As one of the most popular streaming set-top boxes on the market today, the Apple TV makes it easier than ever to access entertainment ranging from blockbuster movies to exclusive series to casual games and more.
Over 30% of US households own an Apple TV device allowing them to stream content directly to their televisions. With their sleek hardware and integration into the Apple ecosystem, Apple TVs have become staples in living rooms around the world.
However, like any gadget it‘s important to understand best practices in usage and care for your Apple TV. Powering down the device completely and regularly offers benefits like:
- Conserving energy
- Preventing system-taxing overheating
- Allowing critical background updates to install properly
In this comprehensive guide, we provide expert insight into properly shutting down your Apple TV to maximize longevity and performance. We‘ll cover:
- Apple TV model comparison overview
- Step-by-step instructions to power down
- Additional device usage and care tips
- Answers to frequently asked questions
If you‘ve ever been confused about the right way to fully switch off an Apple TV for the night or between streaming sessions, this guide is for you. Follow along as we unlock the expert-recommend method!
Apple TV Generations Compared
Before diving into powering down step-by-step, it‘s helpful to understand the differences between Apple TV models.
There are two main product lines:
- Apple TV 4K – Supports 4K resolution and HDR for crisper picture
- Apple TV HD – Max of 1080p resolution (but cheaper price tag)
Within both groups there have been multiple generations releasing on different dates with varying specs:
| Model | Release Date | Resolution | HDR Formats | Processor | Original Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple TV HD | 2015 | 1080p | – | A8 chip | $149 |
| Apple TV 4K (1st Gen) | 2017 | 4K | Dolby Vision, HDR10 | A10X chip | $179 |
| Apple TV 4K (2nd Gen) | 2021 | 4K | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+ | A12 chip | $179 |
| Apple TV 4K (3rd Gen) | 2022 | 4K | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+ | A15 chip | $129 |
As we can see, the 3rd generation Apple TV 4K models released in 2022 represent a nice price drop while boosting performance via the latest A15 Bionic processor.
Now let‘s walk through powering down both older and newer Apple TV models properly.
How To Power Down Apple TV – Step-By-Step
Here is an in-depth walkthrough of how to fully power off different Apple TV models based on their generation and remote style:
For 1st Generation Apple TV 4K (2017 model & earlier)
- Press the home button on your Siri remote – this brings you back to the app/menu screen
- Locate and open the Settings app (gray gear icon)
- Scroll all the way to the bottom of the settings menu options
- Select the "Sleep Now" option to power down the Apple TV
Tip: You can also just hold down the play/pause button on older remotes!
For 2nd and 3rd Generation Apple TV 4K (2021 models & later)
- Press and hold the power button located on the upper right corner of the redesigned remote
- Tap "Sleep Now" when prompted to power down
Alternative Method: You can still use the 4-step Settings menu method described above as well
For Apple TV HD Models (1080p max resolution)
Use the legacy method described for 1st generation Apple TV 4K models – those steps still apply to non-4K Apple TV boxes.
As you can see, the process is slightly simplified on newer Siri remotes with dedicated power buttons. However, going through Settings works reliably on any model.
For a helpful visual guide, refer to this 1-minute video showcasing the shutdown process:
[insert power down tutorial video]
And that‘s all there is to it! Now your Apple TV will fully power down until the next time you need it.
Troubleshooting Quick Fixes
If you try powering down via the "Sleep Now" option but your Apple TV continues to stay on, try these troubleshooting fixes:
Perform forced reboot
Go to Settings > System > Restart and choose restart. If Sleep Now starts working after, problem solved!
Disconnect peripherals
Unplug any devices with abnormal power draw like external hard drives that may disrupt shutdown signal.
Still having issues? It never hurts to contact Apple Support or your local Apple Store for hands-on troubleshooting help!
Tips For Care & Longevity of Your Apple TV
Beyond just knowing how to power down your Apple TV completely, following these best practice care and usage tips can help extend its lifespan:
(1) Don‘t block ventilation – While streaming or gaming, ensure at least 3-4 inches clearance on all sides of the Apple TV box so heat can dissipate. Consider an external cooling stand.
(2) Quit unused apps – Double press the home button then swipe up to fully close any apps not currently in use for best resource/energy management.
(3) Use a surge protector – Connect your Apple TV to a surge protector rather than directly to the wall outlet for max safety in event of irregular power fluctuations.
And when powered down, you can even safely unplug it between viewing sessions! Just be sure to use the proper shutdown process first each time rather than just cutting power.
Frequently Asked Questions
We get that you may have more questions about getting the most out of your Apple TV. Here are answers to some of the most common ones:
1. What‘s the difference between Apple TV+ and Apple TV?
Good question! These terms can create confusion:
-
Apple TV+ = Apple‘s subscription video streaming service (like Netflix or Disney+)
-
Apple TV = The actual hardware streaming box made by Apple
The box lets you access the service along with other streaming apps.
2. Do smart TVs make an Apple TV unnecessary?
Lots of modern televisions now come with smart platforms built-in…but an Apple TV still offers a better overall experience thanks to Apple‘s intuitive software, access to Apple Arcade gaming, Apple HomeKit and AirPlay integration only on Apple TV, and other great features.
3. Can I use AirPods or other headphones with Apple TV?
You sure can! Under Settings > Remotes and Devices > Bluetooth you can pair AirPods just like on an iPhone for private listening. Other Bluetooth headphones work this way too.
4. How do I restart an Apple TV if it freezes?
If your Apple TV becomes totally unresponsive rather than just having remote connectivity issues, you can force a hard reboot by unplugging the power cable for ~30 seconds, then plugging back in to power it on as normal.
5. What streaming apps are available on Apple TV?
Name a popular streaming service – if they offer a streaming app, changes are it‘s available on the App Store for Apple TV. This includes Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, Paramount+, discovery+, HBO Max, Sling TV, YouTube TV, and literally hundreds more.
6. Can I access live TV channels on Apple TV?
There is no native live TV tuner in Apple TV itself, however you can stream live television through apps like Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, YouTube TV, DirecTV Stream, FuboTV and others available on the platform.
I hope these Apple TV tips help give you confidence using your streaming box! Let me know if you have any other questions in the comments.
About the Author
My name is Steve and I‘m a long-time Apple device user and avid streamer. I love helping people get the most out of their Apple TV and other gadgets!
