How Heavy is an Apple TV? The Complete Weight and Size Guide
Deciding between streaming devices like Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and more can be challenging. One factor to consider is the physical size and weight of the device, especially if you have limited space for setup. Here is a comprehensive look at the weight, dimensions, and general size of Apple TV models to help inform your buying decision.
Apple TV Weight
The weight of an Apple TV varies depending on the specific model:
- Original Apple TV (1st gen): 0.6 lbs (272g)
- Apple TV 2: 0.9 lbs (408g)
- Apple TV 3: 0.9 lbs (425g)
- Apple TV 4: 0.9 lbs (425g)
- Apple TV 4K (1st gen): 1.1 lbs (639g)
- Apple TV 4K (2nd gen): 1.1 lbs (425g)
- Apple TV 4K (3rd gen): 0.8 lbs (207g – 214g depending on model)
As you can see, the most recent 3rd generation Apple TV 4K models are significantly lighter than earlier versions, weighing just over half a pound. The small size and weight makes positioning the Apple TV 4K discreet and flexible.
Apple TV Dimensions
In addition to weight, the physical dimensions of an Apple TV are important to consider:
- Original Apple TV: 7.7 x 7.7 x 1.1 inches
- Apple TV 2: 3.9 x 3.9 x 0.9 inches
- Apple TV 3: 3.9 x 3.9 x 0.9 inches
- Apple TV 4: 3.9 x 3.9 x 1.4 inches
- Apple TV 4K (1st gen): 3.9 x 3.9 x 1.4 inches
- Apple TV 4K (2nd gen): 3.9 x 3.9 x 1.4 inches
- Apple TV 4K (3rd gen): 3.6 x 3.6 x 1.1 inches
Again, the newest 3rd generation Apple TV 4K has the smallest footprint, making it easy to place out of sight behind a TV or on a shelf. The small size also makes the Apple TV portable to bring to different rooms.
Does Apple TV Need Line of Sight?
A common question about Apple TV setup is whether the device needs "line of sight" to work properly. Line of sight refers to having an unobstructed path between the Apple TV and its remote control.
Early generations of Apple TV relied on infrared (IR) signals for the remote. IR requires line of sight to function. However, starting with the 4th generation Apple TV and Siri remote, Apple switched to using Bluetooth and radio frequency (RF) for communication.
Bluetooth and RF do not require line of sight. This means you can place the Apple TV box anywhere out of sight, even inside a cabinet or enclosure, and the remote will still work properly. The Siri remote has a range of about 30 feet for controlling Apple TV.
So in summary – the Apple TV 1st and 2nd generation require line of sight due to using IR remotes. But 3rd generation Apple TV and later do not need line of sight thanks to Bluetooth/RF remotes. Place those models anywhere conveniently out of sight.
Apple TV Setup and Connections
To use Apple TV, you will need to connect it to your television along with power. Here are the ports and connections available on each Apple TV generation:
- 1st Gen: HDMI, Optical audio, USB 2.0, Ethernet
- 2nd Gen: HDMI, Optical audio, Micro USB, Ethernet
- 3rd Gen: HDMI 1.4, Optical audio, Micro USB, Ethernet
- 4th Gen: HDMI 2.0, USB-C, Ethernet, IR receiver
- Apple TV 4K (1st Gen): HDMI 2.0, Ethernet, IR receiver
- Apple TV 4K (2nd Gen): HDMI 2.1, USB-C, Ethernet, IR receiver
- Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen): HDMI 2.1, USB-C, Ethernet, Thread radio
As you can see, all models include an HDMI port to connect to your TV. Newer generations also have a high-speed HDMI 2.1 port for the best quality 4K/HDR video output. There is also always a wired ethernet networking port for the most reliable connectivity.
The USB and power ports are used for troubleshooting by Apple support or developers. You don‘t need them for regular use. Note the original 1st generation Apple TV has a hard drive inside that can be accessed over the USB port.
Apple TV setup is very straightforward – just connect the included HDMI cable between your TV and Apple TV, connect power, and follow the on-screen instructions. The initial setup will have you sign-in with your Apple ID and connect to your WiFi network.
Is Apple TV Worth the Price?
With a starting price of $129 for the Apple TV HD and $179 for the Apple TV 4K, Apple‘s streaming box is one of the more expensive options on the market. Is it worth paying extra compared to a Roku or Amazon Fire TV?
There are several benefits that help justify the higher Apple TV cost:
- Seamless integration – Apple TV seamlessly integrates with other Apple devices like iPhone, iPad, and Mac for features like AirPlay mirroring from your phone and continuity between devices.
- Powerful performance – The A15 Bionic chip provides a very responsive, lag-free interface compared to competing devices.
- Advanced connectivity – Apple TV supports the latest standards like HDMI 2.1, WiFi 6, and Thread smart home connectivity.
- Accessibility – tvOS and the Apple TV app offer many accessibility features for vision, hearing, and motor needs.
- Privacy – Apple TV does not track your usage data or serve personalized ads.
The Apple TV experience goes beyond just streaming video – it can also be used for music, podcasts, games, working out with Apple Fitness+, and controlling smart home devices. For customers invested in the Apple ecosystem, it is a versatile entertainment hub and controller for connected home technology.
Controlling Multiple Apple TVs
It is possible to control multiple Apple TVs in a home from a single device like an iPhone. You can switch the active connection using the Control Center on iPhone or iPad.
To set this up:
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Update all Apple TV and iOS/iPadOS devices to the latest version.
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On each Apple TV, go to Settings > AirPlay and HomeKit > Room. Name each Apple TV something unique like "Living Room" or "Bedroom".
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On your iOS/iPadOS device, open Control Center and long press on the screen mirroring icon. This will let you select which destination Apple TV to control.
The Siri remote is paired to a specific Apple TV, so it will not conflict. You can use AirPlay mirroring and the Control Center to seamlessly switch between Apple TV boxes.
This makes it convenient to control your home‘s Apple TVs from a single iPhone or iPad. No need for multiple remotes!
Can You Use Apple TV Without WiFi?
An internet connection is required for most Apple TV functionality beyond mirroring a device screen. However, there are a few things still possible without WiFi:
- Playback local video, audio, and photo files from a connected USB drive or hard drive
- Play games that do not require internet access
- Use apps that work offline like a calculator or weather app
- View photos stored in iCloud Photos offline
- Cast your iPhone, iPad or Mac screen to Apple TV using AirPlay without internet
But in general, a WiFi or wired ethernet connection is necessary to stream media, download new apps, play online games, control HomeKit devices, and use services like Apple Music. An active internet connection unlocks almost all of Apple TV‘s capabilities.
Apple TV Generations Comparison
There have been over 10 years and 7 generations of Apple TV models. Here is how the key specs and features stack up between each major Apple TV release:
Apple TV 1st Generation
- Release: 2007
- Resolution: Up to 720p HD
- Storage: 40GB or 160GB hard drive
- Ports: HDMI, Optical audio, USB 2.0, Ethernet
- Accessories: Aluminum Apple Remote
The original Apple TV pioneered digital media playback and rentals. It could sync iTunes content and stream YouTube and podcasts.
Apple TV 2nd Generation
- Release: 2010
- Resolution: Up to 720p HD
- Storage: 8GB flash storage
- Ports: HDMI, Optical audio, Micro USB, Ethernet
- Accessories: Aluminum Apple Remote
The 2nd gen Apple TV got smaller, switched to flash storage, and added support for iOS apps and AirPlay mirroring.
Apple TV 3rd Generation
- Release: 2012
- Resolution: Up to 1080p HD
- Storage: 8GB flash storage
- Ports: HDMI 1.4, Optical audio, Micro USB, Ethernet
- Accessories: Aluminum Apple Remote
Apple TV 3rd gen could play 1080p video and featured a redesigned user interface. The original Apple TV remote design lasted for the first 3 models.
Apple TV 4th Generation
- Release: 2015
- Resolution: Up to 1080p HD
- Storage: 32GB or 64GB
- Ports: HDMI 2.0, USB-C, Ethernet, IR receiver
- Accessories: Siri Remote, Gaming Controller
The 4th gen Apple TV introduced the touchpad-based Siri Remote, Siri voice control, an App Store for Apple TV, and a new operating system called tvOS.
Apple TV 4K 1st Generation
- Release: 2017
- Resolution: 4K HDR video
- Storage: 32GB or 64GB
- Ports: HDMI 2.0, Ethernet, IR receiver
- Accessories: Siri Remote, Gaming Controller
The first Apple TV 4K model added support for 4K resolutions and HDR video formats. It featured the same design and processor as the 4th gen 1080p model.
Apple TV 4K 2nd Generation
- Release: 2021
- Resolution: 4K HDR video with Dolby Vision
- Storage: 32GB or 64GB
- Ports: HDMI 2.1, USB-C, Ethernet, IR receiver
- Accessories: Siri Remote, Gaming Controller
Apple TV 4K 2nd gen upgraded to the faster A12 Bionic processor and WiFi 6. It also added support for high frame rate HDR (Dolby Vision) up to 60 fps.
Apple TV 4K 3rd Generation
- Release: 2022
- Resolution: 4K HDR10/Dolby Vision up to 60 fps
- Storage: 64GB or 128GB
- Ports: HDMI 2.1, Thread radio, Ethernet, USB-C
- Accessories: Siri Remote, Gaming Controller
The latest Apple TV 4K features the fast A15 Bionic chip, WiFi 6E, HDR10+ support, and Thread smart home connectivity. It comes with 64GB or 128GB of storage.
As you can see, Apple TV has evolved significantly over the past decade with support for 4K, HDR, Dolby Atmos audio, and much more. But it retains the core media playback, app experience, and AirPlay functionality that made it great originally.
Tips for Mounting Apple TV
Given its small size, Apple TV can be easily mounted behind a TV or display using one of several attachment accessories:
- 3M Command Strips – Easy peel and stick mounting squares, great for rental homes
- Mounting Tape – Double-sided tape rolls attach Apple TV to the back of a TV
- Wall Mounts – Brackets to mount Apple TV on the wall behind a display
- TV Brackets – Clips that attach Apple TV directly to the VESA holes on a TV
Consider the following when mounting an Apple TV:
- Mount near the bottom of the TV within range of a power outlet
- Position towards the edge for access to ports
- Angle ports downward to hide wires and prevent dust buildup
- Use cable ties to neatly organize wires and cables
- Leave space for ventilation and cooling around the Apple TV box
With Bluetooth remotes not needing line of sight, Apple TV can be placed out of sight. A mounted installation results in a clean media setup without any boxes visible.
Apple TV Accessories
To enhance your Apple TV experience, consider some of the following accessory products:
- Extra Siri Remote – Control Apple TV from multiple places like bed, couch, etc
- Remote Case – Protect the Siri remote from drops and scratches
- Gaming Controller – Play games on Apple Arcade with a gamepad like PS4/Xbox controller
- Wireless Keyboard – Easier text entry for searches, passwords, etc
- Headphones – Plug headphones into the remote for private listening
- HDMI cables – Higher quality HDMI cables for improved 4K HDR signal
Cases and protection accessories help prevent damage to the Siri remote, which costs $59 to replace. Controllers, keyboards, and headphones enhance the entertainment experience.
Investing in some accessories can improve quality of life when using your Apple TV daily. Browse Apple‘s online store for the full selection of Apple TV add-ons.
Summary
The small, lightweight Apple TV box can deliver a big entertainment experience as a streaming media player, smart home hub, and gaming console. Models range from 0.6 pounds for the 1st generation Apple TV up to just over 1 pound for older Apple TV 4K units.
But thanks to ditching IR remotes for Bluetooth, even the largest Apple TVs can be hidden out of sight without losing functionality. Consider which ports and features you need when choosing between Apple TV generations. The latest models support 4K, HDR, Dolby Atmos, and HomeKit connectivity for the full suite of Apple‘s innovations.
While carrying a higher price tag than competitors, Apple TV brings powerful performance from A-series processors, seamless Apple ecosystem integration, and excellent accessibility features. Review Apple TV dimensions and weights to find the right fit for your home entertainment setup.