7 Best Firestick Alternatives in 2025 (No More Restrictions)
Discover Top Alternatives to the Firestick: Streaming Made Better
The Amazon Firestick has undoubtedly become a household name when it comes to streaming devices. With its budget-friendly price and widespread popularity, it’s no wonder many cord-cutters first explored the world of streaming through Firestick or Fire TV. However, the market is bursting with alternative streaming devices that not only match but often surpass the features of the Firestick.
This guide will walk you through various Firestick alternatives that can enhance your viewing experience and address common issues faced by Fire TV users.
Below are key criteria that we considered when evaluating the best Firestick alternatives:
- More internal storage or expandable options than Firestick
- Capability to stream in 4K quality
- Support for essential audio formats
- Powerful processor for seamless performance
- Fast download speeds
- Compatibility with sideloaded applications (like IPTV, Cinema, Syncler, etc.)
- Seamless integration with leading VPN services
- Price point comparable to Firestick
With myriad devices available at varying price ranges and performances, you’re sure to find a Firestick replacement that suits your streaming needs.
Why You Should Consider a Firestick Alternative
7 best firestick alternatives in 2025
Amazon’s Fire TV lineup comprises several streaming devices, each with its unique specifications and pricing. While the new Firestick 4K and Fire TV Stick 4K Max introduce some sought-after improvements, many features remain unchanged.
All Fire TV models use Amazon’s Fire OS, which is often a primary reason users seek alternatives. Many users feel restricted due to Amazon’s limited flexibility in modifying device settings and app availability.
For example, the Amazon Appstore has a restricted selection of applications, and users are unable to install the Google Play Store directly on Firestick. Updates to the device can also limit functionality further, such as disabling third-party app launchers and restricting the changes users can make to the remote’s shortcut buttons.
Another pain point raised by Firestick users is the device’s limited internal storage. While it’s possible to expand storage through ADB commands, this method feels cumbersome when most Android-powered devices offer straightforward expansion options. Additionally, many users are frustrated by the frequent advertisements that clutter the Firestick interface, showcasing prompts for Amazon products and services.
Considering all these limitations, it’s clear why many users are exploring alternative streaming devices.
Best Firestick Alternatives in 2025
Android TV streaming devices are fantastic alternatives to the Fire TV Stick. Google launched the Android TV operating system in 2014, which shines in a remote-friendly interface designed for a cozy viewing experience. Devices like NVIDIA Shield TV Pro, Chromecast with Google TV, and MECOOL Android Boxes come equipped with this versatile system.
The Android TV interface bears a strong resemblance to the Fire TV layout and is designed for optimal use with remote controls. It’s essential to differentiate between true Android TV devices and generic Android boxes, which only feature standard Android versions found in tablets or smartphones. For our list, we will only recommend authentic Android TV devices.
The upcoming options listed below are similarly priced to the Fire TV Stick 4K Max, currently available for $59.99, but we recommend investing in premium devices for the best streaming experience.
1. MECOOL
7 best firestick alternatives in 2025
When it comes to alternatives, MECOOL is a trusted name among Android Box producers, offering devices with various price points and features. One standout option is the MECOOL KM7 Plus, which boasts Netflix certification, 16 GB of internal storage, an Ethernet port, two USB ports, and much more.
With our special discount, you can nab the MECOOL KM7 for $71, making it a remarkable deal for a powerful streaming device.
2. Onn Google TV Box
7 best firestick alternatives in 2025
If you’re in search of a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on performance, the onn. Google TV Box is worth considering. Priced at just $19.88, this device was revamped in 2023 and supports 4K streaming, along with 8 GB of internal storage.
For a deeper dive into maximizing your streaming with the onn. box, check out our thorough review guide.
3. Chromecast with Google TV
The Chromecast with Google TV has rapidly gained popularity as a versatile streaming option. Two versions are available: one for standard 1080p content and a 4K edition for Ultra HD streaming.
These devices deliver the functionality of Firesticks without the Amazon restrictions. Priced at $29.99 and $49.99 respectively, they provide excellent value for money.
4. Tivo Stream 4K
7 best firestick alternatives in 2025
Known for its recording capabilities, Tivo also offers the Tivo Stream 4K, featuring 4K video streamed via Android TV. It comes equipped with a USB-C port for added storage options, making it a viable alternative priced similarly to the Firestick 4K.
5. BuzzTV Gen 5
7 best firestick alternatives in 2025
BuzzTV is renowned for its premium media devices. Their BuzzTV Gen 5 lineup offers powerful streaming options that cater to various needs and price ranges while being optimized for IPTV services and apps like Kodi and Syncler.
6. NVIDIA SHIELD
7 best firestick alternatives in 2025
The NVIDIA SHIELD series, including the NVIDIA SHIELD TV and SHIELD TV Pro, stands out as one of the most potent streaming devices available today. Even though these devices have not received updates in a while, they continue to offer an unparalleled streaming experience.
7. Formuler Z11 Pro Max
7 best firestick alternatives in 2025
The Formuler Z11 Pro Max is a powerhouse alternative featuring 32 GB of internal storage and advanced features, including a built-in IPTV Player with the MYTVOnline3 app. This device runs on Android 11, offering substantial freedom compared to Fire OS.
Final Thoughts
7 best firestick alternatives in 2025
In the quest for the perfect Firestick alternative, the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro truly stands out. If your budget allows, this device receives high praise from cord-cutters for its performance, capability, and consistent updates from NVIDIA.
Users appreciate the power and versatility offered by NVIDIA devices, which can provide seamless streaming with far fewer restrictions than Amazon’s products. While Roku devices are positioned as alternatives, their closed-source system limits user capabilities, making the alternatives listed here far more appealing.