It’s important to note that while neither of these products supports outputting 4K video for an even crisper image, they can still be used with 4K televisions but will display content in 1080p HD. Remember that the video quality you receive when streaming your favorite blockbusters or binging the latest Netflix Original shows will require a stable internet connection. Check out our reviews of the top internet providers for more information. Come on, Apple, why are you holding out on us with the Apple TV HD? With Apple’s latest iteration of the Apple TV HD, a new Siri remote has been included. You can use the directional pad to either click or gently scroll your way through menus. If you need to control your TV, the Siri remote offers volume controls, a mute button, and a power button–perfect for keeping the remotes you need to a minimum. Of course, it wouldn’t be an Apple TV if Apple didn’t include a button for Siri, which Apple has now placed on the right-hand side of the remote. Simply hold down the button and ask Siri to open Netflix, search for movies by a particular genre, enter text in a search field, etc. With Apple TV HD, the company has packed it full of services you won’t find anywhere else. Apple Fitness+ is one such feature that provides you with premium world-class workouts. Another feature is Apple Arcade, which supplies unlimited ad-free access to a large selection of video games, including Oceanhorn 2, Chu Chu Rocket Universe, and Sayonara Wild Hearts. You can also find other Apple services on the Apple TV HD, including Apple Music. You can even broadcast video and audio content from your iPad, iPhone, or Mac to the television using Apple’s AirPlay standard—perfect for sharing family photos and videos. The Apple TV HD can even act as a smart home hub, allowing you to control your home smart devices even when you are away from home. This feature is perfect for when you want to turn on the lights or adjust the thermostat before arriving home. Please note that some Apple services, including Apple Music, Apple Fitness+, and Apple Arcade do require a paid subscription. Apple TV HD wins when it comes to special features. Apple has strengthened its product by designing services, such as Apple Fitness+, Apple Arcade, Apple Music, and HomeKit, to operate perfectly on the device. We’re going to call this round a draw because we are confident in saying that most apps you require can be found in both stores, or healthy alternatives are available. For games, both platforms offer their own library of stand-alone games, as well as options for subscription services. Apple notes that Apple TV HD is BFR, PVC, and beryllium free. However, the Apple TV 4K product page notes that the Siri Remote, logic board, and plastic construction use recycled materials. Apple does not produce a larger size Apple TV HD, so if you find yourself running out of space, you’ll need to upgrade to the Apple TV 4K, which offers up to 64GB of storage. Like most things in this world, we believe that the answer is not entirely black and white. However, suppose you don’t mind spending a bit of extra money and live within the Apple ecosystem. In that case, Apple TV HD can give you access to Apple services, such as Apple Arcade, Apple Fitness+, Apple Music, and HomeKit with the push of a button. On the flipside, we believe Apple TV may also be the better choice if you intend on downloading an extensive collection of games, due to its increased internal storage capacity.
