If you’re confused about the difference between Apple TV and Apple TV+, you’re not alone. Apple’s naming can be a little tricky, especially when multiple services and products share nearly identical names. Whether you’re trying to figure out if you need to buy a device, subscribe to a service, or both, this guide will clear things up. We’ll break down the key differences between Apple TV (the device and app) and Apple TV+ (the streaming subscription), and help you decide what’s right for your entertainment setup.
What Is Apple TV?
Apple TV is a digital media player — a small device you connect to your television that allows you to stream content from various apps like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and of course, Apple TV+. It’s a physical product developed by Apple, currently offered in models like Apple TV HD and Apple TV 4K.
Key Features of the Apple TV Device:
- Connects to your TV via HDMI
- Runs on tvOS, Apple’s dedicated smart TV operating system
- Supports apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO Max, YouTube, and more
- Comes with the Siri Remote for easy navigation
- Offers 4K resolution, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos (Apple TV 4K)
- Can act as a HomeKit hub for smart home control
The Apple TV box is similar to Roku, Fire TV, or Google Chromecast, but with tighter integration into the Apple ecosystem.
What Is Apple TV+?
Apple TV+ is a subscription-based streaming service from Apple. It’s not a device — it’s a platform where you can stream Apple Originals like Ted Lasso, The Morning Show, Severance, and For All Mankind. Apple TV+ lives inside the Apple TV app, which is available on multiple devices — not just on the Apple TV box.
Key Features of Apple TV+:
- Subscription costs $9.99/month (as of 2024)
- Includes only Apple Originals
- Available on iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple TV, Roku, Smart TVs, PlayStation, Xbox, and more
- Ad-free streaming with most content available in 4K HDR
- Family sharing: up to 6 users on one subscription via Family Sharing
Apple TV+ doesn’t include third-party shows or movies — it’s focused solely on content produced by Apple.
The Apple TV App Explained
The Apple TV app is where the confusion often starts. It’s an app — not a subscription or a device — and it comes pre-installed on Apple devices and many smart TVs.
Inside the Apple TV App, You Can:
- Watch Apple TV+ content (if subscribed)
- Rent or buy movies and TV shows from the iTunes Store
- Subscribe to Apple TV Channels (e.g., Starz, Paramount+, AMC+)
- Access third-party apps like Hulu, Disney+, or Amazon Prime Video (which open separately)
Think of the Apple TV app as a central hub for streaming — it aggregates content from different services and platforms into one interface.
Apple TV vs Apple TV+: At a Glance
| Feature | Apple TV (Device) | Apple TV+ (Service) |
| What it is | Streaming media player (hardware) | Subscription-based streaming service |
| Price | Starts around $129 (Apple TV 4K) | $9.99/month |
| Need Subscription? | No — works with free and paid apps | Yes — monthly fee for exclusive content |
| Includes Netflix/HBO? | Supports apps, but you need separate accounts | No — only Apple Originals |
| Available On | HDMI-connected TVs | Any device with the Apple TV app |
| Remote Control | Comes with Siri Remote | Not applicable |
| Offline Viewing | Not directly — depends on the app | Yes — on iPhone/iPad with the TV app |
Do You Need Both Apple TV and Apple TV+?
Not necessarily. You can subscribe to Apple TV+ without ever buying the Apple TV device.
You Might Only Need Apple TV+ If:
- You already have a smart TV or streaming stick (e.g., Roku, Fire TV)
- You want access to Apple Originals like Ted Lasso or Foundation
- You plan to watch mostly on iPhone, iPad, or Mac
You Might Want Apple TV (the device) If:
- You want the smoothest Apple experience on your TV
- You use HomeKit and want to control smart home devices from your TV
- You want top-tier video quality with 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos
- You plan to stream Apple Fitness+, Apple Music, or play Apple Arcade games
Bonus: What Are Apple TV Channels?
Inside the Apple TV app, you can also subscribe to Apple TV Channels like Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, and others — all without downloading separate apps.
- Billed directly through Apple
- Watch all content within the Apple TV app
- One-click sign-up and cancelation
This is separate from Apple TV+ and gives you more control over your subscription bundle.
Final Thoughts: Apple TV vs Apple TV+ Simplified
In short:
- Apple TV is the hardware (streaming box).
- Apple TV App is the software interface.
- Apple TV+ is the streaming service with Apple Originals.
Understanding the difference can help you avoid overpaying for services or buying unnecessary equipment. If you love Apple content, Apple TV+ is worth checking out — and if you want the best smart TV experience with full Apple integration, the Apple TV 4K is hard to beat.