If your television is feeling outdated and a new model is not in the budget, consider upgrading your viewing experience with the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd Gen), now available for just $29.99, reduced from $49.99. This compact device, similar in size to a USB flash drive, includes a handy HDMI extender for easier connectivity, especially if your TV’s ports are hard to access. Setting it up is straightforward; however, it does require a micro USB for power, which might seem a bit outdated in today’s tech landscape. Once it’s connected behind the TV and plugged into a wall outlet—rather than relying on the often insufficient USB ports—it’s virtually maintenance-free.

This model shines in terms of performance, earning accolades such as “Best Media Hub of the Year 2023” from PCMag. Equipped with a robust 1.7GHz processor and 2GB of RAM, it efficiently handles demanding applications like Netflix and Prime Video. Additionally, it supports Wi-Fi 6, which is particularly beneficial for households with multiple devices competing for network bandwidth. To fully leverage Wi-Fi 6, a compatible router is essential, but with the right setup, this stick truly excels. It also supports Xbox Game Pass streaming, making it an appealing choice for gamers looking to enjoy late-night sessions without disturbing others, thanks to Bluetooth headphone and gamepad connectivity.

The interface is heavily skewed towards Amazon, with Prime Video prominently featured. Nevertheless, it supports a multitude of other popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and more. With capabilities for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, this device is well-suited for high-end video setups, as noted in a PCMag review. The Alexa voice search has improved, allowing for more nuanced queries, such as “action films with car chases,” which can be quite handy when titles escape memory. However, it’s worth noting that it still lacks features like AirPlay and Google Cast, which can be a drawback for users who often mirror content from other devices. Nonetheless, for those seeking a fast, 4K-capable streaming device with comprehensive app support, the Fire TV Stick 4K stands out as a convincing option.