Apple TV 4K vs. Google TV Streamer – Buying Guide: All the Differences Compared
Google this week announced the Google TV Streamer as a replacement for Chromecast, aiming to compete directly with the Apple TV 4K. So how do the two devices compare?
Fundamentally, the Google TV Streamer is designed with a focus on deep integration into the Google ecosystem, including services like Google Photos, YouTube, and Google Assistant. It is also positioned as a smart home hub and supports Matter and Thread protocols to control a wide range of smart home devices.
In contrast, the Apple TV 4K is deeply embedded in Apple’s ecosystem, offering access to services like Apple Arcade and Apple Music, as well as support for features like HomeKit and AirPlay. Its compact, black puck design means it blends effortlessly into most home entertainment setups, while also offering powerful performance with the A15 Bionic chip.
While both devices support 4K resolution and enhanced HDR formats, they differ in their storage options, connectivity features, and additional functionality. The Google TV streamer puts an emphasis on an AI-powered user experience with personalized content recommendations and generative AI screensavers, while the Apple TV 4K offers ecosystem benefits like Apple Arcade and Fitness+ for a more integrated Apple experience. All the key differences between the two devices are listed below:
| Google TV Streamer | “AppleTV” 4K |
|---|---|
| Designed to be placed in front of the TV, with an eye-catching design that blends into the interior | Compact black puck design that can be easily hidden or integrated into a home entertainment system |
| 6.4″x3.0″x1.0″ | 3.66″x3.66″x1.2″ |
| Weighs 5.7 ounces | Weighs 7.3 ounces (Wi-Fi) Weighs 7.5 ounces (Wi-Fi + Ethernet) |
| Google TV (Android TV) | tvOS |
| Google Assistant | Siri |
| Google Home, Thread and Matter | HomeKit, Thread (Wi-Fi + Ethernet) and Matter |
| SDR video, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG | SDR video, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG, HEVC, H.264, MPEG-4, HDMI Quick Media Switching |
| Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos | HE-AAC, AAC, Protected AAC, MP3, Apple Lossless, FLAC, AIFF, WAV, AC-3 Dolby Digital 5.1, E-AC-3 Dolby Digital Plus 7.1, Dolby Atmos |
| Summarizes content from various streaming services and presents personalized recommendations | The Apple TV app combines content from various services and offers a unified watch list |
| AI-powered content suggestions and generative AI screensavers | |
| Deep integration with Google services such as Google Photos, YouTube and Google Assistant. Supports casting from Android devices | Deep integration with the Apple ecosystem, including Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, Apple Music and AirPlay for casting from iOS devices |
| Improved processor, 22% faster than previous Chromecast | A15 Bionic Chip |
| HDMI 2.1, Bluetooth 5.1, Gigabit Ethernet, Thread, USB-C | HDMI 2.1, Bluetooth 5.0, Infrared, Gigabit Ethernet (Wi-Fi + Ethernet), Thread (Wi-Fi + Ethernet) |
| 32GB storage | 64 GB storage (Wi-Fi) 128 GB storage (Wi-Fi + Ethernet) |
| Support for external storage and flash drives | |
| Voice remote control with customizable button, textured back and remote finder | Siri remote control with touch surface, front volume control and remote finder |
| Available in hazelnut (exclusive to Google Store) and porcelain | Only available in black |
| 99,99 € | $129 (Wi-Fi) $149 (Wi-Fi + Ethernet) |
| Released on September 24, 2024 | Published on 4 November 2022 |
Choosing between the Google TV Streamer and the Apple TV 4K ultimately depends on your specific needs and the ecosystem you’re already invested in. For those who are deeply integrated into the Google ecosystem, the Google TV Streamer is clearly the best choice. It’s designed to work seamlessly with Google services like Google Photos, YouTube, and Google Assistant, making it ideal for users who rely on those platforms. It also supports playback from external storage devices. The device’s support for the Matter and Thread protocols also makes it a strong contender for those with a smart home setup. Additionally, its AI-powered content recommendations and generative AI screensavers offer a personalized and modern user experience.
On the other hand, the Apple TV 4K is perfect for users who are heavily entrenched in the Apple ecosystem. With seamless access to Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, Apple Music, FaceTime, and AirPlay, this device is tailored to those who use Apple devices and services. The A15 Bionic chip ensures excellent performance, making it suitable for users who need a particularly robust device for streaming and light gaming. The compact design of the Apple TV 4K allows it to be discreetly inserted into any home entertainment setup, and its integration with HomeKit, Matter, and Thread makes it a great choice for anyone who wants to manage their smart home devices through the Apple ecosystem.
Each device has unique strengths that meet slightly different user needs depending on the ecosystem. If your main concern is deep integration with Google services and a focus on smart home connectivity, the Google TV streamer is the right choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a device that offers powerful performance and extensive access to Apple services, the Apple TV 4K is the best choice.
