Apple TV 4K 2021 and Plex - A Match Made in Heaven?

Are you considering upgrading to the latest Apple TV 4K model, released in 2021, or are you already a proud owner of this fantastic device? If so, have you thought about combining it with Plex, the popular media server/client solution for streaming your favorite movies and shows?

As someone who has been using Plex on my Apple TV 4K since its release, I can confidently say that it's a match made in heaven. But before we dive into the details, let me give you a brief overview of my setup.

I have the second-generation ATV4K, which runs Plex seamlessly alongside other apps and services. My media server is located on a Windows machine, while the ATV client handles playback with ease. What's more, I can cast ad-free YouTube content from any Apple device using AirPlay - no need for a browser or content blocker!

However, there are some limitations to keep in mind when it comes to using Plex on Apple TV 4K. For instance, you won't be able to get around YouTube ads since there's no support for browsers or content blockers. Additionally, the ATV doesn't come with a VU meter or spectrum display while playing audio - something that might be important for audiophiles.

One minor complaint I have is that the ATV won't play high-res audio above 24-48 kHz. I've also noticed that TrueHD audio files don't seem to work either, although this hasn't been confirmed recently and might be subject to change. To get around these issues, I simply turn off video transcoding completely, ensuring that everything plays back natively.

But what really sets Apple TV 4K apart from other streamers is its lightning-quick responsiveness and ease of use. In my experience, it's one of the best streamers on the market, offering a powerful and simple solution for streaming your media library.

Some people might argue that ATV is too expensive, but in my opinion, you get what you pay for - a premium product with excellent performance and user-friendly interface. I've been using Plex on an older Mac mini i7 (which I picked up for just $75!) since the Apple TV 4K was released, and it's been a game-changer.

So, if you're considering pairing your Apple TV 4K with Plex, I highly recommend doing so. Not only will you have access to a vast library of content, but you'll also enjoy seamless playback and a user-friendly interface that makes streaming a breeze.

If you have any questions or need help setting up your own Plex installation on Apple TV 4K, feel free to reach out to the community for support. You can find helpful resources on subreddits like r/Plex, as well as in the Plex Community Discord.

Happy streaming!

Apple tv 4k 2021 plex