Apple TV 4K 3rd Gen Review: 9.0/10 - The Most Powerful Streamer
Overview
The Apple TV 4K 3rd generation, released in November 2022, is Apple’s most capable streaming box, powered by the same A15 Bionic chip found in the iPhone 13. Starting at $129 for the 64 GB Wi-Fi model, it delivers buttery-smooth 4K HDR streaming with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos. The redesigned Siri Remote now charges over USB-C, and Thread and Matter support position it as a smart home hub for HomeKit accessories.
Performance
The A15 Bionic chip with a 5-core GPU makes the Apple TV 4K the most powerful streaming box on the market, resulting in instant app launches, silky-smooth 60 fps UI navigation, and no buffering even when scrubbing through 4K HDR content. The HDMI 2.1 port supports 4K at 60 fps with Dolby Vision and QMS (Quick Media Switching) that eliminates the blank screen when switching between different frame rate and HDR formats. Gaming performance via Apple Arcade is genuinely impressive, with titles like Resident Evil Village running well through the A15’s GPU.
Video and Audio Quality
The Apple TV 4K supports every major HDR format including Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG, making it the most format-compatible streamer available. The A15’s video decoder handles high-bitrate content effortlessly, and the color accuracy is reference-grade with proper chroma sampling. Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital 5.1, and Dolby Digital Plus passthrough deliver immersive audio when connected to compatible sound systems through HDMI eARC.
Siri Remote
The third-generation Siri Remote replaces the Lightning port with USB-C and retains the clickpad with touch surface, mute button, and dedicated power button for TV and volume controls. The clickpad is more responsive than the previous generation with improved gesture recognition, and the ring-shaped navigation is intuitive for scrubbing through content. Siri integration works well for searching across multiple streaming services, controlling smart home devices, and launching specific shows with voice commands.
tvOS and Ecosystem
tvOS remains the most polished streaming platform, offering a unified Up Next queue that aggregates content from every installed streaming service into a single watchlist. The TV app curates recommendations across your subscriptions, and the Screensaver library of 4K HDR aerial footage is genuinely beautiful. The App Store offers more games and utility apps than competing platforms, though some streaming services like Amazon Prime Video have historically received updates later on tvOS than on Roku.
Smart Home Hub
The Apple TV 4K functions as a Thread border router and HomeKit hub, enabling remote access to smart home accessories, automation routines, and secure video streaming from HomeKit cameras. The Matter smart home standard support ensures compatibility with accessories from any manufacturer regardless of platform. This dual functionality makes the Apple TV 4K the best choice for users already invested in the Apple ecosystem.
Verdict
The Apple TV 4K 3rd Gen earns a 9.0 out of 10, delivering the best overall streaming experience available. The A15 Bionic chip provides unmatched performance, the format support is comprehensive with HDR10+ joining Dolby Vision, and tvOS remains the most polished and thoughtfully designed streaming platform. The high price relative to streaming sticks and the lack of Dolby Atmos support via the HDMI input passthrough keep it from a perfect score, but for Apple users and quality-focused streamers, it is the definitive choice.
Where to Buy
Looking for the best deal on an Apple TV 4K 3rd Gen? Check current prices and available listings on eBay to find new, open-box, and certified refurbished units at competitive prices.
How We Rate Products
Every product on ComfyTechCheck is scored on a 1 to 10 scale based on a structured evaluation framework. We assess products across five core criteria:
- Performance (30% weight): Speed, responsiveness, and real-world capability in its category.
- Build & Design (20% weight): Material quality, ergonomics, and aesthetic appeal.
- Features (20% weight): Breadth and usefulness of included functionality.
- Value (20% weight): Price-to-performance ratio relative to direct competitors.
- Battery Life or Reliability (10% weight): Endurance testing for portable devices, or long-term dependability for stationary gear.
Scores are assigned by our editorial team after hands-on testing or extensive research using verified user reports, expert analysis, and technical specifications. The weighted average produces the final rating you see on each review. This methodology is inspired by established consumer review standards from organizations such as Consumer Reports and Which?, adapted for the tech product categories we cover.
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