Brief Summary
The video discusses the mass migration of users away from Amazon Fire Sticks towards devices like the Walmart Onn 4K Pro, driven by dissatisfaction with Fire OS's ad-heavy nature and the limitations imposed by the upcoming Vega OS. It explores the pros and cons of switching, particularly focusing on the Onn 4K Pro as a tempting alternative due to its improved hardware specs and Google TV interface. However, it also highlights significant drawbacks such as region locks, hardware downgrades, and Google's increasing restrictions on sideloading. The video concludes with recommendations based on user needs, suggesting alternatives like dedicated mini PCs for power users seeking unfiltered control.
- Fire Stick users are migrating due to ad-heavy Fire OS and Vega OS limitations.
- The Walmart Onn 4K Pro is a popular alternative but has region locks and hardware downgrades.
- Google TV is becoming more restrictive with sideloading.
- Dedicated mini PCs are recommended for power users needing full control.
Everyone is ditching Firestick for ONN
The video starts by addressing the numerous inquiries about replacing Fire Sticks, with the Walmart Onn 4K Pro being the most frequently suggested alternative. The release of the Onn 4K Pro 2026 model has generated significant interest. The presenter acknowledges the hype but cautions viewers to consider crucial factors often overlooked by US-based reviewers before switching from their Amazon setup. The video aims to explore the realities of switching, the evolving restrictions on Google TV, and provide informed recommendations.
Why Firestick users are looking elsewhere
The primary reason for the mass exodus from Amazon devices is the increasing level of control exerted by Amazon. Fire OS has become heavily saturated with advertisements, and the introduction of Vega OS is a major concern. Amazon's transition to Vega OS, a Linux-based system, means that users will no longer be able to sideload third-party APKs on future devices. This is a significant drawback for power users. Amazon's active blocking of certain third-party apps on existing devices is also a valid reason for users to seek alternatives.
Don't switch for the wrong reason
The video addresses a common misconception that switching devices will solve issues with specific third-party apps like HDO Box and Nova TV, which have stopped working. The presenter clarifies that changing devices will not restore functionality to apps that have been abandoned by their developers. A new device will not revive these defunct applications.
Why the ONN 4K Pro looks so tempting
The limitations of the Fire Stick hardware are a significant factor driving users to seek alternatives. Expanding storage or hardwiring internet connections on a Fire Stick often results in a cluttered and complicated setup. Amazon provides a locked-down dongle, whereas Walmart appears to offer a more flexible solution with the Onn 4K Pro 2026 model.
The storage and hardware advantage
The Onn 4K Pro, priced at $60, features a redesigned flat, fabric-wrapped puck, resembling more expensive Google TV streamers. It retains the physical microphone kill switch and incorporates the remote finder button into the clickable fabric top. Under the hood, it boasts an Amlogic S905X5M chip, 3 GB of RAM, and 32 GB of storage. This configuration addresses long-standing requests from Fire Stick users for more storage, proper ports, less clutter, and less complexity.
The UK import trap
The presenter is unable to physically test the Onn 4K Pro due to being located in the UK, as the device is a Walmart exclusive in the US, Puerto Rico, and Canada. Importing the Onn 4K Plus previously involved high shipping fees, inflated reseller prices, and import duties, along with the lack of warranty coverage. The Onn boxes are region-locked to the US, requiring a VPN workaround to bypass the region unsupported error during setup. Additionally, not all UK free catch-up apps are fully supported.
The hardware catches no one talks about
Walmart has made some compromises on the hardware of the Onn 4K Pro. The USB port has been downgraded from USB 3.0 to the slower USB 2.0. The Ethernet port is limited to 100 megabits per second, making the Wi-Fi 6 connection potentially five times faster. Despite using a new 64-bit processor, the operating system is locked to a 32-bit version of Android 14, which means some modern emulators and advanced third-party apps that require a 64-bit system won't function correctly. The device also lacks support for Dolby Vision Profile 7 and lossless audio pass-through for local Plex servers, forcing the server to transcode media and lose high-fidelity quality.
Google TV is not a perfect escape
Google TV is not an entirely open platform. Google is implementing more restrictions on sideloading, including a new advanced workflow for unverified apps. This involves multiple warning screens, a mandatory device restart, and a 24-hour security lock designed to slow down users before an app can be installed. Users are essentially trading Amazon's walled garden for Google's, and the era of unrestricted sideloading on Google TV is coming to an end.
Who should actually switch?
The Onn is better than Fire Stick in the areas where Fire Stick users complain the most, but it is not universally superior. For users in the UK, buying an Onn Box is not recommended due to import fees, region locks, VPN issues, and lack of UK catch-up apps. If users only use mainstream streaming apps and their Fire Stick is working fine, there is no need to switch. However, for those desperate to leave the Amazon ecosystem due to ads and Vega OS, a certified Google TV box is a viable alternative.
My honest verdict
For power users who are tired of Amazon blocking apps and Google's new sideloading restrictions, and who want absolute control over their hardware and storage, the recommendation is to stop buying cheap streaming sticks altogether. Setting up a dedicated mini PC is the ultimate solution, offering unfiltered control.
