Should You Buy an Apple TV for Your Streaming Setup?

Reviewed by Ryan Perian

An Apple TV makes streaming content to your TV easier by offering fast, straightforward browsing across different streaming services. We tested one to help you decide whether an Apple TV is worth it based on your lifestyle, budget, and needs. 

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 devices: it turns a non-smart TV smart or offers a different way to view content than a smart TV can.

It should not be confused with the Apple TV app or the Apple TV (formerly 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 can improve your viewing experience. 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 simplifies streaming content to your TV, whether it's a smart TV or not.

Not everyone needs an Apple TV, so this guide will help you decide whether to buy one based on your needs, budget, and how you live.

Why You Should Buy an Apple TV

Using an Apple TV instead of your TV's smart functions or another device can prove convenient.

It has a simple-to-use interface, and the box pairs well with other Apple devices in your home. They offer other benefits too, as we explain below.

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, you can add them with 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+, 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.

You can also  connect your AirPods to an Apple TV  and listen to content that supports Dolby Atmos, 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.

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 it to control smart home cameras, doorbells, thermostats, and other smart devices. It's possible to do so using Siri or by using the remote.

Related: Making Sense of Those Apple TV 4K 4th Gen Rumors

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.

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 to one ecosystem, such as Android or iOS, and crossing between the two can make things 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.

Related: Full Details on Every Generation of the Apple TV

The Siri Remote is so good that Apple also sells it separately.

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+.

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 it out. 

That does not mean it's an essential purchase. Other, less expensive streaming devices , such as Roku and Amazon Fire TV Sticks, are available. Still, if your household uses Apple products, the Apple TV is very straightforward to figure out.

Additional features such as smart home support, Apple Arcade, and fitness apps also help. 

Related: Apple TV 4K vs Roku Ultra

Frequently asked Questions

How do I set up an Apple TV?

The Apple TV box has only three cables, though 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/Apple Account and TV provider (if applicable) and downloading apps to start watching.

What is Apple TV+?

Apple TV (formerly Apple TV+) is Apple's premium streaming platform, similar to Netflix. However, rather than licensing streaming rights from other studios, Apple commissions the content for Apple TV itself, so everything on the service is exclusive. Notable movies and shows include Coda, Ted Lasso , Severance , and The Studio .

Read the original article on Lifewire