Apple‘s streaming media players, Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD, may seem quite similar at first glance. However, there are some key differences that are important to understand before deciding which model to purchase. This in-depth comparison covers everything you need to know about Apple TV 4K vs Apple TV HD.
Overview and Pricing
The Apple TV 4K is Apple‘s high-end streaming box, capable of playing 4K HDR video with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos audio. It features the powerful A15 Bionic chip, used in the latest iPhones, providing excellent performance. Prices start at $129 for the 64GB model.
The Apple TV HD is a more affordable 1080p streaming device. It uses the older A8 chip from 2014 iPhones, but still offers decent streaming capabilities. The 32GB Apple TV HD is priced at $149.
Surprisingly, the 4K model is actually cheaper than the HD version now. Apple dropped prices with the latest 2022 Apple TV 4K revision.
Video and Audio Quality
The most significant difference between the two streaming boxes is video and audio quality.
The Apple TV 4K supports 4K resolution at 60 fps with HDR for superior picture quality. It works with advanced HDR formats like Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG, providing brighter colors and increased contrast compared to standard video.
Audio quality is also greatly improved on the 4K model with support for immersive Dolby Atmos sound. This creates a surround sound effect for a cinematic experience.
Comparatively, the Apple TV HD is limited to 1080p resolution at 30 fps without high dynamic range support. Audio maxes out at Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 surround sound, which is good but not as advanced as Dolby Atmos.
If you have a 4K TV, the video and audio improvements make the Apple TV 4K well worth the investment for home theater enthusiasts. You‘ll get the most out of your 4K HDR television and speaker system.
Processing Power and Responsiveness
The Apple TV 4K contains Apple‘s newest A15 Bionic processor, the same fast chip used in the iPhone 14 lineup. It breezes through demanding apps and games with smooth performance.
Alternatively, the Apple TV HD uses a rather dated A8 chip from 2014. It can handle streaming well enough but struggles with graphically-intensive apps and games designed for newer Apple TV models.
You‘ll notice much snappier responsiveness in the interface and loading times on the 4K model thanks to the sheer horsepower of the A15 Bionic. Multitasking also feels faster when quickly switching between several open apps.
The Apple TV 4K is better equipped to handle new tvOS updates over the next few years without slowing down. The aging A8 chip in the HD version will continue to show its age more over time.
Storage Capacity
With all the amazing apps and games available on the App Store, storage space quickly becomes a concern.
The latest Apple TV 4K doubles the storage from previous models up to 128GB. This provides ample room for installing multiple apps, games, and 4K video content.
Meanwhile, the Apple TV HD comes with just 32GB of storage. You‘ll need to limit the amount of apps and games installed to avoid filling up space for actual video streaming content.
Power users will require the extra storage the 4K model provides for their app and gaming libraries. Casual streamers watching Netflix or Disney+ may be fine with 32GB.
Gaming Performance
The Apple TV 4K is an excellent platform for casual gaming thanks to the A15 Bionic‘s powerful graphics processing. Games load quickly and animation stays smooth even for fast-paced titles.
Complex 3D racing games like Asphalt 8 shine on the latest Apple TV 4K with slick visuals bolstered by the four-core GPU. Even graphically-demanding roleplaying games like Oceanhorn 2 play well.
Comparatively, gaming performance disappoints on the Apple TV HD. Animations often stutter and games take longer to load. The A8 chip simply can‘t provide the GPU muscle needed for anything beyond basic 2D games.
For Apple Arcade subscribers or anyone wanting to play iOS-quality games on the big screen, the 4K model is vastly superior for gaming. Serious players need the extra horsepower.
Connectivity
Connectivity is the final area where Apple TV 4K pulls ahead of Apple TV HD:
- Wi-Fi – Apple TV 4K has Wi-Fi 6 support for faster wireless speeds on compatible routers. Apple TV HD maxes out at Wi-Fi 5.
- Bluetooth – Bluetooth 5.0 comes standard on 4K models while Apple TV HD has older Bluetooth 4.0.
- HDMI – The 4K model has HDMI 2.1 which enables higher video bandwidth for 4K HDR at high frame rates. HD has HDMI 1.4.
- Ethernet – Only the high-end 128GB Apple TV 4K includes a Gigabit Ethernet port for wired connectivity.
The upgraded wireless and wired connectivity helps provide reliable 4K HDR or Dolby Atmos streaming with greater bandwidth capabilities on Apple TV 4K models.
Who Should Buy Each Model?
So when should you opt for the 4K over the HD model? Here are some guidelines:
Buy the Apple TV 4K if:
- You have a 4K TV – Take full advantage of your 4K HDR television
- You care about Dolby Vision/Atmos – Get amazing cinema-quality video and audio
- Want better gaming performance – Enjoy smooth gameplay with great graphics
- Need more storage space – 128GB leaves room for lots of apps and games
- Appreciate a faster/newer processor – Snappy responsiveness in the interface
Buy the Apple TV HD if:
- You own a 1080p TV – No benefit paying for 4K you can‘t use
- Mostly stream video – A8 chip handles basic streaming just fine
- Like casual games – Less demanding 2D iOS-style games still playable
- Want to save money – Cheaper price while still supporting key streaming apps
In most cases, I think the Apple TV 4K is easily worth the small price premium for future-proof features that will keep it relevant for years. But Apple TV HD remains a competent streamer for 1080p TV owners on a tight budget.
The Bottom Line
While the Apple TV HD remains decent for casual HD streaming, the Apple TV 4K offers a much more complete high-end home theater experience. With support for 4K HDR video and immersive Dolby Atmos audio, plus great performance for gaming, it‘s the superior media streamer overall.
Unless you only have a 1080p television, I highly recommend spending just a bit more for the Apple TV 4K. The price difference has narrowed while features continue improving each generation. Apple TV 4K is the clear choice for those wanting the best Apple streaming box available.
