The Apple TV 4K streaming media box is maybe the best one you can buy (especially for those already in the Apple ecosystem), but it’s also one of the most expensive. It’s faster and more responsive than nearly all competitors, with excellent support for HDR and surround sound including Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos.
But at a starting price of $129, it’s far more expensive than other 4K streaming boxes. The better streaming experience is likely worth the extra cost, but you don’t want to buy it right before the new model is released. Here’s our recommendation about whether this is a good time to buy the Apple TV 4K or not.
Last updated 10/18/22Apple announced the new Apple TV 4K and dropped its price. The Apple TV HD was also discontinued. The best time to buy is now, but be sure to get the latest model.
Apple TV 4K: Prices and specifications
Last Update: October 20,22
Apple has been selling streaming TV media boxes since 2007—before the iPhone even! The Apple TV 4K first launched in 2017. A second-generation Apple TV 4K arrived in May 2021. An updated third-generation Apple TV 4K model was announced in September 2022. (To ship on November 4).
The Apple TV 4K is significantly cheaper than the previous model. It features double the storage and costs $50 less–it costs $129 for the 64GB model, and $149 for the 128GB model. The processor has been upgraded from an A15 to the new version. Siri RemoteNow, instead of Lightning, there is a USB-C port that can be used for charging.
There’s one consideration to be aware of, though. The 64GB model lacks Thread networking and Ethernet ports. As it’s only $20 more to get those things and double the storage space, we recommend the 128GB model.
Apple TV 4K: Why should you buy it?
Apple just announced the new Apple TV 4K, which means it probably won’t change for more than a year. The new model features a faster A15 processor and double storage (64GB or128GB). Siri Remote can also be charged via USB-C. The price was also reduced to $129 for 64GB and $149 respectively for 128GB models.
It’s not often that an Apple product gets an upgrade A price drop was desperately needed for the Apple TV 4K.
Apple TV 4K: Why You Should Wait
You could always hope for a sale around the holidays, but given the new lower starting price and the fact that this is a just-released product, you shouldn’t hope for much.
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The Apple TV 4K didn’t need a new processor, nor did it need more storage space, but it got both anyway. And it’s sort of a shame that the 64GB model doesn’t have Ethernet or Thread networking. However, the new price is a huge win for everyone. For $30, you can get a 128GB model with Ethernet/Thread, an A15 and a Siri Remote using USB-C. We offer lessMore than the previous 32GB model.
Just make sure you don’t buy the old model! The new model is now on sale, and will ship on November 4, 2022. Many retailers still have the prior model (2021), which is available on sale. If you can find a steep discount, it could be a great buy.
