The last time Apple updated its Apple TV streaming box was in September of 2017. Since then, Apple has continued to add more features — like Apple Arcade gaming, Apple Fitness Plus and expanded HomeKit capabilities — along with a multitude of streaming services to the small black box.

Improved performance, New Siri Remote is a big upgrade, Plenty of streaming apps and service options, Apple services are front and center

Expensive

The Apple TV 4K delivers on Apple's promise of an all-encompassing media streaming box at a price premium....

It’s not worth upgrading if you have the previous model, but if you’re simply looking for the best video streamer out there, this is it

Excellent picture and sound, Abundance of apps, Great usability

Only a small upgrade, Pricier than alternatives, No bundled HDMI cable

The Apple TV 4K (2021) is a slick streaming device, which can play 4K video in HDR and Dolby Vision, and supports high-frame-rate HDR to make fast action and sports look smooth and clear.

High-frame-rate HDR support, Re-designed Siri remote, Thread smart home technology built-in

Expensive, Doesn’t work with Android

The new Apple TV 4K is essentially the same as the old one, with all its qualities and capabilities, but with future-proofed specs and a really great, iPod-like remote. That means you get a highly capable streaming media box with wider app support than competitors and full integration with Apple’s...

Pros: widest streaming app support, good remote, Dolby Vision/Atmos, HDR10, HDMI 2.1, wifi 6, AirPlay 2, full iPhone/Apple services integration, Siri/voice control, connect two pairs of AirPods at the same time for private listening.

Cons: very expensive, no Google Cast, not as easy to use with Android, new remote features don’t work with every app.

The 2021 Apple TV 4K is basically a repeat. There is nothing really new when compared to the 2017 Apple TV 4K model, so if you were planning to upgrade from that we would advise that you don't. (See our comparison of the two models for more info: Apple TV 4K 2021 vs Apple TV 4K 2017 ).

The new Apple TV 4K isn’t the perfect streaming device, but it’s sharp, well-designed, fast, and it plays beautifully with all the other Apple products in the ecosystem. Whether it’s controlling apps from your iPhone, sharing photos from your iPad or Mac, seeing your HomeKit-enabled video feed on...

Great remote, Has Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, Works great with Apple gear

Stale design, Pricier than competition

Apple’s new Apple TV 4K isn’t a huge upgrade internally, but it finally comes with a decent Siri Remote.