The 3rd-generation Apple TV 4k released November 4th, 2022 ships in two different storage configurations: 64GB and 128GB. That’s a big change from previous models that only offered 32GB and 64GB capacity. However, only the 128GB model supports Gigabit Ethernet, as the 64GB model does not come with an Ethernet port.
Another technical spec that stands out between the two models is the ability of the 128GB to support the Matter home connectivity standard with Thread networking support. The 64GB does not.
And one more major change is the Siri remote which is now USB-C powered (previously using a Lightning connector). The change is because of the EU ruling that goes into effect in fall 2024 thereby requiring devices like smartphones and tablets to have common charging ports. You can still, however, purchase a Siri remote separately.
The 3rd-generation model supports HDR10+ out of the box, along with Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG. Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 and Dolby Atmos, like the previous 4k models, are also supported.
In terms of the design, the 3rd-generation Apple TV 4K is slightly smaller at 1.2” x 3.66” x 3.66” vs. 1.4” x 3.9” x 3.9”. And, it’s much lighter at 7.5 ounces vs. 15 ounces. Notably, the “TV” is missing from the new 3rd-generation model, sporting just the Apple logo like many other devices such as Macbooks.
The Apple TV 4k 3rd-generation is priced much lower than the 1st and 2nd-generation models. The 3rd-gen media player is listed at $129 (64GB) and $149 (128GB) US dollars.
Apple TV 4K 2nd-Gen (2021) vs. Apple TV 4K 3rd-Gen (2022)
Spec Comparison
| Apple TV 4K (2nd-Gen 2021) | Apple TV 4K (3rd-Gen 2022) | |
| Video | 2160p (60fps) w/HDR (Dolby Vision & HDR10/HDR10+ & HLG) |
2160p (60fps) w/HDR (Dolby Vision & HDR10/HDR10+ & HLG) |
| Framerate | 4K HDR 60fps | 4K HDR 60fps |
| Audio | Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 / Atmos | Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 / Atmos |
| Audio Sharing | Up to two AirPods | Up to two AirPods (TBC) |
| Processor | A12 Bionic chip w/64-bit architecture) | A15 Bionic |
| Memory | 2GB | 2GB (TBC) |
| Storage | 32GB / 64GB | 64GB / 128GB |
| Ports/Network | HDMI 2.1, Gigabit Ethernet, 10/100BASE-T Ethernet, IR receiver, Bluetooth 5.0, USB‑C, Thread (IPv6-based) | HDMI 2.1, Gigabit Ethernet (128GB only), 10/100BASE-T Ethernet (128GB only), IR receiver, Bluetooth 5.0, USB‑C, Thread (IPv6-based) (128GB only) |
| HDMI | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6 with MIMO; simultaneous dual band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) | 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6 with 2×2 MIMO; simultaneous dual band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) |
| Ethernet | Gigabit | Gigabit (128GB model only) |
| Home Connectivity | No | Thread networking support |
| Third Party Controllers | Yes | Yes |
| Gaming Support | Yes | Yes |
| Siri Remote Bluetooth | Yes, 5.0 | Yes, 5.0 |
| Siri Remote Buttons | Touch clickpad/jog wheel, Power, Mute, TV/Home, Play/Pause, Back, Volume, Siri (on side) | Touch clickpad/jog wheel, Power, Mute, TV/Home, Play/Pause, Back, Volume, Siri (on side) |
| Operating System | tvOS 14.0 | tvOS 16.0 |
| Dimensions | 1.4” x 3.9” x 3.9” | 1.2” (31mm) x 3.66” (93mm) x 3.66” (93mm) |
| Weight | 15 ounces | 7.34 oz (64GB) 7.5 oz (128GB) |
| Price | $179 (32GB) $199 (64GB) | $129 (64GB) $149 (128GB) |
Comparison chart Copyright 2022 by HD Report. Please include a link back and/or credit to HD Report for usage.