Fire TVs provide affordable and easy access to popular streaming services and apps. This intelligent platform, created by Amazon, is integrated into budget-friendly TV brands. It favors its products and is enhanced by an Amazon Prime subscription, though the company welcomes users of all devices and operating systems with a simple interface.
Two brands make Amazon Fire TVs: Insignia and Toshiba. The pair share similarities, but the subtle differences may be determining factors in deciding which one is best for your lifestyle.
Insignia 4K TVs are offered in a few different sizes, ideal for smaller to medium-sized rooms. You’ll find 43-inch, 50-inch, 55-inch and 65-inch options. However, Insignia TVs don’t necessarily have the power and refresh rate to back up the larger sizes. In turn, this results in some blurring or shadowing — depending on the content. Still, 4K resolution, which features 3840 x 2160 pixels, offers excellent detail and is the standard resolution for most current series and movies.
As they use Amazon’s innovative platform, they can readily be found on Amazon. They typically cost between $250-$450 but are often on sale throughout the year. They may include perks or add-ons depending on other Amazon services you’re interested in or already have.
A sizable model that is among the cheapest 55-inch 4K smart TVs available. Ideal for casual viewing and easy access to streaming services, especially for those with Amazon Prime and Alexa.
Sold by Amazon
Quality, budget-friendly smaller TV that works well in a bedroom or dorm for one or two people. Features a bright, detailed picture, a fast smart platform and a slim design.
Sold by Amazon
Toshiba 4K Fire TVs are offered at 43 inches, 50 inches and 55 inches and come in at a slightly higher price than their Insignia counterparts. These options are ideal for smaller spaces and typically aren’t ideal to act as a central entertainment hub in the home. You can expect to pay between $300-$500, though they are often on sale and bundled with other Amazon products or services throughout the year.
The newest Toshiba options are compatible with Dolby Vision and employ HDR10, which offers bright colors to match the Ultra HD resolution. It’s also compatible with DTS:X, allowing for a quality audio system for an immersive, theatre-like experience.
Like Insignia Fire TVs, Toshiba options allow for easy access to popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.
Suitable for a mid-size living room, this 4K Fire TV boasts a worthy refresh rate and impressive color for its price. The fast processor allows for the casual enjoyment of sports, action movies and video games. It’s also compatible with high-quality sound and audio technologies.
Sold by Amazon
Slightly older compact TV that offers clarity and brightness in smaller spaces for a low price. Features three HDMI ports to connect consoles and devices and fast Wi-Fi to enjoy content without buffering or lag reliably.
Sold by Amazon
The extra price for the Toshiba models is worth it. Despite being available in larger sizes, the Insignia models don’t have the processing or refresh rate that allows for a clear, vibrant picture across different content types. A Toshiba 4K Fire TV welcomes those who enjoy sports, films, shows and games, along with all the perks you can expect from a Fire TV, including Alexa compatibility.
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Anthony Marcusa writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
