While internal – software and hardware capabilities can differentiate the devices – analyzing the exterior can also help you to identify which Apple TV you own. If you are also looking for ways to find out the model of your Apple TV, simply read our guide below.

identify apple tv model

1. Identify Apple TV Model by Model Number

All the different Apple TV’s can be identified by their different model numbers. You must have noticed that their model numbers begin with the letter ‘A’ and link directly to their specific device. You can identify the model number of your particular device by:

  • Going to settings tab on the TV > General > About.
  • Checking the bottom of your Apple TV.
  • Checking the box of the ATV.

identify apple tv generation

After you find the model number, you can see our table below to identify Apple TV model or generation easily.

Apple TV Model Model number Year Color Remote
Apple TV (1st Gen.) A1218 2007 Silver White
Apple TV (2nd Gen.) A1378 2010 Black Aluminum
Apple TV (3rd Gen.) A1427 or A1469 for Rev A 2012 Black Aluminum
Apple TV (4th Gen.) A1625 2015 Black Siri Remote or Apple TV remote
Apple TV 4K A1842 2017 Black Siri Remote or Apple TV Remote

2. Identifying by ports and connectors:

Each Apple device has specific ports and connectors that are respective to the model which is described below:

  • Apple TV (1st Generation)

This device contains the most connectors and ports out of the five models. It contains a power port, a port for HDMI, a component video port, Ethernet port, an optical digital audio port, an analog audio port and a USB 2.0 for service and support.

apple tv model identification

The networking capabilities of the first generation Apple TV include 10/100 BASE-T Ethernet and Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), as well as an IR receiver.

  • Apple TV (2nd Generation and 3rd Generation)

Both the models are almost similar and have slightly less ports and connectors than the 1st generation model. The only difference lies in the pixels of both the models as the 3rd generation model has more (720 p or 180 p).

identify apple tv gen

The ports are also identical in both the models – a power port, Ethernet port, optical digital audio, HDMI port and micro-USB.

The models also have the same networking capabilities – Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n) and 10/100BASE-T Ethernet – and include an IR receiver.

  • Apple TV (4th Generation)

The 4th generation has only four ports that are used for power supply, HDMI 1.4 (720 p or 1080 p), Ethernet and USB – C.

which apple tv do i have

The 4th generation model also includes 10/100BASE-T Ethernet, WI-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n/ac with MIMO) and Bluetooth 4.0 wireless technology. The Apple TV also comes with an IR receiver.

  • Apple TV 4K

Last but not the least, the Apple TV 4K comes with only three ports – HDMI (2160 p), a Gigabit Ethernet and a power port.

identify apple tv remote

The networking capabilities consist of Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi (802.11ac with MIMO) and Bluetooth 5.0. And like all the other Apple TV models, the Apple TV 4K comes with an IR receiver.

Read Also: How to Install Popcorn Time on Apple TV

3. Identify Apple TV Model by its Specs

You can also identify Apple TV model by its specs. Below are the specs for all Apple TV generations. You can compare them and find out which Apple TV model do you have.

Size and Weight:

The five Apple TV models differ slightly in size and weight making it easy for the consumers to tell them apart.

Size (cm):

  • Apple TV (1st Generation) = 19.5 x 19.5 x 2.8
  • Apple TV (2nd Generation) = 9.9 X 9.9 X 2.3
  • Apple TV (3rd Generation) = 9.9 x 9.9 x 2.3
  • Apple TV (4th Generation) = 9.9 x 9.9 x 3.3
  • Apple TV 4K = 9.9 x 9.9 x 3.5

Weight (kg):

  • Apple TV (1st Generation) = 1.1
  • Apple TV (2nd Generation) = 0.27
  • Apple TV (3rd Generation) = 0.27
  • Apple TV (4th Generation) = 0.43
  • Apple TV 4K = 0.43

Internal Differences:

As you must already know, the former Apple TV models were built around channels. This means that the viewers had access to limited content as companies had to collaborate with the tech-giant to have their content hosted. And hard to believe but the first generation models were even incapable of streaming.

The good news is that in 2015, Apple revolutionized many features including the introduction of tvOS (operating system essential for Apple TV), an app store, and Siri. This changed the face of TV completely and allowed users to play games, access social media, and of course, stream their favorite channels through a Siri remote.

The Apple TV 4K announced along with the iPhone 8 and iPhone X is the next generation of Apple TV products that comes with the latest version of tvOS. The hardware technology of the Apple TV 4K supports 4K ultra-HD and HDR streams. It also includes an A10x fusion chip which means the new generation TV will be twice as fast than the previous models. Lastly, the 4K model includes Dolby vision that enhances the colors and brightness of the content.

Apple TV Model Capacity Netflix App Store Games Siri
Apple TV (1st Gen.) 40 or 160 GB No No No No
Apple TV (2nd Gen.) NA Yes No No No
Apple TV (3rd Gen.) NA Yes No No No
Apple TV (4th Gen.) 32 or 64 GB Yes Yes Yes Yes
Apple TV 4K 32 or 64 GB Yes Yes Yes Yes

With these tips, you can easily identify Apple TV model and generation. Let us know how what you think of this article in the comments below.

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Stephan Popov
When iDevice users experience problems with the iOS software or unlocking, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My passion is providing answers to your problems. I help iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch users by recommending fixes for common iOS bugs and tools that improves your experience. I conduct in-depth research for every topic i cover on this blog, to ensure that I cover everything Apple users need to troubleshoot their issues. When not writing for UnlockBoot, i enjoy swimming in my backyard pool. P.S. i prefers the Maldives for holidays. Connect with me on Facebook, Google Plus and Twitter.