fireCable Plus Adapter for Firestick, Powers Amazon Fire TV Stick from TV USB Port
Quick take
The fireCable Plus is a USB power adapter designed to replace your Fire TV Stick’s usual AC wall setup by powering the streaming device from your TV’s USB port. It’s especially handy for wall-mounted TVs where you want fewer cables and no dangling power brick. The main catch is power delivery: if your TV’s USB port does not provide enough current (or you choose the wrong USB port), you can see “insufficient power” prompts.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Designed to power an Amazon Fire TV Stick from your TV’s USB port, reducing wall outlet clutter.
- Includes an auto on/off behavior so the Fire TV Stick powers with the TV.
- Built for common TV brands that include USB 3.0 or high-output USB ports (the port type matters).
Cons
- May fail to start if the TV USB port is not high enough power, leading to “insufficient USB power” messages.
- Port selection can be the difference between working and not working.
- Shorter cable length may limit placement depending on where your TV’s USB port sits relative to the HDMI/Fire TV Stick area.
What buyers think
Buyer feedback is generally split into two experiences: setups where the adapter works reliably, and setups where it doesn’t until the correct TV USB port is used. Many reports describe trouble starting with an “insufficient power” style alert, with resolution after switching to the correct USB port that supports higher output (often a labeled USB 3.0 or SS-style port). There are also mentions that the adapter can be sensitive to placement, since the physical cable reach matters when the USB port is not near the HDMI area.
Overall, the review evidence points to compatibility being less about the Fire TV Stick model and more about the TV’s USB power capability and the specific port used.
How the fireCable Plus works
This adapter is meant to act as your Fire TV Stick’s power source using your TV’s USB port. The goal is to eliminate the need for an AC outlet power adapter by letting the TV supply power to the streaming device directly. It also supports auto on/off behavior, so when you power your TV on and off, the Fire TV Stick follows along.
Compatibility and the biggest deciding factor: your TV’s USB power
The fireCable Plus is intended for TVs with USB ports that can deliver adequate power, with emphasis on higher-output USB connections such as USB 3.0 (often labeled clearly on the TV). If your TV’s USB port is standard low-power, the Fire TV Stick may not get enough current to boot and you may see an “insufficient power” message.
If you try it and it does not work immediately, the most common fix reported is switching to a different USB port on the TV, particularly a port that is specified for higher current output. This matters most for TVs where multiple USB ports exist (for example, one port intended for storage use and another for peripherals).
Setup experience and real-world usability
Setup is typically straightforward, connecting one side to the Fire TV Stick and the other side into the TV USB port. The practical usability depends on cable reach and port placement. When the USB port is close to the HDMI area where the Fire TV Stick plugs in, the adapter is easier to manage and results in a cleaner wall-mounted look. When the USB port is farther away, buyers note that the cable can feel short.
Pros and cons from a buyer’s perspective
When this is a smart buy
- You have a wall-mounted HDTV or media setup and want to reduce visible power adapters and dangling cables.
- Your TV has a higher-output USB port (commonly USB 3.0 or a port labeled for higher power) that you can use for the Fire TV Stick.
- You want the convenience of powering the Fire TV Stick from the TV, so it auto turns on and off with your TV.
When you should look elsewhere
- Your TV only offers low-power USB outputs, or you cannot access a port that’s intended for higher current.
- You need a longer cable run because your TV’s USB port is positioned far from the HDMI area.
- You’re trying to power multiple Fire TV devices from the same TV USB port and expect consistent performance across configurations, since power limits can vary by port.
Verdict: is the fireCable Plus Adapter for Firestick worth it?
If you have the right TV USB port, the fireCable Plus can be a simple way to clean up your setup and avoid the extra AC power brick. The value proposition is strongest for wall-mounted TVs and setups where you want fewer cables and auto power behavior. If you are unsure about your TV’s USB power capability, plan on checking port labels and be ready to switch ports to avoid “insufficient power” start-up issues.
Alternatives to consider
- Use the Fire TV Stick’s included power adapter and cable. This is the most reliable option when USB power is uncertain, and it avoids boot errors tied to USB power limits.
- Try a different TV USB port first. If your TV has multiple USB ports, prioritize the one specifically intended for higher power devices (often labeled USB 3.0 or SS). This can improve outcomes without adding a second power solution.
Price and availability
Check current pricing and availability for the fireCable Plus Adapter for Firestick on Amazon before you buy, since pricing can vary over time.
FAQs
Why does the fireCable Plus show “insufficient power” errors sometimes?
These errors typically happen when the TV’s USB port cannot supply enough power for the Fire TV Stick. Using the correct higher-output USB port on the TV (often labeled USB 3.0 or similar) is commonly what resolves the issue.
Which USB port should I use on my TV?
Use the TV USB port that is intended for higher power, commonly labeled USB 3.0 or an SS-style port. If your TV has multiple USB ports, the correct one is often the key difference between working and not working.
Does it eliminate the need for the Fire TV Stick wall adapter?
Yes, that is the intended purpose. The adapter powers the Fire TV Stick from your TV’s USB port, which can remove the need for an AC outlet adapter and reduce cable clutter.
Will it work for wall-mounted TVs?
It’s a strong fit for wall-mounted setups because it is designed to reduce hanging wires and keep power contained to your TV. Just make sure your TV’s USB port is close enough and can provide adequate power.
Is this adapter compatible with all Fire TV Stick models?
It is designed to work with Amazon Fire TV Stick streaming devices. As with any USB-powered solution, performance depends on whether your TV USB port can provide enough power.
Specifications
| Product Title | fireCable Plus Adapter for Firestick, Powers Amazon Fire TV Stick from TV USB Port, Eleminates AC Outlet Declutting Wires (See Fire Stick Comparison Chart) |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Television & Video > Streaming Media Players |
| Brand | fireCable |
| Manufacturer | fireCable |
| Model Name | fireCable Plus |
| Model Number | FCPLS2 |
| Color | Orange |
| Item Weight | 0.32 Ounces |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Connector Type | USB |
| Other Special Features of the Product | firestick |
| Resolution | 4k |
| Supported Internet Services | Amazon Instant Video, Netflix, Pandora |
| Controller Type | Remote Control, Voice Control |
| Form Factor | TV Stick |
| RAM Memory Installed | 16 GB |
| Compatible Devices | Amazon Fire TV Stick |
| Memory Storage Capacity | 16 GB |
| Video Output Resolution | 3840x2160 |
| Video Codec | H.264, H.265/HEVC |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Not Smart Home Compatible |
| Item Dimensions L x W x H | 8"L x 0.1"W x 0.1"H |
| UPC | 703633215512 |
| Mfr Part Number | FCPLS2 |
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
| Special Feature | firestick |
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