Short answer: if your smart TV is fast and gets regular updates, its built-in apps are all you need. If apps are slow, missing or no longer updated, a Fire TV Stick is a cheap way to give any TV with an HDMI port a newer, quicker interface.
| Built-in smart TV apps | Fire TV Stick | |
|---|---|---|
| Extra cost | None | Low one-off cost |
| Speed | Depends on TV age | Usually quick on newer models |
| App updates | Ends when the TV stops getting updates | Updated by Amazon |
| UK apps | Varies by brand and year | BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, 5, Netflix and more |
| Remote | TV remote | Separate Alexa voice remote |
| Best for | Newer TVs | Older or slow smart TVs |
When your smart TV is enough
- Your TV is only a few years old and apps open quickly.
- All the apps you use are available and still updated.
- You want one remote and no extra box.
When a Fire TV Stick makes sense
- Apps are slow, crash or have disappeared from your TV.
- You have an older non-smart TV with HDMI.
- You want the same interface on several TVs around the house.
- You use Alexa and want voice control.
Alternatives to a Fire TV Stick
Other streaming devices do the same job: Roku is simple and brand-neutral, Google TV devices suit Android users, and Apple TV 4K is the premium choice for iPhone households.
FAQ
Does a Fire TV Stick work on any TV?
It works on any TV with an HDMI port. For 4K you need a 4K TV and a 4K model of the stick.
Is a Fire TV Stick better than a smart TV?
Not always. It is better than an old or slow smart TV, but a new smart TV’s built-in apps can be just as good.
Do I need a TV licence with a Fire TV Stick?
The same rules apply as for any device: you need one to watch live TV or BBC iPlayer.