Is it worth getting the new Apple TV?

Answered by Tom Adger

As an expert in technology and streaming devices, I can provide you with a detailed answer to the question: Is it worth getting the new Apple TV?

Firstly, let’s consider who would benefit the most from upgrading to the new Apple TV. If you already own a 4K TV, the Apple TV 4K (2021) would make sense for you. The new model supports the latest video and audio technologies, including HDR10, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos. This means you can enjoy an enhanced visual and audio experience when watching compatible content.

The Apple TV 4K (2021) also features the powerful A12 Bionic chip, which improves performance and allows for smoother navigation and multitasking. If you find that your current Apple TV is sluggish or struggles to handle multiple apps and tasks, the upgraded processor in the new model will undoubtedly provide a noticeable improvement in overall performance.

Additionally, the new Apple TV comes with an upgraded remote. The previous remote that came with the Apple TV 4K (2017) was widely criticized for its touchpad design and lack of physical buttons. The new remote addresses these concerns by reintroducing a traditional clickpad and adding dedicated buttons for power, mute, and volume control. If you frequently use your Apple TV and find the current remote frustrating, upgrading solely for the new remote could significantly enhance your user experience.

However, if you already own the Apple TV 4K from 2017 and are satisfied with its performance and the current remote, upgrading may not be necessary. The 2017 model is still capable of delivering 4K content and supports popular streaming services. While the new model offers some improvements, they may not be significant enough to justify the cost of upgrading if you’re already content with your current setup.

It’s also worth mentioning that if you don’t own a 4K TV, the benefits of upgrading to the Apple TV 4K (2021) may not be as noticeable. Without a 4K display, you won’t be able to take full advantage of the improved video quality and HDR capabilities offered by the new model. In such cases, sticking with your current Apple TV or considering a lower-cost streaming device may be a more practical option.

To summarize, if you own a 4K TV and are looking for an enhanced streaming experience with improved video and audio quality, faster performance, and a better remote, upgrading to the Apple TV 4K (2021) would be a worthwhile investment. However, if you already own the Apple TV 4K from 2017 and are satisfied with its performance and the current remote, upgrading may not be necessary. In that case, consider purchasing the new remote separately to improve your user experience.