So, you're wondering if upgrading to the 2021 Apple TV 4K is worth it, right? Let's break it down a bit and see if it's a good move for you.
Performance Boost
The biggest change in the 2021 model is the A12 Bionic chip. According to the manufacturer, this chip makes everything run more smoothly and quickly, from loading apps to navigating menus.
If your current model feels sluggish, this upgrade could make a noticeable difference.
Enhanced Picture and Sound
Both the old and new models support 4K HDR content, including Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, which means stunning visuals and immersive sound if your TV and sound system can handle it.
If you've got a setup that makes the most of these features, you'd likely notice the improvement. Otherwise, it might not look or sound drastically different to you.
Redesigned Siri Remote
The new Siri remote is designed to be more intuitive and easier to use, which according to our research, is a welcome change for many.
The old remote had its fair share of critics, so this is a handy upgrade if you found the previous one frustrating.
Compatibility and Ecosystem
The Apple TV 4K fits right into the Apple ecosystem, which is great if you’re already using other Apple devices.
Features like AirPlay, HomeKit, and Apple Arcade can enhance your experience. If you're not already using these Apple services, though, you might not see as much benefit.
Price Considerations
At $199, the 2021 Apple TV 4K isn't cheap.
If you're mainly looking to stream content, alternatives like Roku or Amazon Fire Stick could offer similar functionality for less.
According to our research, these might be sufficient for basic streaming without the premium price tag.
Potential Downsides
While the 2021 Apple TV 4K is generally well-received, it's not perfect.
Some folks have had issues with sound and connectivity, especially with certain TVs and audio systems. There've also been reports of problems switching between different content types, resulting in things like audio dropouts or display glitches.
These are worth thinking about if you often switch between HDR and SDR content.
Final Thoughts
If you're deeply into the Apple ecosystem and want top-notch streaming quality, the 2021 Apple TV 4K could be a good upgrade.
It performs well and improves on things like navigation and picture quality.
But, if you're on a budget or don’t use many of the advanced features, sticking with your current model or going for a more affordable option might be smarter.
In the end, it really comes down to what you need and what you're willing to spend to get the best streaming experience.
We may earn a commission when you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. How ShopSavvy makes money
How we researched this
Where this comes from: this answer draws on the product's published specifications and the reviews ShopSavvy collected for it, alongside prices from 4 retailers in ShopSavvy's price data, most recently seen Apr 12, 2025.
Discussion
Know something we should add, or spot a detail that has changed? Tell us below. We check it against the maker's information and update the article.
Where to Buy
| Retailer | Price | Last seen | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| $89.98 | Apr 12, 2025 may have changed | ||
| $199.99 | Apr 12, 2025 may have changed | ||
| $218.00 | Apr 12, 2025 may have changed | ||
| $249.00 | Apr 12, 2025 may have changed |
Download ShopSavvy App
Compare prices across tens of thousands of stores, set price alerts, watch for deals by keyword, and much more.
Install ShopSavvy Browser Extension
Compare and track prices automatically while you shop online at thousands of websites.
More Answers
If you're still curious about the Apple TV 4K (2021) 64GB, here are some other answers you might find interesting:
- 📺 Are there any common issues or bugs with the Apple TV 4K 2021?
If you're curious about any common issues with the 2021 Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) with 64GB, here's what our research found. This device is designed for a...
- 🎮 How is the gaming performance on the Apple TV 4K 2021?
The 2021 Apple TV 4K is actually pretty solid for gaming. Thanks to its A12 Bionic chip, it can handle high-demand games really well. According to our...
- 🏠 What smart home features does the Apple TV 4K 2021 offer?
The Apple TV 4K (2021) has some nifty smart home features that could really fit into a modern setup. Here's a quick rundown of what it can do for your smart...
- 📺 How well does AirPlay work on the Apple TV 4K 2021?
AirPlay works really well on the 2021 Apple TV 4K. This model has a bunch of upgraded features that make streaming pretty smooth, especially if you're already...
- 📺 What video and audio formats does the Apple TV 4K 2021 support?
The 2021 Apple TV 4K supports a bunch of video and audio formats and is great for high-quality streaming. According to the manufacturer, it handles 4K video at...
- 📺 How does the Apple TV 4K 2021 compare to cheaper streaming devices?
When comparing the Apple TV 4K 2021 to cheaper streaming devices, it all boils down to what you're looking for in a streaming experience. Let me break it down...
- 📺 What are the pros and cons of the Apple TV 4K 2021?
The Apple TV 4K (2021, 2nd Generation) is a solid streaming device, especially if you're already using other Apple products. Here’s a look at what’s great...
- 📺 How does the new Siri remote compare to the old one?
If you're curious how the new Siri Remote compares to the old one, there are quite a few changes that you might find interesting. Here's a rundown of the key...
- 📺 What are the main improvements in the 2021 Apple TV 4K compared to previous models?
The 2021 Apple TV 4K (2nd Generation) has a few cool upgrades over the older models. Here are the main ones worth noting: This model comes with the A12 Bionic...
Alternatives to Consider
If the Apple TV 4K (2021) 64GB doesn't quite fit your needs, here are some other options to consider:
Roku Ultra
The Roku Ultra offers access to thousands of channels and supports a broader range of streaming services compared to the Apple TV 4K. This makes it a better choice for folks seeking versatility in their streaming options without being tied to a specific ecosystem.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
Searching for a high-quality streaming experience without the hefty price tag? The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K delivers stunning 4K streaming at a fraction of the cost, making it an appealing, budget-friendly alternative to the Apple TV 4K.
Chromecast with Google TV
The Chromecast with Google TV provides seamless access to Google services and robust control via Google Assistant, making it ideal for those deeply integrated into Google's ecosystem compared to Apple's.
