Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Amazon Fire TV Cube (2nd Generation). This little device packs a serious punch, combining the functionality of a Fire TV streaming box with the smarts of an Echo device. If you're looking to streamline your entertainment setup and control everything with your voice, the Fire TV Cube might just be your new best friend. Let's break down what makes it tick, how it performs, and whether it's worth your hard-earned cash. So, grab a comfy seat, and let's get started!

What is the Amazon Fire TV Cube 2nd Generation?

The Amazon Fire TV Cube 2nd Generation is essentially a hybrid device that merges a Fire TV streaming media player with an Echo smart speaker. Imagine having the power of Amazon's vast streaming library combined with the hands-free voice control of Alexa. That's precisely what the Cube offers. You can stream movies and TV shows from services like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, and more. But unlike a standard streaming stick or box, the Cube allows you to control your TV, soundbar, and other devices with just your voice. Say goodbye to juggling multiple remotes! It's designed to be the central hub of your home entertainment system, simplifying your life and making your viewing experience more seamless and intuitive. The inclusion of far-field voice recognition means you can bark commands from across the room, and Alexa will hear you loud and clear. This is particularly useful when you're cooking, cleaning, or just too lazy to reach for the remote. Beyond entertainment, the Cube integrates with the rest of your smart home ecosystem. You can use it to control your lights, adjust your thermostat, lock your doors, and much more, all with simple voice commands. This makes it a powerful tool for managing your entire home from the comfort of your couch. Compared to its predecessor, the 2nd generation Cube boasts a faster processor, improved voice recognition, and support for Dolby Vision and HDR10+, resulting in better picture quality and a more responsive user experience. Amazon has really stepped up its game with this iteration, making it a compelling option for anyone looking to upgrade their streaming setup. Ultimately, the Fire TV Cube 2nd Generation is about convenience and control. It's about simplifying your entertainment experience and integrating it seamlessly with the rest of your smart home. If you value these things, the Cube might be the perfect device for you.

Key Features and Specifications

The key features of the Amazon Fire TV Cube 2nd generation are the following: Let's get into the nitty-gritty details of what makes this device tick. Here's a breakdown of the key features and specifications you should know:

• Processor: The Cube is powered by a Hexa-core processor (Quad-core 2.2GHz + Dual-core 1.9GHz), which provides a significant performance boost compared to the previous generation. This means faster app loading times, smoother streaming, and more responsive voice control.
• RAM: It comes with 2GB of RAM, which is sufficient for handling multiple apps and background processes without significant slowdowns.
• Storage: The Cube offers 16GB of internal storage, which is plenty of space for downloading apps, games, and other content. However, it's worth noting that a portion of this storage is used by the operating system.
• Video Resolution: It supports up to 4K Ultra HD resolution at 60fps, ensuring crisp and clear picture quality. It also supports HDR formats like Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HDR10, allowing for vibrant colors and enhanced contrast.
• Audio: The Cube supports Dolby Atmos audio, which delivers immersive, three-dimensional sound when paired with compatible audio equipment. It also supports 7.1 surround sound, 5.1 surround sound, and 2-channel stereo.
• Voice Control: The built-in far-field voice recognition allows you to control the Cube and other connected devices with your voice, even from across the room. Alexa is always listening, ready to answer your questions, play your favorite shows, and control your smart home devices.
• Connectivity: It features Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac) for wireless connectivity and an Ethernet port for a wired internet connection. It also has Bluetooth 5.0 + LE for connecting headphones, speakers, and other accessories.
• Ports: The Cube includes an HDMI port, a micro-USB port (for connecting accessories), an IR extender port (for controlling devices that aren't HDMI-CEC compatible), and a power port.
• IR Blaster: The built-in IR blaster allows the Cube to control your TV, soundbar, and other devices that use infrared remotes. This eliminates the need for multiple remotes and simplifies your entertainment setup.
• Dimensions: The Cube measures 3.4 x 3.4 x 3.0 inches, making it compact enough to fit neatly on your entertainment center.
• Weight: It weighs approximately 16.4 ounces.

These features combine to make the Amazon Fire TV Cube a powerful and versatile streaming device that can serve as the centerpiece of your home entertainment system.

Setting Up Your Fire TV Cube

Setting up the Fire TV Cube is pretty straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Unboxing and Placement: First things first, unbox your Fire TV Cube and make sure you have all the components: the Cube itself, the power adapter, the remote, and any included cables. Place the Cube on a flat, stable surface near your TV. It’s best to position it so that it has a clear line of sight to your TV and other devices you want to control with the IR blaster.
2. Connecting the Power: Plug the power adapter into the Cube and then into a power outlet. The Cube should power on automatically.
3. Connecting to Your TV: Use an HDMI cable to connect the Cube to an HDMI port on your TV. Make sure to note which HDMI port you’re using, as you’ll need to select the correct input on your TV.
4. Pairing the Remote: Insert the batteries into the remote. The Cube should automatically detect the remote and begin the pairing process. If it doesn’t, press and hold the Home button on the remote for about 10 seconds to initiate pairing.
5. Connecting to the Internet: The Cube will prompt you to connect to your Wi-Fi network. Select your network from the list and enter your password. Alternatively, you can connect the Cube to your router using an Ethernet cable for a more stable connection.
6. Logging in to Your Amazon Account: You’ll need to log in to your Amazon account to access your apps, movies, and TV shows. Enter your email address and password when prompted.
7. Device Setup: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup process. This may include selecting your preferred language, setting up parental controls, and configuring the IR blaster to control your TV and other devices.
8. Voice Control Setup: The Cube will guide you through setting up voice control with Alexa. You can customize your voice settings and teach Alexa to recognize your voice.
9. Installing Apps: Once the setup is complete, you can start installing your favorite streaming apps from the Amazon Appstore. Simply search for the app you want to install and click the “Get” button.
10. Customizing Your Settings: Take some time to explore the Cube’s settings and customize them to your liking. You can adjust the display settings, audio settings, and other preferences to optimize your viewing experience.

Once you’ve completed these steps, your Fire TV Cube should be up and running. You can now start streaming your favorite movies and TV shows, controlling your smart home devices, and enjoying all the other features the Cube has to offer.

Pros and Cons of the Amazon Fire TV Cube

Like any device, the Amazon Fire TV Cube (2nd Generation) has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these pros and cons can help you make an informed decision about whether it's the right streaming device for you.

Pros:

• Hands-Free Voice Control: The built-in far-field voice recognition is a game-changer. You can control your TV, soundbar, and other devices with just your voice, even from across the room. This is incredibly convenient, especially when you're cooking, cleaning, or just too lazy to reach for the remote.
• 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Vision and HDR10+: The Cube supports stunning 4K Ultra HD resolution with Dolby Vision and HDR10+, delivering vibrant colors, enhanced contrast, and incredible detail. This makes your movies and TV shows look better than ever before.
• Dolby Atmos Audio: When paired with compatible audio equipment, the Cube delivers immersive, three-dimensional sound with Dolby Atmos. This creates a more engaging and realistic audio experience.
• Fast Performance: The Hexa-core processor and 2GB of RAM provide a significant performance boost compared to previous Fire TV devices. Apps load quickly, streaming is smooth, and voice commands are executed promptly.
• Built-In IR Blaster: The IR blaster allows the Cube to control your TV, soundbar, and other devices that use infrared remotes. This eliminates the need for multiple remotes and simplifies your entertainment setup.
• Smart Home Integration: The Cube seamlessly integrates with the rest of your smart home ecosystem. You can use it to control your lights, adjust your thermostat, lock your doors, and much more, all with simple voice commands.

Cons:

• Price: The Fire TV Cube is more expensive than other streaming devices, such as the Fire TV Stick or Roku Streaming Stick. This may be a barrier for some users.
• Alexa Reliance: While voice control is a major selling point, the Cube's functionality is heavily reliant on Alexa. If you're not a fan of voice assistants or have privacy concerns, the Cube may not be the best choice for you.
• Occasional Glitches: Some users have reported occasional glitches and bugs, such as voice commands not being recognized or apps crashing. While these issues are usually minor, they can be frustrating.
• Limited App Selection: While the Amazon Appstore has a wide selection of apps, it's not as comprehensive as the app stores on other platforms, such as Roku or Apple TV. Some niche or less popular apps may not be available.
• Design: The Cube's design is somewhat polarizing. Some users find it sleek and modern, while others find it bulky and obtrusive.

Overall, the Amazon Fire TV Cube is a powerful and versatile streaming device with a lot to offer. However, it's important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a purchase to ensure that it meets your needs and preferences.

Is the Amazon Fire TV Cube Worth It?

So, the big question: Is the Amazon Fire TV Cube (2nd Generation) worth the investment? The answer, as with most things, depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you value convenience, seamless integration with your smart home, and top-notch performance, then the Cube is definitely worth considering. The hands-free voice control is a game-changer, allowing you to manage your entire entertainment system and smart home with simple voice commands. The 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support ensures a stunning visual experience, while the Dolby Atmos audio provides immersive sound. However, if you're on a tight budget or don't care much about voice control, there are other streaming devices that offer similar features at a lower price point. The Fire TV Stick 4K, for example, delivers excellent performance and supports 4K HDR streaming, but it lacks the Cube's voice control capabilities. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and how much you're willing to spend for the added convenience and features of the Cube. If you're looking to simplify your entertainment setup, integrate it with your smart home, and enjoy a premium streaming experience, then the Fire TV Cube is definitely worth the investment. But if you're primarily concerned with streaming movies and TV shows and don't need all the bells and whistles, then you might be better off with a more affordable option.