Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2023) vs Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K) (2026)
Which is better? We compared both on score, owner ratings, pros and cons.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2023)
4K Ultra HD, Wi-Fi 6E, Alexa, Ambient Mode, 16GB. Amazon's most powerful Fire Stick.
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Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K)
4K HDR, Google TV, Google Assistant, Chromecast casting, 8GB. Android users' streaming pick.
Check Price ↗ Full ReviewAt a Glance
| Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2023) | Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K) | |
|---|---|---|
| 247Verdict Score | 9.1/10 | 9.0/10 |
| Owner Rating | 4.6★ (58,000) | 4.5★ (48,000) |
| Verdict | Excellent | Excellent |
| Resolution | 4K Ultra HD | 4K HDR |
| Storage | 16GB | 8GB |
| Voice | Alexa | Google Assistant |
Quick Verdict
This is a genuine draw — both score within 0.15 points of each other. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2023): 4K Ultra HD, Wi-Fi 6E, Alexa, Ambient Mode, 16GB. Amazon's most powerful Fire Stick.. Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K): 4K HDR, Google TV, Google Assistant, Chromecast casting, 8GB. Android users' streaming pick.. Choose based on your specific needs.
Pros & Cons Side by Side
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2023)
- Wi-Fi 6E delivers significantly faster streaming on compatible routers — eliminates buffering
- Ambient Mode turns TV into digital art frame or clock when idle
- Alexa integration is the most capable voice assistant on a streaming device for Prime users
- 16GB storage for apps — double the previous generation
- Supports Dolby Vision + HDR10+ + HDR10 + HLG — widest HDR format support
- Amazon's interface prioritises Prime Video content — other services are buried
- Alexa is excellent for Amazon ecosystem but less useful for Apple/Google users
- No Ethernet port — Wi-Fi only
Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K)
- Google TV interface aggregates content across all streaming services — one search finds content everywhere
- Google Assistant voice search is the most comprehensive across streaming services
- Chromecast casting from Android phone is the most seamless mobile-to-TV casting available
- Under £60 — competitive with Fire Stick 4K Max at similar pricing
- Google Photos automatic slideshow turns TV into a family photo display
- 8GB storage is limited — fewer simultaneous apps vs Fire Stick 4K Max's 16GB
- Google TV remotes require charging (USB-C) unlike AAA battery remotes
- Android-optimised — iOS mirroring less seamless than AirPlay on Apple TV
FAQ
Which is better, Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max or Google Chromecast with TV?
This is a genuine draw — both score within 0.15 points of each other. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2023): 4K Ultra HD, Wi-Fi 6E, Alexa, Ambient Mode, 16GB. Amazon's most powerful Fire Stick.. Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K): 4K HDR, Google TV, Google Assistant, Chromecast casting, 8GB. Android users' streaming pick.. Choose based on your specific needs.
Is the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max worth the extra cost?
Yes — Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2023) scores higher at 9.1/10 vs 9.0/10.
Also Worth Considering
Apple TV 4K (3rd Generation)
A15 chip, 4K HDR, AirPlay, Siri Remote, Apple Arcade. The premium streaming box.
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NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro
Tegra X1+, AI upscaling, GeForce NOW cloud gaming, Plex server, 4K HDR. The power user's streamer.
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Amazon Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen)
Octa-core, 4K 60fps, hands-free Alexa, eARC, 16GB. Amazon's most powerful streaming device.
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