Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) vs Google TV Streamer (4K)
Which should you buy? · Updated June 2026
Short answer: If you're choosing between the Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) and the Google TV Streamer (4K), the Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) scores higher on our bench (4.5 vs 4.4), so it's our overall pick of the two. The Google TV Streamer (4K) is the value pick: it is $30 cheaper. Here's how they compare spec by spec.
| Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) | Google TV Streamer (4K) | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 4.5 | 4.4 |
| Price | $129 | $99 |
| Released | 2022 | 2024 |
| Chipset | Apple A15 Bionic | MediaTek MT8696 |
| RAM | 4 GB | 4 GB |
| Storage | 64 / 128 GB | 32 GB |
| OS | tvOS | Google TV (Android TV 14) |
| Max output | 4K @ 60fps | 4K @ 60fps |
| HDR | Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG | Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HLG |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Atmos |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, Ethernet (128GB), Thread | Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, Ethernet, Thread / Matter |
| Ports | HDMI 2.1, Gigabit Ethernet (128GB) | HDMI 2.1, Gigabit Ethernet, USB-C (power) |
| Remote | Siri Remote (2nd gen, USB-C) | Voice remote with finder button |
Where the Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) wins
- Storage: 64 / 128 GB
Where the Google TV Streamer (4K) wins
- Price: $99
- Released: 2024
The Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) is the better all-rounder at 4.5/5. If you're watching the budget, the Google TV Streamer (4K) saves you $30 and covers the essentials. Read the full Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) review or Google TV Streamer (4K) review for the hands-on detail, or open them in the interactive comparison.
Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) vs Google TV Streamer (4K): FAQ
Which is better, the Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) or the Google TV Streamer (4K)?
The Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) rates higher (4.5 vs 4.4/5) and is our overall pick. But the Google TV Streamer (4K) costs $30 less, so it's the better value if budget matters most.
Is the Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) worth the extra $30 over the Google TV Streamer (4K)?
Yes if you want the higher-rated box: the Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) scores 4.5 vs 4.4. Otherwise the Google TV Streamer (4K) covers the basics for less.