Android has been available on TVs for many years, but it seems that in 2022 Google has revitalized its commitment to big screens, with launches such as Google Chromecast with Google TV HD, a cheaper version with fewer features of Chromecast with Google TV 4K that we analyzed two years ago.
This model is simply a cheaper option so more people can choose to have Android on their TV, and it’s also the replacement for the basic Chromecast that was on sale.
- Buy Chromecast with Google TV HD on Amazon
We will now have the possibility of installing applications, using content distribution and managing our home automation, all from the same remote control.
A basic accessory for any TV
On a daily basis, I watch TV, or any streaming app, on a Phillips TV with native Android TV. For me it was important that my TV had it, so I opted for this model.
However, to test this new Chromecast with Google TV HD, I decided to dust off an older Sony TV with a lower resolution, as I believe it will provide a better experience for those looking to upgrade an older TV to Android.
Obviously, if you have a 4K TV, you’re better off buying the model that’s been out for two years, but if your TV has a lower resolution, you’ll save some money with the newer model.
One of the differences is that the 4K model is available in three colors while the basic one is only available in one, snow white.
One controller for everything
One of the downsides of having an accessory like this is having to use two controllers. However, the Chromecast remote with Google TV HD allows, if the TV has a suitable HDMI port, to take control of the TV remote’s power and volume menus, so we will only need this one- ci to change TV channels. -T or use the TV menu.
If you are one of those people who never watches TV, you can store the TV remote control in a drawer.
The remote control that comes in the box is similar to the one we had in the 4K model, with just decent quality but with nice ergonomics. Additionally, we have volume buttons, Google Assistant shortcut, and more.
The app buttons are for YouTube and Netflix, although we’ve already told you on occasion how to map them if you want to use other apps.
Very smooth operation
The essence of this device is to allow us to view streaming services comfortably and quickly, and it keeps its promises. Maximum quality is up to 1080p with HDR at 60fps, although we tested it on a TV with a lower resolution. We have the same audio codecs as the 4K model and one less video codec, as this model lacks Dolby Vision. Yes, we have HDR10, HDR10+ and HLG2.
The interface is the same as we saw in previous models, inherited from Google TV, with an area of applications that we can rearrange, another for suggestions, another where all the installed applications are. .
Obviously, having Google Play we can install applications and games, being able to bind a remote control to enjoy them to the fullest. For the record, to say that it comes with the Stadia application. Curious.
Google Assistant, home automation…
Beyond what the use of streaming applications allows, we can use other types of applications, such as Spotify, games… or use the remote control for other things.
We can ask the assistant to answer questions, put our photos on the screen without searching and even control home automation devices in the house.
Conclusion: now it’s even more recommendable
Google has done a great job of replacing the original Chromecast with this model with Google TV, as it greatly expands the possibilities of television. In addition, being able to pay less to have an HD model instead of 4K is a success because there are not a few houses that still have this type of television, models that are usually not Smart TVs either.
You can buy this Chromecast with Google TV on the Amazon site for 39.99 dollars.
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