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While many streaming devices are in the market, few provide a premium experience like the Apple TV. Apple’s offering to the streaming world shares the same easy-to-use user interface as their phones, laptops, and tablets. You can couple that with their extensive support of additional apps easily added to the Apple TV through your iCloud account. Like many Apple products, there are multiple different Apple TV options.
Of the differing Apple TV models, which is the best? A thorough look at each device’s specs and features should help you choose your next streaming device. Subtle differences exist between the Apple TV 32GB and 64GB, and with the help of this guide should help you make an informed decision on your next streaming device.
Apple TV 32 GB vs Apple TV 64 GB: Side-By-Side Comparison
Apple TV 32 GB | ||
---|---|---|
Feature | ||
Storage | 32 GB | 64 GB |
Max resolution supported | 4K or 2160p | 4K or 2160p |
Dolby Atmos | Yes | Yes |
Voice Control | Siri | Siri |
CPU | Apple A12 | Apple A12 |
Wi-Fi Supported | 802.11ax | 802.11ax |
Bluetooth Protocol | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
Ethernet Port | No | Yes |
Apple TV 32 GB vs Apple TV 64 GB: What’s The Difference?
Both Apple TV models share a lot in common. Only minor differences can be drawn from each, as they feature the same CPU and core features.
Price
It should be no surprise, but the Apple TV 32 GB is the cheaper model. It obviously has less storage but is identical in terms of performance and features. Price should play an active consideration in your purchase. A cheaper device is perfectly adequate, especially for streaming. A lot of the factors one might consider when purchasing a Blu-Ray player for example, are less prevalent in a streaming device. Part of this is down to the nature of streaming media versus physical media. After all, if you’re streaming your films and music, the quality of the physical playback interfaces isn’t quite as vital.
The Apple TV 64 GB does present nice additional features, but for the price difference, it isn’t quite as pronounced as you would think. The 64 GB model is the ideal choice if you can afford to do so.
- Dolby Atmos for immersive, room-filling sound
- A12 Bionic chip gives a big boost to audio, video, and graphics, for even better game and app experiences
- 4K High Frame Rate HDR with Dolby Vision for fluid, crisp video
- Apple Original shows and movies from Apple TV+
- The latest hits from Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, and more
Features
There isn’t a lot to be said in terms of features. Apple TV is a flagship product for streaming and supports local media and streaming providers alike. Capability-wise, both models are identical. If you want to leverage more local media for your viewing, the 64 GB has more storage and can thus hold more files. If you’re looking to stream, the 32 GB is perfectly suited for the task.
Both models have 4K resolution support, HDR color, and Dolby Atmos sound. They are certainly up to the task if you’re running the devices in conjunction with a soundbar or surround sound system. Video playback on both devices was clear and crisp, and there was no noticeable difference when using the same film to test. The audio was likewise well delivered, and took full advantage of the sound system during testing.
Features aren’t as much of a consideration for the Apple TV models available; even the lowest model available is capable of stellar visual and audio playback. It comes down more to what your needs are for the device. More storage is always a great option, of course. That said, consider your media consumption and what suits your needs better.
Services Available
Apple TV has a wide variety of streaming providers for audio and visual services. Providers like Hulu, Prime Video, Netflix, YouTube, Showtime, and others have compatible playback. This also extends to popular apps like Overdrive and Libby, which some libraries provide for renting videos and audiobooks. Service parity is identical between 32 GB and 64 GB. So if you’re concerned about a lack of performance or available services, rest assured that both devices are up to the task of delivering your favorite streaming service.
Storage capacity
The largest difference is in the storage capacity of the device. The 32 GB model might be the perfect fit for users who consume most of their media through streaming. Users who are otherwise looking at having access to more local media should look closely at the 64 GB model.
- Dolby Atmos for immersive, room-filling sound
- A12 Bionic chip gives a big boost to audio, video, and graphics, for even better game and app experiences
- 4K High Frame Rate HDR with Dolby Vision for fluid, crisp video
- Apple Original shows and movies from Apple TV+
- The latest hits from Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, and more
Connectivity
Ethernet connectivity is only available on the Apple TV 64 GB, the 32 GB model only has the capability of using Wi-Fi. Services provided are identical and include Apple TV+, Spotify, Hulu, Netflix, Prime Video, and other major streaming providers with Apple compatibility.
802.11ax is supported among both models, meaning both are Wi-Fi 6 capable. Bluetooth functionality is based on protocol version 5.0. Where these models diverge is in ethernet connectivity. This isn’t a dealbreaker, as most users would likely be happier doing away with external cabling. For those looking to take advantage of the benefits of ethernet connectivity, it certainly makes the 64 GB model a more attractive option.
Performance and resolution
Both models support 4K resolution, so there are no major differences here. HDR support is available for 32 GB and 64 GB. Performance is essentially the same across the board for both models. Differences arise for the price, storage, and the inclusion of an ethernet port. While an ethernet port doesn’t seem like a dealbreaker for most, it does provide stable and fast upload and download rates for those looking to maximize their streaming experience.
Apple TV 32 GB vs 64 GB: Must-Know Facts
32 GB
- 4K compatible
- 32 GB of storage
- HDR compatible
- Dolby Atmos supported
64 GB
- 4K compatible
- 64 GB of storage
- HDR compatible
- Dolby Atmos supported
- Ethernet connectivity
Apple TV 32 GB vs Apple TV 64 GB: Which One is Better? Which One Should You Choose?
Shopping for a streaming device can be fairly difficult, considering the many options on the market today. This is especially true for devices with such strong similarities and feature parity, like these Apple TV models. So, which do you choose?
If you’re looking for a premium streaming experience, it’s hard to go wrong with either model of the Apple TV. While you might struggle with which one would fit your lifestyle better, the 32 GB model is more affordable and boasts the same sterling quality as its bigger sibling. If price isn’t an issue, the minor additional features and extra storage of the 64 GB model might tickle your fancy. Either choice is a wonderful choice, and you won’t be disappointed.
Last update on 2023-01-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API