The Amazon Firestick, with its easy-to-use interface and wide compatibility with numerous streaming services, is one of the most popular streaming devices. By 2018, it became a go-to for users who wanted to access a plethora of content, from movies and TV shows to music, live television, and more. To get the most out of your Firestick, selecting the best apps is essential. Whether you’re a movie buff, a sports enthusiast, or a music lover, the right apps can transform your streaming experience.
In this guide, we’ll look at some of the best Firestick apps of 2018, covering a variety of categories and providing installation tips, key features, and why each app is worth having on your device.
Best Firestick Apps in 2018: Overview
Here’s a quick breakdown of the top apps for Firestick users in 2018:
| App Name | Category | Key Features | Rating (Out of 5) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kodi | Media Center | Open-source platform for movies, TV shows, sports, and live TV. | 4.5 |
| Netflix | Entertainment | Unlimited streaming in HD and 4K of movies, TV shows, and Netflix Originals. | 5.0 |
| YouTube | Entertainment | Access millions of videos, from DIY tutorials to music videos and vlogs. | 4.8 |
| Plex | Media Server | Organizes and streams your own media library. | 4.7 |
| Spotify | Music & Audio | Music streaming with millions of songs, playlists, and podcasts. | 4.9 |
| Sling TV | TV Streaming | Live TV streaming with sports, news, and entertainment channels. | 4.6 |
| Amazon Prime Video | Entertainment | Amazon Originals, exclusive TV shows, and movies. | 5.0 |
| Vudu | Movie Streaming | Rent or buy movies and TV shows in HD and 4K. | 4.4 |
| ES File Explorer | File Management | Manage and organize files on your Firestick. | 4.5 |
| Live NetTV | Live TV Streaming | Watch live TV channels from different genres and countries. | 4.3 |
Let’s now dive deeper into each of these apps, highlighting their features, installation instructions, and user experiences.
Kodi: The Ultimate Media Center
- Add-ons for Unlimited Content: Kodi supports third-party add-ons that allow access to live TV, sports events, and on-demand movies.
- Customization: The interface is highly customizable to fit your preferences, from themes to layout.
- Wide Format Support: Kodi supports a vast array of media formats, including MKV, MP4, AVI, and more.
Installation
To install Kodi:
- Enable “Apps from Unknown Sources” in Firestick settings.
- Install Downloader from the Amazon Appstore.
- Use Downloader to fetch Kodi’s APK file from a trusted source.
- Once downloaded, install Kodi and enjoy a fully customizable streaming experience.
Why It’s Great
Kodi is perfect for users who want an all-in-one media solution with vast content options, especially for those willing to use third-party add-ons for free streaming.
Netflix: Streaming with Unlimited Options
Key Features
- Original Content: Netflix is known for its expansive library of original TV shows and movies, such as Stranger Things, The Crown, and The Witcher.
- Multi-Device Support: You can use Netflix on various devices, and your account syncs across them.
- High-Quality Streaming: Netflix offers streaming in HD and 4K, provided your internet connection supports it.
Installation
- Navigate to the Amazon Appstore on your Firestick.
- Search for “Netflix” and install the app.
- Log in to your Netflix account and start streaming.
Why It’s Great
Netflix is the gold standard for streaming entertainment, offering a combination of original content, user-friendly interface, and an expansive movie and TV show catalog.
YouTube: The World’s Largest Video Platform
- Diverse Content: YouTube is a treasure trove of video content, including everything from music videos to DIY tutorials, documentaries, and live streams.
- High-Resolution Support: It supports videos in HD and 4K resolution, ensuring a crisp viewing experience.
- Custom Playlists: Users can create playlists and easily share their favorite content.
Installation
- Go to the Amazon Appstore and search for “YouTube”.
- Install the app on your Firestick.
- Sign in to your Google account to get personalized recommendations.
Why It’s Great
As the largest video platform, YouTube offers an incredible variety of content, making it essential for any Firestick user who enjoys both entertainment and education.
Plex: Stream Your Personal Media Library
- Media Management: Plex allows you to organize and stream personal media files (movies, music, photos) across multiple devices.
- Content Discovery: Plex also offers free, ad-supported movies and TV shows, adding even more content for users.
- Multi-Device Support: Plex works seamlessly across smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
Installation
- Download Plex from the Amazon Appstore.
- Set up a free Plex account and connect your media library.
- Start streaming your personal media content or enjoy Plex’s free ad-supported movies.
Why It’s Great
Plex is ideal for users who want to manage and stream their own media collection while also enjoying additional free content.
Spotify: Music Streaming for Every Occasion
- Massive Library: With millions of songs, podcasts, and playlists, Spotify caters to all tastes.
- Offline Mode: Premium users can download songs for offline listening.
- Curated Playlists: Spotify offers personalized playlists based on listening habits, like “Discover Weekly.”
Installation
- Install the Spotify app from the Amazon Appstore.
- Log in to your Spotify account.
- Start listening to music, podcasts, and playlists from a variety of genres.
Why It’s Great
Spotify remains one of the top music streaming services, offering seamless integration with Firestick and a rich library of music and podcasts.
Sling TV: Live TV Streaming for Cord Cutters
- Live TV Channels: Sling TV offers a selection of live channels, including sports, news, and entertainment.
- Customization: Choose from various channel packages to tailor the service to your needs.
- On-Demand Content: It also provides on-demand content, including movies and TV shows.
Installation
- Search for Sling TV in the Amazon Appstore and install it.
- Log in with your Sling TV account.
- Start watching live TV and on-demand content.
Why It’s Great
Sling TV is perfect for users who want to cut the cord and stream live TV without paying for a traditional cable subscription.
Amazon Prime Video: Exclusive TV Shows and Movies
- Exclusive Content: Amazon Originals like The Boys, Jack Ryan, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel are exclusive to Prime Video.
- Ad-Free Streaming: Unlike some other streaming services, Amazon Prime Video offers an ad-free viewing experience.
- Rent and Buy Movies: In addition to streaming, you can also rent or purchase movies and TV shows directly through the app.
Installation
- Prime Video is pre-installed on most Firestick devices, but you can also download it from the Amazon Appstore.
- Log in with your Amazon account and start streaming.
Why It’s Great
Amazon Prime Video offers a vast collection of content, including exclusive titles, and its integration with Amazon Prime memberships makes it an excellent choice for users who are already part of the Amazon ecosystem.
Vudu: Rent or Buy Movies and TV Shows
- On-Demand Rentals and Purchases: Vudu allows you to rent or purchase movies and TV shows in HD and 4K.
- No Subscription: Unlike subscription services, Vudu operates on a pay-per-view model, making it perfect for users who want to watch individual movies or shows.
- Huge Library: With thousands of titles across all genres, Vudu is a great service for movie lovers.
Installation
- Search for Vudu in the Amazon Appstore and install it.
- Log in to your Vudu account to start browsing movies and TV shows.
Why It’s Great
Vudu is perfect for users who don’t want a subscription but still want access to a massive library of content to rent or buy.
ES File Explorer: Manage Your Files Efficiently
- File Management: ES File Explorer lets you manage and organize files on your Firestick, making it easier to access downloaded content.
- Cloud Storage Support: You can connect cloud storage accounts (Google Drive, Dropbox) to store and access files.
- App Manager: It helps you manage installed apps, clear caches, and free up space on your device.
Installation
- Search for ES File Explorer in the Amazon Appstore and install it.
- Use it to manage and organize your media files.
Why It’s Great
ES File Explorer is ideal for users who like to keep their Firestick organized, with easy access to all your apps and media files.
Live NetTV: Stream Live TV from Around the World
- Free Live TV Channels: Live NetTV offers free access to hundreds of live TV channels from multiple countries.
- Channel Categories: Channels are categorized into genres like sports, news, movies, and kids.
- On-Demand Content: Access on-demand movies and shows along with live streaming.
Installation
- Download the APK for Live NetTV from a trusted source.
- Install it on your Firestick and enjoy live TV streaming.
Why It’s Great
Live NetTV is a great choice for users who want access to live TV channels without paying for a cable subscription.
Conclusion
The Firestick ecosystem offers a variety of apps that can cater to every entertainment need, from streaming movies and TV shows to managing media files and listening to music. The apps mentioned above were among the best Firestick apps of 2018, and each has unique features that cater to different user preferences. By installing these apps on your Firestick, you can maximize your streaming experience, ensuring endless hours of entertainment right at your fingertips.
FAQs
How do I install apps on my Firestick?
To install apps on your Firestick, go to the Amazon Appstore, search for the app you want to install, and click “Get” or “Install.” For third-party apps like Kodi, enable “Apps from Unknown Sources” in your Firestick settings and use a downloader app to install the APK.
Can I use Kodi to stream live TV?
Yes, Kodi allows you to stream live TV through various third-party add-ons. Once installed, you can access live channels, sports events, and more by adding the appropriate add-ons to Kodi.
Is Netflix free on Firestick?
No, Netflix requires a subscription to access its content. However, you can install the Netflix app for free on your Firestick, and then log in with your subscription credentials.
Can I listen to music on Firestick?
Yes, apps like Spotify and Amazon Music let you stream music on your Firestick. Simply download the app from the Amazon Appstore and enjoy music, playlists, and podcasts.
How can I watch live TV on Firestick without a cable subscription?
You can use apps like Sling TV or Live NetTV to stream live TV on your Firestick. These apps offer a variety of live channels, including sports, news, and entertainment, without the need for a traditional cable subscription.
If you’re a sports fan looking to stream live events, finding the right apps is essential for an uninterrupted experience. There are many apps available that can help you watch live sports from anywhere, whether it’s football, basketball, or niche sports
From well-known platforms like ESPN and NBC Sports to more specialized apps like FuboTV and Sling TV, there are numerous options that cater to different sports genres and preferences.
For an even broader range of sports events, you can explore Best IPTV Ireland for a comprehensive guide on the best apps to watch live sports. The site offers detailed insights into the top IPTV apps, enabling you to stream your favorite games live and stay updated on the latest events.
Check out their full list of recommended sports apps here: Best Apps to Watch Live Sports. It’s the perfect resource to enhance your sports viewing experience!