Apple is known for its devices like iPhone, iPad, and even MacBook. However, they’re also innovating every now and then, and they happened to just recently launched the new Apple TV and Apple TV+. In this Apple TV review, we’ll have a look at the differences between the Apple TV and Apple TV+ to avoid confusion.
Quick Overview of Apple TV
For those who still don’t know what Apple TV is, it is a media player that lets you stream shows and other content from the internet so you can watch it on your TV screen. It works as a cable but not entirely the same.
Apple TV Review in a Nutshell
Apple TV has many releases you can choose from. If you’re wondering, “which Apple TV should I buy?”, then keep reading. We’ll take a closer look at the differences between the newest Apple TV model and its predecessor. Let’s get started.
The New Apple TV 4k
The 6th generation Apple TV 4K is available in two models: the 32GB and the 64GB. The 32GB model is priced around $179 while the 64GB model is priced around $199. Both models are available from Apple’s website. If you’re planning to buy Apple TV 4K during a sale, make sure to follow their social media and their newsletter to catch any announcements.
The device measures 98mm x 98mm x 35mm and weighs 425 grams. There are ports for power, an Ethernet connector, and HDMI. Although the appearance is the same as the older version, the remote for the newer version has an added touch surface. It can also be controlled via Bluetooth 5.0, so you can control your TV even if you’re a bit far.
View On AmazonAs for the processor, the Apple TV 4K uses an A10X processor with an A12 Bionic Chip iteration that was used in some versions of the iPhone and iPad. As the name suggests, it has a high frame rate and can support 4K Ultra HD as well as HDR videos.
Since it’s the newest model, its specs are on the higher end, especially when it comes to Thread, which is a mesh-based networking system commonly used for smart homes, and wireless connectivity. The devices connected won’t be relying on WiFi or Bluetooth only to make the connection more stable.
The Good Old Apple TV HD
The 4th generation Apple TV HD is still considered a classic, despite being the older model. It has the same software as the Apple TV 4K. Although they operated on the same software, the Apple TV HD doesn’t have the A12 Bionic processor, which can make it run slower than the newest model. They use the A8 chip for the HD models.
In terms of the remote, it looks like the old iPod controls. It also uses Bluetooth 4.0 and has a microphone for Siri. Apart from that, the Apple TV HD only supports up to 1080p HD. If you’re not streaming 4K videos, this shouldn’t be a problem for you. You can also change the color balance of your TV using your iPhone. All you need to do is use the Apple TV app and point your iPhone to the screen. You can also use this feature for the Apple TV 4K.
View On AmazonApple TV HD vs. 4K prices aren’t too far, although the HD version is still cheaper. Right now, the 32GB model is priced at $149. You can also pay it on a monthly basis for 6 months. The price is $24.83 per month. The model may be old, but they have also improved the remote control. Sadly, they did not add new features. If you’re planning to buy Apple TV but can’t seem to choose which version to go for, let’s lay down a quick summary.
Both are considered one of the best media boxes in the market. You can use both not only to access your Apple TV+ but also iOS apps and other features. The newer Apple TV 4K is a great model. It has additional features and enhancements the old version doesn’t have. It’s up to date and runs using a faster processor and even WiFi. Plus, it can support 4K streaming.
However, if that sounds too much for you, then go for the Apple TV HD instead. If you use the Apple TV 4K on old routers and TVs, it will most likely perform the same as the Apple TV HD. You’ll be able to save more since it’s cheaper and more compatible with older TVs.
What About Apple TV+: What Is It?
Most people often confuse Apple TV and Apple TV+. Don’t feel bad if you’re one of those since the names for two different products sound too similar.
For starters, Apple TV is a media box that you connect to your TV. However, if you want to stream shows on the TV, you would need an Apple TV+ subscription. Apple TV+ is Apple’s entry into the streaming entertainment industry. It’s similar to its competitors like Netflix and Hulu.
Here is How Apple TV Work
Just like other Tv boxes Apple Tv connects to your TV or any other display via an HDMI cable. It also connects to your wireless internet connection so that you can stream online shows, movies, and other content.
All you need is to set up an iTunes account so you can easily log in and purchase the movies and shows available on Apple TV. You don’t need to use an iPhone or a MacBook to use Apple TV, but you can use both these tools to display whatever you’re doing in those devices to the TV screen as long as the devices are connected to the same network.
Let’s take a look at what you can do using Apple TV:
- Stream & Watch Shows
Apple TV lets you stream videos from Apple TV+. You can watch shows and movies anytime you want as long as you’re subscribed to Apple TV+ or other entertainment subscriptions.
Purchasing an Apple TV does not mean you’ll have access to streaming services. You’ll need to subscribe to the providers to be able to watch on it. However, there are promos when you purchase the Apple TV. Newer models like the Apple TV 4K has a running promo where you will have 1-year free access to Apple TV+. After the contract, you’ll be subject to its monthly fee.
If you don’t have an Apple TV+ subscription, don’t worry. They also support other entertainment providers such as Amazon Video, Hulu, Netflix, HBO GO, HBO NOW, PBS, Watch ESPN, and even YouTube. You can check out their website for the full list.
- Use Your Other Apple Devices to Mirror the Screen onto Your TV
You can also use this device to mirror your iPhone, MacBook, or iPad onto your TV. You can use it to display anything on your device to the TV even if it is non-streaming content. This can be accessed through the AirPlay feature on your iOS device.
However, take note that your devices should be connected to the same network for this to work seamlessly.
- Listen to Music and Audio Recordings
Apple TV supports Apple Music to stream your playlist. They even have apps like Sirius XM and Pandora that are already built-in. If you wish to use Spotify instead, you will need to do this from another iOS device using the AirPlay option.
- Use iOS Apps
You can also use your Apple TV to access the App Store and install different apps. This allows you to easily access your iOS apps easily through a bigger screen.
- Play Games
You can also play games using the Apple TV. Just download the games available from the App Store and enjoy!
How is Apple TV+ Compared to Other TV Subscriptions?
There are so many streaming subscriptions on the market that you might have no idea which to choose. Before we compare the new Apple TV+ with its competitors, let’s take a look at how it performs first. Apple TV+ is priced at $4.99 per month, but you can pay annually for $49.99 per year. You can get free access for up to 1 year if you buy an Apple device. There’s also a seven-day free trial that they offer to those who don’t have an account yet.
Its low price combined with impressive features makes it a good choice from the other streaming services. You can even stream videos in 4K. You can also download those shows onto any iOS device and view them offline later. There’s no need to worry about ads either since there aren’t any that can interrupt while you watch. The interface looks like an old iTunes store. If you’re using the Apple TV 4K remote, it might take you some time to get used to maneuvering it since it’s quite touch-sensitive.
As for sharing, Apple TV+ can let you share the account with 5 other family members in the same household. However, one of the best things about this subscription is that it allows up to six people to simultaneously stream. Disney+ and Netflix only allow up to four.
Although Apple TV+ started from scratch, they’re beginning to offer a wider variety of news, shows, and movies to watch. Compared to their competitors, their roster for shows are still fewer. However, they offer original shows like The Morning Show, Oprah’s Book Club, and other titles to make up for it.
Apple TV+ may have limited offerings, but it’s still one of the cheapest among the other video streaming subscriptions. It can manage six devices to stream at the same time, while most of the higher-priced ones only allow up to four. For the kid’s section, Apple offers Snoopy, Ghostwriter, and Helpsters, and other family-friendly shows that children can enjoy. Even if there isn’t an Apple TV stick available yet, it’s still pretty good.
Can You Add Disney Plus or Any Other Services on Apple TV?
You can add Disney Plus to Apple TV or any other streaming services through their Apple TV app, which is available on any iOS device. The Apple TV app’s goal is to make a video streaming one-stop-shop. You can access other providers through the Apple Streaming Channels as well. You’ll be able to buy and stream shows directly using the app. The billing will go through Apple and you will be able to access it on any Apple device.
Apple TV User Guide
Setting up and configuring your Apple TV is easy and quick. We included a list of questions that are frequently asked to help you.
- How to Set up?
Before getting started, you need a 4K TV or a high-definition TV with an HDMI and wireless network access. Next, you need to connect the HDMI cable to Apple TV and then connect the other end to the TV’s HDMI port. Connect the Apple TV’s power cord to the power outlet.
Then turn on your TV, select the Apple TV HDMI input. Some TVs will automatically process this. The screen should prompt the instructions to connect to your network and set up your account.
- How Do you Cancel Your Apple TV+ subscription?
To cancel your Apple TV subscription, all you need to do is to sign in with your Apple ID at tv.apple.com. Go to settings and look for Subscriptions. Then click Manage and then go for “Cancel Subscription”.
- How Do You Turn off Apple TV?
You can turn the TV off using the remote or using the settings. To turn it off using a remote, just press the home button for 3 seconds. Consequently, the Control Center menu will show up. Then choose “Sleep” to turn it off. Another way to turn it off is by going through Settings. At the home screen, choose Settings. Scroll down until you find “Sleep Now”.
Final Thoughts
This Apple TV review should help you decide which model to buy and the difference between Apple TV and Apple TV+. Although they are still new to the streaming industry, they’ve made it easily accessible to your other subscriptions.
