PCMag Review: Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Adds TV-USB Power but Drops Dolby Vision
PCMag reviewed the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K ($59.99), highlighting that its ultra-compact form factor can run directly off a television's USB port rather than requiring an AC outlet. The reviewer praised its responsive performance, Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, and an updated, more ergonomic remote control with a distinct tactile home button. However, the device lacks Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support and runs an ad-heavy interface without AirPlay or Google Cast. PCMag ultimately recommends spending $10 more for the Fire TV Stick 4K Plus ($69.99) unless outlet space is your primary constraint.
Published on Savlume: · Content updated: · Source published:
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AI brief
From the source report
The reviewer found the Fire TV Stick 4K responsive, with 4K HDR streaming and a redesigned remote, and notes it can draw power from a TV’s USB port. It may be worth considering if freeing an outlet matters more to you than Dolby Vision support; the review favors the 4K Plus for buyers who want that HDR format.
Best suited for A buyer seeking a compact 4K streamer that can be powered through a TV’s USB port, provided Dolby Vision is not a priority.
Highlights
The reviewer says it can run from a TV’s USB port, which may free an outlet near the TV.
It supports 4K resolution and HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG, giving buyers several HDR formats.
The reviewer reports responsive controls and quick, reliable video loading.
The redesigned remote is described as more ergonomic and easier to orient by touch.
Before you buy
The reviewer says the device does not support Dolby Vision, which is described as more common on streaming services than HDR10+.
The review criticizes Fire TV’s interface as cluttered and ad-filled after a redesign.
The reviewer says the device does not support Dolby Atmos, Google Cast, or Apple AirPlay.
The source reports a $59.99 price but provides no checkout, shipping, or return details.
Product facts & conditions
Model / variant
Fire TV Stick 4K
Written by AI from the source report, not a hands-on test. Read source ↗
PCMag’s Will Greenwald says the Fire TV Stick 4K delivers responsive 4K streaming and a more ergonomic remote, but recommends the 4K Plus for buyers who want Dolby Vision.
Who it may suit Buyers who want a compact 4K streamer that can draw power from a TV’s USB port and do not require Dolby Vision.
What the source liked
The reviewer reports responsive controls and fast, reliable video loading.
It can be powered from a TV’s USB port, according to the review.
The remote’s redesigned shape is described as easier to hold and orient.
Trade-offs & limitations
It lacks Dolby Vision, which the reviewer says is widely used on streaming services.
The reviewer finds the Fire TV interface cluttered and less intuitive after its redesign.
It does not support Dolby Atmos, Google Cast, or Apple AirPlay, according to the review.
Source testing context The reviewer says the interface and apps they tried responded instantly and video loaded quickly and reliably; no testing duration or formal method is provided.
Questions this review helps answer
Does it support Dolby Vision?
No. The review says it supports HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG, but not Dolby Vision.
Can it be powered by a TV’s USB port?
The review says it can, and that a short USB-A-to-USB-C cable is included.
What does the reviewer recommend for Dolby Vision?
The reviewer recommends spending $10 more on the Fire TV Stick 4K Plus, reported at $69.99 versus $59.99 for the reviewed model.
At a glance
Product
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
Model / variant
Fire TV Stick 4K
Price comparison
The source says the Fire TV Stick 4K Plus costs $69.99; this is a source-reported comparison, not evidence of a typical selling price.
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