We went through the same thing and after trying several universal remotes and so called great replacement remotes for the AppleTV remote I finally just for the heck of it took out an Panasonic remote I had from a Blu-Ray player I bought probably 8 years ago and sure enough it worked great. So I ordered 2 more online (it took a while to find them) and they also work perfectly. The model number is N2QAKB000076. Stay with this one. I tired a couple of other old Panasonic remotes I had and they were not workable. For some reason this one is. Here is a link at Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-N2QAKB000076-Remote/dp/B003XNA4QQ . TTHEY ONLY HAVE USED ONES BUT I ALSO FOUND ONE ON eEBAY THAT WAS NEW AND IT WORKED PERFECTLY. tHESE ARE NOT EASY TO FIND SO IF YOU TRY ONE AND IT WORKS i WOULD BUY AN EXTRA. tHEY ARE NOT EXPENSIVE.

You'll notice there is a place for TV Volume and power on top in red ( not the big round red power button but the smaller one) also but then under the open close button on the upper right there is a receiver volume button.

Anyway I use the smaller red button on top for turning the TV on and off and the volume button under receiver for my volume. Otherwise you can set the other buttons like play, pause, stop etc to the corresponding button on the AppleTV remote.

There are a couple of things you have to be creative with when initially setting it up. As an example when it comes to the AppleTV menu button, this remote does not have a menu button so when I was setting this up in the AppleTV settings I selected the function menu to be my menu button because it is big and easy to hit with my right hand finger. You can choose something else but honestly this has worked great for over 6 months. It makes it so much easier to use AppleTV. You can't use siri with any replacement remote but it is worth the trade off to me.

Hope this helps.

I don't believe there is a single streaming platform that covers everything -- it's common to have more than one. I started with only the ATV4 and didn't mind AirPlay casting from my iPhone to my ATV for the occasional Amazon Video uses, that is unless I wanted to use my iPhone without losing the AirPlay session. I also find the bluetooth audio lacking on the ATV4, frequent skipping and often drops connectivity to my JayBird X2's.

I eventually purchased the 2016 Roku Streaming Stick primarily to have an app for Amazon Prime Video. While my smart-TV has an Amazon app, wireless listening isn't available, with the Stick it is. As I installed other Roku apps, I found Sling works much better than the tvOS version. Roku's Plex app is a lot nicer. Also, wireless audio performs much better with the Roku stick. Top it off with a more ergonomic remote ;-) Comparatively the Roku has a clunkier UI, but it just works -- surprising given how much less expensive it is.

I have a MacBook Pro that I sometimes use to AirPlay Mirror web video. It works OK, but there's a noticeable drop in frame rate. I also have a Surface Pro 2, and a DLNA stream to the Roku Stick mirrors a lot better than AirPlay -- web video is smoother, as if it's being accessed from a Roku app.

Thought I'd only be using the 2016 Roku Stick occasionally, but as it turns out I use it far more often than my ATV4. Sounds like you're going with just one option -- that'll be up to you. Apple's ATV4 product page has a comprehensive description of what it does, take a look and then maybe Google some reviews.

Yes! The Griffin case is amazing, cant get better then that case.
I purchased $10-$15 case with a strap and it was ok, but had trim that for some weird reason overlapped the touch screen which did effect use.
But that strap (attached to the case, not remote) was so useful I went out and got the official Apple strap; The Griffin with Apple Strap is amazing i cant put this remote down!!!
By useful I mean when the remote is out of reach that strap lets me not stretch for it lol

Just upgraded to 4K from the previous ATV model and I tried to turn on HDR mode but Apple TV does it’s check and says it’s switching to SDR.

This is from Samsung website for the KU6290:

“Our HDR Premium technology displays HDR (High Dynamic Range) content from new generation Ultra HD Blu-ray, HDR streaming content, and HDR content available on Vidity compliant storage devices. Meets CTA HDR-compatible requirements.”

Can anyone help me debug this? Or has anyone ran into similar issues? I tried switching HDMI ports and I have a Monoprice HDMI cable that supports HDR.

TIA

Wife and I got used to the remote in like a day . I don’t get the constant whining about it . Could it be better-sure but it’s not that bad . I got a rubber case from amazon for cheap and it never slips out of my hand and it is not hard to tell which side is up .

Apple TV is great so I definitely recommend it

The HDHomeRun has come up a few times here this week. I've been looking into it but I can't find a definitive answer on whether the first generation HDHomeRun models will work well with ATV4 and Channels app/the like.

I don't really have a need for internal dual tuners as I only have one antenna and one TV, and I probably won't be using any computer software as a DVR. All I'm really interested in is not having to switch my inputs when I want to watch OTA and having some basic channel guide functionality. I suppose my biggest concern is whether there are limitations on HD streaming over my network with the old version and therefore whether the picture quality will be any good. Anyone knowledgeable about it?

Yeah, I get it. Some folks put a sticker on the back or bottom of the remote to help with orientation. A strip of felt. Or even googly-eyes. Anything to help differentiate top from bottom.

There are some good case options out there too, seem to help with ergonomics and add heft. I'm considering this one: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B01K6LO5SK/ref=nosim/appleink

You can get one of the super old original HDhomeruns, single or dual tuner from 2006ish. That's what I'm using and it works perfectly, you can find them new and used on ebay or amazon real cheap.

http://www.amazon.com/SiliconDust-HDHomeRun-HDHR-US-Networked-Definition/dp/B0010Y414Q

However, the newer boxes have better tuners and pick up weaker signals, so if you are concerned about that, get the extend or connect.

This one is great. Grippy, easy to pick up, tell which end is up and fits perfectly. Fintie Apple TV remote case

Absolutely. My wife loves it because she can watch TV while walking around the house doing stuff and she doesn't have to worry about waking the kids.

We got this thing, which is great because we can use any old headphones we like:

Jumbl8482; Bluetooth 4.0 Hands-Free Calling and A2DP Audio Streaming Adapter/Receiv...
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UUDZLB0/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_awd_x_TXm0xbDQJ3K5R

I think if anything, they've improved the latency, but dont' know about the general throughput.

I use one of these powerline ethernet adapters in my house, and it works great: http://www.amazon.com/Cisco-Linksys-PLK300-PowerLine-Ethernet-Adapter/dp/B001J2ZSL4/

Edit: What I like about that one specifically is that it has 4 ports that can be connected to your router via powerline, instead of one.

I know this won’t be a popular answer, but I would just upgrade to a better remote. I have a Logitech and it works fine with AppleTV.

Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared All in One Remote Control, Universal Remote Logitech, Programmable Remote (Silver) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004OVECU0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_qr86AbMB8DKZA

Plus it’s half the price.

I know what you mean. I've had my 4th gen for a few months now, and it does take some time to get used to it.

This silicon cover is helpful. It feels better in the hand, won't slip, protects it remote when it falls, and keeps you from picking it up the wrong way.

As for navigation, it takes a little muscle memory. Also remember you can tap the edges to move one selection at a time. I actually use Siri a lot, too.

It does get better. I've come to like the new remote a lot better than the old one.

Cool. I hadn't noticed it yet. But to answer your question, your tv will need to support the referenced HDR format. I just bought a TCL of Amazon that supports both.

TCL 55P607 55-Inch 4K Ultra HD Roku Smart LED TV (2017 Model) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y6FSV5Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_oVWUzbN10ZH73

i got a couple of these and really like them. They feel really nice in your hand too.

http://www.amazon.com/Non-Slip-Grip-Ergonomic-Dustproof-Silicone-control/dp/B018JXPI4M

I know most people are saying any modern HDMI cable will work, but this is not entirely correct.


There was a test done that I’ll have to look up regarding HDMI cables ability to transmit full 4K and HDR content. Only a few of like 20 cables were able to consistently deliver the content correctly, even though all advertised they could.


I’ve had issues trying to get full 4K HDR content to work correctly on both my appletv and Xbox One x. After going through a dozen or so different “high speed” cable brands that all promised 18gbps and HDR compatibility, the only ones I found to consistently work were the Monoprice premium cables. Interestingly, this was also consistent with the previously mentioned results.


My other cables would work intermittently and drop out, leading to some major issues trying to figure out what was wrong. After hours of messing around and them buying a ton of cables, I came to this conclusion.


My suggestion, buy this cable either through amazon or monoprice.com and be done with it:
Monoprice Certified Premium HDMI Cable: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GCGKI3O?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

You sure didn't look very hard. It's available on Amazon USA (ships worldwide), as well as Amazon ES, FR, and DE in EUR, and indeed UK in GBP. (Each Amazon storefront sets their own prices, so shop around.)

For what it's worth, the SteelSeries Nimbus is very highly rated, and it doesn't use the deprecated Mini USB connector for charging as the Horipad does (which would be a major strike against it in my books).

I bought these:

Mixcder ShareMe 7 Over Ear Headphones Bluetooth V4.1 Wireless Headsets Foldable Runn... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0152GBS66/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_69UKAb4GS2GP9

And while the sound quality is decent the best part is that they are wireless. You pair one as the master to the Apple TV and then the second one pairs to the primary headphone. Also, they have independent volume which is nice.

I love it because I put a soft case on it which makes it easier to grip and with the lanyard I instantly know which end is up.

The latest and greatest in HDMI cable-land


Monoprice DynamicView Ultra 8K HDMI Cable - 3 Feet - Black | High Speed, 48Gbps, Dynamic HDR, eARC

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07K7XHM3R/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_uU3jDbFZV6CAS

Get a 48gbps hdmi cable like linked below. Read the reviews and you’ll find people that had similar issues resolved by it

Belkin Ultra HD High Speed HDMI Cable, Optimal Viewing for Apple TV and Apple TV 4K, 4K/Dolby Vision HDR, 2 m/6.6 ft – Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075N83B9X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_qC0yCbV4WHE9A

I use this one for both of my ATV4 remotes. I like that it's both curved and textured.... Yes, it is a remote cover.....

Non-Slip Grip Remote Protective Silicone Cover Case and Secure Gaming Remote Loop, Strap for Apple TV 4 Siri Remote Controller

This thing has saved me more than I'd like to admit.

https://www.amazon.com/Fintie-Protective-Case-Apple-Remote/dp/B01K6OFCU2/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1550278149&sr=8-4&keywords=red+apple+tv+remote

Something to really look forward too, I'm half way through the book by Adam Makos called "A Higher Call" about a German fighter pilot and a B-17 Bomber crew. Most people who flew bombers in WW2 must have ad a death sentence or something. One of of the fascinating things I've learned is pilots in bombing squadrons all volunteered

https://www.amazon.com/Higher-Call-Incredible-Chivalry-War-Torn-ebook/dp/B0095ZQ36G/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=Adam+Makos&qid=1572876521&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&sr=8-2

This author is amazing at telling stories that are captivating

I didnt like the form factor either for the same reasons but its easily fixed.
Buy a remote case like this
https://www.amazon.com/Generation-Akwox-Silicone-Controller-Lanyard/dp/B01EN4LB9W/ref=sr_1_3

And then get one of those puffy childrens stickers. They sell them in small sheets. Then glue a star or a penguin or whatever on one end of the remote case so you can easily feel under your thumb if you've got the wrong end.

https://www.amazon.com/Different-MCY-Toddlers-Stickers-Children/dp/B06XJ7RCKP/ref=sr_1_3

I have two of these, and LOVE them. I lose the remote a LOT less often, maybe 5% of the time. I do fewer accidental clicks, as well.

​

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01K6OFCU2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I got these when they were on sale even cheaper awhile back and they work great!
https://www.amazon.com/Headphones-Mixcder-ShareMe-Bluetooth-Smartphone/dp/B0152GBS66/ref=sr_1_1?s=aht&ie=UTF8&qid=1481296973&sr=1-1&keywords=bluetooth+headphones+over+ear&refinements=p_n_feature_two_browse-bin%3A509316%2Cp_89%3AMixcder

I got this one recently (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0183EYEII?pldnSite=1) and while it's not pretty it's cheap and the curved back gives it a nice hand feel.

I've got a similar one to this.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01EN4LB9W/

Actually mine looks like a slightly less expensive knock-off of yours. Either way, it works a treat. Got 3 Apple TVs (two at the house, one at the office), and all 3 remotes are in one of these cases.

This is the remote cover I bought. It makes the remote easier to hold and I can also tell if I'm holding the remote backwards. Some people think it interferes with the touchpad, but I don't have an issue with it. Maybe there is an app that people use the very edge of the remote track pad. I remember reading earlier about an app that scrolls faster at the edges if I recall correctly. Either way I like it. I don't use the lanyard.

https://www.amazon.com/Remote-Generation-Silicone-Controller-Lanyard/dp/B01EN4LB9W/ref=lp_14848364011_1_1?srs=14848364011&ie=UTF8&qid=1519798333&sr=8-1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01K6LO5SK/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

There ya go - I'm using this one and it provides a decent grip (why I bought it) as well as good protection for when my cat decides it needs to be on the floor as a toy in the middle of the night.

I use one of these to put a VPN in front of my Apple TV. Has a web interface allowing you to select which OpenVPN profile you want to use and connect/disconnect etc.,

https://www.amazon.com/GL-iNet-GL-MT300N-V2-Repeater-Performance-Compatible/dp/B073TSK26W/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=glinet&qid=1558898221&s=gateway&sr=8-3

​

Curious: Why the swap to Apple TV? Do you buy most of your media through Apple?

As u/themanincyan recommended, the sold-out monoprice 48gbps cable works flawlessly with the Apple TV 4K.

IOGEAR also has a 48gbps HDMI cable that is 6ft long compared to monoprice’s 3ft long cable. It’s a bit pricey but it’s worth it.

Cable Matters recently came out with a 48gbps cable. I haven’t bought and tested it out yet but I imagine it can handle the Apple TV 4K without any hiccups.

Amazon link for those who want it:

www.amazon.com/dp/B018JXPI4M

Not sure if it's the exact same thing, but it sure looks close.

These headphones will allow you to connect multiple pairs to ATV. I have one pair and like them. Never tried sharing with another pair though so I don’t know if there’s a noticeable latency.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0152GBS66/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ixuDzb1V205XQ

Logitech Harmony 650 Infrared All in One Remote Control, Universal Remote Logitech, Programmable Remote (Silver) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004OVECU0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_-SG6BbD7839VB

As long as your have line of sight to your device the Logitech Harmony remotes work well.

I use this one, The programming software is trash but once it is set up it works.

Get a Monoprice Certified Premium cable on Amazon for under $10. They work with 4K UHD HDR10 & Dolby Vision.

Monoprice Certified Premium HDMI Cable - Black - 6 Feet | 4K@60Hz, HDR, 18Gbps, 28AWG, YUV 4:4:4 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GCGKI3O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_q.yACbYMBSC3T

You could also try changing your video settings to 4K SDR and see if that helps. It will auto switch to Dolby Vision when you're watching DV content but the Apple TV struggles constantly switching for me when set to 4K Dolby Vision in settings.

Yeah, as odd as it sounds, in 4K modes HDMI cables run at similar frequencies to bluetooth, and without good shielding, the cable can cause interference with the bluetooth remote. Get a cheap premium certified HDMI cable and that should solve your issues. They aren't expensive at all: https://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-115428-Certified-Premium-18Gbps/dp/B01GCGKI3O/ref=sr_1_3?crid=1U9XKXX1J950B&keywords=premium+certified+hdmi+cable&qid=1573158853&sprefix=premium+certified+%2Caps%2C138&sr=8-3

I bought this $7 case, and now I can tell from the feel which side is up:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01K6LO5SK/

Sounds correct.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GCGKI3O/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

That's what I have.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B018JXPI4M?colid=2WV6NVXZZP2D7&coliid=I12ZYZ7T12F2DD&psc=1&ref_=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl

>http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B01K6LO5SK/ref=nosim/appleink/

Yep I swear by these Fintie Silicon covers, make the remote much easier to find.

Plus adds bulk, drop protection for the glass trackpad and much needed grip to the damn small slippery thing !

These simple silicone cases solve problem with remote being too slippery and not knowing orientation by feel.

case

I had the same problem. Was using my Xbox X hdmi and had occasional static when I woke it up from sleep. I got these and it solved all my problems. Monoprice Certified Premium HDMI Cable - 6 Feet - Black, 4K@60Hz, HDR, 18Gbps, 28AWG, YUV 4:4:4, Dual Video Stream https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GCGKI3O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_h1cuDbE3W8K3S

Grab one of these. It makes a huge difference. I no longer accidentally pick it up the wrong way.