Modern times have marked the entry of smart devices and equipment at every place. Google Chromecast is a device that you plug into your television's HDMI port which allows you to “cast” your phone, computer or tablet directly to your TV.
You can cast directly from your phone, computer or tablet onto the ChromeCast to project the video and audio whatever you want. This means YouTube videos, Netflix movies, Hulu + Live TV, Philo Live TV, Sling TV and much more. The sky is really the limit with what you can cast to the big screen.
When casting from your phone for example, Netflix will run in the background so you can still use your phone while it casts the newest season of Stranger Things to your TV.
It is an excellent initiative towards the trend of cable cutting. Without any mess of wires and cables, you can enjoy your favorite programs and shows. On top of that, it is a portable device, so you can carry it with you wherever you head for a trip.
Not only this, Google Chromecast has freed its users from the monthly cable charges and restrictive contracts. This device can access various streaming services and platforms like Netflix, Hulu, FuboTV, and many more.
If you already own an Amazon Fire TV Stick, you can use the free Elite Firestick Setup Guide to learn how to turn it into a Google Chromecast or how to jailbreak your firestick.
What is Google Chromecast?
Google Chromecast is a streaming device that lets users stream the content on their phones or tablets on a big screen. It supports various streaming service providers and ensures the seamless working of many applications. The history of Google Chromecast dates back to 2013, when it was first introduced in the US.
The first generation of Google Chromecast had a shape of dongle and built-in HDMI plug in the body. The shape of its next generations transformed into a disc with a small HDMI cable. The latest model of Google Chromecast (Chromecast with Google TV) is the only update that has a user interface on the screen and comes with a remote.
It is a very versatile media streaming device that supports the feature of screen mirroring. You can get access to many apps that are Chromecast compatible. Also, it is a boon for all game lovers as Google Chromecast allows you to stream numerous games on the TV screen to which it is connected.
What do you get with Google Chromecast (in the box)?
Setting Up Chromecast does not require any special equipment or expertise. It is equipped with all the requirements in the box. You do not have to worry about buying anything extra along with it. Here are the things that you get on buying Google Chromecast:
- The Google Chromecast (streaming device)
- A power adapter
- USB Cable attached to it
The USB cable is used to power the device either from an outside source or the TV's USB port. All the steps and necessary tips will be listed inside of the box for the ease of users.
However, Google TV with Chromecast requires 2 AAA batteries also due to the inclusion of a remote.
What can Google Chromecast do?
Media streaming devices have established a great place in the market by attracting customers of all age groups. Google Chromecast has been improved with every new model and generation. Here are some of the notable features of Google Chromecast:
Casting: Google Chromecast's key feature includes screen casting. You can have the advantage of viewing the content of your smartphone or laptop on the television screen. There are many streaming networks compatible with Google Cast. So, you can play movies, tv shows, and more content with it. Apart from the entertainment aspect, this device can make your work experience better. This device also supports Google Meet, which provides you with the ease of attending meetings on the television screen. All you have to do is open the app and find the cast button or the cast icon.
Streaming: It supports various streaming services, so you can watch it on any device connected to Google Chromecast. The apps that are available to be cast through Google Chromecast include Netflix, Amazon Prime Videos, Google Play Movies, Disney, HBO Max, Pandora, Spotify, Apple Music, Youtube, Hulu, and many more. Not only this, but you can also cast the content from Google Chrome. In other words, you can fully convert your TV to a Smart TV by buying this device. However, you will have to buy a subscription to certain apps in order to stream your favorite content.
Google Assistant: Take full advantage of browsing or binge-watching without lifting your finger. This streamer allows you to connect it to any device that has a voice assistant activated in it. For instance, you can give voice commands to play a certain show or movie using Google Assistant when Chromecast is connected with Google Home Mini.
Initiate a Party: You can link your smart speakers with Google Nest and Google Chromecast devices to listen to music all over your home. There are a variety of apps that you can choose to play music from and have a dance party at your home. The Chromecast-enabled apps include Spotify, Google Play Music, Tidal, and many more. However, you need to be a paid subscriber of some of these apps to do so.
Stream Games: Google Chromecast gives you the autonomy to stream games from your laptop to your TV screen if they are connected to the same WiFi network. This feature is a major plus point for all game lovers as it provides a great experience to them. You can look for Chromecast-enabled games and launch them on your PC. Then, cast it to the device connected to Chromecast. Some of the games that Chromecast supports are Scrabble Blitz, Deer Hunter, Fire Team, Angry Birds Go, and more. Not only this, but you can also add your Stadia account on this device.
How To Set Up Your Google Chromecast For The First Time?
Google Chromecast is very easy to set up. You can do it in a few simple steps. All the things you require are in the box itself. You can set up Google Chromecast in the following steps:
Step 1: Plug in the Google Chromecast device into your HD television and then connect your Chromecast to an external power source (wall socket). For that, you will need a USB power cable and power adapter. You can also power the Chromecast via a free USB port on your HDTV. Doing this will be an easy step and does not require any expertise. A flashlight will be visible as soon as it is properly connected and powered.
Note: Do not use any other adapter than the AC Adapter included in the box with Google Chromecast.
Step 2: Ensure that your Chromecast is connected to the proper HDMI port. Once done, switch on the Television and tune in to the accurate HDMI port. Your TV screen will show you a “Set Me Up” screen followed by the name of your Chromecast and a URL to start the setup process.
Step 3: In the next step, you will have to download Google Home on any of your devices (mobile phone, tablet, iPhone, or iPad). This app is free and available on both iOS and Android devices. It will showcase all the available Chromecast devices near you, and from there, you can select the one you want to set up.
Step 4: It will show you the verification code on your device, which you will have to type on the TV screen. Further, follow the steps displayed on the Google Home app to set up the device. If you have already completed the setup on any device, you do not need to do it all over again. The setup is only possible if the devices are connected to the same WiFi network.
In case no instructions are visible on the screen, you can view it by clicking on the top left corner of the home screen of the Google Home app.
Step 5: The software also allows you to rename your Chromecast device if you have more than one Chromecast or want to give it your identity. To eliminate the confusion that may arise in the long run, it is recommended to rename your device.
Step 6: Connect your Chromecast-connected TV with an internet connection. Enter the password of your WiFi connection or use an ethernet cable for a wired internet connection. After doing this, you are all set to stream your content and take full advantage of this versatile device.
How Much Does It Cost?
Digital Streaming video devices have gained a lot of popularity, and hence competition. Fire TV Stick, Roku, and DirecTV Stream devices are some of the great competitors of Chromecast in all aspects, including price.
The Google Chromecast price varies from $30 to $50 depending on the generation of Chromecast you choose to buy. You can get the latest generation of Chromecast (Chromecast With Google TV) by paying a price of $49.9. However, there are other models that are available at a lower price.
Moreover, at many e-commerce sites, you can also get combo offers that can help you save substantial amounts. For instance, the combinations that you can consider are Google Home Mini + Google Chromecast, Sonos (WiFi and Bluetooth Speaker) + Google Chromecast, and many more.
How Is Google TV With Chromecast A Better Choice?
Google TV With Chromecast works better and is an improved version with a variety of additional features. It is definitely a very good option for all those wanting a high-quality streaming media device. Here are the amazing features that Google TV with Chromecast has to offer to all its users:
- Remote: This device comes with a remote with Bluetooth enabled in it. It offers ease of operating and managing the TV controls with the buttons on the remote. It also has Google Assistant, which lets you give voice commands. The remote control has a microphone in it, which enables better control. 2AAA batteries are required to power this remote.
The remote has a circular D-pad button at its top. It certainly makes navigating through the settings and the content very easy. The rest of the buttons solve other necessary purposes. The eight buttons are Back, Input, Home, Power, Mute, and buttons for the application.
- Streaming Quality: As the price goes higher, the video quality offered by Chromecast improves. Google TV with Chromecast lets you stream your content in 4K HDR at 60 FPS. In contrast, the streaming quality of videos in the prior models goes maximum up to 1080p.
Since with Google Chromecast, you will have to play your content on your mobile device and then cast it, the quality diminishes. On the other hand, Google TV with Chromecast allows you to install apps directly on the device, so there is no scope for reduced quality. However, Chromecast Ultra also offers a streaming resolution of up to 4K.
- User Interface: Google TV with Chromecast has a user interface that is interactive and easy to use. Users can have a better watching experience and clarity with this interface. If you are going with the old models, you won't get any interface like that of an Android TV. Google TV supports the UI that resembles the screen of an Android TV and lets you open apps directly from there.
- Apps: There are around 65,000 apps available to be downloaded on Google TV with Chromecast. You can get any app or game of your choice easily from the Play Store. The user interface, as earlier mentioned, will display and let you search the apps and select them easily. You can also sideload the apps on Google TV by using the Downloader app. At the same time, you can not download apps on the device if you own any of the previous models of Chromecast. You can cast any tab on Chrome browser or launch the Chromecast compatible apps on your computer and cast them on your Television with the help of Google Chromecast.
- Design: The Google TV with Chromecast is 6.4 inches long, 2 inches wide, and 0.5 inches high, which isn't very different from the Chromecast 3rd generation. However, a noticeable change in shape is visible in these two. Google TV With Chromecast is an oval-shaped device available in colors like sunrise coral, snow-white, and sky blue, and Chromecast only in white and black. You can go for Google TV with Chromecast if you want to go for a colorful and attractive device along with improved features.
Summary
Google Chromecast is an affordable device that has great usability. It is a strong contender in the market among devices like Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, Apple TV 4K, and DirecTV Stream Device. You need to consider all the features of this streaming stick if you are planning to buy it. Making a critical analysis and comparison is also very crucial.
We have tried to cover all the things you should know before making a choice. Still, if you want to know more about the Chromecast’s function, features, its setup, or the comparison between Chromecast and Amazon Fire TV Stick, you can visit us at https://cordcuttersanonymous.com
