Thinking about upgrading your home theater experience? If you’re an Apple enthusiast, the question of whether to dive into the latest Apple TV 2021 or stick with your trusty 2017 model might be on your mind.
The tech landscape moves fast, and a few years can bring significant improvements to streaming devices. We’re here to break down the key differences between the Apple TV 2021 and its 2017 predecessor.
From processing power and connectivity to smart home integration and the all-new Siri Remote, discover what sets these two generations apart. Is the newer model a worthy successor, or does the 2017 version still hold its own?
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Apple TV 2021 | Apple TV 2017 |
|---|---|---|
| Chipset | A12 Bionic | A10X Fusion |
| Storage Options | 32GB, 64GB | 32GB, 64GB |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| HDMI Output | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.0 |
| Dolby Vision Support | Yes | Yes |
| Dolby Atmos Support | Yes | Yes |
| Siri Remote | New design with clickpad | Older design with touch surface |
| Thread Networking Support | Yes | No |
| Video Upscaling | Improved | Standard |
| App Store Access | Yes | Yes |
| 4K HDR Playback | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor & Performance
- Apple TV 2021: Features the A12 Bionic chip, offering a significant leap in processing power. This results in smoother navigation, faster app loading, and better handling of demanding games and high-resolution video playback. It’s a substantial upgrade for a more responsive experience.
- 2017: Uses the A10X Fusion chip, which was powerful for its time but now shows its age. While still capable for basic streaming, it can exhibit occasional slowdowns with more complex tasks or newer apps.
- Winner: apple tv 2021
Remote Control (Siri Remote)
- Apple TV 2021: Introduces a redesigned Siri Remote with a new clickpad, touch-enabled surface, and a dedicated power button. The aluminum construction feels premium, and the intuitive controls make navigation a breeze.
- 2017: Features the original Siri Remote with a glass touch surface and a voice command button. While functional, the touch surface could sometimes be overly sensitive or difficult to control precisely, and the lack of a dedicated power button was a minor inconvenience.
- Winner: apple tv 2021
Connectivity (Wi-Fi & Ethernet)
- Apple TV 2021: Supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for faster and more reliable wireless connections. It also includes Gigabit Ethernet for a stable wired connection, ensuring smooth streaming even for high-bandwidth content.
- 2017: Supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac and has a 10/100Mbps Ethernet port. While sufficient for most streaming, Wi-Fi 6 offers a notable improvement in speed and efficiency, and Gigabit Ethernet is faster for wired connections.
- Winner: apple tv 2021
Video & Audio Support
- Apple TV 2021: Offers support for 4K HDR (Dolby Vision and HDR10+), alongside Dolby Atmos spatial audio. This delivers a cinematic viewing and listening experience with vibrant colors and immersive sound.
- 2017: Supports 4K HDR (Dolby Vision and HDR10) and Dolby Atmos. It provides excellent picture and sound quality, but the newer model’s inclusion of HDR10+ offers broader HDR compatibility.
- Winner: apple tv 2021
Storage Options
- Apple TV 2021: Comes with 32GB or 64GB of internal storage. This provides ample space for apps, games, and downloaded content, reducing the need for frequent app deletions.
- 2017: Typically offered with 32GB or 64GB of storage, similar to the newer model. For most users, this was adequate, but the larger option was always preferred for extensive app libraries.
- Winner: Tie
Design & Form Factor
- Apple TV 2021: Maintains the familiar compact, black puck design. The inclusion of a threaded mounting hole on the bottom is a subtle but useful addition for easier mounting.
- 2017: Shares the same iconic black puck design. It’s unobtrusive and easily fits into any entertainment setup.
- Winner: Tie
Smart Home Integration (HomeKit)
- Apple TV 2021: Acts as a HomeKit hub, allowing you to control smart home accessories remotely and automate routines. This enhances its utility beyond just entertainment.
- 2017: Also functions as a HomeKit hub, enabling similar smart home control capabilities. This feature was present in the older model and remains a strong point.
- Winner: Tie
Price & Value
- Apple TV 2021: Launched at a higher price point due to its advanced features and newer technology. While offering superior performance, its cost might be a barrier for some.
- 2017: Is now available at a significantly lower price, often found refurbished or on sale. It represents a more budget-friendly option for 4K streaming.
- Winner: 2017
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | Apple TV 2021 |
| Connectivity | Apple TV 2021 |
| Smart Home Integration | Apple TV 2021 |
| Remote Control | Apple TV 2021 |
| Value (for basic streaming) | 2017 Apple TV |
| Feature Set | Apple TV 2021 |
What They Have in Common
- 4K Hdr Playback: Both devices are capable of streaming content in stunning 4K resolution with High Dynamic Range (HDR) for vibrant colors and deeper contrasts.
- Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos: Enthusiasts of immersive audio-visual experiences will appreciate that both the 2021 and 2017 models support Dolby Vision for enhanced picture quality and Dolby Atmos for three-dimensional sound.
- App Ecosystem: Access to the Apple TV App Store is a shared feature, providing a vast library of streaming services, games, and other applications for entertainment and utility.
- Sleek Design: Both generations maintain Apple’s signature minimalist aesthetic, fitting discreetly into any home entertainment setup.
- User-Friendly Interface: The tvOS operating system on both devices offers an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it simple to find and play content.
- Airplay 2 Support: Users can seamlessly stream content from their Apple devices to either Apple TV model using AirPlay 2.
Apple TV 2021 Vs 2017 Buying Guide
Performance and Processing Power
The Apple TV 4K (2021) boasts a significant leap in performance thanks to its A12 Bionic chip. This translates to smoother navigation, faster app loading times, and more responsive gaming experiences. The 2017 model, while capable, uses an older A10X Fusion chip, which can feel a bit sluggish by today’s standards, especially with demanding applications or high-resolution content. For users who prioritize speed and future-proofing, the 2021 model is the clear winner. (See Also: Nest Cam Vs Ring )
Video and Audio Quality
Both devices support 4K HDR content, but the 2021 Apple TV 4K introduces support for high frame rate HDR and Dolby Vision at 60fps. This results in incredibly fluid motion for sports and fast-paced action, with enhanced detail and color vibrancy. The 2017 model, while still excellent for standard HDR, lacks these advanced capabilities. If you’re looking for the absolute best in visual and auditory fidelity, the 2021 model excels.
Connectivity and Features
The 2021 Apple TV 4K includes Wi-Fi 6 support for faster and more reliable wireless streaming, along with a new Siri Remote that features a redesigned, touch-enabled clickpad and a dedicated power button. The 2017 model uses older Wi-Fi standards and the original Siri Remote, which some users found less intuitive. The inclusion of Thread networking support in the 2021 model also positions it as a more capable smart home hub.
Smart Home Integration and Future-Proofing
The 2021 Apple TV 4K is designed with the future in mind, integrating Thread networking support for enhanced smart home device connectivity. This makes it a more robust central hub for your smart home ecosystem. While the 2017 model can still control HomeKit devices, its lack of Thread and its older processor make it less future-proof for evolving smart home technologies and demands. The 2021 model offers a more integrated and forward-thinking smart home experience. (See Also: Lose It Vs Weight Watchers )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Apple TV 2021 If…
- You want the absolute latest in processing power for smoother app performance and gaming.
- You’re looking for the best possible Wi-Fi connectivity with Wi-Fi 6 support.
- You’re interested in future-proofing your smart home setup with Thread networking support.
- You desire the updated Siri Remote with its more tactile clickpad.
Buy 2017 If…
- Your primary need is a reliable 4K HDR streaming device and you’re on a tighter budget.
- You don’t require the absolute fastest processor or the latest Wi-Fi standard.
- The current Siri Remote’s touch surface is perfectly adequate for your needs.
- You already own a 2017 model and are not experiencing significant performance issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2021 Apple TV 4K worth the upgrade from the 2017 model?
For many users, yes. The significant performance boost from the A12 Bionic chip, along with support for high frame rate HDR, Wi-Fi 6, and the improved Siri Remote, offers a noticeably better user experience. If you’re a heavy streamer, gamer, or have a high-end display, the improvements are quite substantial and enhance immersion.
Does the 2021 Apple TV 4K offer better gaming performance?
Absolutely. The A12 Bionic chip in the 2021 model provides a substantial performance advantage for gaming compared to the A10X Fusion in the 2017 model. This means smoother frame rates, more complex graphics, and a generally more responsive and enjoyable gaming experience on Apple Arcade and other compatible titles.
What’s new with the Siri Remote on the 2021 Apple TV 4K?
The new Siri Remote for the 2021 model features a redesigned aluminum construction with a touch-enabled clickpad for intuitive navigation. It also includes dedicated buttons for power, Siri, and playback control, making it more versatile and easier to use. The inclusion of a dedicated power button is a welcome addition for controlling your TV. (See Also: Bose Quiet Comfort Vs Airpods Pro )
Can I still use my old Siri Remote with the 2021 Apple TV 4K?
Yes, the 2021 Apple TV 4K is backward compatible and can be used with the original Siri Remote from the 2017 model. However, you’ll miss out on the improved design, touch controls, and the dedicated power button of the newer remote. For the best experience, the new remote is recommended.
Is the 2021 Apple TV 4K better for sports viewing?
Yes, the 2021 Apple TV 4K’s support for high frame rate HDR (up to 60fps) makes it significantly better for watching sports. This feature reduces motion blur and provides incredibly smooth visuals, making fast-paced action appear more lifelike and detailed, which is a substantial upgrade for sports enthusiasts.
Final Verdict
The Apple TV 4K (2021) represents a significant upgrade over the 2017 model, offering a more powerful processor, advanced HDR capabilities, faster Wi-Fi, and an improved Siri Remote. While the 2017 model remains a competent device, the 2021 version provides a smoother, more immersive, and future-proofed entertainment and smart home experience.
Winner: Apple TV 4K (2021)