Hi there! The following article provides a detailed comparison between Android TV and Fire TV (Firestick), two of the most popular streaming devices available.
This comprehensive breakdown outlines all the key differences between these devices to help you make an informed decision on which one may be the better option for you. I also share my personal experience and preferences.
In today’s day and age, many cord-cutters rely on one of these two devices to fulfill their streaming needs.
It’s worth noting that there is a wide variety of options available, each with differences in price, speed, power, RAM, and more.
While the hardware of these devices may appear similar, it’s crucial to recognize that it’s the Operating Systems that set them apart.
Interestingly, both Android TV and Fire TV are now integrated into Smart TVs, eliminating the need for a separate streaming device to access these platforms.
This guide will delve into the comparison of Android TV vs Fire TV, considering both the physical devices as well as the software they offer.
Android TV vs Fire TV – Devices
Both Fire TV and Android TV offer a variety of streaming options for users to choose from.
We will discuss some of the most popular versions of each device, providing essential information for each.
Troy’s Thoughts – Android TV or Fire TV?
Past experiences shape preferences. I’ve been a proponent of Fire TV devices since 2014 when the first Firestick was introduced. At that time, the Firestick was an affordable solution to run Kodi, a popular platform for streaming free movies and TV shows. Initially, Kodi was readily available on the Amazon App Store before eventually being banned, prompting users to side-load the application.
Amazon played a pioneering role in Android-based streaming devices capable of running 3rd party APKs (apps). Early adopters often reap the benefits, and the same applies to streaming systems. While Android TV may have been overlooked in the past, its time to shine may be approaching.
Amazon Blocks Fire TV Customizations
Over time, Amazon has implemented restrictions, such as blocking 3rd party launchers, disabling auto-update blocks, and most recently, removing the ability to remap app shortcut buttons on the Fire TV remote.
Elias from AFTVnews developed applications allowing users to remap buttons, offering flexibility in app launching. However, Amazon recently disabled this feature, signaling a shift in their approach.
Amazon released a software update for select Fire TV devices, preventing users from remapping the app shortcut buttons on the remote. This action marks the end of using the Remapper app to customize button functions, as predicted at its release.”
Amazon is increasingly discouraging the side-loading of 3rd party applications, evident from recent changes in their system.
The process of installing non-Amazon App Store applications has also been altered, reflecting Amazon’s stance on external apps.
The updated Unknown Apps screen now emphasizes the need for caution when installing apps from sources outside the Appstore, highlighting the importance of reliability.
While most Android-based devices offer a Developer Option for testing apps, Amazon’s approach leans towards limiting unauthorized installations. Will Amazon go as far as blocking all 3rd party apps? The future remains uncertain, but Amazon’s intention to curtail side-loading is clear.
My Firestick/Android TV Experience
Sharing personal experiences can shed light on device performance. I’ve utilized Fire TV Sticks on secondary TVs and a NVIDIA SHIELD in the main viewing area for optimal streaming. The NVIDIA SHIELD stands out as a top-tier device, particularly for its upscaling capabilities.
Change can be daunting, and I’ve stuck with Fire TV Sticks for convenience over the years. However, recent issues with my Fire TV Stick 4K Max have prompted a need for reconsideration and potential change in setup.
Let’s continue discussing the evolution of streaming devices and the implications of these developments.
I figured that now is a good time to switch from Fire TV to Android TV.
Although the cheap Walmart Onn Android TV Boxes are no longer available, I had three of them sitting in my office. I snagged these when I heard that they were being discontinued. I connected one of those to this television and I wish I would have done this a long time ago.
While I was setting up this Android TV Box, I was thinking to myself, this is so much better than the Amazon Firestick. I can install Wolf Launcher and get rid of the annoying ads. I can use a better mouse toggle to navigate apps that are meant for phones and tablets and not TV. In the future, if I want to expand storage with a USB drive, that will work better than Fire TV devices.
I can remap the buttons on my remote to my liking because there are actually apps in the Google Play Store that allow for this. The list goes on and on.
Android has always been an open operating system and we haven’t seen Google clamp down on tweaks that can be made to phones and tablets. I really don’t see this happening with Android TV or Google TV either.
If you’re like me and want to move from Fire TV over to Android TV, I would wait until a few new devices are released.
As we reported a few weeks ago, there’s a new Walmart Onn Android TV Box that will be hitting the shelves soon! Also, there’s word that a new Chromecast with Google TV will also be released in 2023 as well.
We’ve been pushing Fire TV devices as the #1 streaming device but that is going to change. Moving forward we will be advocating for Android TV and Google TV devices due to the open nature of their operating systems. Unfortunately, Amazon is being too restrictive and it’s definitely time for a change.
The rest of this article dives into differences when comparing Android TV to Fire TV.
Android TV vs Fire TV – Operating System
In technical terms, comparing Android TV vs Fire TV means comparing the Operating System.
Fire TV OS was built on Android’s Operating System which means they have more similarities than they do differences. However, there are still a few noticeable contrasts between the two that cord-cutters will want to take note of before deciding which one to use.
Both Android TV and Fire TV user interfaces provide a sleek home screen with simple navigation.
It’s important to point out that newer Android TV devices are now coming with Google TV. You can think of Google TV as a user interface built on top of Android TV. Although the marketing may say that the device is powered by Google TV, the operating system is still built off Android TV.
Although both Android TV and Fire TV are Android-based, there are a few key differences that we point out below.
Fire TV
Fire TV and Firestick devices offer a well-put-together user interface with tons of options. One thing that is extremely prevalent with these devices is the advertisements that display as videos, banners, and commercials.
Amazon makes sure you notice its presence with ads for Prime Video, Luna, and all things Amazon related. Recently, the company blocked access to 3rd party launchers. (Luckily there is a workaround to still use these)
It has also completely disabled the ability to install or use the Google Play Store on Firestick and Fire TV devices. (We also have a workaround to install a Google Play Alternative on Firestick).
Amazon has also blocked the ability to remap the app buttons on the bottom of the Firestick / Fire TV remote. Also, users can no longer block auto-updates from Amazon. You must accept their updates, no questions asked.
Many of these changes take place during system updates that roll out to streaming devices with various changes and bug fixes. Overall, Fire TV Operating System works extremely well and features a user-friendly interface.
Fire TV Interface
The home screen of Fire TV devices features advertised content at the top. This is typically a push for a separate Amazon product, streaming service, or Movie/TV Show.
There is a Live Tab that is built in with free live channels from various Streaming Apps including Pluto.
Finding and installing Apps is easy with the Apps Tab on the home screen that takes you directly to the Amazon App page.
Store.
Android TV
The User Interface provided on Android TV and Google TV devices is quite similar to that of Fire TV. There are multiple tabs that both Android TV & Fire TV share, including the Live option, Apps, and Settings. Similar to Fire TV, Android TV home screens are usually filled with ads for Android/Google products and services.
Among Android devices, 3rd Party Launchers are widely used with no current restrictions on them. Google supports Android TV, allowing users to easily sync multiple devices such as phones and tablets. This is an aspect where Android TV differentiates itself from Fire TV and Firestick devices. Casting and syncing devices is simplified with built-in Chromecast for convenient screen mirroring.
Accessing thousands of apps through the Google Play Store is seamless, and using the remote and voice command via Google Assistant is typically more effective than Amazon Alexa. Android TV is user-friendly and offers numerous benefits for streamers and cord-cutters.
Android TV / Google TV Interface
Similar to Fire TV options, the Android TV / Google TV interface displays only a few tabs for selection. The presence of ads at the top of the screen with videos and other content is also noticeable.
The Live option in Android TV offers numerous channels with the ability to integrate additional services.
With the built-in Google Play Store, there is a vast selection of apps for movies, live streaming, games, and more.
Android TV vs Fire TV – Apps & App Store
Cord-cutters mainly buy streaming devices to install various applications that offer content. Both Amazon & Google have thousands of apps in their app stores, but the Google Play Store offers more applications for Android TV devices compared to the Amazon App Store.
As a result, Android users are likely to have more app download options from the pre-installed Google Play Store. Fortunately, both Android TV Boxes and Firestick devices support sideloading applications. Sideloading is the process of enabling Unknown Sources to install apps not found in the Amazon App Store.
This process is highly popular among Firestick users and is commonly known as “jailbreaking.” Jailbreaking Firestick and Fire TV devices is the best method to access a wide range of free content, including movies, shows, games, and more.
Android TV devices also have this capability, often with fewer restrictions, making them preferable over Firestick and Fire TV for many users.
Android TV vs Fire TV – Privacy Settings
Both Fire TV & Android TV make efforts to gather user information. By default, Firestick devices allow users to disable various privacy options within Settings, such as Device Usage Data, Interest-Based Ads, and Over-the-Air usage collection.
Locating Privacy options on Android may be slightly challenging, but users can still adjust these settings within their device Settings. Google’s official website includes its Privacy Policy, which explains its data collection practices in detail.
Google may collect system activity, crash reports, and usage data regarding how you use the casting functionality of your Cast device, including the apps and domains.
Crash reports and diagnostic data collection are optional. Users have the choice to disable this feature within the Privacy Settings of any Android TV device. When it comes to VPN compatibility, both Android and Fire TV devices work well with almost all VPN providers, including Surfshark VPN, which is recommended by TROYPOINT and functions excellently on Firestick and Android TV devices. Surfshark even offers a widget for the home screen of these devices to easily monitor connection status.
Roku devices, on the other hand, utilize closed-source software that limits usage and device accessibility, unlike Android TV and Fire TV which have open-source systems allowing for external app installations. Choosing a Roku device may lead to missing out on various free content and apps. Therefore, it is generally recommended to opt for devices based on the Android OS, such as Android TV and Fire TV.
When it comes to Android Boxes, there are numerous options available, each with different operating systems. While some run on Stock Android, many popular ones utilize Android TV or Google TV, known for their continuous development and updates. Devices like the NVIDIA SHIELD offer powerful streaming options with support for 4K video, ample storage, and fast navigation. Formuler Z11 is praised for its IPTV capabilities and user-friendly interface. Overall, devices running on Android TV or Google TV are often preferred for their versatility and app compatibility.
Google’s version of a streaming device is called the Chromecast with Google TV. It is an easy-to-use media device that is more affordable than other options but still offers a wide range of streaming choices.
It comes in both 4K and 1080p versions, providing options for different preferences. With a price point similar to Firestick devices, it’s a popular choice for those who prefer Android TV.
Price: $29.99 & $49.99
Storage: 4 GB
Operating System: Android 12
Chromecast with Google TV Review
Fire TV Devices
Amazon introduced the first Fire TV in April 2014, followed by the Fire TV Stick later that year, which quickly became known as the “Firestick.” There are now various versions of Firestick available, along with the 3rd generation Fire TV Cube model.
Each device is priced differently and offers different specifications and streaming capabilities. The Fire TV Stick 4K Max, for example, is the most powerful Firestick available today, supporting WiFi 6, 2 GB of Ram, and HD streaming up to 4K.
The Fire TV Cube, on the other hand, offers more power, storage, and hands-free technology compared to Firestick devices. It features built-in Alexa capabilities for voice control and provides multiple ports for comprehensive streaming.
Price: $139.99
Storage: 16 GB
Operating System: Fire OS 7
Android TV vs Fire TV – Our Final Verdict
When comparing Android TV and Fire TV, it’s essential to consider user capabilities and available device options. Android devices typically offer more storage than Firestick devices, although at a slightly higher price point.
There is a wider variety of Android boxes available compared to Fire TV devices, allowing users to find a device that suits their preferences. Android TV also offers easier customization and the ability to sync multiple devices, providing a convenient feature in today’s tech-savvy world.
While Fire TV devices come with reliable customer support from Amazon, Android TV is gaining popularity due to its less restrictive nature in terms of device guidelines and restrictions.
Both Android TV and Fire TV provide high-quality streaming up to 4K resolution and simple navigation for users of all levels. While Firestick remains a popular choice for budget-friendly streaming, some users are transitioning to Android TV for its flexibility and less intrusive restrictions.
