I just want to use a credit card

can I pay Apple TV with my credit card

Yes, you can. But … you can’t differentiate between services and payment methods.

I want to get Apple TV but is it the same as streaming

Apple services are paid using the (valid) payment methods as set for your Apple ID account. Learn how to add a card to your account. Change, add, or remove Apple ID payment methods - Apple Support

The payment methods are ordered. The top listed will be tried first.

How to redeem your Apple Gift Card or App Store & iTunes gift card

The account balance is always used with highest priority, before cards or other payment methods. This helps avoid a build-up of unused balance. Balance can only be spend on services, and not returned as money to be spend elsewhere.