Google has unveiled its new TV Streamer, a device that aims to compete in the high-end streaming market. However, a closer look at its specifications reveals both strengths and limitations compared to Apple's TV 4K.
Hardware Specifications
The Google TV Streamer is powered by the MediaTek MT8696 chipset, the same one used in Amazon's 2021 Fire TV Stick 4K Max. While this represents a significant upgrade from the Chromecast with Google TV, it falls short of the Apple TV 4K's A15 Bionic chip.
Key specs include:
- 4GB of RAM (double that of the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max)
- 32GB of internal storage
- Wi-Fi 5 support (802.11ac)
- Bluetooth 5.1
- Gigabit Ethernet port
Performance and Capabilities
For basic streaming and smart home control, the Google TV Streamer should perform admirably. It can handle 4K video decoding and deliver a smooth user experience for most entertainment needs.
However, the Apple TV 4K's more powerful chip enables advanced features like:
- Machine learning-powered dialog enhancement
- Live captions
- Spatial Audio streaming over AirPlay
Pricing and Value
At $99, the Google TV Streamer isn't cheap, especially considering the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max offered similar internals at half the price. The value proposition will depend on how much users prioritize the Google TV interface and ecosystem.
Storage Expansion: A Key Advantage
One area where the Google TV Streamer shines is its support for external storage. Users can connect USB drives via the USB-C port (with a hub), allowing for significant storage expansion beyond the built-in 32GB. This feature is notably absent on the Apple TV 4K.
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| The Google TV Streamer offers external storage options for users, enhancing its setup flexibility in a modern living space |
Conclusion
The Google TV Streamer is a capable device for those invested in the Google ecosystem. While it can't match the raw power and some advanced features of the Apple TV 4K, its external storage support and competitive specs make it a worthy contender in the high-end streaming market. Consumers will need to weigh their priorities in terms of ecosystem, performance needs, and expandability when choosing between these devices.