Amazon’s latest Fire TV Stick is perfect for hotel TVs

Source: Android Authority

TL;DR

• Amazon says the latest Fire TV Stick HD can reliably be powered via TV USB ports, eliminating the need for a wall adapter.
• Many other small streaming devices draw more power than most TVs can supply.
• The 1080p dongle costs $35 and will be available for pre‑order starting today.

Amazon’s new Fire TV dongle is designed for travel. The Fire TV Stick HD is slim and lightweight, and—unlike many popular standalone streaming solutions—Amazon states it can be used without a wall adapter, pulling all the power it needs from a TV’s USB port.

In a blog post, Amazon says the new Fire TV Stick HD is its slimmest yet, about 30 % thinner than the previous model released in 2024. It’s also compatible with Alexa Plus, Amazon’s AI‑enabled voice assistant—a feature that had been exclusive to Amazon’s 4K Fire TV devices.

Power and Compatibility

While any TV streamer with a USB connection can theoretically be powered by TV USB ports, most draw more power than TVs typically provide. The Chromecast with Google TV needs a 7.5 W supply, whereas most TVs output 5 W or less through their USB ports. Amazon doesn’t specify exactly how much power the new Fire TV Stick HD draws, but its ability to run off a TV’s USB port suggests it consumes less than those higher‑power devices.

Travel Use

The option to use the streamer without a wall adapter makes the Fire TV Stick HD a great travel companion: plug it into the TV, connect to hotel Wi‑Fi, and you’re ready to go. You can still use a wall adapter if that’s more convenient.

Resolution and Pricing

The Fire TV Stick HD tops out at 1080p, positioning it as a secondary streaming option for most users. However, its focus on portability and a bargain‑bin price of $35 make it an attractive choice for budget‑conscious travelers. Amazon says the streamer will be available for pre‑order starting today (it’s not yet, as of publication), with units expected to ship before the end of the month.