Apple TV definitely offers the best “streaming portal” experience. But it’s still kind of janky. For one thing, different streaming apps implement playback controls totally differently - why did Apple not impose a standard interface?? And for another thing, the remote control is just senselessly terrible.
There isn't a device out there with a single unified player UI: the behavior of Netflix, Max, and Prime are all different on every device I've owned. Apple TV is probably as consistent as it's going to get, which is not very. I wasn't a fan of the touchpad remotes, but afaik they got rid of them, the only touchpad left is the iPod-like shuttle control now.
Apple do have a standard player, but streaming services reinvent their own.
I have three Apple TVs and use multiple streaming services on them. Trying to enable/disable subtitles or perform some other similar basic function without accidentally scrubbing or closing the video is a gamble each time. I think my kids think I'm incompetent.
Apple, just like Microsoft, were known for they great UI 25 years ago. Today, this is no longer the case.
If you own a smart TV that runs RokuOS that may not be an option. Just turning your TV on will serve you an ad.