Apple TV 4K Wi-Fi 3rd Generation review of features and performance

Description

Immersive Visuals and Audio: The Core of Entertainment

I’ve had the chance to test out the Apple TV 4K Wi-Fi (3rd Generation), and let me say, the visual and audio experience is one of its biggest selling points. The inclusion of 4K Dolby Vision and HDR10+ really makes content pop. Watching shows on streaming platforms like Netflix or Disney+ felt like stepping into a theater. The Dolby Atmos audio further enhances this, creating a surround-sound experience that’s hard to match.

Whether it’s an action movie or a quiet drama, the clarity and depth shine through. I noticed details in both shadows and highlights that I hadn’t caught with my previous streaming device. However, you’ll need a Dolby Vision-compatible HDMI cable and a TV that supports these formats to fully unlock its potential. Without these, you might not see the full brilliance of its features.

Siri Remote: A Convenient Package

The Siri Remote deserves its own spotlight. Its USB-C charging port is a small but thoughtful upgrade, especially if you’re someone who’s tired of dealing with proprietary cables. Navigating through the touch-enabled clickpad is smooth, but what stands out is the voice control functionality. Just saying, “Find me a comedy,” and having it pull up options across multiple apps made browsing seamless.

However, while the remote’s tactile design feels premium, I did find it a bit slippery. I’d recommend investing in a silicone cover to avoid accidental drops, especially if you have kids who might get their hands on it.

Smart Home Integration: More Than Just a Streaming Device

One of the unexpected joys of this product is its smart home functionality. Acting as a HomeKit hub, this device lets you control smart home gadgets like lights, thermostats, or cameras directly from your TV. I set up my living room lights to dim automatically when I started a movie, which added a nice touch of ambiance.

The Thread networking support ensures that connected devices communicate smoothly. Pairing it with other Apple products, like an iPhone or iPad, unlocks even more potential. For instance, I used my Apple Watch to pause a show while in another room—something I never thought I’d find useful until I actually did.

Advantages

This device has several positive features that make it stand out in its category:

• Seamless integration with Apple services like Fitness+, Arcade, and Music.
• The A15 Bionic chip offers lightning-fast performance, even while multitasking.
• 64GB or 128GB storage options provide plenty of room for apps and downloads.
• Thread support improves smart home device connectivity.

Limitations

Although the product excels in many areas, there are caveats to be aware of:

• The lack of an HDMI cable in the box feels like an oversight for a device at this price point.
• While the Siri Remote is functional, its design could benefit from better ergonomics.
• Some users may find the Apple ecosystem dependency limiting if they don’t own other Apple devices.

Competing Products

In comparison to other streaming devices like the Roku Ultra or Amazon Fire TV Cube, the Apple TV 4K brings a more polished interface and deeper integration with its ecosystem. The Roku Ultra, for instance, offers a similar 4K HDR experience but lacks the HomeKit and Thread networking capabilities that make this Apple device a smart home powerhouse.

On the other hand, the Amazon Fire TV Cube includes hands-free Alexa controls, which some may find more versatile than Siri’s remote-based functionality. However, it doesn’t quite match the A15 Bionic chip’s performance, especially for gaming enthusiasts who dabble in Apple Arcade.

Value for Money

From a cost-effectiveness standpoint, this device delivers a lot of value, especially for those already invested in the Apple ecosystem. The inclusion of gaming, fitness, and music apps alongside streaming makes it an all-in-one entertainment hub. While it’s not the most affordable option, the features and premium build quality justify the price for most users.

If you’re someone who appreciates top-tier visuals, fluid performance, and the ability to integrate smart home devices, this product is worth considering. However, for casual users who just want a basic streaming experience, there are cheaper alternatives that may suffice.

Additional information