They may be called almost the same and get confused, but they’re not the same and don’t offer the same functions: the regular Chromecast and the Chromecast with Google TV are almost light years apart. the other. Do you want to know what you can do with each and which one suits you for the use you are going to give to your television? Let’s compare Google’s two flagship devices head-to-head.
It may sound like a modern product, but nothing could be further from the truth: the Chromecast has been with us since 2013, the year Google surprised the tech world with a device that, once connected to the TV, allowed to send endless content to the big screen from the small screen. The said Chromecast has evolved. First in releases, then to an advanced device that combined the essence of Chromecast with Android TV. And doubts arose.
With Chromecast and Google TV, you have it all; with the Chromecast to dry only a part
For starters, it’s a good idea to put all of Google’s TV devices into context. On the one hand, it currently distributes Google Chromecast, a player that allows media streaming at a maximum of 1080p. Then there’s the Chromecast Ultra, but it’s not sold separately (or in the Google Stadia bundle). Finally, Google distributes Chromecast with Google TV, the union of HDMI streaming devices with Android TV.
For convenience, and if you don’t own any of Google’s HDMI players, you have to choose between a Google Chromecast or a Chromecast with Google TV. Depending on your needs, one or the other will serve you. Although yes: if you only need to send music or video from the mobile to the TV, with the Chromecast alone you have more than enough.
With the Chromecast with Google TV, you have all the functions of the Chromecast in addition to a complete operating system. If your budget allows, this is the best choice
The Chromecast with Google TV adds Smart TV options to your TV, as it is a small standalone Android TV. It has a remote control for its control and at no time do you need your mobile to access platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max or Disney +. And it offers 4K resolution with HDR, one of its most notable differences: the Chromecast simply only reaches 1080p.
Its rival is more complete, yes, but that can also be a drawback: if you just need a way to watch your movies, series or music on TV, with Chromecast you can instantly send all this content from your mobile. This implies a significant saving, since the Chromecast alone is worth nearly half that of the Chromecast with Google TV. This makes it much more convenient: you don’t need a remote control to work, a mobile phone is enough.
With the Chromecast, it only allows you to send content, the Chromecast with Google TV provides a complete operating system, like the one you can have on your Smart TV. You need to assess whether you need maximum simplicity or absolute versatility, whether you’re betting on economy or increasing your budget to gain capabilities. With another point to keep in mind: with either of the two, you won’t need a loose budget, both are very cheap for what they offer.
Comparison Chart of Chromecast Vs. Chromecast with Google TV
Google Chromecast |
Google Chromecast with Google TV |
|
---|---|---|
Date of presentation |
2018 |
2021 |
resolution |
1080p |
up to 4K Ultra HD and high dynamic range (HDR) |
Control system |
mobile only |
remote control and mobile |
wireless connectivity |
Wi-Fi 802.11ac (2.4GHz/5GHz) |
Wi‑Fi 802.11ac (2.4GHz/5GHz) and Bluetooth |
ports and connectors |
HDMI and Micro USB |
HDMI and USB-C |
Colors |
Chalk and charcoal |
Snow, sunrise and sky |
Embedded operating system |
– |
Android-TV |
Supported operating systems for sending content |
Android, iOS, Mac and Windows |
Android, iOS, Mac and Windows |
Others |
Ease of use, compatible with almost all streaming platforms |
App download, mobile independent, with the Chromecast also integrated |
Dimensions and weight |
51.81 x 51.9 x 13.8 mm Weight: 40 grams |
162 x 61 x 12.5 mm Weight: 55 grams |
In the box |
Chromecast Power cord AC adapter |
Chromecast with Google TV |
Price |
31,90$ |
$59.90 |