Home entertainment has come an incredibly long way since the days of renting Blu-ray discs and watching films on dedicated players. The disc-based films were also often released several months (if not years) after their theatrical release.
But with the combination of technology and broadband access, video streaming has become the norm around the world. Streaming films and music at home can be done through several devices. But if you have a preference for Apple products, you should have a look at what’s offered by the smartphone giant. Out of all of its products, the Apple TV 4K 2021 is the one to beat.
What to know before you buy an Apple TV device
With so many streaming options available in terms of platforms, devices and services, deciding on the right solution can be overwhelming. Would an Apple TV device benefit your streaming experience? To answer that question, there are several considerations to keep in mind.
Your current television
Streaming devices can turn a traditional television into a smart TV, but it must have an HDMI port. If your current television doesn’t have an HDMI port, you’ll want to look for a converter. Your television’s display quality should also correspond with the right Apple TV device. If you don’t have a 4K television, then you shouldn’t get a 4K Apple TV.
Internet bandwidth
Streaming content through an Apple TV naturally makes use of WiFi and fast broadband. Watching 4K content can sap a huge amount of bandwidth in a short time. If you are on a limited data plan, keep in mind the consumption costs. Also, you must have a WiFi router for the Apple TV to connect to. Otherwise, you’ll have to use an ethernet cable.
Content
Familiarize yourself with the content and streaming services available on Apple TV. Not all streaming services are available on the device and you could be disappointed if your preferred provider doesn’t have an app available.
Apple TV device features
Apple TVs might all look the same, but there are plenty of features that set the different models apart. But there are also several design aspects and technological inclusions that all Apple TV devices have in common.
Remote control
The Apple TV device noticeably has no buttons or dials on the front. That is because all Apple TV devices are operated with an included remote control. There are several remote control protectors available.
Parental controls
Taking control of what the children in your house can view is important. Apple TV devices come with the ability to lock down content with certain age restrictions, blocking it from unintended viewers.
HomeKit compatibility
Since the release of the third-generation Apple TV devices, all models are compatible with Apple’s HomeKit. This allows you to control smart devices in your home through the Apple TV, like locks, security cameras and garage doors.
Apple TV device cost
Most Apple products tend to stay the same price for a few years after release. It’s rare that Apple itself has discounted prices but online retailers can reduce the cost from time to time. With that said, an Apple TV device ranges from $100 to $200.
Apple TV device FAQ
Can you pair an Apple TV device with Bluetooth devices?
A. Yes, you can. Apple TV devices can connect to speakers or surround sound systems through Bluetooth 5.0 for newer models and Bluetooth 4.0 for older ones.
Are Apple TV devices dual or single band?
A. It depends on the model. The latest Apple TV model is dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz), while the older model connects through 2.4GHz only.
Are Apple TV devices WiFi-only?
A. Apple TV devices allow you to connect to your home’s network through WiFi or through an ethernet cable. There is no preferred way to connect, but the ethernet connection will be more stable.
Which Apple TV device should I get?
Best of the best Apple TV device
Apple TV 4K 2021: available at Amazon
Our take: The top-tier streaming device from Apple.
What we like: Using the latest A12 Bionic chip, this model makes a huge difference in sound quality compared to older models. The new chip also improves the video quality of streaming content and apps. It is capable of streaming content in 4K resolution with HDR from Dolby Vision and comes with the new Siri Remote with a touch-enabled click pad.
What we dislike: If you don’t have a 4K television set, then upgrading isn’t worth it.
Best bang for your buck Apple TV device
Apple TV 4K (2017): available at Amazon
Our take: Even though it’s four years old, this device still packs a punch.
What we like: With Dolby Atom for surround sound and Dolby Vision for 4K resolution with HDR, this streaming device is well worth the price. Connect it to your iPhone and you can browse through your photos and videos through Airplay.
What we dislike: You’ll need a 7.1 surround sound system to get the most out of the sound quality.
Honorable mention Apple TV devices
Apple TV HD 2021: available at Amazon
Our take: A solid option for a no-frills streaming experience.
What we like: A mid-tier streaming device, this year’s Apple TV HD streams content up to a resolution of 1080p and can produce sound quality up to Dolby Digital 7.1 surround sound. The less powerful A8 chip is still capable of smooth menu navigation and opening iOS apps on your television.
What we dislike: It only has 32GB of memory.
Apple TV HD (4th Generation): available at Amazon
Our take: A well-rounded quality streaming device.
What we like: Streaming content in 1080p and Dolby Digital 7.1 surround sound, the older version of Apple TV is still a well-rounded device. Even though it is six years old, it can still search films and music for you through Apple’s Siri virtual assistant.
What we dislike: It is only available in 32GB memory.
Apple TV app: available at Apple App store
Our take: You can enjoy Apple Originals without an Apple TV
What we like: Apple throws in a one-year subscription to its streaming platform if you purchase any new Apple device. You can watch Apple Original shows, buy or rent box office releases and even watch the content you previously bought through iTunes.
What we dislike: There are only a few shows that are free to watch.
Charlie Fripp is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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