Apple TV 4K: second generation or third generation with Ethernet?
This comparison pairs the 2021 second-generation Apple TV 4K with the 128 GB 2022 third-generation model. Both selected devices have Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6. Storage differs: 32 or 64 GB on the second generation, versus 128 GB on the third-generation version selected here.
Apple TV 4K (2. Gen., 2021)
2021 · A2169
- System
- tvOS
- Ethernet
- Gigabit Ethernet built in
- Storage
- 32 or 64 GB
Apple TV 4K (3. Gen., Wi-Fi + Ethernet)
2022 · A2843
- System
- tvOS
- Ethernet
- Gigabit Ethernet built in
- Storage
- 128 GB
Which device is right for you?
If your second-generation Apple TV runs the tvOS apps you need, it already has LAN and Wi-Fi 6. A switch therefore needs another specific reason, such as insufficient capacity for your use. A higher generation number by itself does not show better streaming.
Second generation: make use of the features you have
The second-generation 4K remains a candidate if its apps, capacity and everyday controls suit you. It already has Gigabit Ethernet. Before replacing it, check whether the issue is really the device or only an app, source or connection.
Third generation with Ethernet: consider 128 GB for a reason
This model has more capacity than the 32 or 64 GB second-generation versions. If that matters to you and you want to keep LAN, choose the Ethernet version specifically. The third-generation Wi-Fi model is different and is not part of this comparison.
System, apps and connections
| Criterion | Apple TV 4K (2. Gen., 2021) | Apple TV 4K (3. Gen., Wi-Fi + Ethernet) |
|---|---|---|
| System | tvOS | tvOS |
| App access | Apple App Store for Apple TV; check the app’s current minimum version | Apple App Store for Apple TV; check for the tvOS version of the app you want |
| Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet built in | Gigabit Ethernet built in |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Storage | 32 or 64 GB | 128 GB |
| Accessories | For used listings, check whether the cables and remote are included. | HDMI cable sold separately; plan for an Ethernet cable for LAN. |
| A good fit if… | For comparing an existing Apple TV with the third generation. | For tvOS apps and a direct wired connection without a LAN adapter. |
| Our take | The second-generation 4K model already has Gigabit Ethernet. Switching to the third-generation Wi-Fi version would lose that port. Compare features and available capacity before the release year. If your tvOS apps and controls work for you today, a higher generation number alone is not a reason to replace it. | This third-generation version includes a built-in Gigabit port and 128 GB of storage. That is a specific equipment reason to choose it. More storage does not prove faster playback; a wired connection mainly helps rule out an unstable Wi-Fi link during troubleshooting. |
What stays the same in this comparison
tvOS remains the documented app platform, though you still need to check each app’s minimum version. Both selected devices also have Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6. An existing need for LAN alone therefore does not require a generation change. Focus on the limitation you actually see today and the documented feature of the new model that addresses it.
Do not lose a port when switching
An Apple TV 4K from the third generation is not automatically the 128 GB Ethernet model. The 64 GB Wi-Fi version has no Ethernet port. If you are replacing an A2169 with an existing wired connection, look for A2843 in the listing. Also compare included items and usable capacity for your apps. We provide no original startup or channel-switching times because the devices were not measured under the same conditions.
Before you buy
- Check the A2169’s capacity and identify a concrete reason to switch.
- For third-generation LAN, specifically check for A2843.
- Check current minimum versions for required tvOS apps.
- Check included items and cables for new and used listings.
Sources and limitations
Manufacturer specifications checked 2026-10-26. Assessments are editorial conclusions. We did not test these devices under the same conditions and provide no original channel-switching times or performance figures.
Recheck app availability, region, minimum version and included items before buying. Storage is manufacturer capacity, not free space. A connection speed is not a measured streaming throughput. Prices and availability are not tracked continuously here.