire TV Stick 4K Max.
In this way, you will be able to access a fire stick with WiFi 6 compatibility and a processor with a performance that is 40% higher than the previous model. This, in turn, translates into an increase in internal memory and better image fluidity.
We also note that the processor it incorporates, despite being quad-core, is more powerful than its rivals, which translates into better image processing and, therefore, more fluidity of movement.
In this case, therefore, our recommendation is to go for the Fire Stick 4K Max, although the decision is entirely up to you. What you can be sure of is that any of the three, from the Amazon company, offer good value for money, as can be seen from the reviews they have gathered.