Apple TV has been around for a while, but the question of whether or not you need it is still one that continues to be raised.
Is there any benefit to having another streaming device in the mix? Or are you better off with your current setup and just sticking with what you have?
Did you know that there are several ways to use your smart TV for more than just streaming video? The Apple TV is one of the most popular options, but it might not be the best choice.
There are cheaper and sometimes better alternatives out there — like Google Chromecast or Amazon Fire Stick.
Here in this article, we will not only describe the benefits of having an Apple TV with your current setup but also help you to decide whether you should need an Apple TV if you have a smart TV or not.
Summary
Is an Apple TV Worth It If You Already Have a Smart TV?
Even if you already have a smart TV, the Apple TV is still worth acquiring. This is because of the following reasons :
1. It gives your TV a variety of features, services, and capabilities that you wouldn’t have had otherwise.
2. You can use it as a web browser such as Apple’s Dolby Atmos, Apple Arcade, Apple Fitness Plus.
3. It simplified controls and accessibility
4. Airplay
5. It has less lag due to its superb CPU
What Is The Difference Between Smart TVs And Apple TVs?
Before you decide whether or not you need an Apple TV, you need to understand the difference between Smart TVs and Apple TVs.
1. Processor
The processor within the Apple TV 4K version is as fast as the one inside the iPad Pro, making it as powerful as a laptop computer.
Furthermore, its graphics processor is capable of playing games. Where, whereas Smart TV has a slow processor and a limited graphics processor.
2. Size
Apple TV 4K is much smaller than the Smart TV, which is a good thing because it fits into smaller spaces. It is also thinner than a Smart TV, which makes it easier to move around.
3. Connectivity
Smart TV needs a WiFi router to provide it with internet connectivity. While the Apple TV does not need a wireless router because it has a built-in Ethernet port, it is not the same as the Ethernet port of a wireless router.
4. Compatibility
A Smart TV is compatible with a wide variety of apps and devices. Smart TVs have access to the Google Play Store, while Apple TVs do not.
They also have access to thousands of apps and games and they can be used to stream content from a variety of sources, like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and more.
While an Apple TV is compatible with the Apple TV app and also has the option to download apps from the App Store.
The Benefits of Adding Apple TV to Your Current Setup
Following are the benefits of adding Apple TV to your current setup.
1. No additional fees
Your smart TV already has internet connectivity, so adding an Apple TV to your setup is free of cost.
2. You can use it as a hub
If you have several devices connected to your TV, it can be used as a hub to control them from your couch, your bed, or wherever else you want to.
3. You can control it from anywhere
You can control your smart TV from anywhere in your house using your Apple TV remote. You can also use your Apple TV as a remote control for your smart TV and you can also control it from your couch, your bed, or wherever else you want to.
4. Make your TV work more efficiently
If you choose the Apple TV, you’ll get a processor that’s as fast as the one in the iPad Pro, making it as powerful as a laptop computer. Furthermore, its graphics processor is capable of playing games.
You can also cancel your cable TV subscription because Apple TV allows you to have the service of Sling TV.
5. The Apple TV is compatible with many more apps than the smart TV
Apple TV is a great option for people who don’t have “smart” TVs because it can stream material that isn’t usually available on a standard TV.
You may rent movies not only from iTunes but also from third-party streaming providers like Hulu and Netflix. You can also use it to access other apps like iTunes, Spotify, HBO Go, and more.
6. Provides additional functionality
It also allows you to listen to podcasts through music streaming services such as Pandora and Apple Music.
Your Apple TV is compatible with your other Apple devices. It can communicate with your Mac, iPad, and iPhone in this way.
For example, you can browse your iCloud Photo Library on the TV, and you can use AirPlay to “access” any app on your tablet or phone.
The Drawbacks Of Adding Apple TV To Your Current Setup
The Apple TV is only compatible with Apple devices: Your Apple TV is only compatible with Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, iPods, and Apple TV. You can’t use your Apple TV to stream content from your Android phone or Android tablet.
1. Very expensive
Apple TVs are very expensive and you have to spend a lot of money to get them as compared to smart TVs.
2. Reliance on Apple products like iPhones, iPods, iPods
Although Apple TV does have useful features, it is essentially useless if you already own a smart TV. Streaming apps such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and even YouTube are available on a smart TV.
You will only be paying for an Apple TV subscription if you want to watch content from other streaming services that you have already paid for.
3. Compatibility issues
Apple’s lack of access to universal port types is a major aspect. Apple devices have a specific design that does not allow for the use of other USB ports.
Apple TV, unlike competitors like Roku and Chromecast, lacks a USB connector and offers limited audio and video capability, putting it at a disadvantage.
Apple also doesn’t offer CPU upgrades for its streaming device, so if you buy one, you’re stuck with it until a new one comes out.
4. Depending on apple products
Apple TV only allows you to watch material that is part of the Apple ecosystem. You won’t get much use out of the Apple TV if you have Android or Windows devices as you’re obligated to buy all of your gadgets from a single vendor, or you’ll have to put in a lot of effort to get everything synced up properly using third-party solutions like Dropbox.
How Can Apple TV Work With The Home Kit?
Apple TV can serve as the headquarters or base for your home kit, which in turn can serve as the headquarters or base for a smart home.
So, in addition to utilizing Siri to manage your TV using voice commands (such as playing a certain movie or searching for content using a keyword), you can set up a variety of other features across your home.
Other smart appliances, such as lighting or a thermostat, can be purchased and connected to complete your smart home, and Home Kit will be able to operate them remotely. When you’re outside, you may use your iPhone to connect with your Apple TV and other smart devices.
Final Verdict!
If you’re looking for a smart TV that allows you to access a large library of movies, shows, and other content, you should buy an Apple TV.
In this article, we have explained that Apple TV has a great user interface, and it allows you to access your Apple content on other devices in your home.
However, the lack of a USB port is a major drawback, as you’re stuck with only Apple devices, and you’ll have to pay for the content you already own.
We hope that this article has helped you in this way. If you have any questions feel free to ask them in the comment section.
I am Jeff Bortnick, the founder of SMART WISE HOME. I am also a husband, father of two, and a long-time technology lover. I have been obsessed with home automation since I was at University doing my MSc in Automation and Control Engineering