AirPlay lets you stream videos, photos, music and more from Apple devices to compatible smart TVs. Adding an AirPlay receiver adapter allows older TVs to access these streaming capabilities.
As a tech writer focused on smart home devices, I evaluated the top AirPlay adapters to help you find the right one. After hands-on testing and research, these are the best AirPlay TV adapters of 2024 based on streaming performance, setup process and overall value.
What Exactly is AirPlay and How Do AirPlay Adapters Work?
AirPlay is an Apple proprietary protocol that wirelessly streams media from Apple devices to compatible smart TVs, streaming boxes and audio receivers.
AirPlay adapter receivers connect via HDMI to non-smart TVs. They communicate with your iPhone, iPad or Mac to “catch” the AirPlay stream and display it directly on your TV screen.
Key Benefits of Adding AirPlay to Your TV
- Stream videos, photos, music and screens right from your Apple device
- Screen mirror to present slides, documents and more
- Play Apple Fitness+ workouts on the big screen
- Experience immersive spatial audio through home theater
- Stream 4K HDR video for higher quality
- Share content seamlessly from friends and family’s devices
Top 6 AirPlay Adapter Receivers for Every Budget
Analyzing setup, streaming, range and cost, these options provide the best AirPlay experience.
1. AirTame 2.0 Wireless HDMI Device
The AirTame 2.0 hits the sweet spot between price and performance with robust AirPlay support.
Key Features:
- Streams 1080p 60fps video
- Low latency screen mirroring
- Dual-band WiFi keeps connections smooth
- Secured enterprise-grade encryption
- Affordable price point
This wired gadget is simple to set up and has better range than many costlier competitors. While 4K streaming would be nice, its reliable wireless streaming makes it a great choice.
2. Apple TV 4K (3rd Generation)
The newest Apple TV box is the best option for seamlessly integrating media across Apple devices with additional smart features.
Key Benefits:
- Native Apple ecosystem integration
- Lightning-fast A15 Bionic chip performance
- Cutting-edge 4K HDR and Dolby Vision
- Advanced HDMI 2.1 with high frame rates
- Siri voice assistant built-in
- Hundreds of apps and games
As expected, Apple’s own streaming box offers the fastest AirPlay connectivity and highest quality. The Apple TV 4K does come at a premium price, but provides extra capabilities beyond wireless streaming.
3. Nvidia Shield TV Pro
Serious streamers need to consider the Nvidia Shield TV Pro for its AI upscaling and top-tier streaming prowess.
Top Features
- AI 4K upscaling for HD content
- Dolby Vision and Atmos support
- Built-in Chromecast, Alexa & Google Assistant
- GeForce Now cloud gaming access
- Plex media server and client
- Most powerful streaming hardware available
While more costly upfront, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro goes far beyond AirPlay with exceptional wired and wireless performance. Media enthusiasts will find a lot to love with its smart features and customization.
4. Kanex ATV Pro
The Kanex ATV Pro provides robust AirPlay capabilities at a very affordable price point.
Principal Attributes:
- Budget-friendly cost
- Smooth 1080p streaming
- Low latency screen mirroring
- 3.5mm audio port included
- HDMI passthrough convenience
- Compact, portable adapter size
This compact adapter makes it easy and inexpensive to equip an extra television with AirPlay. It reliably handles all core streaming and screen mirroring features.
5. Belkin Soundform Connect
Optimized for audio, the Belkin Soundform Connect AirPlay adapter also works well for video streaming.
Leading Qualities:
- Seamless AirPlay audio integration
- Multilink lets you connect multiple adapters
- Apple HomeKit support
- 24 bit/ 48 kHz Hi-Res audio decoding
- Dolby Digital decoding via HDMI ARC
- Doubles as an AirPlay speaker
Beyond TV connectivity, the portable Belkin device provides high fidelity music playback making it quite versatile. It’s a great option for both better audio and AirPlay video streaming.
6. Silicondust HDHomeRun CONNECT 4K
Cutting the cord? The HDHomeRun CONNECT 4K works with Plex DVR servers for antenna over-the-air recording.
Premier Features:
- Built-in tuner records broadcast TV
- Streams live and recorded TV
- Works with Plex Media Server
- AES-128 encryption support
- MPEG-2 and H.264 HD video standards
For cord cutters with home antennas, this clever tuner boxes lets you set up a whole-home DVR while still enjoying AirPlay’s wireless streaming perks.
Key Considerations for Picking the Right AirPlay TV Adapter
- Streaming Performance – Ensure adapters match your wifi performance and handle your desired resolution whether 1080p or 4K. Look for low latency and wifi extending designs that maintain smooth video.
- Sound Quality – Adapters handling audio may feature better connectivity or decoding for home theater sound bars and receivers. HDMI-ARC ports can access Dolby audio too. If you encounter issues with no sound output via AirPlay, check audio settings on both devices.
- Smart Features – Some adapters focus purely on AirPlay while others include voice assistants, Chromecast or smart home functions. Evaluate additional capabilities based on your needs.
- Setup and Use – Well-designed adapters will be simple to get connected and working out of the box. Compact receiver sticks that plug directly into HDMI inputs provide easy permanent access. If AirPlay isn’t showing up after setup, double check network connections and compatibility.
- Security – Enterprise-grade wifi encryption like WPA2 or AES-128 will secure streaming from iOS and Mac devices to adapted TVs without compromising privacy.
- Price – AirPlay adapters range from $50 to $200+ depending on performance and extra capabilities. Cheaper 1080p options work well for most, while premium 4K models provide future-proofing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an AirPlay adapter?
AirPlay adapters are small receiver devices that connect to non-smart TV HDMI ports to allow AirPlay video and audio streaming from Apple iPhones, iPads and Macs.
Do I need wifi to use an AirPlay adapter?
Yes, AirPlay relies on being connected to the same wireless network as your Apple device in order to wirelessly stream media and mirror screens. Make sure to have a reliable, high-speed wifi connection. If AirPlay keeps disconnecting from your TV, try boosting your network signal strength.
Can I play iTunes movies through an AirPlay adapter?
Yes! The AirPlay standard supports streaming various kinds of media from iOS devices and Mac computers including photos, videos, music and more. So iTunes movies purchased on your Apple gadgets can be played directly on your TV.
Do AirPlay adapters work with all TV models?
AirPlay adapters work with virtually all non-smart TVs with HDMI inputs. Some older TVs limited to 480i/480p resolutions may be unable to take full advantage of 1080p or 4K AirPlay streaming performance though when adapting.
Certain smart TV brands have run into AirPlay compatibility issues, so be sure to check troubleshooting guides for:
- Hisense TV AirPlay Not Working
- TCL TV AirPlay Not Working
- Unable to Connect AirPlay to Samsung TV
- LG TV AirPlay Not Working
Alternatives to adapters include using AirPlay on Vizio TVs, Roku TVs or Amazon’s Fire TV Stick if you own those streaming devices already.
Can multiple user devices stream to one adapter simultaneously?
Usually only one Apple device can be actively streaming to an AirPlay TV adapter at a time. However more advanced adapters like the Kanex ATV Pro do enable two devices to stream concurrently with audio output toggling.
Enjoy Effortless AirPlay Streaming: Get the Right Adapter
Whether you want easy big screen mirroring or media playback direct from Apple devices, these AirPlay TV adapters unlock wireless streaming for older televisions affordably.
Carefully match the performance, price and feature set to your needs. With the best adapter added seamlessly into your existing setup, you can finally experience AirPlay’s wireless freedom on every TV in your home.
What AirPlay questions do you still have? Let me know in the comments!
