This 3rd Gen Amazon Fire TV Cube Review is authored by Troy. He used it continually for two weeks.
Troy purchased this product himself. You’ll discover both the positives and negatives in this impartial evaluation.
TROYPOINT Patrons and Founding Members have access to my First Impressions Video. It’s available at the following link.
Troy’s First Impressions Video of 3rd Gen Amazon Fire TV Cube
3rd Gen Amazon Fire TV Cube Features
- CPU: Octa-core 4x 2.2GHz 4x 2.0GHz
- Storage: 16 GB
- RAM Memory: 2 GB
- GPU: Mali G52
- WiFi: Wi-Fi 6E Tri-band. Also supports 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax wifi networks. Fire TV Cube requires a connection to the 6 GHz band for Wi-Fi 6E support. This must be a Wi-Fi 6E network that uses WPA3 encryption.
- HDMI In: Connect & control your devices (cable box, game console, webcam, etc.)
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0 + LE. Pair with various compatible devices. This includes Bluetooth speakers, headphones, video game controllers, and more.
- Voice Support: Far-field and near-field voice support
- Voice Control Compatibility: Controls a wide range of IR-enabled devices. This includes TVs, soundbars, cable and satellite boxes, and A/V receivers.
- Live View Picture-in-Picture
- Video Upscaling
- Hands-free with Alexa
- Ports: HDMI 2.1 Input, HDMI 2.1 Output, IR Extender, Power, USB-A 2.0, Ethernet port 10/100Mbps
- Audio Support: Dolby Atmos, 7.1 surround sound, 2-channel stereo, and HDMI audio pass through up to 5.1.
- Video: Supports 4K Ultra HD & Dolby Vision (HDR for ultravivid picture quality)
- Output/Input Resolution Supported: 2160p, 1080p and 720p up to 60 fps
3rd Gen Amazon Fire TV Cube Review
I was eager to explore the new Amazon Fire TV Cube since its announcement. This device is packed with more features than its predecessor. My review will be focusing on these enhancements.
This review won’t cover every single feature. You can easily find a comprehensive list above.
Let’s address some common FAQs that many of you might have.
Can I side-load apps onto the new 3rd Gen Amazon Fire TV Cube? Can I side-load apps like Kodi?
Answer: Yes
Can I play 4K video?
Answer: Yes
Does the Ethernet port support Gigabit speeds?
Answer: No. It has a standard 100 Mbps maximum speed.
Does it support new AV1 codec?
Answer: Yes
Do 3rd Party Launchers work with this device? Specifically, do launchers like Wolf Launcher Work?
Answer: Yes
Can you control your TV, soundbar, and AV systems with the Remote Control?
Answer: Yes
Powerful Processor
The first notable feature is the robust processor within this system.
It boasts an Octa-core 4x 2.2GHz 4x 2.0GHz CPU. This enables you to watch 4K video and play demanding games seamlessly.
Many people look at the Antutu benchmark ranking to assess processor power. Here’s a comparison for reference.
3rd Gen Fire TV Cube: Antutu Bench = 167,397
NVIDIA SHIELD TV PRO (2019) = 238,323
As you can see, the NVIDIA SHIELD TV PRO remains more powerful. However, the new Fire TV Cube offers impressive performance as well.
This processor will be more than enough for most users. You’re well-equipped in this department.
HDMI-In Port
The 3rd gen model introduces a new HDMI-In port.
This allows us to connect various devices, like game systems and cable boxes. We can then control them via the Fire TV interface.
Elias from AFTVnews reported on input lag. He found approximately 35 milliseconds of input lag when using the HDMI-In port on the new Cube. This applies to peripheral devices connected to the port.
Gamers will likely prefer connecting consoles directly to the TV. Connecting through the Fire TV Cube may not be ideal. You probably won’t encounter issues with other devices, though.
There’s a setting you should adjust when connecting game consoles. Make sure Game Mode/ALLM is turned ON.
USB Port
The 3rd Gen Fire TV Cube also introduces a USB-A 2.0 port. This is a welcome addition. Previously, we needed an OTG Cable to connect USB devices.
Many users might want to use this port for expanded storage. Others might connect a Gigabit Ethernet adapter.
The Cube’s new USB port supports NTFS drives. This is a helpful feature, especially for those who record IPTV. It addresses the 4 GB limit encountered with FAT32 drives.
Unfortunately, there’s a known bug. USB devices can lose power when the Cube enters sleep mode. This issue will be noticeable for those using USB Gigabit
Ethernet adapters.
Ethernet adapters functioning as Alexa capabilities will cease to operate. One solution involves setting up WiFi. When the Ethernet connection drops, it can switch over to WiFi, maintaining a connection.
Expandable Storage
Let’s discuss Expandable storage, given our conversation about the USB drive.
The 3rd Gen Fire TV Cube has 16 GB of internal storage. While this is twice the capacity of any Firestick, some users might still need to expand their storage.
Connect a USB drive to the device. This expands the internal storage, letting you run applications from the USB drive.
I tested this with a 256 GB SanDisk USB Drive. I encountered several issues.
The formatting failed completely during my initial attempts, as you can see in my First Impressions Video.
It eventually worked after numerous tries. However, there’s a significant drawback. If the app you want to move to the USB drive doesn’t support it, you can’t move it. It appears that most applications, unfortunately, can’t be moved.
Android TV handles this much better, and I give Amazon a thumbs down for this feature. They really need to improve it.
Media Player
The new Fire TV Cube includes a built-in media player. It’s specifically designed for files stored on a USB drive.
It’s a basic player. It can automatically detect video, images, and audio files on the drive.
This is a useful addition. It offers quick access to media on a USB drive. However, other apps like MX Player, VLC, and Kodi are more effective in this regard.
3rd Gen Fire TV Cube Video Upscaling
The main reason I prefer an NVIDIA SHIELD TV PRO in my media room is its upscaling capabilities. NVIDIA’s upscaling feature is effective and well-implemented.
Upscaling involves intelligently scaling lower-resolution video to your TV’s native resolution. This new feature makes HD movies on Netflix or Prime Video appear sharper on a 4K display.
This is called Super Resolution on the new 3rd Gen Fire TV Cube. It’s turned ON by default.
I haven’t noticed any difference whether it’s on or off after testing it for several hours.
Another thumbs down for this feature.
Smart Home Control with Alexa
Like its predecessors, this Fire TV Cube has a built-in speaker and microphone. This allows you to use Alexa’s features.
In my experience, it’s incredibly responsive and functions flawlessly.
This feature is convenient for those who have a shelf, counter, or entertainment center. The Cube can be placed there and connected to a television.
Personally, I’m not accustomed to using voice commands on any device. So, it’s not a major advantage for me, but it might be for you.
If you prefer to hide your streaming device behind your television, this isn’t ideal. You’d be better off with a Firestick or another compact streaming device.
The Fire TV Cube is meant to be placed on a counter near your TV. This way, you can utilize its Alexa voice command features with its built-in speaker and microphone.
Wi-Fi 6E on 3rd Gen Fire TV Cube
The 3rd Gen Fire TV Cube is promoted as the first streaming device with Wi-Fi 6E support.
This technology aims to reduce interference from other devices in your home. This is meant to provide a smoother streaming experience without buffering.
Wi-Fi 6E is advertised as offering faster speeds, reduced latency, and greater bandwidth.
See the speed test results below.
Download & Upload Speed Tests
I conducted the following tests using the Analiti Speed test app.
My internet service provider offers a one GB Fiber download speed plan.
For the WiFi tests, I connected to the 5Ghz band on my Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 Router. The router and my 3rd Gen Amazon Fire TV Cube are in the same room (about 20 feet apart).
I used Surfshark VPN on the Chicago Server.
Ethernet
With VPN activated: Download speed was 91.89 Mbps and Upload speed was 92.41 Mbps.
With VPN deactivated:Download = 91.87 Mbps & Upload = 89.99 Mbps
WiFi
VPN On: Download = 376.15 Mbps & Upload = 180.70 Mbps
VPN Off: Download = 425.30 Mbps & Upload = 218.35 Mbps
Note: The Ethernet port only supports speeds up to 100 Mbps, which explains the faster WiFi speeds.
These download and upload speeds are simply amazing! I’m truly impressed.
What’s particularly noteworthy is that there is no speed reduction when using a VPN with Ethernet. The speed decrease is also minimal when connected to WiFi. This might just be the fastest download speed I’ve encountered while testing streaming devices. It’s truly remarkable.
Webcam Integration
The addition of a USB 2.0 port allows for the use of peripherals, including webcams. This opens up new possibilities for users.
With a compatible webcam, you can engage in video calls using Alexa Communications. This feature enhances the overall user experience.
Simply say, “Alexa, call Naomi,” to initiate a video call from the comfort of your couch. It’s that easy.
Zoom video calls are also on the horizon, further expanding the device’s capabilities.
What I Like
- Powerful processor
- Ethernet port
- USB 2.0 port
- Supports NTFS drives
- Can side-load applications
- 3rd party launchers work with Launch on Boot app
- Wi-Fi 6E with blazing-fast download/upload speed
- Feature-packed remote control
- HDMI-In port
- Smooth 4K playback
- Responsive voice control
- Supports Dolby ATMOS & VISION
- Webcam support
What I Dislike
- High price
- Expandable storage doesn’t work well
- Missing shortcuts for side-loaded apps
- Lag for HDMI-In connected devices
- Bad user interface
What’s In The Box
- 3rd Gen Amazon Fire TV Cube
- Fire TV Alexa Voice Remote
- 2 AAA Batteries
- Power Adapter
- Quick Start Guide
*HDMI and Ethernet cables are not included and must be purchased separately.
3rd Gen Amazon Fire TV Cube Price
The new Fire TV Cube is currently priced at $139.99.
If you’re considering purchasing one, keep an eye out for the upcoming Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales for potential discounts. You might be able to snag a great deal.
3rd Gen Fire TV Cube Specs
- Size: 3.38” x 3.38” x 2.99” (86 mm x 86 mm x 77 mm)
- Weight: 513g (1.13 lbs)
- Processor: Octa-core 4x 2.2GHz 4x 2.0GHz
- GPU: 800MHz
- Storage: 16 GB internal
- Memory: 2 GB internal
- Wifi: Wi-Fi 6E Tri-band. Also supports 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax wifi networks. To utilize Wi-Fi 6E, the Fire TV Cube needs to be connected to the 6 GHz band of a Wi-Fi 6E network that uses WPA3 encryption.
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0 + LE. Pair with compatible Bluetooth speakers, headphones, video game controllers, and more for a seamless experience.
- Voice support: Far-field and near-field voice support for flexibility.
- Voice control compatibility: Controls a wide range of IR-enabled devices, including TVs, soundbars, cable and satellite boxes, and A/V receivers, simplifying your entertainment setup.
- Cloud storage: Free cloud storage for digital content purchased from Amazon, ensuring you never run out of space.
- Ports: HDMI 2.1 Input, HDMI 2.1 Output, IR Extender, Power, USB-A 2.0, Ethernet port 10/100Mbps, offering a wide range of connectivity options.
- Audio support: Dolby Atmos, 7.1 surround sound, 2-channel stereo, and HDMI audio pass through up to 5.1, delivering immersive audio experiences.
- 4K Support: To enjoy movies and TV shows in stunning 4K Ultra HD, you’ll need a compatible 4K Ultra HD TV. It’s important to note that not all services might be available in 4K/HDR. Certain services are subject to change at any time, might not be available in all areas or in 4K/HDR, and could require separate subscriptions.
- Content formats supported: Video: Dolby Vision, HDR 10, HDR10+, HLG, H.265, H.264, VP9, AV1, Audio: AAC-LC, AC3, eAC3 (Dolby Digital Plus), FLAC, MP3, PCM/Wave, Vorbis, Dolby Atmos (EC3_JOC), Dolby MAT, Photo: JPEG, PNG, GIF, BMP, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of media formats.
- Output/Input resolution supported: 2160p, 1080p and 720p up to 60 fps for smooth and crisp visuals.
- System requirements: High-definition television with available high-speed HDMI input, high-speed internet connection via wifi or built-in Ethernet port, power outlet (compatible TV/sound/cable equipment for control by infrared or voice). High-speed HDMI cable rated 18Gbps or higher, and 4K TV with high-speed HDMI connector required for 4K viewing and more reliable device control. For Wi-Fi 6E support, you’ll need a Wi-Fi 6E router. Auto-Low Latency Mode is a standard feature of the HDMI 2.1 standard.
- TV compatibility: For optimal performance, your TV must meet certain requirements. It needs to support minimum HDCP requirements for protected content playback. Specifically, it should be compatible with either 1) 4K ultra high-definition TVs with HDMI capable of 2160p at 24/25/30/50/60 Hz and HDCP 2.2 or 2) high-definition TVs with HDMI capable of 1080p or 720p at 50/60 Hz.
- Warranty and service: A 1-year limited warranty and service are included, providing peace of mind. If you’re in the U.S., you can also opt for a 2-year or 3-year extended warranty, which are sold separately.
- Content availability: It’s worth noting that the availability of certain apps and services can change. They might be subject to change or withdrawal at any time, may not be available in all areas and languages, and could require separate subscriptions.
- Accessibility features: The Fire TV Cube is designed with accessibility in mind. It includes features like VoiceView screen reader, which makes most Fire TV features accessible to users who are blind or visually impaired. Screen magnifier allows viewers to zoom in and out and pan around the screen. Text Banner consolidates onscreen text into a compact, customizable banner. You can also watch videos and TV shows with closed captioning. Audio Description provides verbal descriptions of what’s happening on the screen, including physical actions, facial expressions, and scene changes. However, it’s important to note that captions and audio descriptions might not be available for all content. Fire TV Cube (2nd and 3rd Gen) supports audio streaming for certain compatible Bluetooth hearing aids, allowing for a private listening experience. You can also use compatible Bluetooth headphones to listen to Fire TV.
3rd Gen Amazon Fire TV Cube Final Thoughts
I believe that the major advantages of the Amazon Fire TV Cube are: increased internal storage at 16 GB, the inclusion of an Ethernet port, the addition of a USB port, its video upscaling capabilities, and the integration of Alexa with voice control.
However, it’s worth mentioning that the USB port’s functionality is somewhat limited because expanding the internal storage isn’t as seamless as it could be, and there’s a sleep issue that can be problematic. Also, I haven’t noticed a significant difference with the video upscaling feature when it’s enabled, which is a bit disappointing.
If you’re looking for a streaming device that can also double as a voice-controlled Alexa device with a built-in speaker, this might be a good fit for you. However, I personally prefer to keep my streaming devices out of sight, either behind the TV or discreetly placed on top of it.
At its current price of $139.99, I’m hesitant to recommend it. It seems a bit expensive, especially considering that many of its features can be found on the Fire TV Stick 4K Max, which is significantly cheaper at $80 less.
If you’re in the market for a streaming device that’s a step up from the Fire TV Stick, you might want to consider the NVIDIA SHIELD TV PRO. However, it might be worth waiting to see if they release an updated model, as the current one has been around for three years and a refresh is likely on the horizon.
The new Formuler Z11 Pro Max has also been released recently, and I have high expectations for this Android TV box. If you’re a TROYPOINT Patron or Founding member, you can check out my First Impressions Video where I share my initial thoughts on the Z11 Pro Max.
Going forward, I’ll be using a new ranking system for my reviews, which is as follows:
Terrible – Bad – OK – Good – Great
My ranking takes into account the features offered, how effectively those features perform, and the overall price of the device. These are all crucial factors in determining the value proposition.
Based on my assessment, I would rank the new 3rd Gen Fire TV Cube as Good. It’s a solid device with some notable strengths and weaknesses.
If you happen to own a 3rd Gen Fire TV Cube, I’d love to hear your thoughts on it! Please feel free to share your experience in the comments section below. Your feedback is valuable to me and other potential buyers.