Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max: Excellent Media Streamer

Wi-Fi 6 is capable of higher speeds and better performance than the Wi-Fi 5 we’re used to, especially in crowded network environments, and Amazon’s Fire TV Stick 4K Max is the first media streamer under $100 we’ve seen to support the standard (the $180 Apple TV 4K also uses it).

- WILL GREENWALD

The $54.99 Fire TV Stick 4K Max is just like the $49.99 Fire TV Stick 4K, but with a Wi-Fi 6 radio and a slightly faster processor. For just $5 more, it certainly seems like a good deal, but 4K video can be improved by bandwidth only to a certain extent, and Wi-Fi 5 already exceeds that. So unless you have a Wi-Fi 6 router, an incredibly fast internet connection, and optimal wireless conditions, the standard Fire TV Stick 4K will suit you just fine and remains our Editors’ Choice winner.

THE SAME STICK

Physically, the Fire TV Stick 4K Max is identical to the Fire TV Stick 4K. It’s a plain, rectangular black stick measuring 3.9 by 1.2 by 0.6 inches (LWD), with an HDMI plug sticking out of one end. The side of the stick holds a micro USB port, just like the Fire TV Stick 4K. A newer USB-C port would have been nice as it’s easier to plug in, but since it’s used only for power, it’s understandable that Amazon didn’t bother to even change the stick’s plastic casing to accommodate a different port. There are no other connections on the device, and no indicator lights or controls.

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max

PROS

Fast performance. Lots of apps and services. Amazon Alexa voice control. Wi-Fi 6.

CONS

4K HDR media streaming can’t really take advantage of Wi-Fi 6. No Apple AirPlay or Google Cast.

BOTTOM LINE