As a TV enthusiast, I was hoping for more from the Apple TV 4K
Apple’s fourth generation Apple TV 4K adds a faster chip, a remote locator, far-field Siri microphones and an AV1 decoder, but omits several features sought by home cinema enthusiasts. The reviewer argues that these omissions are harder to accept because the device now costs $300, positioning it at a premium price without a clear lead over cheaper streaming boxes.
The new model comes only with 128GB of storage and Wi-Fi and Ethernet, after Apple dropped the less expensive 64GB Wi-Fi version. It can use paired HomePod 2 and HomePod Mini 2 speakers for surround sound, but the reviewer already has a dedicated Atmos system and does not want to replace it. Audio passthrough and 120fps output were among the missing features; the latter could have helped distinguish the box for game streaming, while movies can still be shown at their native 24fps.
- Apple’s new TV 4K costs $300.
- It adds AV1 decoding and Find My support.
- Audio passthrough and 120fps output are missing.
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Apple TV 4K is a set-top box that streams films, television and other video to a TV through Apple’s services and apps. It sits in a market that also includes cheaper devices from companies such as Amazon and Roku, which offer many of the same streaming services.
Home cinema enthusiasts may look for features that fit into existing sound systems and support high frame rates for gaming. Apple’s box can pair with HomePod speakers for surround sound, while some owners use separate audio equipment; its price and range of features matter when comparing it with other streaming devices.
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The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
At $300, buyers can reasonably expect a premium streaming box to offer more than faster performance and convenience features. Audio passthrough and 120fps output could make it more useful for people with existing home-cinema systems or game-streaming needs, while dropping the cheaper model leaves fewer options for those who do not need extra storage or Ethernet.
The case against
A higher price can be justified if the device’s overall performance, software and Apple ecosystem make it a better fit for its intended buyers; not every enthusiast needs passthrough or 120fps, especially when films are commonly viewed at 24fps. The added chip, remote locator, far-field Siri and AV1 support are practical improvements, and paired HomePods offer a simpler surround-sound option for people who do not already have a dedicated Atmos system.