Apple TV 4K does not come with an HDMI cable in the box

The Apple TV 4K ships with a power cable and a USB-C to USB-C cable, but no HDMI cable. You will need to buy an HDMI cable separately if you don't already own one. This is standard across most streaming devices and TV boxes—manufacturers leave out the HDMI cable to reduce packaging size and cost, assuming many people already have one at home.

The good news is that any standard HDMI cable will work with Apple TV 4K. You don't need an Apple-branded cable or a premium "ultra-high-speed" cable unless you're running an extremely long cable run (over 25 feet) or want future-proofing for 8K content. For most living rooms, a basic HDMI 2.1 cable costs between $5 and $15.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple TV 4K includes a power cable and USB-C to USB-C cable, but not an HDMI cable.
  • Any standard HDMI cable works with Apple TV 4K—you don't need an Apple-branded or premium version for normal use.
  • A basic HDMI 2.1 cable is sufficient and costs $5 to $15 from most electronics retailers.
  • If your TV is more than 25 feet away from where you'll place the Apple TV 4K, look for a cable rated for longer distances.

What Actually Comes in the Apple TV 4K Box

Inside the box you'll find the Apple TV 4K device itself, a power cable (USB-C), a USB-C to USB-C cable for connecting to a computer or power adapter, and documentation. Some regional versions may include different power adapters depending on your country's outlet standard, but the HDMI cable is never included.

The USB-C to USB-C cable is useful if you want to restore the device or transfer files, but it's not required for normal setup. Most people will only use the power cable and then connect the Apple TV 4K to their television using an HDMI cable they source themselves.

Which HDMI Cable to Buy

Look for an HDMI 2.1 cable rated for 4K and 60Hz video. This is the current standard and will handle everything Apple TV 4K outputs. The cable doesn't need to be expensive—a $10 cable from a reputable brand like Belkin, Amazon Basics, or Monoprice will perform identically to a $50 cable for distances under 25 feet.

Check the length you need before ordering. Most people use 6-foot or 10-foot cables. If your TV is mounted on a wall and your media console is on the opposite side of the room, measure the distance and add a few feet for slack. Cables longer than 25 feet may need active amplification to maintain signal quality, but this is rare in home setups.

Avoid cables labeled "premium" or "gold-plated" unless you specifically want them—the marketing around HDMI cables often overstates the difference in performance. A basic cable rated for HDMI 2.1 will deliver 4K video at 60Hz without any issues.

Where to Buy an HDMI Cable

You can buy HDMI cables at any electronics retailer: Best Buy, Target, Walmart, Amazon, or your local computer store. They're also available at some grocery stores and pharmacies in the tech section. Online retailers often have lower prices, but if you want to set up your Apple TV 4K when ready, a local store gets you a cable the same day.

If you already own an HDMI cable from another device—a previous streaming box, gaming console, or Blu-ray player—you can reuse it. There's no reason to buy a new one unless your existing cable is damaged or too short for your setup.

Setting Up Apple TV 4K Without the HDMI Cable

Once you have the HDMI cable, the setup process is straightforward. Plug the power cable into the Apple TV 4K and into a wall outlet or power strip. Connect the HDMI cable from the Apple TV 4K to an available HDMI port on your television. Turn on your TV, switch to the correct HDMI input, and the Apple TV 4K will boot up and walk you through initial setup on your screen.

You'll be asked to sign in with your Apple ID and choose your preferences. The entire process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. The USB-C cable is not needed for this—it's only used if you ever need to restore the device or troubleshoot connection issues.

Common Setup Mistakes to Avoid

The most common mistake is buying a cable that's too short and then having to buy another one. Measure your setup before ordering, and add extra length if you think you might rearrange furniture later. A 10-foot cable is rarely more expensive than a 6-foot cable, so the longer option is usually worth it.

Another mistake is plugging the Apple TV 4K into a USB port on your TV instead of using a wall outlet. While some TVs can power low-draw devices through USB, Apple TV 4K draws more power than most TVs can safely supply through a USB port. Always use a dedicated power outlet.

Don't assume your TV's HDMI port is broken if you don't see a picture when ready. Make sure you've switched your TV to the correct HDMI input—most TVs have multiple HDMI ports, and you need to select the one where you plugged in the cable. Check your TV remote for an "Input" or "Source" button.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any HDMI cable with Apple TV 4K?

Yes, any standard HDMI cable will work. You don't need an Apple-branded cable or a special version. A basic HDMI 2.1 cable rated for 4K is all you need for normal use in a living room.

Do I need a high-speed or ultra-high-speed HDMI cable?

No. High-speed and ultra-high-speed are marketing terms. An HDMI 2.1 cable will handle 4K video at 60Hz without any issues. The difference in performance between a $10 cable and a $50 cable is undetectable for distances under 25 feet.

What if I don't have an HDMI cable at home?

You'll need to buy one before you can use Apple TV 4K. Any electronics retailer sells them for $5 to $15. If you need it when ready, check a local Best Buy, Target, or Walmart. Online retailers like Amazon usually have lower prices if you can wait for delivery.

Can I connect Apple TV 4K to my TV without HDMI?

No. Apple TV 4K only has HDMI output. There's no alternative connection method like composite cables or optical audio. HDMI is the only way to send both video and audio to your television.

Is the USB-C cable included with Apple TV 4K useful?

It's included for troubleshooting and restoration, but you won't need it for normal setup or daily use. The power cable is what you'll actually use every day. The USB-C cable is only necessary if you ever need to restore the device through a computer.