Apple TV 4K Wi-Fi 3rd Generation review with Siri Remote features

Description

A Seamless Blend of Entertainment and Smart Home Integration

I’ve had the chance to put the Apple TV 4K Wi-Fi (3rd Generation) through its paces, and it’s clear that this isn’t just another streaming device. This sleek little box is an entertainment powerhouse, with features that cater to both casual streamers and tech enthusiasts alike. Right out of the box, it’s compact and minimalistic, fitting neatly into any setup without drawing too much attention. The 3.7 x 3.7 x 1.2-inch design is understated but screams Apple—clean lines, matte finish, and a premium vibe.

The Siri Remote, which now charges via USB-C, feels natural in the hand. The touch-enabled clickpad makes navigation incredibly intuitive, and voice commands through Siri mean I rarely even need to use the buttons. Whether I’m switching between apps or searching for a specific movie, the remote is a joy to use.

Performance That Feels Cinematic

What really blew me away was the 4K Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support. Watching nature documentaries on Netflix or blockbuster films on Apple TV+ felt like I was sitting in a high-end theater. Every detail popped, from the vibrant colors to the deep blacks. Paired with Dolby Atmos audio, the soundstage is immersive—it surrounds you, making action scenes and concert recordings truly come alive.

The A15 Bionic chip under the hood ensures everything runs smoothly. I tested it with high-demand apps like Apple Arcade, and there was zero lag. Even with multiple apps running in the background, the device handled it effortlessly. It’s honestly a huge step up from my older streaming devices.

Upsides

There’s a lot to love about this product:

• Lightning-fast performance thanks to the A15 Bionic chip.
• Staggering visuals with 4K Dolby Vision and HDR10+.
• Seamless integration with Apple services like Fitness+, Arcade, and Music.
• Expandable smart home capabilities—it doubles as a HomeKit hub.
• Thread networking support for enhanced smart home connectivity.

Critiques

While it’s a near-perfect device, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

• The 64GB storage option feels limiting if you plan to download a lot of apps or games.
• HDMI cables aren’t included, which seems like an unnecessary omission.
• It’s heavily reliant on the Apple ecosystem, so if you’re not already in it, some features may feel redundant.

Smart Home Control at Its Best

One of the features that surprised me was its smart home functionality. As a HomeKit hub, it connects with my smart lights, thermostat, and security cameras seamlessly. Using the Home app on my iPhone, I can check my front door camera while watching a show. It’s all integrated so well that it feels like magic. And with Thread support, devices connect faster and more reliably than ever.

Competing Products

Compared to similar devices like the Roku Ultra and Amazon Fire TV Cube, the Apple TV 4K stands out in a few key areas. The Roku Ultra, while offering a user-friendly interface and similar 4K support, lacks the deep integration with ecosystem apps like Apple Arcade or Fitness+. The Fire TV Cube, on the other hand, offers hands-free Alexa control but doesn’t match the Dolby Vision quality or the overall speed that the A15 chip delivers. Both alternatives are good, but the Apple TV 4K feels like a more premium and polished product.

Price to Quality Ratio

Is it worth the investment? Absolutely—if you value top-notch performance, tight integration with Apple services, and future-proofing for your smart home. While it may feel pricey compared to some competitors, the features and performance justify the cost for anyone looking to elevate their home entertainment setup. It’s not just a streaming device; it’s an all-in-one entertainment and smart home hub.

Having tested it extensively, I can safely say it has earned its spot in my living room. Whether you’re a movie buff, a casual gamer, or someone who wants to streamline their smart home setup, it’s hard to go wrong with this device.

Additional information