The new Apple TV 4K (2021) has recently hit the market, and while it boasts a number of improvements from the previous model, the high price tag makes it difficult to justify. The revamped Siri remote is a welcome upgrade but does not outweigh the overall cost of the device.

Hardware and Performance

The 2021 Apple TV 4K is powered by the A12 Bionic chip, which gives it a significant boost in processing power and graphics capabilities when compared to its predecessor. This enables smoother video streaming and a more responsive gaming experience with Apple Arcade. The device supports high frame rate HDR and Dolby Vision, providing users with a truly immersive viewing experience.

New Siri Remote

One of the key selling points of this update is undoubtedly the redesigned Siri remote. The new remote swaps out the swipe-centric touchpad of its predecessor for a more familiar directional pad, which retroactively pays homage to Apple’s older iPod scroll wheel design. Meanwhile, buttons have been rearranged to make them more accessible, making for easier navigation without needing to constantly glance at the remote.

Using Siri as your virtual assistant on Apple TV is now easier than ever with dedicated voice control functionality that allows users to quickly search for content or control playback with ease. But is it enough to make up for the price?

Price and Value for Money

The biggest drawback for potential buyers is the steep cost that comes bundled with these improvements. The base 32GB model retails at $179, while the 64GB version comes in at $199. When compared to similar devices from competitors like Roku, Amazon, or Chromecast that offer streaming capabilities at significantly lower prices, it becomes clear that this latest iteration of Apple TV may not deliver enough value for its asking price.

Conclusion

The new Apple TV 4K (2021) certainly comes with features and improvements that make it a powerful streaming device. The new remote is a solid upgrade and will be well-received by those frustrated with the previous design. Nonetheless, the high price point makes it difficult for many potential buyers to jump on board, especially when there are more affordable alternatives available that offer similar performance.

While it may be a good fit for die-hard Apple fans or those who require the highest quality streaming experience without compromise, the updated Apple TV 4K risks alienating casual users who may not feel that the new remote and performance upgrades are enough to warrant its steep cost.