Amazon Fire TV Cube 3 Review: 8.6/10 - Hands-Free Streaming Powerhouse
Overview
The Amazon Fire TV Cube 3, released in late 2022 at $139, is the most powerful device in Amazon’s Fire TV lineup, combining a streaming box with a full-featured Echo speaker. Powered by the Amlogic S928X-K octa-core processor with 4 GB of RAM, it supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos up to 4K 60 fps. The built-in far-field microphones and front-firing speaker allow hands-free Alexa control of both the TV and your smart home.
Design and Hardware
The Fire TV Cube 3 is a compact black cube measuring 3.4 inches on each side with a fabric-wrapped speaker grille that matches the Echo aesthetic. The octa-core processor with 4 GB of RAM makes this the fastest Fire TV device, with app launches and UI navigation feeling significantly snappier than the Fire TV Stick 4K Max. Connectivity includes HDMI 2.1 input and output, Ethernet, USB-A, and an infrared blaster port for controlling legacy AV equipment.
HDMI Passthrough
The HDMI 2.1 input port is the Cube 3’s defining feature, letting you connect a cable box, game console, or other HDMI source and route it through the Cube. This enables Alexa to control your cable box through the IR blaster, and the picture-in-picture feature can overlay live TV feeds alongside streaming content. The passthrough supports 4K 60 fps with HDR, though gaming consoles should still be connected directly to the TV for the lowest input lag.
Hands-Free Alexa
The built-in far-field microphones and front-firing speaker turn the Fire TV Cube into a full Echo device, letting you control the TV, search for content, and manage smart home devices completely hands-free. The speaker is surprisingly capable for its size, offering clear voice reproduction for Alexa responses and decent music playback. The multi-room music feature lets you synchronize playback across multiple Echo devices throughout your home.
Streaming Performance
The octa-core processor handles 4K Dolby Vision and HDR10+ content with ease, and the AV1 hardware decoding ensures efficient streaming across supported platforms. The Wi-Fi 6E radio provides fast, stable wireless connectivity on the 6 GHz band, and the wired Ethernet port offers the most reliable connection for high-bitrate streaming. Dolby Atmos passthrough works over HDMI eARC for immersive audio setups.
Fire OS and Alexa Integration
Fire OS remains the same ad-supported Android-based platform found on other Fire TV devices, with a home screen that prominently features Prime Video content. The Alexa integration is the most complete of any streaming device, with support for Alexa Routines that can turn on the TV, dim the lights, and start your favorite show with a single voice command. The ability to view live camera feeds from Ring and other compatible security cameras on the TV is a practical smart home feature.
Verdict
The Amazon Fire TV Cube 3 earns an 8.6 out of 10 as the most versatile streaming device available, combining a capable streamer with a smart speaker and HDMI routing hub. The performance is excellent, the hands-free Alexa is genuinely useful, and the HDMI passthrough simplifies setups with cable boxes. The ad-heavy interface and Amazon content bias are the same frustrations as other Fire TV devices, but the hardware and feature set justify the premium price for Amazon ecosystem enthusiasts.
Where to Buy
Looking for the best deal on an Amazon Fire TV Cube 3? Check current prices and available listings on eBay to find new, open-box, and certified refurbished units at competitive prices.
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