When it comes to streaming devices in 2021, the Apple TV 4K and Chromecast with Google TV are two of the most interesting options. These are the two flagship streaming devices from Apple and Google, and while they have a lot in common, their prices couldn't be more different. While the Chromecast is quite affordable at just $49, prospective Apple TV owners are expected to pay at least $179. So, that begs the question — is Apple's streaming box worth the $130 price difference?

The market for streaming hardware in 2021 is filled with more competition than ever before. Outside of Google and Apple's offerings, another big player is Amazon — with the shopping giant selling multiple variants of its Fire TV streamers. There are also options from companies like Roku, TiVo, Nvidia, and Xfinity. That means Apple and Google are far from the only companies competing in the streaming space, but for many shoppers, these will be two of the top options that come to mind.

Related: Chromecast With Google TV 's Kids Profiles Are Great For Parents

Let's start this comparison by talking about what the Apple TV 4K and Chromecast with Google TV have in common. Both devices support 4K HDR video playback at 60fps, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and connect to televisions via HDMI. Users also have access to virtually all major streaming apps regardless of which one they choose. Whether someone wants to watch Netflix, Hulu, Discovery+, Peacock, HBO Max, Shudder, or something else in between, it's available on Apple TV and Chromecast.

Apple TV 4K Has More Storage & Faster Performance

Apple TV 4K 2021 with Siri Remote

Having so much in common with the Apple TV 4K is a good look for the Chromecast with Google TV, but that's not to say the two devices are completely equal. For one thing, the Apple TV 4K has considerably more storage than the Chromecast. Users can choose between 32 or 64GB of space, whereas the Chromecast is limited to just 8GB. That should be enough for most people, but for anyone who subscribes to many streaming services, it is possible to fill up that 8 GB rather quickly. Another perk of the Apple TV 4K is its performance. It's powered by Apple's A12 processor (the same one used for the iPhone XS), which translates to extremely fast performance for just about anything. From navigating apps, playing games, or streaming 4K video, the Apple TV 4K keeps up with it all. By comparison, the Chromecast features a quad-core Amlogic processor. It gets the job done and runs streaming apps just fine, but it's also prone to lagging/stuttering when navigating applications. It's not a deal-breaker, by any means, but it is noticeably slower compared to Apple's streaming box.

For anyone with an iPhone, the benefits of the Apple TV 4K keep piling on. There's a virtual Apple TV remote in the iPhone's Control Center, the Apple TV acts as a hub for HomeKit smart home devices so they can be controlled from anywhere, it's the only way to access Apple Fitness+ on a television, and the new Color Balance feature uses an iPhone's light sensor to automatically adjust colors for anything playing on the Apple TV.

As many of these features only matter to iPhone users, however, the Apple TV 4K doesn't make much sense for anyone outside of the Apple ecosystem. Its improved performance and storage are things that all users can enjoy, but it isn't worth an extra $130 over the Chromecast with Google TV for those two things alone. That ultimately makes this a matter of ecosystem preference. For iPhone users that want the Apple experience everywhere they go, the Apple TV 4K is worth the increased cost over the Chromecast. For Android folks, the Chromecast with Google TV delivers many of the same streaming features at a much lower price. Depending on where someone's particular needs lie, both of these gadgets are easy to recommend.

Next: Why You Can't Locate A Lost Apple TV Siri Remote With The Find My App

Source: Apple