Power and Picture Quality in One Cube

The third-generation Fire TV Cube is the most powerful Fire TV device Amazon has built, running on an octa-core processor that’s roughly 20 percent faster than the previous model. The result is a noticeably snappier interface, smoother navigation, and quicker app launches, which all help it feel more like a premium streaming box than a simple stick.

It also pushes its video capabilities further, delivering 4K UHD streaming with support for HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision, and the more efficient AV1 codec. This combination means sharper images, richer colors, and smoother playback across a growing number of supported apps and services, especially on modern TVs that can take advantage of the higher dynamic range formats.

HDMI Passthrough Changes How You Watch

One of the Cube’s standout hardware features is its HDMI passthrough. Alongside HDMI output, there’s an HDMI input that lets you connect a cable box, satellite receiver, or game console directly into the Cube. This allows you to use the Fire TV interface and Alexa voice commands to switch between live TV and streaming without juggling remotes or inputs. A USB-A port and included IR extender round out the connectivity, giving you more flexibility with accessories and devices.

The built-in far-field microphones and hands-free Alexa integration take the “set-top box” concept a step further. You can launch apps, control playback, adjust volume, or even manage smart home devices just by speaking, even when the TV is off. This hands-free control extends to TVs and soundbars through HDMI-CEC and IR, turning the Cube into a true command center.

Under the hood, 16 GB of storage and 2 GB of RAM give it room for apps, while Amazon’s AI-powered upscaling boosts HD content closer to 4K resolution. Coupled with Dolby Atmos audio support and the Cube’s ability to function as a smart speaker when the TV is off, the device blurs the line between streaming box and smart home hub.

A Streaming Box and Smart Hub in One

The third-generation Fire TV Cube is Amazon’s most complete streaming device yet, blending powerful hardware with a genuinely useful mix of ports and voice features. It’s fast enough to feel premium, supports all the major HDR formats at 4K, and its HDMI passthrough plus hands-free Alexa make it far more versatile than a simple stick. With AI upscaling, Dolby Atmos support, and the ability to double as a smart speaker, it functions as both a high-end streamer and a small smart-home hub.

There are still trade-offs: the interface remains heavily geared toward Amazon’s own content and ads, and the built-in speaker is basic compared with a dedicated Echo. But for people who want a single box that can control their TV, stream everything in top quality, and listen to voice commands from across the room, the Fire TV Cube is the most capable option in Amazon’s lineup.