Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) vs Google TV Streamer (4K)
Which should you buy? · Updated
Short answer: If you're choosing between the Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) and the Google TV Streamer (4K), they're effectively tied on our bench (4.5 vs 4.4). Pick on price, ecosystem, and the spec differences below. The Google TV Streamer (4K) is the value pick: it is $30 cheaper. Here's how they compare spec by spec.
| Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) | Google TV Streamer (4K) | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 4.5 | 4.4 |
| Price | $129 | $99 |
| Released | 2022 | 2024 |
| Chipset | Apple A15 Bionic | MediaTek MT8696 |
| RAM | 4 GB | 4 GB |
| Storage | 64 / 128 GB | 32 GB |
| OS | tvOS | Google TV (Android TV 14) |
| Max output | 4K @ 60fps | 4K @ 60fps |
| HDR | Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG | Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Atmos |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, Ethernet (128GB), Thread | Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, Ethernet, Thread / Matter |
| Ports | HDMI 2.1, Gigabit Ethernet (128GB) | HDMI 2.1, Gigabit Ethernet, USB-C (power) |
| Remote | Siri Remote (2nd gen, USB-C) | Voice remote with finder button |
Where the Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) wins
- Storage: 64 / 128 GB
Where the Google TV Streamer (4K) wins
- Price: $99
It's close — 4.5 vs 4.4/5 is within our margin. If you're watching the budget, the Google TV Streamer (4K) saves you $30 and covers the essentials. Read the full Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) review or Google TV Streamer (4K) review for the hands-on detail, or open them in the interactive comparison.
Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) vs Google TV Streamer (4K): FAQ
Which is better, the Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) or the Google TV Streamer (4K)?
They're effectively tied on our bench (4.5 vs 4.4/5). The Google TV Streamer (4K) wins on value at $99. Pick based on the spec differences and which ecosystem you prefer.
Is the Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) worth the extra $30 over the Google TV Streamer (4K)?
Yes if you want the higher-rated box: the Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) scores 4.5 vs 4.4. Otherwise the Google TV Streamer (4K) covers the basics for less.