Amazon Fire TV Stick series has been a consistent player. In this multi-part article, we'll dissect the performance, features, and improvements of the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd gen) in comparison to its predecessors, specifically the 1st-gen Fire TV Stick 4K and the 2nd-gen Fire TV Stick 4K.
.webp "Beyond Limits: Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd-Gen) performance comparison") |
| Beyond Limits: Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd-Gen) performance comparison |
Pricing and Release Dates
Let's kick things off with a glance at the pricing and release dates:
- 1st-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K:
- List Price: $49.99
- Prime Day 2023 Price: $22.99
- Release: Oct 31, 2018
- 2nd-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K:
- List Price: $49.99
- Release: Sept 27, 2023
- 1st-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K Max:
- List Price: $54.99
- Prime Day 2023 Price: $24.99
- Release: Oct 7, 2021
- 2nd-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K Max:
- List Price: $59.99
- Release: Sept 27, 2023
Power Under the Hood: CPU and GPU, Performance benchmark score
Now, let's lift the hood and inspect the beating heart of these streaming devices – the CPUs.
- 1st-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K:
- CPU Model: MediaTek MT8695
- CPU Cores: 4-core
- CPU Speed: 1.7GHz (4x)
- CPU Performance: 2,019
- 2nd-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K:
- CPU Model: MediaTek MT8696D
- CPU Cores: 4-core
- CPU Speed: 1.7GHz (4x)
- CPU Performance: 2,459
- 1st-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K Max:
- CPU Model: MediaTek MT8696
- CPU Cores: 4-core
- CPU Speed: 1.8GHz (4x)
- CPU Performance: 2,481
- 2nd-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K Max:
- CPU Model: MediaTek MT8696T
- CPU Cores: 4-core
- CPU Speed: 2.0GHz (4x)
- CPU Performance: 2,811
The 2nd-gen Fire TV Stick 4K Max takes the lead in CPU performance, promising a smoother experience with its upgraded processor. Moving on to the GPUs.
GPU Specifications benchmark score
A device's graphical prowess is critical for rendering seamless interfaces and, of course, enjoying your favorite shows.
- 1st-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K:
- GPU Model: IMG PowerVR GE8300
- GPU Speed: 650 MHz
- GPU Performance: 801
- 2nd-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K:
- GPU Model: IMG PowerVR GE9215
- GPU Speed: 650 MHz
- GPU Performance: 1,055
- 1st-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K Max:
- GPU Model: IMG PowerVR GE9215
- GPU Speed: 750 MHz
- GPU Performance: 1,211
- 2nd-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K Max:
- GPU Model: IMG PowerVR GE9215
- GPU Speed: 850 MHz
- GPU Performance: 1,319
Memory, Connectivity, and Storage: Unveiling the Foundations
Memory / RAM
Moving beyond the brains, let's explore the memory and connectivity features that shape the overall performance of these streaming devices.
- 1st-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K:
- RAM: 1.5 GB
- 2nd-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K:
- RAM: 2 GB
- 1st-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K Max:
- RAM: 2 GB
- 2nd-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K Max:
- RAM: 2 GB
The bump in RAM from the 1st-gen Fire TV Stick 4K to the 2nd-gen models promises improved multitasking capabilities and faster access to frequently used apps.
Wi-Fi:
- 1st-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
- 2nd-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
- 1st-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K Max: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
- 2nd-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K Max: Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax)
Wi-Fi advancements across the generations indicate faster and more reliable connections, especially with the introduction of Wi-Fi 6E in the latest model.
Internal Storage:
All variants pack an internal storage of 8 GB.
External Storage:
USB OTG support is available for the 1st-gen and 2nd-gen Fire TV Stick 4K.
Native support via USB OTG is present in the 1st-gen Fire TV Stick 4K Max and 2nd-gen Fire TV Stick 4K Max.
Operating Systems, Video & Audio: The Cinematic Symphony
Diving into the software realm, let's explore the operating systems that orchestrate the Fire TV Stick experience.
- 1st-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K:
- Operating System: Fire OS 6 (Android 7.1)
- 2nd-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K:
- Operating System: Fire OS 8 (Android 11)
- 1st-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K Max:
- Operating System: Fire OS 7 (Android 9)
- 2nd-Gen Fire TV Stick 4K Max:
- Operating System: Fire OS 8 (Android 11)
The transition from Fire OS 6 to Fire OS 8 signifies advancements, ensuring a more robust and feature-rich user interface.
Visuals and Acoustics
Let's shift our focus to the senses – the video and audio capabilities.
Video Resolution:
All variants support 4K resolution at 60fps, delivering crisp and vibrant visuals for your entertainment.
HDR Types:
- HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, and Dolby Vision are supported across all models, ensuring a dynamic range of colors and contrasts.
- H.265 (HEVC), H.264 (AVC), VP9, VP8, MPEG-4, and MPEG-2 codecs are supported by all models.
- Stereo, PCM, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby Atmos enrich the audio experience in all Fire TV Stick variants.
Performance Analysis and Verdict: Is Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd-Gen) the Streaming Champ?
Let's delve into the performance realm, analyzing key aspects and comparing app launch times.
App Launch Times (in seconds):
| App | Fire TV Stick 4K Max | Roku Streaming Stick 4K | Chromecast with Google TV 4K | Apple TV 4K 2022 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Netflix | 14 | 17 | 17 | 4 |
| YouTube | 9 | 13 | 6 | 2 |
| Disney Plus | 7 | 13 | 7 | 4 |
| Max | 6 | 9 | 7 | 7 |
| Sling | 11 | 9 | 19 | 12 |
- The Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd-Gen) demonstrates commendable app launch times, making it a strong contender in the streaming device arena.
- The visual experience is paramount. Even on a decent TCL 4K set, the HDR support shines, offering clear, crisp, and vibrant visuals. The device supports various HDR formats, including Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG.
- The voice search functionality with Alexa proves swift and accurate. Whether you're searching for movies or local pizza joints, Alexa delivers with precision.
- The Alexa Voice Remote Enhanced adds a layer of convenience, offering power and volume controls for your TV, reducing the need for multiple remotes.
The Verdict
The 2023 Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd-Gen) positions itself as a powerful streaming stick with enhanced processor and Wi-Fi capabilities. However, its slightly higher price, when compared to competitors like Roku Streaming Stick 4K and Chromecast with Google TV 4K, raises considerations.
The Fire TV interface, dominated by Amazon's content, may not appeal to users seeking a more diverse and agnostic experience.
In conclusion, the Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd-Gen) is a robust streaming stick at a decent price. While it may not outshine competitors in every aspect, it certainly earns its place in the market. Keep an eye out for potential deals, especially during events like Black Friday, which could make this streaming device even more enticing.
Thank you for joining us on this journey through the intricacies of the Fire TV Stick 4K Max. Happy streaming!
.webp)