What This Product Is
The Fire TV Stick 4K Select is a budget‑oriented 4K streaming stick from Amazon that plugs into a TV’s HDMI port and turns it into a smart entertainment hub, allowing access to major streaming services like Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, and more. This particular listing is a certified refurbished unit — meaning Amazon or an authorized refurbisher has inspected, tested, and restored it to good working condition before sale. (Product lineage based on typical Amazon refurbished program)
Like all refurbished Amazon devices, it should include:
- The streaming stick
- Alexa Voice Remote (basic model)
- Power adapter and short HDMI extender
- Warranty (varies by region)
Refurbished items are generally cheaper than new and carry a limited warranty from Amazon.
Core Features & Specifications
Streaming and Performance
- Streams up to 4K Ultra HD resolution with support for HDR10+ and HLG on compatible TVs.
- Powered by a quad‑core 1.7 GHz processor, and equipped with 8 GB storage (for apps).
- Includes Alexa Voice Remote for voice navigation and search.
New Vega OS
- This model runs Vega OS, a new Amazon Linux‑based operating system designed to be lighter and potentially snappier than previous Fire OS versions.
- Vega OS does not use Android, so many existing Android‑based Fire TV apps are not directly compatible unless developers release Vega‑specific versions.
App Ecosystem & Limitations
- Users cannot sideload apps (install apps outside the official Amazon Appstore).
- VPN app support is limited or unavailable in the default app store, though new Vega‑native VPN solutions are starting to appear (e.g., NordVPN).
- Amazon’s Cloud streaming system can sometimes provide access to apps that haven’t yet been ported natively.
Connectivity & Media Support
- Uses HDMI output with support for HDCP 2.2.
- Supports Wi‑Fi (likely Wi‑Fi 5 given hardware positioning).
- Alexa integration allows voice search and control of smart devices.
Pros
✔ Affordable 4K streaming — certified refurbished units are typically cheaper than new.
✔ Alexa voice search and navigation with remote.
✔ Vega OS can feel smooth and responsive for core apps.
✔ Cloud app streaming can cover gaps in native app support for some services.
Cons
✘ No sideloading of external apps — a key difference from many previous Fire TV devices.
✘ Limited VPN support out of the box (though native apps may be emerging).
✘ Lower specs (1 GB RAM, limited storage) mean it’s less powerful than Fire TV Stick 4K Max.
✘ Some users report app availability and performance limitations compared with older Android‑based Fire TV models.
Real User Impressions (Independent)
- Mixed reactions online: some buyers feel the device’s restrictions (especially inability to sideload) make it frustrating compared with older Firesticks.
- Others say for basic streaming (Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+) it works fine, but it’s less flexible for niche or personal media apps.
Who This Is Best For
Good choice if you:
- Want simple, budget 4K streaming from major apps.
- Prefer an official Amazon‑certified refurbished unit with warranty.
- Use mostly mainstream services available in the Amazon Appstore.
Not ideal if you:
- Want to sideload third‑party or niche apps.
- Rely on VPNs for region‑specific content, unless a compatible app is confirmed.
- Often use local media servers (e.g., Plex) or custom players extensively.
Final Verdict
The Amazon Certified Refurbished Fire TV Stick 4K Select delivers affordable and straightforward 4K streaming with Alexa control and access to official apps — but it comes with notable limitations due to the new Vega OS, especially compared with older Android‑based Fire TV devices that supported sideloading and broader third‑party flexibility. Whether it’s worth it depends on how much you value simplicity and price over power, customization, and app freedom.