When navigating the world of streaming devices, the Apple TV 4K undeniably sits at the pinnacle. This latest Apple TV iteration boasts an Apple-designed A15 Bionic chip, delivering swift performance, and offers support for stunning 4K Dolby Vision and HDR10+ content. High-fidelity audio enthusiasts will appreciate its Dolby Atmos support. Additionally, the upgraded Siri Remote with tactile buttons replaced the previous, much-maligned touch-sensitive panel, enhancing user experience. However, there's a new contender on the horizon from Google.
Google's new offering boasts a sleek new design in porcelain and hazel colors—a significant aesthetic upgrade. There's more than aesthetic overhaul here; this device ditches the traditional dongle design to include a Thread border router and support for Matter smart home devices. Under the hood, Google has upped the ante with a chipset offering 22% more processing power and twice the RAM compared to the Chromecast with Google TV, ensuring a fluid user experience. Nevertheless, for gaming enthusiasts, the Apple TV 4K still holds the lead in performance.
On the hardware front, around the back of the device, Google provides HDMI 2.1a, gigabit Ethernet for buffer-free streaming, and USB-C power delivery. While Apple utilizes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, Google's reliance on Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1 may seem slightly dated, though adequate for Chromecast streaming tasks.
Google has also integrated its new Gemini AI, providing show summaries and user reviews, thereby helping users avoid the pitfall of selecting subpar series. The generative ambient mode screensavers are a thoughtful touch. Additionally, Google's remote control has undergone a revamp; volume buttons are now on the front, avoiding awkward fumbling. It also features a customizable button, defaulting to the Google Home panel. For the forgetful, a nifty button on the back of the streamer makes the remote beep until located.
The Google TV Streamer is set to launch in the US on September 24th for $100. Information on global availability remains forthcoming. Yet, how does it stack up against the Apple TV 4K?
Google TV Streamer vs Apple TV 4K
Google’s device comes in at a budget-friendly $100, while the Apple TV 4K is priced at $179. If budget constraints are top of mind, Google takes the lead. Both support 4K HDR content and Dolby Vision, ensuring excellent picture quality.
In terms of design, both devices are aesthetically pleasing. However, Google's porcelain and hazel color options might edge out if you seek a set-top box that blends seamlessly with modern decor. On the processing front, Google's new chipset offers 22% more power compared to its predecessor, whereas Apple TV 4K's A15 Bionic chip still reigns supreme, particularly for gaming applications.
Connectivity-wise, the Google TV Streamer features HDMI 2.1a and gigabit Ethernet, whereas the Apple TV 4K also includes HDMI 2.1 but ups the ante with Wi-Fi 6. Despite Google's use of Bluetooth 5.1, which seems ancient against Apple's Bluetooth 5.0, it remains effective for standard streaming needs.
For smart home enthusiasts, Google TV Streamer excels with its Thread border router and Matter support. Though Apple TV 4K offers HomeKit and acts as a Matter hub, Google's integration feels more advanced, especially with the Gemini AI offering show recommendations and smart home control on screen.
Google’s revamped remote with a customizable button and front-facing volume controls enhances user convenience. Apple’s remote, with its Siri integration and touchpad, is also a strong contender. However, the ability of the Google remote to beep when lost is a simple yet brilliant feature that users have long desired from Apple.
