How to fix an Amazon Fire TV Stick that won’t turn on

⚡ Fast fix

• Check the power source. Plug your Amazon Fire TV Stick into a wall outlet—not just the TV’s USB port.
• Swap the cable and adapter. A weak power cord is a common culprit.
• Try a different HDMI port. The port—not the Stick—might be the issue.
• Restart it fully. Unplug everything for 60 seconds, then reconnect and power back on.

Snacks in hand, you sit down on your sofa to watch a favorite show with your Amazon® Fire TV™ Stick. But instead of the familiar home screen, you're greeted with a blank display. Pressing the buttons on the remote doesn't work. What are your next steps?

Asurion Experts fix issues like this every day. Whether you need to connect a Fire TV Stick to a laptop or want guidance on the best streaming device, count on us for advice you can trust. Here's what to do if your Fire Stick won't turn on.

Check your power source and connections

When troubleshooting Amazon Fire Stick power issues, verify that the Fire Stick is plugged into a wall outlet using its power adapter and cable.

While it's possible to use a Fire Stick with a USB port, it's not a reliable power supply. Amazon recommends using the plug and wall adapter for a steady power supply. If the Amazon Fire Stick has no power, it's not receiving any electricity. That will prevent it from working.

Take a close look at your adapter and cables for any damage. A good adapter won't overheat or produce a burning smell. Cables shouldn't have any exposed wiring or fraying. If either part appears damaged, replace it before using your device again.

If the Fire Stick displays a black screen, but the light is on, unplug the device and wait three seconds before plugging it back in. A quick restart can clear out any energy interference that's causing your issues.

Test your HDMI connection and TV input

Most TVs have multiple HDMI ports. Make sure you've selected the right port on your TV to view content. Take these steps:

1. Physically check the HDMI port number on the back or side of your TV where the Fire Stick is plugged in. A label or sticker should appear next to the port.
2. Press the Input or Source button on your TV remote (not the Fire Stick remote).
3. Navigate to the matching HDMI number. If your TV is newer, look for a Fire TV icon instead of just a number.
4. If you see a "No Signal" message, try unplugging the Fire Stick from the HDMI port and plugging it back in to "wake up" the connection.

The exact process for adjusting TV inputs varies by TV manufacturer and model. Check your television's user guide if you need help.

If the input settings are correct, but the screen is still blank, try moving the Fire Stick to a different HDMI port. Then, follow the earlier steps to change your input settings to the new port. If you can access your device, there may be a hardware issue with the old HDMI port.

Using third-party HDMI extenders or hubs with a Fire Stick may cause performance issues. If you have one, disconnect it from the device and plug the Fire Stick into a regular HDMI port on your television.

You can also try using the Fire Stick with another TV. Doing so can rule out any incompatibility or hardware issues between the TV and your device.

Check your remote or try a power cycle

Your Fire Stick appears to have what it needs to work—steady power and the right HDMI channel. But you still can't view content. Now what?

Replace the remote batteries

An unresponsive remote can mimic power issues. If the Fire Stick doesn't turn on with the remote, it's impossible to navigate the Home screen or access your shows.

To fix an Amazon Fire Stick remote that's not working, replace the batteries with a fresh set. Press and hold the Fire TV remote Home button for 10 seconds to re-pair the device.

Give the Fire Stick a soft reset

A system restart clears out temporary bugs or glitches that interfere with your device. To perform one, take these steps:

1. Use your remote to highlight the Settings (gear icon) on the far right of the home screen.
2. Select My Fire TV, then scroll down and select Restart.
3. Confirm by clicking Restart again and wait about 60 seconds for the device to reboot.
4. If your screen is frozen, the "unplug" method is still the gold standard—just make sure you unplug it from the wall outlet, not just the HDMI port, to ensure the power actually cycles. Wait at least three seconds before plugging it back in.

Check for firmware updates

If your Fire Stick keeps restarting, you may be missing a recent firmware update. Amazon occasionally releases firmware to correct bugs and introduce new features. To check for updates, take these steps:

1. Use your remote to access Settings.
2. Select My Fire TV > About.
3. Select Check for Updates.

After installing any available updates, try using your Fire Stick again.