Fire TV Stick 4K (2026) vs 4K Select: Which Is Better in the UK?
Quick answer: Both Amazon streaming sticks deliver 4K video, but the Fire TV Stick 4K (3rd Gen, 2026) adds Wi-Fi 6, Direct Power via a compatible TV USB port and Vega OS 2.0. The Fire TV Stick 4K Select (2025) uses Wi-Fi 5 and Vega OS 1.1. Choose the newer model for connectivity and simpler power; choose Select if the lower purchase price is your priority.
This comparison uses verified manufacturer specifications rather than claimed first-hand testing. UK prices and stock change. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Affiliate Disclosure.
NEWER MODEL · 2026
Fire TV Stick 4K (3rd Gen)
Wi-Fi 6 · Vega OS 2.0 · Direct Power
View 2026 model on Amazon UK ↗Amazon UK product ASIN B0GSH6FCBN. Confirm the 2026 3rd Gen model and current offer.
BUDGET MODEL · 2025
Fire TV Stick 4K Select
Wi-Fi 5 · Vega OS 1.1 · Affordable 4K
View 4K Select on Amazon UK ↗Amazon UK product ASIN B0CN41YQKQ. Confirm the current offer at checkout.
Fire TV Stick 4K 2026 vs 4K Select: Full Comparison
| Specification | 4K (3rd Gen, 2026) | 4K Select (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon model ID | AFTCR001 | AFTCA002 |
| Video | Up to 4K/60fps | Up to 4K/60fps |
| OS | Vega OS 2.0 | Vega OS 1.1 |
| Processor | MediaTek MT8698E; quad-core up to 1.7GHz | MT8698 MCM; quad-core up to 1.7GHz |
| Memory / storage | 1GB / 8GB | 1GB / 8GB |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.0 |
| HDR | HDR10, HDR10+, HLG | HDR10, HDR10+, HLG |
| Dolby Vision | Not listed in Amazon specifications | Not listed in Amazon specifications |
| Power | USB-C; Direct Power with compatible TV USB | Conventional external power setup |
Sources: Amazon’s Fire TV device specifications (2026 third-generation 4K and 2025 4K Select). The 2026 model is also listed in the UK by Argos. Do not confuse it with the older 2023 Fire TV Stick 4K, the 4K Plus or 4K Max.
Which One Should You Buy?
Buy the Fire TV Stick 4K (2026) if you have a busy home Wi-Fi network, want Wi-Fi 6 and have a television with a compatible USB port that can power the stick. Its newer Vega OS 2.0 is another difference, but there is no independent evidence here that this means dramatically faster app launches.
Choose Fire TV Stick 4K Select if you want the cheapest suitable 4K streaming device and do not need Wi-Fi 6 or TV-USB power. Its 4K output and HDR10+ still cover ordinary 4K viewing. Compare current checkout prices rather than relying on launch prices.
Vega OS 2.0 vs 1.1: App Compatibility Matters More Than the Number
Both devices use Amazon’s Vega OS, which is separate from Android-based Fire OS. Some older Fire TV tutorials describe installing Android APK files; do not assume those methods work on either model. If you need a particular UK streaming app, verify support for the exact model before ordering. Amazon’s OS version alone is not a benchmark for picture quality or everyday speed.
Wi-Fi 6, Direct Power and Your TV Setup
Wi-Fi 6 can improve network handling when used with a compatible router, but broadband speed, signal strength and network congestion also affect streaming. The 2026 model can draw power from a compatible television USB port, which may make wall mounting tidier. Not every TV USB outlet supplies sufficient power, so check compatibility. The newer model has Bluetooth 5.3 versus Bluetooth 5.0 on Select.
Direct Amazon UK Product Links
- Find Fire TV Stick 4K 2026 on Amazon UK (direct product page; confirm “3rd Gen” and 2026 at checkout).
- Find Fire TV Stick 4K Select on Amazon UK (direct product page; compare the final price).
Both links above open the identified Amazon UK product pages: ASIN B0GSH6FCBN (4K, 2026) and B0CN41YQKQ (4K Select). We do not display cached prices or claim to have tested these devices. Check availability, model details and total price on Amazon before ordering.
Is Upgrading Worth It?
If your 4K Select already plays your favourite services reliably, there is no pressing need to replace it. If you are buying a first streaming stick and the price difference is small, the 2026 third-generation model is more attractive for Wi-Fi 6 and power convenience. If your TV is only Full HD, consider whether you need 4K at all.
Related SaveSleuth Guides
- Fire TV Stick HD vs 4K Select
- Fire TV Stick HD review
- Amazon UK smart home and streaming guide
- Amazon UK deals and reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fire TV Stick 4K 2026 the same as 4K Select?
No. The 2026 4K (3rd Gen) is AFTCR001 with Vega OS 2.0 and Wi-Fi 6. The 2025 Select is AFTCA002 with Vega OS 1.1 and Wi-Fi 5.
Does the new Fire TV Stick 4K have Dolby Vision?
Dolby Vision is not listed as supported in Amazon’s 2026 third-generation model specifications. The documented HDR formats are HDR10, HDR10+ and HLG.
Will the new 4K stick work with a 1080p television?
A compatible HDMI TV can display output at its own resolution, but a 1080p screen cannot show native 4K detail. See our HD vs 4K Select guide for cheaper alternatives.