Our electronics writer has tested every streaming device on the market, and spent a week with Amazon’s new $40 stick to see if it’s worth it.

The new Fire TV Stick 4K Max is physically identical to the standard version. It’s a 3.9-by-1.2-by-0.6-inch (HWD) black plastic rectangle with rounded corners and an HDMI plug extending from one end.

Amazon has rolled out an update for Vega OS that adds VPN support for the Fire TV Stick 4K Select. But only two apps are currently available.

With a streaming stick, you can instantly equip your TV with a wide selection of streaming apps and services just by plugging in a tiny little device. Amazon’s Fire TV Sticks are among the ...