Update (1/11 2:00pm): With the release of tvOS 9.2, Apple has officially added support for Bluetooth Keyboards on Apple TV. You’ll find our top-picks below.
The new Apple TV is now available for pre-orders with the first units set to ship on Friday. Apple has introduced a number of features to its new streaming device, including an App Store, a fresh remote with Siri built-in, universal search and support for MFi gaming controllers. However, the fourth generation Apple TV is pretty light on included accessories. It doesn’t even come with an HDMI cable.
Head below for all the must-have controllers, add-ons and accessories to take full advantage of Apple’s latest release.
Keyboards:
While text entry is expected to be easier with Siri built-in, sometimes a keyboard is just simpler. The fourth-generation Apple TV now supports the use of Bluetooth Keyboards. There are a number of options out there on the market, but here are some of our favorites:
- Anker Bluetooth Ultra-Slim Keyboard: $16
- Low profile Keys
- Three months of battery life with two AAA batteries
- 18-month warranty
- Logitech K480 Wireless Keyboard: $37
- Support for up to three devices
- Cradle for Apple TV remote, iPhone, iPad
- Single dial switch to go from device-to-device
- Logitech K810 Wireless Keyboard: $80
- Support for up to three devices
- Backlit Keys
- Aluminum finish
The Apple TV has a new App Store with games and other titles that require more input than the usual directional pad. There is only support for one Siri-connected remote at a time, so if you’re wanting to play multiplayer games, you’ll need another controller. To fully enjoy games like Manticore Rising, Shadowmatic, Guitar Hero Live and others we recommend the following options:
- SteelSeries Nimbus: $50
- Apple TV-specific controls
- Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity
- 40-hour battery life
- SteelSeries Stratus: $58
- 10 hour battery life
- Familiar console-style design
- Available in white or black
- Also available in a larger size
- HORI HORIPAD Wireless Gaming Controller: $80
- Dual analog buttons, eight face/shoulder buttons and directional pad
- Up to 20 hours of battery life
- Includes USB charging cable
- Mad Catz C.T.R.L.i Mobile Gamepad: $48
- Up to 40 hours of gameplay with AAA batteries
- Accompanying iOS app
- Adjustable iPhone holder
HDMI Cables:
It’s pretty disappointing that Apple still isn’t including an HDMI cable with its Apple TV. One of the standout features of this new device is CEC support, which allows users to control their HDTV and other devices through a HDMI cable. Not all HDTVs support this, you’ll want to grab a HDMI 2.0 cable to be safe, which includes support for 4K, ethernet and an Audio Return Channel. Don’t be fooled by expensive cables, these options from Amazon will do.
We also recommend grabbing a HDMI switcher for your setup. Many HDTVs only offer three to four HDMI inputs. By adding a switch, you’ll have plenty of room for any other additions.
MFi Lightning Cables:
Thankfully Apple does include a Lightning Cable for recharging the included remote. The bad news? It’s not very long. No one wants to walk up to the TV while the remote is charging. Grab a cable with extra length to keep yourself locked on the couch.
- 6-foot Lightning Cable: $8
- 10-ft. Braided with Lightning cable + microUSB connector: $18
- 15-foot Lightning Cable: $13
Developers and those with early access to the latest Apple TV OS will want to grab a USB-C cable for diagnostics and programming. We recommend this six-foot cable, which is going to give you plenty of room to operate.
Another nice way to charge your Apple TV Remote is with the Twelve South Hi-Rise Lightning Cable Dock. It elevates your remote and provides a nice home with a elegant design. More information here in our review of the previous generation model.
HDTVs:
If you’re still rocking a standard definition televsion, it’s time to upgrade. If you have a 720 or 1080p set from a few years back, there are likely some features you’re missing out on. Here are a few of our favorites, with CEC compatibility, to take full advantage of the new Apple TV. Below you’ll find some of our favorite options.
- VIZIO E50-C1 50-inch 1080p Smart LED HDTV: $528
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Three HDMI inputs
- 120Hz refresh rate
- Sony KDL50W800C 50-inch 1080p Smart LED HDTV: $698
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Four HDMI inputs
- 120Hz refresh rate
- LG 65LF6300 65-Inch 1080p 120Hz Smart LED TV: $1,398
- webOS 2.0
- Three HDMI inputs
- 120Hz refresh rate
Other Apple TV Accessories:
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