What are the "pros and cons" of the black Apple TV 2nd Gen and Apple TV 3rd Gen models? What do they do? Do I need one?

Please note that the Apple TV 2nd Gen and Apple TV 3rd Gen models both have been discontinued. However, this Q&A has been updated subsequently and is quite useful for anyone considering one on the used market.

The black Apple TV 2nd Gen and Apple TV 3rd Gen are simple devices that stream content -- iTunes music, video, and photos -- from a Mac or PC, an iPhone, iPod touch or iPad (running iOS 4.2 or later) to an HDMI-equipped HDTV and allows one to pay for movies and TV shows from Apple. Both have built-in support for Netflix, YouTube, Flickr and other streaming services as well.

Photo Credit: Apple, Inc. (Apple TV 2nd & 3rd Gen)

Like any other purchase, only you can make the decision whether or not one of these Apple TV models is worthwhile, but you can evaluate the pros and cons of the device to see if your needs are met. The below may be helpful to make a decision:

Pros:

• Tiny, sleek case design.
• Easy to connect to an HDMI-equipped HDTV and setup for streaming.
• Easy to use interface (although text entry can be quite awkward without an iPod touch, iPhone or iPad).
• Easy to stream iTunes content from a Mac or Windows PC (and iPod touch, iPhone or iPad) as well as support for Netflix, YouTube, Flickr and other streaming services as well.
• HDMI, optical digital audio, 10/100Base-T Ethernet and 802.11n support standard.
• Support for "true" 5.1 channel surround sound and 720p or 1080p video (2nd Gen only supports 720p, 3rd Gen supports 1080p).
• Inexpensive.

Cons:

• Limited functionality -- does not play CDs or DVDs or have any ability to record programming.
• No cables provided as shipped. Compatible cables have to be purchased separately.
• Does not support older HDTVs that lack HDMI support.
• No official internal storage or the ability to store content.
• Hardware cannot be upgraded -- processor, RAM or storage.
• Limited support for audio and video formats. 2nd Gen model does not support for 1080p streaming (3rd Gen does).
• Small selection of rental content on iTunes, no ability to purchase content directly.
• Does not support tvOS, the current Apple TV operating system.

Ultimately, only you can decide whether or not you "need" an Apple TV. It's safe to say that it is not a necessity in life. For most people, a newer Apple TV HD, Apple TV 4K, or Apple TV 4K (2nd Gen) are a better purchase as they support the current tvOS operating system.

However, if you are on a tight budget and would like a way to stream iTunes content from a Mac or PC (or your iPod touch, iPhone or iPad), to your HDTV as well as stream Netflix, YouTube, Flickr and other online content, and/or are interested in renting or purchasing some content from Apple, the Apple TV 2nd Gen and Apple TV 3rd Gen models make it easy.

However, keep in mind that full functionality may dwindle over time because of the lack of support for the current tvOS. The Apple TV 2nd Gen also has been jailbroken and is a favorite of those who like to augment their device with creative third-party hacks.

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