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Streaming Devices · Head to head

Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen, Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB) vs Apple TV 4K (4th generation)

Full Streaming Devices comparison in 2026

Updated November 2026
Data from the official Apple site.
2026 verdict
Between Apple TV 4K (4th generation) and Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen, Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB), Apple TV 4K (4th generation) is the better overall pick in 2026, leading on connectivity.
Apple TV 4K (4th generation)
Winner
Apple TV 4K (4th generation)
$299.00
Buy on Amazon USA
The comparison tilts its way because of connectivity, with its broader overall balance keeping it in front. You should still consider Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen, Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB) if its specific feature mix matters more than raw overall balance. That is enough to make Apple TV 4K (4th generation) the better pick for most buyers.
Works with
Connectivity
vs
Works with
Connectivity
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FeatureApple TV 4K (3rd Gen, Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB)Apple TV 4K (4th generation)Winner
Connectivity2.4 GHz WiFi, 5 GHz WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth2.4 GHz WiFi, 5 GHz WiFi, 6 GHz WiFi, Ethernet, BluetoothApple TV 4K (4th generation)
Remote FinderYES (via iPhone)YES (Find My)Tie
Warranty1 year1 yearTie
Audio & VideoHDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG, Dolby AtmosHDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG, Dolby AtmosTie
IntegrationsApple HomeKit, Home AssistantApple HomeKit, Home AssistantTie
Smart Home HubMatter Controller, Thread Border RouterMatter Controller, Thread Border RouterTie
CastingAirPlayAirPlayTie
Voice AssistantSiriSiriTie

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better overall: Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen, Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB) or Apple TV 4K (4th generation)?

Apple TV 4K (4th generation) has the stronger overall profile in this comparison, especially for connectivity.

What is the biggest difference between Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen, Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB) and Apple TV 4K (4th generation)?

Connectivity is one of the clearest differences: Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen, Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB) lists 2.4 GHz WiFi, 5 GHz WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, while Apple TV 4K (4th generation) lists 2.4 GHz WiFi, 5 GHz WiFi, 6 GHz WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth.

Who should buy Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen, Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB)?

Choose Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen, Wi-Fi + Ethernet 128GB) if your priority is its specific strengths and that matters more than connectivity.

Who should buy Apple TV 4K (4th generation)?

Choose Apple TV 4K (4th generation) if your priority is connectivity and that matters more than the competing advantages.

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