In recent years, Apple TV has established itself as a leading player in the streaming device market. But is Apple TV worth it? This will greatly depend on your specific needs and preferences as a consumer.
This article delves into the various aspects of Apple TV to help you decide whether it’s a worthwhile addition to your home.
Table of Contents
What Is an Apple TV?
An Apple TV is a small box that plugs into your TV via an HDMI cable. It works like other streaming sticks by making a non-smart TV smart or by offering a different way of viewing content than a smart TV can provide.
It should not be confused with the Apple TV app or the Apple TV+ streaming service, which are software-based solutions rather than physical items to add to your home.
Who Should Get an Apple TV
An Apple TV may be worth it and can make your viewing experience get better. Get one if you:
- Want a dedicated streaming solution that is fast and responsive
- Don’t already own a streaming device and don’t want to rely on your phone or computer
- Already have Apple devices
Who Shouldn’t Get an Apple TV
Not everyone needs an Apple TV, even though it can be helpful. Pass if you:
- Don’t watch much streaming content
- You’re happy with your existing setup and streaming-capable smart TV
- You don’t own any other Apple devices, so it’d be cheaper to buy something else
An Apple TV makes it simple to stream content via numerous apps onto your TV, whether your TV is a smart TV or not. Not everyone needs an Apple TV, so this guide will help you decide if you should buy one based on your requirements, budget, and how you live.
Is an Apple TV Worth it? Pros and Cons
Let’s look at some of the pros and cons of an Apple TV.
Pros of Apple TV
- High-Quality Original Content: Apple TV+ offers top-tier original series and films, backed by substantial production budgets and featuring acclaimed actors, which have garnered numerous awards and nominations.
- Sleek and Aesthetic User Interface: The platform boasts a minimalist design synonymous with Apple’s brand, providing an intuitive and visually appealing interface that stands out in the crowded streaming market.
Cons of Apple TV
- Limited Original Content Selection: Despite high-quality offerings, Apple TV+ releases fewer originals compared to competitors like Netflix, potentially limiting content availability for binge-watchers.
- Lack of User-Friendly Features: The user interface lacks some basic functionalities found in other platforms, such as a straightforward search function and a clear distinction between included and paid content.
Why You Should Buy an Apple TV
Using an Apple TV instead of your TV’s smart functions or another device can prove convenient and may be worth it for you. It has a simple-to-use interface, and the box pairs well with other Apple devices in your home. They offer other benefits, too; read on.
You Want a Reliable Streaming Experience
The Apple TV won’t make the content you watch load any faster, but it does make getting to it much quicker. That’s because it’s typically much faster to navigate than a smart TV’s interface.
Even the most high-end 4K TVs can still be slower to navigate menus than the Apple TV’s interface. It’s intuitive, quick, and offers plenty of apps.
You Don’t Have a Smart TV
If you have a regular TV that lacks smart TV features, it’s helpful to add them via a streaming device like the Apple TV. There’s no need to go to the expense of buying a new TV.
Instead, you can add an Apple TV and access many streaming apps and more, like Netflix, Disney Plus, Apple TV+, Hulu, and others.
You Already Have Other Apple Devices
Apple devices pair well with each other. If you have a HomePod or HomePod mini, you can use them as speakers for your TV with an Apple TV. Also, you can connect your AirPods to an Apple TV and listen to content with support for Dolby Atmos audio, enhancing your experience.
Additionally, an Apple TV lets you use your iPhone or iPad to cast music, photos, or other content straight to your TV and that may be worth it for you.
You Need a Smart Home Hub
The Apple TV isn’t just about streaming content or using apps. With the right gadgets, it’s also a highly effective smart home hub.
The Apple TV supports Thread, a low-power mesh networking standard, so you can use the device to control smart home cameras, doorbells, thermostats, and other smart devices with your Apple TV. It’s possible to do so using Siri or by using the remote.
When You Shouldn’t Buy an Apple TV
An Apple TV is a valuable streaming and smart home tool for many people, but it won’t suit everyone. Here’s a look at when you should pass on the Apple TV.
You’re Happy With Your Smart TV
If your smart TV already fulfills its role of streaming content well enough, or you own another streaming device, you don’t need an Apple TV. It’s a convenient extra, but it’s far from essential.
You Don’t Watch Streaming Content
The Apple TV has many informational apps and Apple Arcade, which is fun for gaming on your TV, but its focus is media streaming. If you don’t have any interest in streaming movies or shows, the Apple TV has limited appeal and may not be worth it for you.
You Don’t Own Apple Devices
Using an Apple TV is entirely possible without other Apple devices, but you miss some key benefits. Generally, people tie themselves into one ecosystem, such as Android or iOS, and by crossing between the two, things can be more complicated.
It’s easier to stick to one so that all your digital purchases are available on all your devices. Also, you can’t easily cast content without an iPhone or iPad. There are cheaper streaming devices out there if you don’t own other Apple gadgets.
Apple TV 4K (3rd gen) vs Apple TV 4K (2nd gen)
The Apple TV 4K (2022) is Apple’s latest Apple TV and the only one currently available for sale. Here’s how the 3rd generation compares to older models.
| Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) | Apple TV 4K (2nd Gen) | |
| Average Price | $139 | $189 |
| Storage Options | 64/128GB | 32/64GB |
| Processor | A15 | A12 |
Do You Need an Apple TV to Stream Shows?
Most potential Apple TV owners may want one to be able to stream shows and movies from popular streaming apps like Netflix or Disney Plus. Almost all devices can stream shows via a web browser or a dedicated app, but the Apple TV is easy to use and simple to set up, so if your household includes less tech-savvy people, they can figure out how to use an Apple TV.
That does not mean it’s an essential purchase. Other less expensive streaming devices like Roku and Amazon Fire TV Sticks exist. Still, if your household uses Apple products, the Apple TV is very straightforward to figure out. Extra features like smart home support, Apple Arcade, and fitness apps also help.
What’s the difference between Apple TV (device), Apple TV+ (service) and Apple TV (app)?
The term “Apple TV” can mean a few different things. There’s the Apple TV streaming box, which is the physical box that plugs into your TV. There’s Apple TV+, which is the subscription streaming service (similar to Netflix or Max) that you need to be a paying member of to watch original movies and shows that Apple has.
And there is the Apple TV app which is the app on your Apple device (Apple TV, iPhone, iPad, or Mac) where you access Apple TV+ along with other things, such as Apple’s premium subscription services for sports (like the MLS and MLB) and your library of rented/purchased movies and shows.
Conclusion
The decision to invest in Apple TV hinges on evaluating its unique features, content offerings, user experience, long-term value proposition relative to alternative streaming devices, and its worth for you.
Apple TV appeals to consumers seeking seamless connectivity with Apple devices, high-quality streaming content, and enhanced entertainment experiences tailored to individual preferences.
FAQs
Yes, Netflix is available on Apple TV through the App Store. Users can download the Netflix app and access their subscription content directly on their Apple TV.
The Apple TV box only has three cables, although one is optional. You’ll run an HDMI cord to your TV and a power cord to an outlet. You can also connect an Ethernet cable for wired internet, often more stable than Wi-Fi.
Once you power it on, the included remote will sync automatically. The rest of the setup involves signing in with your Apple ID and TV provider (if applicable) and downloading apps to start watching.
Apple TV is a streaming device offered by Apple that enables users to stream content to their televisions from their home devices. It also allows access to a variety of paid content from multiple providers, including Netflix, and includes Apple’s own streaming service. Apple TV Plus represents Apple’s subscription-based offering for TV shows and movies, providing exclusive and original content to its subscribers.
Apple TV Plus offers a premium streaming experience, showcasing a vast collection of exclusive content, including award-winning series, captivating dramas, innovative documentaries, children’s programming, comedies, and more. Each month, subscribers are treated to new Apple Originals, ensuring there’s always something fresh and exciting to watch