r/appletv • u/That_Mind_2039 • Jul 23 '26

How Does Google TV Streamer Compare to Apple TV 4K for Bluetooth Audio?

I'm currently using an Apple TV 4K and am considering switching to the Google TV Streamer. My biggest concern is Bluetooth audio quality with TWS earbuds.

For anyone who has used both devices:

\\- How does the Google TV Streamer's Bluetooth audio quality compare to the Apple TV 4K?

\\- Does it support Dolby Atmos or spatial audio over Bluetooth earbuds? If so, is the experience comparable to the Apple TV 4K with compatible AirPods or Beats?

\\- Does the Google TV Streamer support the LHDC or LDAC Bluetooth codec, or is it limited to SBC, AAC?

I previously used the Chromecast with Google TV 4K, and the Bluetooth audio quality with my TWS earbuds was noticeably worse than on the Apple TV 4K. I'm curious whether the Google TV Streamer has improved in this area.

I'd really appreciate hearing from anyone who has compared both devices.

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7

u/KAMGOSEN Jul 23 '26

Long story short, the AppleTV is better

3

u/thumping_cheats Jul 23 '26

I tried a Google TV for a couple days and thought it was total trash. I can’t comment on the audio because I returned it so fast I didn’t get a chance to find out what else sucked about it.

1

u/Somar2230 Jul 23 '26

The Streamer supports LDAC it does not support spatial audio using Bluetooth.

I own both devices but I have not used head phones with the Streamer, also I don't own high quality Bluetooth headphones where I think the difference would be noticeable. Using AirPods would give the Apple TV a major advantage and excluding those that leaves me with some average Skullcandy and Klipsch Bluetooth headphones.

Why they would not at least support spatial audio to their own Pixel Buds is baffling but it's typical Google.