Two of the biggest developments in TV technology over the past several years have been 4K (Ultra HD) resolution and High Dynamic Range (HDR). The two combine for a big screen TV picture that’s nothing short of incredible. The long-overdue Apple TV 4K acts as the ultimate set-top box upgrade if you’re locked into (or loving) the iPhone ecosystem and want to pair it with a new HDR-touting Ultra HD television.
If you’re already in the Apple-sphere and want a streaming box, the Apple TV 4K makes the most sense. It’s costly, yes, and there are cheaper options on the market if you just want to get high-quality images beamed into your eyeballs.
But if you also want the wider app ecosystem, and the ability to connect sensors and use it as a workout trainer, play games with kids or control your smart home, then the Apple TV 4K is an easy choice.
Even if you just want to make sure you’re future-proofed, the cost of the 4K version of the box isn’t that much more than the older model, and you’ll know you’ve got more grunt if you want to start using it as a micro-console.
One of the biggest knocks against the Apple TV 4K has been its price. Yes, it is more expensive than competition like Roku. The support for 4K and HDR content is a huge deal and that alone makes it a must-have for anyone with a 4K TV and a previous generation Apple TV.
Plug-and-play ease, the Siri remote and the ability to play some pretty decent games add to the value proposition. And if you already have a library of purchased HD iTunes movies, the prospect of getting some free 4K Ultra HD streaming upgrades from Apple definitely sweetens the pot.
Good
Dolby Vision and Atmos support
tvOS interface is clean and simple
Plays well with other Apple devices
Remote is responsive
Bad
No Amazon Video
Siri can frustrate
Few benefits for non-4K owner
Apple TV 4K price and release date
32GB Apple TV 4K priced at £179 / $179
64GB option costs £199 / $199
Latest model released on September 22, 2017
