Hey all,
I’m currently using an iPhone 13 with a HDMI cord to a big screen (55”) for my Zwift usage. Works fine and all but thinking of getting a new Apple TV for my Zwifting. Questions are, is it worth it, will I notice any differences? Are all Apple TVs the same? Is the newest one the best for Zwift? What is the ideal setup when using Apple TV as far as which one to buy? Thanks!!
The newest one is best because the CPU is faster, but any of the 4K versions should be OK. Graphics quality will be similar to the iPhone, though the HUD elements will be sharper. Frame rate will be the same. Do not buy the Apple TV HD even though it’s supported. The newer Apple TV devices also have a better remote. Apple TV is limited to two Bluetooth connections in addition to the remote, so depending on your equipment you may need to pair things via the Companion app. All the Apple TV devices can only display in 1080p (HUD elements in 4K) so there’s only a small benefit to having a 4K display.
2 Likes
Thanks Paul, I’m currently using IPhone 13 for Zwift, an older iPhone for Companion app. Running a Saris H3 trainer and a Wahoo Chest strap for HR. All good advice and will see if any good deals in the next few months.
For the most part, ATV is great.
Super cheap, easy to use, pairing is instant, its small, the remote is fine…I cant fault it.
The only grumble is the low graphics profile…other than that, go for it
1 Like
The newest versions of the 4K get higher graphics profiles, the ones with the buttons on the top of the remote trackpad. The original 4K does not, the one with the smooth top trackpad.
Edit: The graphics are the same level on all 4K models, but the newer versions have video recording enabled. The OG 4K does not have video recording enabled.
With holiday shopping season upon us, there should be some deals on the newer models.
1 Like
I added a few forgotten words. 
2 Likes
All 4K models get the same graphics profile.
1 Like
Sorry. I mixed up the graphics with the ability to record a video clip… Graphics are the same, but the newer models have the video recording option. The OG does not.
1 Like
I’ve been using the Apple TV version of Zwift since it first came out, and I like the simplicity of the setup. I’d get the newest version of the Apple TV 4K (64 GB), which is ca. $129. If you have an Ethernet drop near by, you could upgrade to the one with more storage and ethernet, but otherwise the specs are nearly the same.
I find the graphics to be adequate for Zwifting, since 1/3 of the screen is taken up with maps, riders, leader boards, “Close the Gap” messages, anyway. The bluetooth limitations can be an issue, but then you just pair through the companion app.
1 Like
Been using Apple TV box for some years now. Much better than other solutions in my experience.
I’m using a Wattbike Atom X paired to a 4K later model box and it just works so well.
1 Like
I use my iPhone with an HDMI connection or AppleTV, depending on whether I want to watch TV when riding. The only difference I notice is using ATV doesn’t drain my iPhone battery!
1 Like
I have an adapter that you plug in a charging cable and the HDMI cable so my phone charges as I ride.
1 Like