You can use your Amazon Echo Speaker connected via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

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There are plenty of similarities and differences between them. However, one is not better than the other. They both have their ups and downs.

They both give you a convenient way to hold all of your entertainment apps in one place. You can access apps like Hulu, Disney Plus, YouTube, Netflix, and much more.

Music is also supported through Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, and other streaming apps. Apart from that, you can have many other apps free of charge to stream from.

Let’s get into what they differ in and what should not affect your decision.

Fire Stick

Amazon Fire TV Stick has been a hit in the market. Apart from affordable and useful, you also gain many features from your purchase.

There are currently two versions available for purchase, apart from the multiple streaming apps and games Amazon allows you to download.

The interface

The Fire Stick’s home screen includes all your most recently used apps. Making it easy to find and pick up wherever you left off. 

Holding down the home button will allow you to see the list of Apps and is a quick way to have access. 

It can also show you what is new in many Apps and recommend movies from the genres you tend to watch the most. Therefore personalizing your experience with the Fire Stick. 

Controller

The Fire Stick remote is one of its best features included. It can be accessed through an app, making it easy to take with you and utilize it.

However, there are two controllers that are sold by Amazon, therefore, two versions of the Fire Stick. 

To begin with, the 4K version costs extra as it works with higher quality video. At the same time, the standard Fire TV Stick has a 1080p resolution, which is exceptional. 

The buttons are also different. Making it simple to distinguish between the two. For instance, the 4K version has volume control buttons and a muting button.

The version also includes an on and off button and an LED light that you will not be able to find these in the standard version.

However, both include the control wheel, Alexa voice control, home, back, and more options. You will also have a handy forward and back button, and a pause/play button too.

Additionally, the Fire Stick can control any soundbar when utilizing the 4K version. 

The looks

The Fire Stick remote is small and straightforward. With a sleek design, it allows you to have full control with just a couple buttons. While Chromecast has no remote at all!

Amazon’s fire stick is also lightweight, and its the perfect balance between size and buttons.

Voice control

It is no secret that Alexa is one of the most widely used assistants. Why not add Alexa into your TV watching and streaming experience.

But if you do not own an Echo Dot, you do not have to worry! Alexa is included withing your Fire Stick and can control much of your watching experience.

Alexa can even control the timing of what you are watching and rewind or fast forward, whatever you are streaming!

From traveling to the home screen or opening an app, Alexa is quick and easy to operate when holding down the microphone button. 

However, if you own an Echo product, you do not have to touch your controller.

You can simply operate utilizing your home assistant, and no longer need your controller. Making your experience that much better and hands-free as well.

Your kids can do it too! By merely showing them, they can ask Alexa to play their show. It is easier than letting them loose with the controller!

Listening by yourself

With private listening, you can connect your headphones and relax as you will be the only one turning into the movie or TV show.

This is a fantastic feature, especially if you do not want to be loud or bother someone who lives with you. However, with the Fire Stick, you will need Bluetooth headphones.

This is because the Fire Stick remote headphones because the Fire Stick remote doesn’t have a headphone jack. Though there might be some audio delays, it is still a fun feature to explore!

Apps

The Fire Stick allows you to download plenty of free apps that will enable you to stream various genres of movies and TV shows.

Though some require you to have a subscription, such as Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+, while others are totally free to stream.

There are plenty of these apps in both steaming platforms! But it is up to you to decide, Fire Stick or Chromecast?

You should also keep in mind that Amazon’s Fire Stick can have games. You can play them either with a controller or a particular gaming controller sold by Amazon.

Price

Priced at $34.99, Amazon’s Fire TV Stick is incredibly affordable! 

Especially as it brings Alexa to you as well, who can open your apps, stream as you wish, and even pause and play videos.

On the most part, I find it incredibly cheap to be able to turn any TV smart while simultaneously bringing you an assistant on the side! 

I think I speak for most of us when I say that Alexa was not even expected for this price!

Chromecast

The Google Chromecast is a great way to share the TV with the whole family, even though it might cause some disputes on who gets to cast!

Which streaming device will be crowned the winner? Fire Stick or Chromecast?

The interface

When using the Chromecast, you should be aware that you will not have an interface. This is because, as stated in the name, it is for casting. 

Meaning you can project what you have on your phone onto the TV.

Though this might seem weird at first, you can even use it as a monitor by connecting a computer or laptop. It can be a great add-on to make any TV transform into a Smart TV.

Controller

As the Chromecast takes a different approach, there is no actual physical remote. The good part about that is that you cannot lose your remote. 

Apart from the fact that multiple people can control the Chromecast through their phones. 

As long as you have the App on your phone, you can stream Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, Disney+ and the list goes on!

Voice control

Even if you do not have a remote, it does not mean you can’t control it by voice. Chromecast works and can be connected to your Google Home assistant.

You can ask Google to Play/Pause, lower the volume amongst other commands. 

Its a great feature to have; yet, you would need to own a Google Assistant, which can higher your prices compared to the Fire Stick that already has Alexa implemented.

Apps

There are plenty of apps that work with Chromecast; however one big downside is that they must all be downloaded into your phone. Which can end up taking plenty of space.

Meaning if you want to stream Hulu, and Netflix, and Youtube, you will need an account and App for each. But that is up to you!

Price

Google’s Chromecast is a mere $35, however, does not include an assistant or remote. 

However, other Google products are affordable as well, so you might just have to pick up a Google Home along with it. 

The bottom line

Both are excellent investments at the same price; however, Amazon’s Fire Stick brings way more to the table than Chromecast. Yet, it is up to you.

You might have a Google Home already; if so, definitively invest in the Chromecast; same goes with Alexa. However, if you do not own either, it is up to you to decide.

Which one is the winner in your book? Fire Stick or Chromecast? Comment your choice below! 

Written by

Amanda Martins

Amanda is an editor with a deep passion for smart home gadgets and loves the idea of worry-free life. She is dedicated herself to provide trendy and useful home security information for readers and helping viewers find the best solutions to their problems.

The post Fire Stick or Chromecast appeared first on The Smart Home Secrets.

Adding apps to Fire TV

When talking about parental controls, most parents want to keep their kids from accessing certain apps or limiting their time. 

However, to do this, you must have apps downloaded before you begin the process.

Installing apps in the Amazon Fire Stick is simple. On the main screen, you can go into a search and look for the App you want. Or you can just browse away and take a look at some apps.

Once you find the App you were looking for, you will see a downloading button. Keep in mind you will be warned if the App needs to be purchased and asked for authorization.

After it has downloaded, it will be added to your library. It can be accessed at any time either by looking into your gallery, searching up the name, or asking Alexa to open it for you.

Now you are ready to download and stream from apps you love. However, you do not have to pay to have a great experience!

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How to turn on parental controls

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In this article, you will learn how to download apps onto your Fire Stick as well as some free apps that you should add on to your download list!

Adding apps to Fire TV

Installing apps in the Amazon Fire Stick is simple. On the main screen, you can go into a search and look for the App you want. Or you can just browse away and take a look at some apps.

Once you find the App you were looking for, you will see a downloading button. Keep in mind you will be warned if the App needs to be purchased and asked for authorization.

After it has downloaded, it will be added to your library. It can be accessed at any time either by looking into your gallery, searching up the name, or asking Alexa to open it for you.

Now you are ready to download and stream from apps you love. However, you do not have to pay to have a great experience!

Free streaming apps

There are plenty of free apps available to download and stream with thousands of movies and TV shows to pick from. Here are a couple:

There are a total of ten free apps on Fire TV Stick that offer their own collections to choose from. Keep in mind the list is in no particular order.

Crackle

Scoring 3.9 out of 5 stars on Amazon rating, Crackle has various blockbuster movies to enjoy. Alongside many hit TV shows that you will never get tired of rewatching.

As well as exclusive originals that you might like taking a look at. Keep in mind that some things might move around; however, their lineup always seems to be on point.

Though Crackle is 1000% free, you will have ads and commercial breaks in between what you are watching. But who doesn’t run to the kitchen or bathroom during those?

Fawesome.tv Movies

Reaching 3.6 out of 5 stars, this free Fire TV App includes a library of around 10,000 movies and episodes to pass the time. Yes, you read that, right!

The App is available for free, and updates are made in their content frequently. You can browse in 25 various genres and find one you enjoy. Check it out!

Hoopla

What was the last time you headed over to your local library? Well, with Hoopla, you can sign up with your library card and log in to your Amazon Fire device. 

As long as your local library had partnered with Hoople, you will gain free access to their digital media collection. But it doesn’t stop there. Music and audio books are included too!

It is clear that Hoopla is one of the most liked of the free Fire TV Apps, as it scores a whopping 4.4 stars on Amazon ratings!

IMDB TV

Coming in with a 4.2-star rating, the IMDb TV app has a tremendous amount of content. 

Especially for a free Fire TV App filled with great movies and content to make the most of your experience.

Though free, the App sustains itself off adds and can be accessed in many different devices, including both the Amazon Prime Video app and Amazon Fire TV.

Kanopy

With a 4.2 out of 5 stars rating, you can not just watch movies and TV shows. Just as the Hoopla App, you can also listen to some digital media.

You can quickly sign up and start watching right away. Want more to download? Click here to see the full list!

The bottom line

In short, Amazon Fire Stick gives you more than just a new way to watch your shows. It allows you to stream from multiple apps free of charge.

You can also have access to multiple games that can be fun to play with the entire family. 

However, keep in mind that if any purchases are made, they will be deducted from your Amazon card.

What did you think? Comment below what watching apps you cannot go without below!

Written by

Amanda Martins

Amanda is an editor with a deep passion for smart home gadgets and loves the idea of worry-free life. She is dedicated herself to provide trendy and useful home security information for readers and helping viewers find the best solutions to their problems.

The post How to Install Apps on Fire TV Stick appeared first on The Smart Home Secrets.

In this article, we will go through the uses of the Fire App and how to utilize it to control your TV without a remote.

What it does

The Amazon Fire TV App allows you to have your controller on the go. With simple navigations and a keyboard, you will never lose your controller again.

It will allow you to log in to an Amazon account and connect to an Amazon Fire Stick to replace its remote. This can be used whether you have your remote or not.

With the Amazon Fire Stick, you can access various free TV Apps to watch movies and shows.

Features

Just as the controller, it has most of the features of the controller. You can activate Alexa, control the TV’s movement, a keyboard, and playback video and audio. 

As well as gaining access to your apps and games quickly and without your remote being present. With the touch of a button, you can go back home or take a look at more options.

You will also gain access to a list of your apps and games and will be able to open them individually as well as having a look at all the apps you can download into your TV.

The App allows you to receive feedback in the form of a small vibration to let you know it has selected what you clicked on. 

You also have the choice of buttons or a directional pad that is controlled by swiping.

For most games, you will not control them through the Amazon Fire TV App and will need the remote included with your Fire Stick.

You can also purchase the Amazon Game Controller as a replacement if needed.

How to use the Fire TV App

Once you download the App and sign in to the account connected to your Fire Stick, it will allow you to select which Fire Stick you wish to control.

After selected, you will be able to control the movements of the TV. You will have included all the buttons in your Fire Stick remote. 

However, the volume will not be able to be controlled through the App.

You will have other features such as a keyboard, home, back, playback controls, and the microphone features to wake up Alexa. 

You can mess around with the default features through settings and choose some options. 

Such as controlling through swiping instead of tapping to make your experience that much better.

Related articles

Here’s a list of related articles that may interest you.

What Fire Stick to buy

Which Fire TV apps are free

What is Amazon Fire TV App

Will Amazon Fire TV Stick work on any TV

What Fire Stick do I have

The bottom line

Overall, having the Fire TV App available to download both in IOS and Android can make your experience way better. 

Whether you lost your controller, broke it, or is just too far, you can easily change what you are watching.

Do you think the App makes your watching experience better? Or should the remote be enough? Let us know below!

Written by

Amanda Martins

Amanda is an editor with a deep passion for smart home gadgets and loves the idea of worry-free life. She is dedicated herself to provide trendy and useful home security information for readers and helping viewers find the best solutions to their problems.

The post How to use Fire TV app appeared first on The Smart Home Secrets.

 Fire Stick remote is not working

There are plenty of different things that could be affecting your Fire Stick controller and causing it to malfunction. However, there are a couple quick fixes that you can do to try and fix it.

Batteries are low

One of the most common reasons as to why your Fire Stick remote is not working is simply a need for a battery change. 

Keep in mind that the Fire TV Remote enjoys fresh batteries and will not settle for anything else. Therefore you should be placing in brand new batteries in once the old ones die. 

You will know when your battery is low as your TV will show you a message stating that your Fire Stick remote is running out of battery.

Come closer

Your Fire Stick remote is not working? It could easily be the distance. You should not be more than 10 feet away ( 3 meters) away from your TV.

This is because it could interfere with your controller making it unable to reach such large distances. By simply getting a little closer, your issues can be solved!

You should also be aware not to cover the red light that communicates the message of what you are clicking on. Covering it can keep it from working.

Controller affair

You might just have another controller connected to your device. That could be a gaming controller or another kind of Fire TV Remote. Therefore, you can simply disconnect them.

Then choose the one you want to connect. This is such a silly and simple mistake but can cause you to lose your temper, wondering why your TV is not responding to your commands.

Plug in, plug out

Before jumping to conclusions and thinking that your Fire Stick remote is not working, unplug your device. It could be as simple as resetting your Fire TV Stick.

This might make everything go back to normal in a matter of minutes. It might not even have anything to do with your controller. 

Your Fire Stick might not have been properly plugged in or receiving the commands from your controller.

 If none of the above worked for you, I have one more trick up my sleeve!

What if I cannot fix it?

Worry not, I have the perfect solution for you. Amazon took their product one step ahead and developed the ideal App to keep your controller on you at all times!

The Amazon Fire TV App allows you to have your controller on the go. With simple navigations and a keyboard, you will never lose your controller again.

It will allow you to log in to an Amazon account, and therefore, connect to an Amazon Fire Stick to replace its remote. This can be used whether you have your remote or not.

With the Amazon Fire Stick, you can access various free TV Apps to watch movies and shows. Want to find out which ones to download? Read the article here!

Features

Just as the controller, it has most of the features of the controller. You can activate Alexa, control the TV’s movement, a keyboard, and playback video and audio. 

As well as gaining access to your apps and games quickly and without your remote being present. With the touch of a button, you can go back home or take a look at more options.

You will also gain access to a list of your apps and games and will be able to open them individually as well as having a look at all the apps you can download into your TV.

The App allows you to receive feedback in the form of a small vibration to let you know it has selected what you clicked on. 

You also have the choice of buttons or a directional pad that is controlled by swiping.

For most games, you will not be able to control them through the Amazon Fire TV App and will need the remote included with your Fire Stick.

You can also purchase the Amazon Game Controller as a replacement if needed.

Downloading

The App can be downloaded on iOS, Android, and Fire OS. And can be found in your app store by searching for “Fire TV.” 

Keep in mind there are many controllers; therefore, you should download the official Amazon Fire TV App to ensure your information will be safe.

The App will allow you to control different Fire Sticks as long as they are all connected under one Amazon account. 

This can be a great way to go back and forth with two TVs, and your whole family can get the App!

The bottom line

I have found that Amazon providing the customer with the App has made the experience that much better. 

Whether your Fire Stick remote is not working, lost, or just across the room, you can log into the App!

Where would you rather control your TV from? The Fire Stick Controller or the Fire TV App! Let us know down below!

Written by

Amanda Martins

Amanda is an editor with a deep passion for smart home gadgets and loves the idea of worry-free life. She is dedicated herself to provide trendy and useful home security information for readers and helping viewers find the best solutions to their problems.

The post Why Fire Stick remote is not working appeared first on The Smart Home Secrets.

Set up your Fire Stick

Before you get into installing your new and fun streaming stick with thousands of movies and shows to watch, you must first determine whether you have the standard or the 4K version.

Which can raise even more questions. Such as which Fire Stick to buy.

Standard or 4K?

There are plenty of ways to determine which kind of Fire Stick you have. For instance, cost. 

A regular Fire TV Stick will cost you around $39.99 on Amazon, while the Fire TV Stick 4K version will cost you just a bit more.

The 4K version comes to around $49.99. But not everyone purchases their Fire Stick. Maybe you got it from a friend, or you bought it without the box.

The buttons are different. Making it simple to distinguish between the two. For instance, the 4K version has volume control buttons and a muting button.

The version also includes an on and off button and an LED light that you will not be able to find these in the standard version.

However, both include the control wheel, Alexa voice control, home, back, and more options. You will also have a handy forward and back button, and a pause/play button too.

Set up process

To set up your Fire Stick, you first want to take everything out of the box and be near your TV, which should be turned off. 

You will first need to plug in the Micro USB Cable into the provided power adapter, which will then be connected to an outlet.

The end left over will then be plugged into the Fire Stick. Now, locate your TV’s HDMI port found behind your TV. Keep in mind that most TVs only have two available HDMI ports.

Therefore, you might have to disconnect something if you have multiple devices on the same TV. However, this step is where it matters, which Fire Stick you own.

With the 4K version of the Fire Stick, you will need to check that you are using an HDMI port that is marked HDCP 2.2 or 4K. 

However, when utilizing a common Fire Stick, that should not apply, and you can plug it into whichever HDMI available.

After plugging it into the right HDMI port, you will need to place batteries into your controller. 

The Fire Sticks will need two AAA batteries, which should be provided with your purchase.

When your controller is up and running, press the “Home” button, followed by the “Play/Pause” button on your remote.

Now is where the configurations will need to be set up, including language, Wi-Fi connection, and your Amazon account.

Go through the steps and choose your language, as well as your home Wi-Fi to have a stronger connection. You will be asked for the password, and the Fire Stick will connect to your Wi-Fi.

Logging into Amazon

If you already have an Amazon account go right ahead and log in. But if you do not have an account, make sure to register. 

If you are logging into your account and have your two-factor authentication turned on, you will need to confirm your attempt to log in through your phone.

Once it has logged in, you are ready to play around and stream as you wish. You can begin downloading apps such as Netflix, Hulu, and Disney Plus. 

Or you might be tempted to take a look at a couple games. Maybe watch some sports? You name it, Amazon’s Fire Stick has it.

Just ask Alexa, by pressing the microphone button, to show you some funny animal videos on YouTube!

The bottom line

Now you know how to set up your Fire Stick, and you are free to stream on-demand as much as you want. So get that popcorn and go straight to watching! What’s on today?

Let us know which Fire Stick you have or will purchase down below!

Written by

Amanda Martins

Amanda is an editor with a deep passion for smart home gadgets and loves the idea of worry-free life. She is dedicated herself to provide trendy and useful home security information for readers and helping viewers find the best solutions to their problems.

The post How to set up the Fire TV Stick appeared first on The Smart Home Secrets.

There are plenty of similarities and differences between them. However, one is not better than the other. They both have their ups and downs.

AT A GLANCE

Amazon Fire Stick

Roku

They both give you a convenient way to hold all of your entertainment apps in one place. You can access apps like Hulu, Disney Plus, YouTube, Netflix, and much more.

Music is also supported through Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, and other streaming apps. Apart from that, you can have many other apps free of charge to stream from.

Let’s get into what they differ in and what should not affect your decision.

Fire Stick

Amazon Fire TV Stick has been a hit in the market. Apart from affordable and useful, you also gain many features from your purchase.

There are currently two versions available for purchase, apart from the multiple streaming apps and games Amazon allows you to download.

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The interface

The Fire Stick’s home screen includes all your most recently used apps. 

Making it easy to find and pick up wherever you left off. Holding down the home button will allow you to see the list of Apps and is a quick way to have access. 

It can also show you what is new in many Apps and recommend movies from the genres you tend to watch the most. Therefore personalizing your experience with the Fire Stick. 

Controller

The Fire Stick remote is one of its best features included. It can be accessed through an app, making it easy to take with you and utilize it.

However, there are two controllers that are sold by Amazon, therefore, two versions of the Fire Stick. 

To begin with, the 4K version costs extra as it works with higher quality video. At the same time, the standard Fire TV Stick has a 1080p resolution, which is exceptional. 

The buttons are also different. Making it simple to distinguish between the two. For instance, the 4K version has volume control buttons and a muting button.

The version also includes an on and off button and an LED light that you will not be able to find these in the standard version.

However, both include the control wheel, Alexa voice control, home, back, and more options. You will also have a handy forward and back button, and a pause/play button too.

Additionally, the Fire Stick can control any soundbar when utilizing the 4K version, while Roku can only control HDMI supported soundbars.

The looks

The Fire Stick remote is small and straightforward. With a sleek design, it allows you to have full control with just a couple buttons. 

While Roku has a bulkier remote with plenty of buttons.

Roku included extra buttons on a larger control. Making it more of a disturbance than a useful device as you will need to drag it constantly around.

Amazon’s fire stick is also lightweight, and its the perfect balance between size and buttons.

Voice control

It is no secret that Alexa is one of the most widely used assistants. Why not add Alexa into your TV watching and streaming experience.

But if you do not own an Echo Dot, you do not have to worry! Alexa is included withing your Fire Stick and can control much of your watching experience.

Alexa can even control the timing of what you are watching and rewind or fast forward, whatever you are streaming!

From traveling to the home screen or opening an app, Alexa is quick and easy to operate when holding down the microphone button. 

However, if you own an Echo product, you do not have to touch your controller.

You can simply operate utilizing your home assistant, and no longer need your controller. Making your experience that much better and hands-free as well.

Your kids can do it too! By merely showing them, they can ask Alexa to play their show. It is easier than letting them loose with the controller!

Apps

The Fire Stick allows you to download plenty of free apps that will enable you to stream various genres of movies and TV shows.

Though some require you to have a subscription, such as Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+, while others are totally free to stream.

There are plenty of these apps! If you want to take a look at which Fire TV apps are free, click here!

You should also keep in mind that Amazon’s Fire Stick can have games. You can play them either with a controller or a particular gaming controller sold by Amazon.

Listening by yourself

With private listening, you can connect your headphones and relax as you will be the only one turning into the movie or TV show.

This is a fantastic feature, especially if you do not want to be loud or bother someone who lives with you. However, with the Fire Stick, you will need Bluetooth headphones.

This is because the Fire Stick remote headphones because the Fire Stick remote doesn’t have a headphone jack. Though there might be some audio delays, it is still a fun feature to explore!

Roku

So you took a look at the Fire Stick, but could the Roku have some strong points that Amazon cannot compete with? Let’s dive in.

The interface

Organization is a big part of life for countless people; therefore, Roku includes an arranging feature in which you can move your apps around. Much like a phone!

For instance, the Fire Stick will show you the most recently used app, yet Roku will leave your app where you placed it. 

Giving you quick access to Hulu if it is what you placed in the first row. Therefore, you do not waste time looking all over for what you want to play.

Controller

With Roku, you can still access voice control as there is also a microphone button available and shortcuts.

Though shortcuts are an available feature, there is no way to reprogram it, so keep that in mind. Therefore, it can outweigh the endless amounts of buttons.

The looks

Unlike the Fire Stick’s sleek look, the Roku controller is bulky and has an abundance of buttons that are entirely unnecessary as the Fire Stick only contains a couple buttons.

Especially as the Fire Stick remote is lightweight and straightforward. The controller for Roku is a big downside. I don’t know about you, but more buttons, more problems.

In fact, it is a more massive controller with more buttons; however, for the most part, they both include the same amount of features. 

Therefore, there is no need to have a bulky and heavy controller to drag around.

Voice control

While Amazon’s Fire Stick only includes Alexa, Roku can be controlled with both Google Home and Alexa. Therefore, it might come down to personal preference.

It might have the downside of constantly having to tell Google to control your Roku. As you will have to repeat the word multiple times, which can get quite annoying.

For instance, with the Fire Stick, you can ask Alexa to pause by holding the microphone button or controlling it through the Fire TV App.

However, when asking Google, you will need to say, “Google, pause Roku” or “Google, open Netflix on Roku.” 

If you do not have Google nor Alexa, you can still utilize voice control through the Roku remote.

Apps

With thousands of TV shows and movies available for streaming on-demand in so many platforms and apps, it can be hard determining which streaming stick is the best one.

Games are also available and can be played through the remote. There is so much to explore as well, such as virtual sceneries that can be found!

However, keep in mind that Roku does not have as many apps available for download compared to the Fire Stick. 

Roku offers the Roku Channel to their customers in which you can find a variety of movies and shows.

Though it is ad-supported, there are plenty of genres to pick from and even somethings for the kids’ entertainment too! 

Other channels are also available such as news and free channels.

Listening by yourself

Roku allows you to watch your shows despite the time. The controller has a headphone jack, in which you can plugin and keep from bothering anyone in the house.

This can be a better alternative for people who do not own wireless earbuds and do not want to invest more money to utilize the Fire Stick with private listening.

You can also plug into your phone and utilize the app as a connection for your sound.

Comparing

While both are great options to choose from, they each win over different categories. Let’s go over each of them now!

Best Home Screen

Roku gives you the option to organize your home screen, which is better than your recent watches from the Fire Stick.

Best Remote Control

Out of both, the Amazon Fire Stick has both a sleeker look a better usage than the Roku remote.

Best Voice Control

Roku can be controlled with both Alexa, Google Home, and the Roku assistant. Therefore, Amazon Fire Stick forfeits this round.

Apps

Though both provide plenty of apps and games, Fire Stick has a greater variety and will give you more bang for your buck!

Listening feature

Roku includes an easier way to listen, both though the remote or app, utilizing headphones and plugging them in. 

However, the Fire Stick will give you a better experience as you can move around.

Which Stick to Buy?

Amazon Fire Stick

Roku

Both are affordable choices; however, with the Fire Stick, you will be able to access many free Apps to watch TV as well as games. While with Roku, users have found it easier to use.

In the end, it comes to what you prefer and your needs. They both have a range of free channels and movies that can be accessed easily.

The bottom line

Whichever side you are on, you will surely get an amazing device. Both the Fire Stick and Roku are easy to set up and will give you plenty of genres to choose from.

Let us know which one you prefer down below!

Written by

Amanda Martins

Amanda is an editor with a deep passion for smart home gadgets and loves the idea of worry-free life. She is dedicated herself to provide trendy and useful home security information for readers and helping viewers find the best solutions to their problems.

The post Is Fire Stick or Roku better appeared first on The Smart Home Secrets.

To begin with, there are two different versions of the Fire Stick. The standard does not have volume controlling buttons, and the 4K version does.

If you are not sure which one you have read the article “What Fire Stick do I have?“.

So it is already plentiful that with the 4K version, you do not have to bring two controllers left and right with you. 

But what about the App? Does controlling volume with Fire TV App work?

Well, sadly, no. Though the Fire TV App gives you a bunch of features listed below, volume control and turning TVs off and on are not included. Which can be a bit of a bummer. 

But that also means you only need the TV control and your phone. Meaning the Fire Stick remote does not always have to be with you. That’s a big perk!

Back in the day, people would need to get up to pick up controls. They didn’t have phones that can control the Television.

However, if you do have the 4K version on you, Alexa can control the volume for you by the touch of your microphone button. Pretty cool if you ask me!

What is Fire TV App

The Amazon Fire TV App allows you to have your controller on the go. With simple navigations and a keyboard, you will never lose your controller again.

It will allow you to log in to an Amazon account and connect to an Amazon Fire Stick to replace its remote. This can be used whether you have your remote or not.

With the Amazon Fire Stick, you can access various free TV Apps to watch movies and shows. 

Features

Just as the controller, it has most of the features of the controller. 

You can activate Alexa, control the TV’s movement, a keyboard, and playback video and audio. 

As well as gaining access to your apps and games quickly and without your remote being present. With the touch of a button, you can go back home or take a look at more options.

You will also gain access to a list of your apps and games and will be able to open them individually as well as having a look at all the Apps you can download into your TV.

The App allows you to receive feedback in the form of a small vibration to let you know it has selected what you clicked on. 

You also have the choice of buttons or a directional pad that is controlled by swiping.

For most games, you will not be able to control them through the Amazon Fire TV App and will need the remote included with your Fire Stick.

You can also purchase the Amazon Game Controller as a replacement if needed.

Related articles

Here’s a list of related articles that may interest you.

What Fire Stick to buy

Which Fire TV apps are free

What Fire Stick do I have

Will Amazon Fire TV Stick work on any TV

What is Amazon Fire TV App

The bottom line

Overall, the App might not control the volume, but paying a little extra to be able to have all the controls under one remote can have its perks.

Do you prefer the App or the remote? Let us know below.

Written by

Amanda Martins

Amanda is an editor with a deep passion for smart home gadgets and loves the idea of worry-free life. She is dedicated herself to provide trendy and useful home security information for readers and helping viewers find the best solutions to their problems.

The post Can Fire TV app control volume appeared first on The Smart Home Secrets.

You are watching your favorite movie, and all of a sudden, the Fire TV App stops working. I’ve been there, and I know the feeling. It’s very frustrating, isn’t it? 

Luckily I could have my Fire TV App working again by following the steps below.

Fixing Fire TV App connection

There are a couple ways to fix your issue: 

The first being unplugging your Fire TV Stick out of the HDMI entry; remember that your TV must be turned off!

You can also achieve the same goal by unplugging the power cord or the adapter. 

After waiting a minute, plug it back in and turn your TV on.

You should then attempt to connect the Fire TV app once again. 

If it is not responding, restart the device that you are using the App on, as well as attempting to update the App by going to your device’s app store.

What the Fire TV App does

You got your brand new Fire Stick, and you already lost the remote? Pull your phone out and get the Fire TV app! Are you wondering what it can do? 

The Amazon Fire TV App allows you to have your controller on the go. With simple navigations and a keyboard, you will never lose your controller again.

It will allow you to log in to an Amazon account and connect to an Amazon Fire Stick to replace its remote. This can be used whether you have your remote or not.

With the Amazon Fire Stick, you can access various free TV Apps to watch movies and shows. Want to find out which ones to download? Read the article here!

Features

Just as the controller, it has most of the features of the controller. You can activate Alexa, control the TV’s movement, a keyboard, and playback video and audio. 

As well as gaining access to your apps and games quickly and without your remote being present. With the touch of a button, you can go back home or take a look at more options.

You will also gain access to a list of your apps and games and will be able to open them individually as well as having a look at all the Apps you can download into your TV.

The App allows you to receive feedback in the form of a small vibration to let you know it has selected what you clicked on. 

You also have the choice of buttons or a directional pad that is controlled by swiping.

For most games, you will not control them through the Amazon Fire TV App and will need the remote included with your Fire Stick.

You can also purchase the Amazon Game Controller as a replacement if needed.

Downloading

The App can be downloaded on iOS, Android, and Fire OS. And can be found in your app store by searching for “Fire TV.” 

Keep in mind there are many controllers; therefore, you should download the official Amazon Fire TV App to ensure your information will be safe.

The App will allow you to control different Fire Sticks as long as they are all connected under one Amazon account. 

This can be a great way to go back and forth with two TVs, and your whole family can get the App!

How to use the Fire TV App

Once you download the App and sign in to the account connected to your Fire Stick, it will allow you to select which Fire Stick you wish to control.

After selected, you will be able to control the movements of the TV. You will have included all the buttons in your Fire Stick remote. 

However, the volume will not be able to be controlled through the App.

You will have other features such as a keyboard, home, back, playback controls, and the microphone features to wake up Alexa. 

You can mess around with the default features through settings and choose some options, like controlling through swiping or tapping to make your experience that much better.

Related articles

Here’s a list of related articles that may interest you.

What Fire Stick to buy

Which Fire TV apps are free

What Fire Stick do I have

Will Amazon Fire TV Stick work on any TV

What is Amazon Fire TV App

The bottom line

Having a remote you can carry with you on the go is one of the best innovations Amazon brought to the table, especially in a world that’s surrounded by technology.

Now you know what to when the Fire TV remote app keeps disconnecting.

Perhaps now you can use it more often, right?

Remote or App? What’s your favorite? Tell me in the comment section below.

Written by

Amanda Martins

Amanda is an editor with a deep passion for smart home gadgets and loves the idea of worry-free life. She is dedicated herself to provide trendy and useful home security information for readers and helping viewers find the best solutions to their problems.

The post Fire TV App won’t connect appeared first on The Smart Home Secrets.