With the latest version of the Apple TV 4K, Apple has packed their streaming device with impressive features — including support for Dolby Vision and HDR10, and A10X Fusion chip — making it a great alternative to other streaming devices on the market. The new Apple TV 4K has HDMI 2.1 but 120Hz support isn’t available yet.
So how does the new Apple TV 4K compare to other streaming devices? This article will look at its features and see how it stacks up.
New Apple TV 4K has HDMI 2.1 but 120Hz support isn’t available yet
The new Apple TV 4K is a powerful update to the existing Apple TV 4K. It offers 4K resolution and Dolby Vision HDR support, which are important steps up from the HD offerings of older models. There’s also the addition of HDMI 2.1 for faster data transfer, improved audio options and other improvements over previous models. This device is designed to be a powerful, media-rich experience for avid home entertainment fans.
The new Apple TV 4K uses an A10X Fusion processor to deliver quick hardware performance with the ability to stream 4K content from a wealth of sources including Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, YouTube and iTunes Store purchases or rentals. The device also supports Airplay 2 so you can beam content directly from your macOS/iOS devices onto your television screen and voice control through Siri integration on model years 2017 and beyond (provided you have an Apple HomePod or remote with built-in microphone).
Unfortunately though, one area where this device falls short is its support for 120Hz refresh rate displays;. In contrast, some streaming devices on the market offer this feature such as Amazon FireTVStick, the higher frame rate will only work with compatible iOS games. However, if you are not looking to play games there should be no cause for concern given its many features including an incredible range of compatible apps that enable users to stream their favorite shows with crystal clear visuals and stunningly vivid colors – resulting in one of the most immersive streaming experiences available today.
Features
The new Apple TV 4K has some impressive features, such as HDR support and Dolby Vision, as well as a faster A10X processor. But one of its main features is connecting to your TV with an HDMI 2.1 port. This is great for watching Ultra HD content and 4K movies. However, 120Hz support isn’t available yet, even if you connect directly to the TV.
Let’s look deeper into the features of the new Apple TV 4K.
Processor
When it comes to power, the new Apple TV 4K features a powerful A10X Fusion chip, which is the same processor that’s found in Apple’s iPad Pro tablet. This gives the device serious processing power for both gaming and streaming services.
The device supports various codecs, including HEVC (H.265) and Dolby Vision HDR for enhanced video quality. It also supports faster Wi-Fi standards like 802.11ac and Bluetooth 5, as well as 10/100BASE-T Ethernet connectivity if you want to plug it in straight to your router or modem.
Regarding video output, the new Apple TV 4K supports up to 4K resolution at 60Hz (24/25/30) and up to 1080p at 60Hz (24/50/60). It also includes HDMI 2.1 but no 120Hz support yet — Apple says this feature will be enabled over time with a firmware update that allows users to select either 1080p or 4K resolution with up to 120Hz refresh rates. Other supported video formats include H.264 and H.265 decoding from sources such as iTunes Store movies and Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 surround audio pass-through from third party streaming apps like Netflix or HBO Now.
Storage
The new Apple TV 4K supports up to 32 GB of storage. Its internal memory comprises a 16 GB Hard Disk Drive (HDD) capable of storing several seasons worth of shows and movies. You can also plug an external hard drive into the unit’s USB-A port, allowing for larger storage capacity. With this setup, you can expand the internal storage to 32 GB with an external 2TB USB hard drive connected.
The hard drive should hold anywhere from 20 hours of HDTV recordings or 120 movies with 2 TB of storage. It also allows for faster picture rendering, better playback quality, and improved loading times when streaming or watching digital content from other devices such as phones, tablets, and computers via Home Sharing technology.
Overall, the new Apple TV 4K provides plenty of built-in storage so you can store more files than ever before – even though it doesn’t offer HDMI 2.1 standard connectivity or 120Hz support yet – but it should still be able to support basic streaming needs if its main limitations are taken into consideration by the user.
Connectivity
The new Apple TV 4K has the latest HDMI 2.1 interface, which supports up to 8K resolution and 10-bit color depth at up to 60 frames per second (fps) with either HDR10 or Dolby Vision. It also supports eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel), Dolby Atmos, and other audio-only features like AirPlay 2 and audio sharing. But sadly, it does not support HDMI 2.1’s higher refresh rate of 120fps yet — something Apple promises is “coming soon” but has yet to deliver on.
Other connectivity options on the Apple TV 4K include 802.11ac dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, an Ethernet port for wired networking, and a USB type C port for service and support. In addition, a special Lightning connector allows you to connect and control the device using an iOS or iPadOS device such as an iPhone or iPad. Still, you can also use an infrared (IR) remote control if you’d rather control the device directly from your sofa or armchair.
Remote Control
The new Apple TV 4K’s remote control is a big improvement over prior generations. It features a solid aluminum design, with a glass touchpad at the top, and will allow you to easily navigate through menus. Button placement is also improved compared to previous remotes. The top of the remote has dedicated buttons for Siri and Menu, while the bottom includes volume and mute controls and a button for wake/sleep and activation of home control devices.
The remote also supports Bluetooth 5, giving it greater range and allowing you to use it from further away from your device than before. This makes navigating easier if you’re sitting far away from your TV or the TV is mounted higher on the wall. Additionally, thanks to the integration of the always-on Siri microphone located in the top center of the remote, you can issue voice commands without pressing any buttons on your remote control.
Video Output
Regarding video output, the new Apple TV 4K has the most advanced connectivity among streaming devices. It has an HDMI 2.1 port that supports HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and even Dolby Atmos (if your television supports it). It also has a USB-C port for power and data transfer. Additionally, the new Apple TV 4K is one of the only streaming devices that supports 120Hz, although 120Hz support is unavailable now.
The HDMI 2.1 specification means you can enjoy higher resolutions and quicker frame rates than possible with other devices today. This makes it ideal for movie buffing or those who enjoy watching videos on their TV in stunning 4k quality with all the bells and whistles of HDR technology (high Dynamic Range).
Furthermore, because this device does not need additional electronic components to generate higher resolutions, it consumes less power than most other streaming boxes, extending its battery life considerably. Finally, Apple’s AirPlay protocol integrated into their systems allows users to have remarkably fast wireless connections to their favorite show or movie to enjoy them anywhere they go!
Comparison to Other Streaming Devices
With the introduction of the new Apple TV 4K, it could seem like the ultimate streaming device. It is equipped with various features, such as an A10X Fusion chip and support for 4K, HDR, Dolby Atmos, and HDMI 2.1, but does it stack up to the features and performance offered by other streaming devices?
This article will compare the new Apple TV 4K to other streaming devices and see how their features stack up.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
Amazon’s Fire TV Stick 4K features a fast processor, an Alexa voice assistant, and a great selection of apps. In addition, it supports 4K Ultra HD, HDR10 and Dolby Vision picture quality, and Dolby Atmos audio. The Fire TV Stick also offers 8GB of internal storage, so you can store downloaded films and programmes to watch back later without an internet connection.
However, while the new Apple TV 4K features the HDMI 2.1 standard, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K is limited to HDMI 2.0. While you can consume content in 4K resolution at up to 60 frames per second (fps), it does not support motion smoothing via 120Hz support like the newer Apple device typically would help provide. However, both devices offer AirPlay 2 compatibility for watching content from an Apple device on your television screen or vice versa if required.
Nvidia Shield TV
The Nvidia Shield TV is a powerhouse of a streaming device released in 2019. It runs on Android TV and harnesses the power of the Nvidia Tegra X1+ processor, paired with 3 GB RAM and 16 GB of internal storage. It also offers 4K HDR 60 fps and Dolby Atmos support for both audio and video.
Additionally, the device has an HDMI 2.0 port for connecting to your TV or video projector and a gigabit ethernet port for faster streaming performance. One unique feature is the support for Nvidia’s GeForce Now game streaming service, which allows you to play PC games on the Shield without having to buy them or subscribe to a gaming service like PS Now or Xbox Live Gold.
The new Apple TV 4K has all of these features plus HDMI 2.1, it does not yet support 120 Hz refresh rate so gamers will have to stick with the Nvidia Shield if they need that kind of performance.
Roku Ultra
The Roku Ultra is a streaming media player that provides easy access to thousands of streaming services and content. This streaming device can support 4K and HDR video, providing better picture quality. It has Wi-Fi dual band technology, HDMI port, and an Ethernet jack in case you want direct connection.
The Roku Ultra also supports Dolby Vision, which enables viewing HDR movies in stunning quality. In addition, this device has a “Low Latency” feature, which translates to a more interactive experience when playing action games or watching sports programming. The Roku Ultra also supports HDMI 2.1 but it cannot provide 120Hz support yet, just like the new Apple TV 4K.
It is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, so users can easily control the device with voice commands. Furthermore, it offers access to free channels such as PBS Kids & Movies, YouTube, etc., so you’ll be sure there’s something for everyone in your family’s entertainment needs!
Conclusion
The Apple TV 4K is a great streaming device for displaying video contents in 4K with Dolby Vision and HDR10 support. It also has the fastest chip available in any streaming device and 512GB of storage.
On the downside, the New Apple TV 4k doesn’t yet support 120Hz refresh rates and it has the HDMI 2.1 but doesn’t have the HDMI 2.1 features that allow for higher refresh rates.
Despite these limitations, the Apple TV 4K provides an excellent streaming experience.
Pros and Cons of the new Apple TV 4K
Like any device, the new Apple TV 4K has pros and cons. On the positive side, it has the latest version of HDMI with support for 4K and HDR, allowing you to use compatible displays or receivers to watch content in its full potential. Additionally, 4K content is available through iTunes and select streaming services. The new design also allows for easier navigation thanks to the Siri Remote.
On the downside, although it supports the latest version of HDMI (2.1) it still doesn’t have support for 120Hz refresh rate, which could be desirable when watching sports or other fast-moving content. Additionally, while it may have access to a large amount of 4K content through iTunes or third-party services, other streaming devices offer more comprehensive programming options.
Overall, the new Apple TV 4K holds advantages for those who want an easy way to view their 4K content on an Apple device and are looking for something compact and modern in style. However some users may be better served by a different device that offers more comprehensive programming options until more features become available on this device.
