When it comes to the best streaming devices, most people choose budget-friendly options like Chromecast or Amazon Fire TV Stick, and for good reason. These options are proven and I have relied on them for over 10 years. However, I recently switched to Apple TV for the first time. After just a week of use, your old device is already gathering dust. This is why I’m switching permanently.
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Get the most out of your Apple TV
Apple TV works fine
Perfect from the moment you turn it on
Like the rest of Apple’s hardware lineup, Apple TV is designed to unlock the full potential of the Apple ecosystem. Other streaming devices like Chromecast are easy to set up on your Android smartphone, but Apple TV takes it a step further. Not only does using an iPhone make setup seamless, it also adds a remote shortcut to your iPhone’s Control Center when connected to Wi-Fi. Additionally, family profiles linked to your Apple ID are set up instantly.
Once set up, Apple TV displays a familiar interface that mirrors iPhone UI elements. It also comes with several Apple apps preinstalled, including Apple Music, Podcasts, and Photos. By the way, I’m wondering why Google TV doesn’t have a Photos app yet. Viewing your travel photos on a big screen makes it even more comfortable. Take a look, Google!
As for the remote control, it’s the best I’ve ever used with a smart TV or streaming device. Using the Apple TV is incredibly smooth thanks to the touchpad. Instead of clicking repeatedly to move around the screen, the touchpad lets you instantly get where you want to go with a simple swipe. This feature is especially useful when streaming shows, allowing you to skip forward or backward with just a gesture.
Apple TV’s interface feels more intuitive and polished
Faster and smoother than Chromecast or Fire Stick
Taking a closer look at the interface, Google and Amazon have made a number of optimizations to the platform, but the home screen can feel cluttered at times. You’ll see recommendations for apps, content, and most annoyingly, ads spread across the interface.
In contrast, Apple TV keeps things simple and streamlined. The home screen is made up of apps, with favorites at the top and additional apps below. There are content recommendations, but no ads. This is a big advantage. Especially since you’ve already paid a significant amount of money for the hardware. You also get Apple’s suite of apps, and like Google TV, you can download your favorites from the Apple App Store.
It’s worth mentioning here that the performance of Android or Google TV often depends on the hardware and price range. Android TVs come in a variety of price ranges, from a few hundred dollars to more expensive models that cost over $10,000. But let’s be honest: No matter the model, we’ve all experienced lags and interruptions on our Android TVs.
With Apple TV, that’s not the case at all. Everything goes smoothly from the beginning. In the week I’ve been using this device, it’s never slowed down. The app launches much faster than other streaming devices and has near-instant load times, which can make a big difference, especially if you’re rushing to catch the last moments of a live sports game.
This is largely thanks to the A15 Bionic chip (the same one used in the iPhone 13) that powers Apple TV and makes everything happen fast and smoothly. Additionally, Apple regularly adds new features through tvOS updates, something Google TV is severely lacking. While brands like Samsung and LG promise longer update cycles, the same can’t be said for many Android and Google TVs.
I bought a high-end Xiaomi TV in 2021. I expected a premium smart TV experience without the need for an external streaming device. Unfortunately, it hasn’t been updated in over two years. This is one area where Apple TV really stands out. While most Chromecasts and Google TVs lag behind in this regard, Apple TV, along with other Apple devices, receives timely updates and will always have the latest features for years to come. maintain.
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Made with premium hardware for durability
Apple TV hardware is worth the investment for years to come.
Like me, many people treat Chromecast or Fire Stick like Bluetooth earbuds. Use it for a few years until the hardware starts to slow down, then move on. This usually means investing in a new streaming device about every three years. That alone makes Apple TV’s $129 price tag worth it.
Powered by the powerful A15 Bionic chipset, Apple TV won’t slow down anytime soon and will feel like a reliable streaming device for years to come. Although it’s a large upfront investment, the combination of powerful hardware, smooth software experience, and long-term support justifies the cost. I have never experienced this with Chromecast or Fire Stick.
Apple TV 4K (3rd generation)
$125 $129 Save $4
Apple TV 4K 3rd generation delivers stunning visuals, combining support for Dolby Vision and HDR10+ with immersive Dolby Atmos audio. Powered by Apple’s A15 Bionic chip, it delivers lightning-fast performance and seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, making it the ideal streaming device for Apple users.
