Can Apple 4K TV work on any TV? We explain how to get the best of streaming, even if you have an older set
Wondering if the Apple TV 4K streaming device will work with your TV? We have the answers


Streaming devices and smart TVs were just beginning to make an impact on the way we consume entertainment when Apple TV was first released in 2006. Despite the fact that the market has become increasingly crowded since then, Apple's streaming device has remained at the top due to its advanced features, sleek appearance, and regular updates as part of new releases.
Now, the Apple TV 4K is one of the best streaming devices out there, and it's popular with everyone from Apple devotees to those who just want the most enjoyable experience binging their shows and sitting down with their family on the weekend for movie night.
Still, streaming dongles and boxes are so popular because many of us don't want to replace older, non-smart televisions if we don't have to. So will the current Apple TV model work with your set? Read on to find out.
Are there any TVs that won't work with Apple TV 4K?
Almost all modern TVs work with the Apple TV 4K streaming device, but there are some exceptions. Firstly, your set needs an HDMI port above HDMI 1.2, as this is how you will connect it to the device. Anything older won't work.
Outside of this, there is no reason why your TV won't be compatible with Apple TV 4K, but some features will be limited for older models. For example, if your TV doesn't have support for 4K, HDR, or Dolby Vision, you won't be getting the most out of your new streaming box. You'll still be able to watch what you want, but it will be downscaled.
Do you need to use other Apple products?
The Apple TV 4K is a completely independent device that can be used with or without other Apple products. That said, Apple has always rewarded brand buy-in from its users, so you will get more out of your streaming if you're also using devices like the HomePod mini, an iPhone, or even AirPods.
AirPlay is the brand's answer to 'casting' content from your iPhone or iPad to the big screen, so if you like to start something on your phone and finish watching in the lounge, this will be an invaluable feature.
The use of Siri across your entire smart home could also boost Apple TV 4K's value, as switching between assistants can get tricky. If you don't already have Alexa or Google Assistant, consider purchasing one of the best smart speakers from Apple. Your remote will also have in-built Siri smarts.
One particular purchase we recommend if you're dead-set on the Apple TV 4K is an Apple TV+ subscription, as this will make the overall user experience much less frustrating. Apple has its own content it wants you to watch alongside your favorites on Prime Video, Netflix, and Hulu, and these will understandably be front and center on your home page. The same applies to Apple Music.
Does Apple make TVs?
You'd be forgiven for associating the term 'Apple TV' with a physical screen, but the company has never made good on rumors that it would release a TV of its own. Instead, the brand has fine-tuned its strategy with streaming devices that can be added to the user's own TV. This is more cost-effective for both Apple and the end-user, even if the Apple TV 4K is pricier than some other dongles and boxes.
After a short-lived interest in the 1990s and whispers that something could be coming around 2014, it's safe to say that Apple's streaming boxes are as far into the TV market as the company is willing to go.
Will the Apple TV 4K be suitable for your household?
Unless you have an ancient television without a modern HDMI connection, you should be fine with using the Apple TV 4K as part of your viewing set-up.
However, if your television doesn't support advanced features like 4K resolution, HDR, and Dolby Vision, you will struggle to get the most out of the streaming device. As one of the more expensive ways to get access to streaming apps like Netflix, HBO Max, and Prime Video, we would advise you to opt for something cheaper on an older television.
If that's not a problem, though, Apple's offering is among the best of the best, offering complete integration with its other smart home and mobile products, as well as its own streaming service full of more than a few Emmy and Oscar-winning titles.
Be The First To Know
The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.

Caroline is the smart home ecommerce editor for Livingetc, covering everything tech for the home, from smart speakers to air purifiers and everything in between. She is passionate about the role that technology and smart devices can play in daily life, enhancing the home without sacrificing personal style and carefully chosen interiors. In her spare time, she can be found tinkering with bulbs, soundbars, and video doorbells in an effort to automate every part of her small home. Previously, she lent her expertise to the likes of Expert Reviews, IT Pro, Coach, The Week, and more.
-
I've Trawled the Wayfair Christmas Decor Section to Find Surprisingly Luxe Festive Pieces - So You Don't Have To
It can feel a bit overwhelming to try and find your faves among all the Wayfair Christmas decor ... but only if you don't have Livingetc to steer your picks
By Brigid Kennedy Published
-
12 Minimalist Bookshelves - Quietly Understated Design For Calming Decor Schemes
Minimalist bookshelves are key to curating spaces that are filled with your favorite things - but displayed in calming ways. Here's our edit of the 12 best
By Brigid Kennedy Published
-
Apple's genius new trick makes it so easy to share passwords between iPhones
If you’re an all-iPhone household, sharing passwords just got easier. Here’s how to use Apple’s new password sharing feature
By Alan Martin Published
-
I lost my TV remote – how can I control my TV now?
There are plenty of options for people whose TV remotes have been lost or simply stopped working
By Alan Martin Published
-
How to add Apple TV as a HomeKit home hub - and why it's a good idea for your smart home
Your Apple TV box can be the center of your smart home. Here’s how to set it up as your HomeKit home hub
By Alan Martin Published
-
What are the options for an Apple HomeKit home hub? An expert's verdict on which is best
If you want to set up an Apple HomeKit home hub, you have three options — but one has a big drawback
By Alan Martin Published
-
How to turn your HomePod or HomePod mini into the ultimate speaker for your TV
Want your HomePod speaker to start pulling its weight? Here's how to use it as the ultimate audio booster for your TV.
By Caroline Preece Published
-
'Avoid the "soap opera" effect' – 4 tweaks you should make to your TV settings to improve your watching experience
You may want to get stuck into your shows immediately, but take a moment to calibrate your new TV for optimal performance
By Alan Martin Published
-
Do projectors use a lot of electricity? We find the answer and tell you how to save before your next get-together
Worried about how much your movie night is costing? We look at the electricity usage of the average projector and whether they're more efficient than TVs
By Caroline Preece Published
-
Can you use an Amazon Echo as a speaker for your TV? Yes, and it might just boost your sound quality
Your Amazon Echo speaker can offer a big improvement on your TV’s built-in sound. Here’s how to set it up
By Alan Martin Published