AIThis post was created with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI).

When I compare the best Apple TV 4K devices, I start with two practical questions: do you want the newest listed feature set, and are you comfortable buying renewed? The Apple TV 4K (4th Generation) is my lead pick for its Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, Find My remote support, and smart home features. For a newer-generation alternative with an A15 Bionic chip, the 3rd Generation Wi-Fi 64GB offers a strong feature mix, while the renewed 2021 model is the more sensible choice if you want 4K Dolby Vision without prioritizing the latest generation.

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The main tradeoff is not simply picture quality: several models support 4K and Dolby Vision, but they differ in chip generation, HDR formats, smart home capabilities, included remote details, and purchase condition. The 2017 model is the oldest and least future-oriented option, while the renewed 2022 model shares many core features with the new 3rd Generation listing but comes with a limited warranty. I rank these devices by capability, generation, and the buyer fit described in the supplied product information—not by price, which I do not use to judge them.

5
compared
1
brands
3
audios
64GB
max storage
Which Apple TV 4K device should you buy?
★ Top Pick
Apple TV 4K
Best Overall
4K playback with Dolby Vision and HDR10+
See on Amazon →
Buyers seeking an A15-powered, 64GB Apple TV 4K with Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, AirPlay, and Thread in a listing not marked renewed.
Apple TV 4K
A15 Bionic chip and 64GB storage
View on Amazon →
Buyers who want an A15-based, 64GB 3rd Generation device with HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, Thread, and a USB-C Siri Remote, and accept renewed condition.
Apple TV 4K
A15 Bionic chip with 64GB storage
View on Amazon →
Buyers comfortable with a renewed device who want 4K Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, AirPlay, and private listening with up to two sets of AirPods.
Apple TV 4K
4K HDR with Dolby Vision
View on Amazon →
Buyers who want a renewed Apple TV 4K for basic 4K playback, Dolby Vision or HDR10 content, Siri voice search, and an Ethernet connection.
Apple TV 4K 32GB Streaming Med
4K video with Dolby Vision and HDR10
View on Amazon →
Storage — compared
Apple TV 4K64GB
Apple TV 4K64GB
Apple TV 4K32GB
Apple TV 4K 32GB Streaming Med32GB
Pros & cons at a glance
Apple TV 4K
✓ 4K playback with Dolby Vision and HDR10+
✗ The supplied specifications do not state its chip or storage capacity
Apple TV 4K
✓ A15 Bionic chip and 64GB storage
✗ Some features depend on Apple services or compatible devices
Apple TV 4K
✓ A15 Bionic chip with 64GB storage
✗ Renewed product with a 90-day limited warranty
Apple TV 4K
✓ 4K HDR with Dolby Vision
✗ Renewed, pre-owned condition
Apple TV 4K 32GB Streaming Med
✓ 4K video with Dolby Vision and HDR10
✗ Renewed or refurbished condition

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Key Takeaways

  • The 4th Generation is my best overall pick because it combines 4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, Enhance Dialogue, Find My remote support, and smart home hub features.
  • The 3rd Generation Wi-Fi 64GB is the best new 2022-generation option here, with an A15 Bionic chip, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, AirPlay, and Thread support.
  • The renewed 2022 model offers a similar A15 and HDR10+ feature set, but its 90-day limited warranty and pre-owned condition make it a different ownership choice.
  • The renewed 2021 model retains Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, an A12 Bionic chip, AirPlay, and private listening with up to two sets of AirPods, though it lacks the listed HDR10+ support of newer picks.
  • The renewed 2017 model covers basic 4K streaming with Dolby Vision and HDR10, but its A10X Fusion chip and older audio specification make it best for buyers with modest needs.
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Apple TV 4K
Best New 3rd-Generation Pick
1
Apple TV 4K
Best Overall
3
Apple TV 4K
Best Renewed A15 Option

Our Top Best Apple TV 4K Devices Picks

Apple TV 4K (4th Generation)Apple TV 4K (4th Generation)Best OverallGeneration: 4th GenerationVideo: 4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+Audio: Dolby Atmos; Enhance DialogueVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
Apple TV 4K (3rd Generation) Wi-Fi, 64GBApple TV 4K (3rd Generation) Wi-Fi, 64GBBest New 3rd-Generation PickGeneration: 3rd GenerationStorage: 64GBChip: A15 BionicVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
Apple TV 4K (3rd Generation, 2022), 64GB, Wi-Fi, Black (Renewed)Apple TV 4K (3rd Generation, 2022), 64GB, Wi-Fi, Black (Renewed)Best Renewed A15 OptionGeneration: 3rd Generation, 2022Condition: RenewedStorage: 64GBVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation, 2021), 32GB, Black (Renewed)Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation, 2021), 32GB, Black (Renewed)Best Renewed Mid-Generation ChoiceGeneration: 2nd Generation, 2021Condition: RenewedStorage: 32GBVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
Apple TV 4K 32GB Streaming Media Player (2017), Model A1842, RenewedApple TV 4K 32GB Streaming Media Player (2017), Model A1842, RenewedBest for Basic 4K Streaming on Older HardwareGeneration: 2017, Model A1842Condition: RenewedStorage: 32GBVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
Specs at a glance
Apple TV 4K deviceGenerationAudioVideoStorage
Apple TV 4K4th GenerationDolby Atmos; Enhance Dialogue4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+—
Apple TV 4K3rd GenerationDolby Atmos4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+64GB
Apple TV 4K3rd Generation, 2022Dolby Atmos4K Dolby Vision, HDR10+64GB
Apple TV 4K2nd Generation, 2021Dolby Atmos4K HDR with Dolby Vision32GB
Apple TV 4K 32GB Streaming Med2017, Model A1842Dolby Digital Plus 7.1—32GB

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. Apple TV 4K (4th Generation)

    Apple TV 4K (4th Generation)

    Best Overall

    View Latest Price

    The 4th Generation is my best overall pick because it combines the broadest set of listed capabilities in this group. It supports 4K with Dolby Vision and HDR10+, adds Dolby Atmos and Enhance Dialogue, and includes Siri voice control with a remote that supports Find My. That last detail gives it a practical advantage over the other listings: the remote is not just a way to navigate streaming apps, but an accessory designed to be easier to locate if misplaced.

    For a household also building around connected accessories, this model can act as a smart home hub. That broadens its role beyond video playback, unlike the 2017 renewed model, whose supplied description centers on 4K video, voice search, and surround sound. It is also the only listing here that explicitly names Enhance Dialogue, which may appeal to viewers who want clearer spoken content without relying solely on general audio-format support.

    The tradeoff is that the supplied listing does not identify its processor, storage capacity, or warranty, so I would not assume advantages in those areas from the generation name alone. It still needs a compatible 4K display, an HDMI connection, and internet access for streaming; its picture formats only help when the television and content support them. Buyers who want a clearly specified A15-based model may prefer the 3rd Generation Wi-Fi 64GB instead, while anyone focused on a renewed unit’s disclosed storage should compare the 64GB renewed 2022 model.

    I place it first for its feature breadth, not because every buyer needs every feature. If your priority is a current-style package combining picture, audio, remote-finding, and smart home functions, it is the most complete match in this five-device comparison. If you only need basic 4K streaming, its extra capabilities may not change your day-to-day experience enough to outweigh choosing a simpler, older option.

    Pros:
    • 4K playback with Dolby Vision and HDR10+
    • Dolby Atmos plus Enhance Dialogue
    • Siri voice control and a remote with Find My
    • Can act as a smart home hub
    Cons:
    • The supplied specifications do not state its chip or storage capacity
    • The supplied listing does not specify warranty or purchase condition
    • Requires a compatible display and internet connection for streaming

    Best for: Buyers who want the broadest listed mix of HDR formats, Dolby Atmos, dialogue enhancement, Find My remote support, and smart home hub capability.

    Not ideal for: Shoppers who need confirmed storage, processor, or warranty details before choosing, or who only want basic 4K streaming.

    • Generation:4th Generation
    • Video:4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+
    • Audio:Dolby Atmos; Enhance Dialogue
    • Voice control:Siri
    • Remote:Siri Remote with Find My
    • Smart home:Can act as a smart home hub
    • Dimensions:3.67 x 3.67 x 1.22 inches
    • Weight:7.7 ounces
    Our verdict
    “I recommend the 4th Generation as the most feature-complete choice here, especially for buyers who will use its dialogue and smart home features as well as its HDR support.”
  2. Apple TV 4K (3rd Generation) Wi-Fi, 64GB

    Apple TV 4K (3rd Generation) Wi-Fi, 64GB

    Best New 3rd-Generation Pick

    View Latest Price

    This 3rd Generation Wi-Fi 64GB model is my pick for buyers who want a clearly identified A15-based Apple TV 4K without choosing a renewed listing. It supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+ alongside Dolby Atmos, giving it a strong format combination that is close to the 4th Generation’s stated picture and audio support. Its A15 Bionic chip also makes it the most clearly specified new-generation option in the group.

    The 64GB capacity gives users room for apps and games, although the supplied description does not state how much usable space remains after system software. For smart homes, its support for Thread adds a clear point of difference from the 2021 renewed model, whose listed strengths include AirPlay and private listening rather than Thread. It also supports AirPlay, which is useful for sharing content from compatible Apple devices.

    Compared with the 4th Generation, this model does not list Find My support for its remote or Enhance Dialogue. Those omissions may matter to buyers who value easier remote recovery or a named dialogue feature, but they do not erase its appeal as a capable A15-based streamer. The renewed 2022 model has a similar A15, 64GB, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, and Thread combination; this listing’s clearest advantage is that it is not described as renewed.

    This device still needs a separate display and an internet connection for streaming, and some smart home and Apple service features depend on compatible equipment and services. I would choose it over the older renewed options for a newer chip and HDR10+, but skip it if you specifically want the 4th Generation’s Find My remote details or need a model whose listing confirms a different connectivity setup.

    Pros:
    • A15 Bionic chip and 64GB storage
    • 4K with Dolby Vision and HDR10+
    • Dolby Atmos and AirPlay support
    • Thread support for compatible smart home setups
    Cons:
    • Some features depend on Apple services or compatible devices
    • Requires a separate display and an internet connection for streaming
    • The listed feature set does not specify Find My remote support or Enhance Dialogue

    Best for: Buyers seeking an A15-powered, 64GB Apple TV 4K with Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, AirPlay, and Thread in a listing not marked renewed.

    Not ideal for: People who specifically want Find My remote support or Enhance Dialogue, or who do not have a compatible display and internet connection.

    • Generation:3rd Generation
    • Storage:64GB
    • Chip:A15 Bionic
    • Video:4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+
    • Audio:Dolby Atmos
    • Connectivity:Wi-Fi
    • Smart home:Thread support
    • Model number:MN873LL/A
    Our verdict
    “I would choose this 3rd Generation model for a clearly specified A15 and 64GB combination without the renewed-condition caveat attached to its close 2022 counterpart.”
  3. Apple TV 4K (3rd Generation, 2022), 64GB, Wi-Fi, Black (Renewed)

    Apple TV 4K (3rd Generation, 2022), 64GB, Wi-Fi, Black (Renewed)

    Best Renewed A15 Option

    View Latest Price

    This renewed 2022 3rd Generation makes the most sense for someone who wants the A15 platform and the newer model’s core video and smart home features but is willing to accept a renewed unit. Its listed hardware matches the new 3rd Generation Wi-Fi choice on several important points: 64GB storage, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, and Thread. It also specifies a USB-C-charging Siri Remote, giving buyers a useful detail that the other 3rd Generation listing does not spell out.

    That close overlap means the choice between these two models is primarily about purchase condition and listing details, not a major difference in the core streaming format set. The non-renewed 3rd Generation entry is the easier choice for buyers who want to avoid a pre-owned product. This renewed model instead names its condition and a 90-day limited warranty, so buyers can weigh the disclosed warranty against their preference for a new listing.

    Compared with the renewed 2021 device, this model lists HDR10+, an A15 chip, 64GB of storage, and Thread. Those are meaningful distinctions for buyers with a compatible HDR10+ television, a larger app library, or a Thread-enabled smart home. The 4th Generation remains ahead for the additional listed features of Enhance Dialogue and Find My remote support, but those extras may not be central to a buyer who mainly wants the A15 generation.

    The limitations are straightforward: it is renewed, its warranty is limited to 90 days according to the supplied details, and streaming requires a compatible television and internet access. The product information also says it requires a TV with HD capability, while its core value is 4K playback; buyers should check that their display supports the resolution and formats they want. I rank it below the non-renewed 3rd Generation listing because the feature set is similar but the condition and warranty require more acceptance from the buyer.

    Pros:
    • A15 Bionic chip with 64GB storage
    • 4K Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support
    • Dolby Atmos and Thread networking
    • USB-C-charging Siri Remote
    Cons:
    • Renewed product with a 90-day limited warranty
    • Requires a compatible television and internet connection for streaming
    • Some features rely on compatible devices or services

    Best for: Buyers who want an A15-based, 64GB 3rd Generation device with HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, Thread, and a USB-C Siri Remote, and accept renewed condition.

    Not ideal for: Buyers who want a non-renewed listing, a longer stated warranty, or the 4th Generation’s explicitly listed Find My remote and Enhance Dialogue features.

    • Generation:3rd Generation, 2022
    • Condition:Renewed
    • Storage:64GB
    • Processor:A15 Bionic
    • Video:4K Dolby Vision, HDR10+
    • Audio:Dolby Atmos
    • Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Thread
    • Warranty:90-day limited warranty
    • Remote:Siri Remote, USB-C charging
    Our verdict
    “I recommend this renewed A15 model to buyers who want the 3rd Generation feature set and accept a stated 90-day warranty in place of the non-renewed listing.”
  4. Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation, 2021), 32GB, Black (Renewed)

    Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation, 2021), 32GB, Black (Renewed)

    Best Renewed Mid-Generation Choice

    View Latest Price

    The 2021 2nd Generation is the renewed pick I would consider for a buyer who wants the central Apple TV experience—4K, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and Siri—without needing the features named on the newer 3rd Generation listings. Its A12 Bionic chip is older than the A15 in both 3rd Generation models, and its 32GB storage is half the listed capacity of those 64GB options. That difference matters most to people who install a broad set of apps or games, rather than viewers who use a modest collection of streaming services.

    Its format support still gives it an advantage over the 2017 renewed model for buyers who value a more recent listed processor and Dolby Atmos. It also supports AirPlay and private listening with up to two sets of AirPods, a concrete benefit for households that watch without disturbing others. By comparison, the 2017 listing names Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 and an A10X Fusion chip, and does not list the same private-listening feature.

    The tradeoff is the renewed condition and a 90-day limited warranty. It does not list HDR10+ or Thread, so buyers who want the newer devices’ broader stated HDR support or smart home networking should move up to the 3rd Generation Wi-Fi model. Likewise, those who want the Find My remote and Enhance Dialogue listed for the 4th Generation will not find those features in this product description.

    I place this model between the A15-based options and the older 2017 device because its listed A12 platform, Dolby Atmos, and AirPods private listening form a useful middle ground. It is a reasonable fit when those capabilities suit the household and renewed condition is acceptable. Buyers who want a newer platform or more storage should choose one of the 64GB 3rd Generation devices instead.

    Pros:
    • 4K HDR with Dolby Vision
    • Dolby Atmos audio support
    • A12 Bionic chip and Siri Remote
    • AirPlay and private listening with up to two sets of AirPods
    Cons:
    • Renewed, pre-owned condition
    • 32GB storage is less than the 64GB 3rd Generation options
    • 90-day limited warranty

    Best for: Buyers comfortable with a renewed device who want 4K Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, AirPlay, and private listening with up to two sets of AirPods.

    Not ideal for: People who need 64GB storage, want HDR10+ or Thread, or prefer a device that is not listed as renewed.

    • Generation:2nd Generation, 2021
    • Condition:Renewed
    • Storage:32GB
    • Processor:A12 Bionic
    • Video:4K HDR with Dolby Vision
    • Audio:Dolby Atmos
    • Wireless features:AirPlay; private listening with up to two sets of AirPods
    • Warranty:90-day limited warranty
    Our verdict
    “I see this as the renewed middle ground for buyers who value Dolby Atmos and AirPods private listening more than the newer models’ A15 chip, 64GB storage, or Thread support.”
  5. Apple TV 4K 32GB Streaming Media Player (2017), Model A1842, Renewed

    Apple TV 4K 32GB Streaming Media Player (2017), Model A1842, Renewed

    Best for Basic 4K Streaming on Older Hardware

    View Latest Price

    The renewed 2017 Apple TV 4K is the simplest fit for a buyer who wants 4K streaming and accepts older hardware. Its A1842 model supports 3840 × 2160 video with Dolby Vision and HDR10, so it covers two important HDR formats listed for the device. It also has an A10X Fusion chip, 32GB of storage, Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI, and Siri voice search through its remote.

    Compared with the renewed 2021 model, this device is a step back in the listed processor generation and audio details: the 2021 entry specifies an A12 Bionic chip and Dolby Atmos, while this one lists Dolby Digital Plus 7.1. The 2017 listing does specify Gigabit Ethernet, which may appeal to buyers who prefer a wired network connection, but it does not list HDR10+ or Thread like the 3rd Generation options.

    The renewed condition is the main ownership caveat. The supplied details say the unit has been inspected and tested, but do not provide a warranty term, so I would verify the current listing’s warranty and included accessories before choosing it. Its older platform also makes it harder to recommend over the A15 models for buyers who want a longer feature horizon, more storage, or Thread-enabled home control.

    I rank it fifth because its core 4K picture support remains useful, but the newer options bring clearer advantages for most buyers in this comparison: HDR10+ and A15 processing on the 3rd Generation models, or the A12 chip and Dolby Atmos on the 2021 model. Choose the 2017 unit only when its stated capabilities match your needs and its renewed status is acceptable; skip it if you want the broadest listed formats and home features.

    Pros:
    • 4K video with Dolby Vision and HDR10
    • Gigabit Ethernet as well as Wi-Fi
    • Siri Remote with voice search
    • Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 surround sound
    Cons:
    • Renewed or refurbished condition
    • Older A10X Fusion processor than the other listed generations
    • The supplied specifications do not state a warranty term

    Best for: Buyers who want a renewed Apple TV 4K for basic 4K playback, Dolby Vision or HDR10 content, Siri voice search, and an Ethernet connection.

    Not ideal for: People who want HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, Thread, a newer listed chip, or a clearly stated warranty term.

    • Generation:2017, Model A1842
    • Condition:Renewed
    • Storage:32GB
    • Processor:A10X Fusion
    • Resolution:3840 × 2160 pixels
    • HDR formats:Dolby Vision, HDR10
    • Audio:Dolby Digital Plus 7.1
    • Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI
    • Remote:Siri Remote with voice control
    Our verdict
    “I would choose this renewed 2017 model only for basic 4K needs or its listed Ethernet connection, since the newer devices offer stronger platform and feature advantages.”
best Apple TV 4K devices
What makes a great Apple TV 4K device
1
Match HDR formats to your television
All five listings describe 4K playback, but their HDR support is not identical.
2
Decide whether newer processing and storage matter
The listed chips span the A10X Fusion in the 2017 model, the A12 Bionic in the 2021 unit, and the A15 Bionic in the 3rd Generation
3
Choose audio features for your room and listening habits
Three models list Dolby Atmos: the 4th Generation and both 3rd Generation options, plus the 2021 renewed device.
4
Compare renewed condition and warranty details
Three entries are marked renewed: the 2021 model, the 2017 model, and the 2022 3rd Generation model.
How to choose your Apple TV 4K device
1
How we picked
I ranked these five Apple TV 4K devices around the decisions that separate them in this lineup: generation and processin
2
Match HDR formats to your television
All five listings describe 4K playback, but their HDR support is not identical.
3
Decide whether newer processing and storage matter
The listed chips span the A10X Fusion in the 2017 model, the A12 Bionic in the 2021 unit, and the A15 Bionic in the 3rd
4
Choose audio features for your room and listening habits
Three models list Dolby Atmos: the 4th Generation and both 3rd Generation options, plus the 2021 renewed device.
5
Compare renewed condition and warranty details
Three entries are marked renewed: the 2021 model, the 2017 model, and the 2022 3rd Generation model.
Vetted Apple TV 4K devices ·
The best Apple TV 4K devices, compared
★ Winner Apple TV 4K
Best Overall
5compared
64GBtop storage
3audios

How We Picked

I ranked these five Apple TV 4K devices around the decisions that separate them in this lineup: generation and processing platform, supported picture and sound formats, remote and smart home features, and whether the listing is new or renewed. A newer model can bring broader listed format support or newer home-control features, but it does not automatically suit every buyer; an older device may still cover the essentials for a 4K television and a straightforward streaming setup.

I gave the strongest position to the 4th Generation because its supplied feature set is the broadest: Dolby Vision and HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, Enhance Dialogue, Siri control, Find My support for the remote, and smart home hub capability. The 3rd Generation Wi-Fi model follows as a well-rounded A15-based option with HDR10+ and Thread, while the renewed 2022 version ranks close behind because it shares much of that platform but carries a 90-day limited warranty and renewed condition.

The two older renewed models rank lower because buyers trade newer platform features for older hardware and, in each case, a pre-owned or refurbished unit. I distinguish the 2021 model from the 2017 model because the supplied details list an A12 Bionic chip, Dolby Atmos, and private listening for the former, versus an A10X Fusion chip and Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 for the latter. I have not inferred unsupported features or treated all renewed listings as identical: warranty and condition are part of the choice. These rankings reflect the specifications provided, not hands-on testing.

Feature comparison
Apple TV 4K deviceAudioRemoteConnectivityProcessor
Apple TV 4KDolby Atmos; Enhance DialogueSiri Remote with Find My——
Apple TV 4KDolby Atmos—Wi-Fi—
Apple TV 4KDolby AtmosSiri Remote, USB-C chargingWi-Fi, Bluetooth, ThreadA15 Bionic
Apple TV 4KDolby Atmos——A12 Bionic
Apple TV 4K 32GB Streaming MedDolby Digital Plus 7.1Siri Remote with voice controlWi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet, HDMIA10X Fusion
Everyday → specialist
Everyday & valuePremium & specialist
Which Apple TV 4K device fits you?
The everyday user
All-round, reliable
The enthusiast
Premium & high-performance
The gift-giver
Looks & craftsmanship

Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Apple TV 4K Devices

I would choose an Apple TV 4K by matching its formats, generation, and condition to the equipment and habits you already have. A long list of capabilities only matters when your TV, audio setup, network, and smart home devices can use them.

Match HDR formats to your television

All five listings describe 4K playback, but their HDR support is not identical. The 4th Generation and both 3rd Generation choices list Dolby Vision and HDR10+; the 2021 renewed model lists Dolby Vision, while the 2017 model lists Dolby Vision and HDR10. Check your television’s supported formats before choosing: a format the TV cannot display will not add a visible advantage. If your screen supports HDR10+ and you want that format available, the 3rd and 4th Generation options are the matches in this group.

Picture quality also depends on the content and display settings, not only the streaming box. I would treat format support as compatibility rather than a promise that every program will use the same HDR mode. For a basic 4K television setup, the older models may still cover the resolution and formats you use; for a TV whose feature set includes HDR10+, a newer listing gives you a better match on paper.

Decide whether newer processing and storage matter

The listed chips span the A10X Fusion in the 2017 model, the A12 Bionic in the 2021 unit, and the A15 Bionic in the 3rd Generation models. The 4th Generation listing does not name a chip, so I would not infer its processor from the generation label alone. The clearest comparison is between the two A15 choices and the older renewed units: the newer models also list 64GB storage, while the 2021 and 2017 models each list 32GB.

Storage capacity matters more to households that keep many apps or games installed than to viewers who mainly open a few streaming services. A newer listed chip is a useful differentiator, but the supplied details do not quantify performance or promise a particular lifespan. I would pick the A15 models for their specified platform and capacity, and consider the 32GB devices only if their feature set suits your app habits.

Choose audio features for your room and listening habits

Three models list Dolby Atmos: the 4th Generation and both 3rd Generation options, plus the 2021 renewed device. The 2017 model specifies Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 instead. To benefit from a named surround format, your television, receiver, or sound system must support the relevant connection and format; the streaming box cannot replace compatible audio equipment.

The 4th Generation adds Enhance Dialogue, a specific listed feature that sets it apart from the rest of this group. The 2021 renewed device has a different practical distinction: private listening with up to two sets of AirPods. If clear dialogue is your priority, compare the newest listing; if quiet viewing with compatible headphones matters more, the 2021 description gives you a feature the other supplied listings do not specify.

Compare renewed condition and warranty details

Three entries are marked renewed: the 2021 model, the 2017 model, and the 2022 3rd Generation model. The supplied information gives the 2021 and 2022 units a 90-day limited warranty, while it does not state a warranty term for the 2017 unit. Renewed condition can be a reasonable route for a buyer who accepts pre-owned hardware, but it is a real difference from the 3rd Generation Wi-Fi listing, which is not described as renewed.

Before selecting a renewed device, check the current listing for its condition definition, included accessories, return terms, and warranty coverage. I would not treat the inspection language as equivalent to a new product or assume all renewed listings have the same protections. In this ranking, the new 3rd Generation sits ahead of its close renewed counterpart because their listed core features overlap, while the condition and warranty do not.

Weigh remote and smart home needs

The remote details can change which model feels like the better household fit. The 4th Generation specifically lists a Find My-capable Siri Remote, while the renewed 2022 model names a USB-C-charging Siri Remote and the 2021 and 2017 listings describe Siri voice control. If you often misplace remotes, the Find My detail is a distinguishing feature rather than a minor specification.

For smart home control, the 4th Generation can act as a hub and the 3rd Generation models list Thread support; the renewed 2022 description also says it can serve as a smart home hub for compatible accessories. The product descriptions do not give the same level of detail for every model, so I would choose based on the specific compatibility named for your accessories rather than assume features are interchangeable across generations.

Check the full setup before buying

An Apple TV 4K is a separate streaming device, not a television. You need a compatible display, an HDMI connection, and internet access for streaming services. For the 3rd Generation Wi-Fi model, the listing specifies Wi-Fi connectivity; the 2017 model also lists Gigabit Ethernet, which can suit a wired network layout. Confirm that your home network reaches the viewing location and that your display supports the resolution and HDR formats you intend to use.

Streaming services, Apple features, AirPlay, Thread, and smart home functions may depend on subscriptions, compatible devices, or network configuration. I would also check what is included in the particular listing, especially for renewed products. That prevents a feature comparison from obscuring the practical question: whether the box, remote, display, network, and accessories you already have work together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Apple TV 4K is the best overall choice in this comparison?

I rank the Apple TV 4K (4th Generation) first because its supplied feature set includes 4K, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, Enhance Dialogue, Siri voice control, Find My support for the remote, and smart home hub capability. It is the broadest listed package here. Buyers who want a specified A15 chip and 64GB storage may prefer the 3rd Generation Wi-Fi model, since the 4th Generation listing does not state its processor or storage.

What is the difference between the two 3rd Generation models listed?

Both list an A15 Bionic chip, 64GB storage, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, and Thread. The Wi-Fi 64GB listing is not described as renewed, while the other is explicitly renewed and lists a 90-day limited warranty and a USB-C-charging Siri Remote. The main decision is whether you prefer the non-renewed listing or are comfortable with renewed condition and the warranty details provided for the other unit.

Is the renewed 2021 Apple TV 4K still a reasonable option?

It can suit someone who wants 4K Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, AirPlay, and private listening with up to two sets of AirPods, and who accepts a renewed unit. Its A12 Bionic chip and 32GB storage are behind the A15 and 64GB listed for the 3rd Generation models, and its supplied details do not list HDR10+ or Thread. I would choose it for its named AirPods feature, not as the newest-feature option.

Will every Apple TV 4K in this roundup show Dolby Vision or HDR10+?

Every listing includes 4K support, but the HDR formats vary. The 4th Generation and both 3rd Generation models list Dolby Vision and HDR10+; the 2021 renewed model lists Dolby Vision, and the 2017 renewed model lists Dolby Vision and HDR10. You also need a television and content compatible with a given format to use it, so check your display’s specifications before making that feature a deciding factor.

What should I check before buying a renewed Apple TV 4K?

I would check the listing’s condition description, warranty term, return terms, and included accessories. In this lineup, the renewed 2021 and 2022 models list a 90-day limited warranty; the supplied details for the renewed 2017 model do not state a warranty term. Also confirm that your television, HDMI connection, and internet setup support the streaming experience you want, and compare the renewed device with the non-renewed 3rd Generation listing when their feature sets overlap.

Conclusion

For the widest set of listed features, I recommend the 4th Generation: it combines Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dolby Atmos, Enhance Dialogue, Find My remote support, and smart home hub capability. For buyers who want a specified A15 chip, 64GB storage, and Thread without a renewed-condition label, the 3rd Generation Wi-Fi 64GB is my pick. If you want much of that same A15 feature set and accept a 90-day limited warranty, choose the renewed 2022 3rd Generation.

The renewed 2021 model suits viewers who value Dolby Atmos, AirPlay, and private listening with up to two sets of AirPods more than the newer A15 platform. I would reserve the renewed 2017 model for basic 4K viewing or a setup that benefits from its listed Gigabit Ethernet. Before deciding, match the formats to your television, confirm renewed-product terms, and prioritize the features your household will actually use.

HALLOWEEN

Halloween Picks

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