Thinking of getting Apple TV

I have recently cancelled Sky Stream due to persistent glitches in the system (lip sync, sound drop out, blue screen with spinning wheel etc) and would like to ask if Apple tv would be a good alternative.

When you purchase Apple tv you don’t get an HDMI cable with it, could I use the same one that came with Sky Stream or is there a particular one that’s recommended to give the best picture/sound quality.

Is there a particular HDMI port that you should use on the tv to get the best quality, I have a Sony XR-50X90S

If I bought Air Pods and used them for the tv would I be able to get Dolby Atmos audio through them from third party apps the like NOW TV, Netflix etc.

If I were listening to audio with the Air Pods would someone else in the room still be able to hear the same audio through the tv speakers with the volume set at a level that suits them.

If I were to opt for a HomePod does that cancel out the tv speakers or do the tv speakers still work and the HomePod enhances the audio.

I currently use other Apple products like iPhone, iPad and MacBook so I suppose Apple tv would compete the set.

Finally, what are the benefits of having Apple tv over just using the apps on your smart tv.

Thanks in advance for your help.