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You can cast a video from VLC by selecting your Chromecast or other Google Cast receiver in VLC’s renderer/device selector, then starting playback. First, make sure the receiver is on and set up, and that it and the device running VLC are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. The selector’s location varies by platform and VLC version.
Before you start
- Set up and power on your Chromecast, Google TV device, or TV with Google Cast.
- Connect the device running VLC and the receiver to the same Wi-Fi network. A guest network or other network separation can keep them from discovering each other.
- If you use an iPhone or iPad with iOS 14 or later, or a Mac with macOS 15 or later, allow VLC local-network access when prompted. Google says Cast-enabled apps need this access to discover devices: Google Cast local-network requirements.
- Use the current VLC release offered for your device. Version listings can differ by page: VideoLAN’s Android download page displayed VLC 3.7.0, while its release directory listed 3.7.1 dated 2026-07-14. See VLC for Android and the VideoLAN release directory.
Cast a video using VLC
VLC 3.0 introduced streaming to Chromecast, and VideoLAN lists Chromecast support from Android phones. The specific control and its placement can vary between desktop and Android versions; the available documentation does not establish one button-by-button sequence that applies to every release.
- Open the video in VLC.
- Open VLC’s renderer or Cast device selector. Look for the Chromecast or receiver you want to use.
- Select that receiver, then start or resume playback in VLC.
VideoLAN describes VLC 3.0 as able to stream to Chromecast devices, including some formats the receiver might not support natively. That is a product feature description, not a promise that every file, subtitle setup, or Chromecast generation will work the same way. See VideoLAN’s VLC 3.0 release notes.
If VLC cannot find the Chromecast
- Check the receiver. Make sure the Chromecast or TV is powered on, configured, and ready to receive a connection.
- Check the Wi-Fi network. Confirm VLC’s device and the receiver are on the same network, rather than separate guest or isolated networks.
- Check Apple local-network access. On iOS 14 or later and macOS 15 or later, allow VLC to access the local network in the device’s privacy settings. Without that access, Cast discovery may not work.
- Refresh VLC. Update VLC if an update is available, close the app, reopen it, and check the receiver list again. This is a general troubleshooting step, not a guaranteed fix.
- Use VLC’s selector, not Chrome’s Cast menu. Chrome casting is a separate workflow, and Google says Chrome plugins such as VLC do not work with it.
These checks address common setup and discovery issues; they cannot rule out every network, receiver, or compatibility problem.
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#1 Best Overall
Google TV Streamer 4K - Fast Streaming Entertainment on Your Device with Voice Search Remote - Watch Movies, Shows, Live, and Netflix in HDR - Smart Home Control - 32 GB of Storage - Hazel
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
VLC casting vs. Chrome casting
| Route | Where you start | What it is for |
|---|---|---|
| VLC renderer/Cast selector | VLC’s own device selector | Playing a video through VLC’s Chromecast support. |
| Chrome Cast menu | Chrome’s Cast controls | Casting a Chrome tab, file, or screen. Google says VLC plugins are not supported by this route. |
If you want VLC’s playback controls, use VLC’s own selector. Google’s Chrome guidance explains its separate casting options and the plugin limitation: Cast a tab, screen, or file from Chrome.
Which receivers can you use?
The receiver needs to support Google Cast. Options include a Chromecast, a Google TV device, or a television with Google Cast built in. Check the setup and network requirements in Google’s Cast help; support and behavior can vary across older receiver generations.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Sale
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Select, start streaming in 4K, AI-powered search, and free & live TV, find shows faster with Alexa+
- Essential 4K streaming – Get everything you need to stream in brilliant 4K Ultra HD with High Dynamic Range 10+ (HDR10+).
- The newest Fire TV experience (2026) – Our biggest update to Fire TV has a new, modern design that gets you to your entertainment fast. Browse dedicated content categories, pin more of your favorite apps, and get personalized recommendations from Alexa+. Spend less time scrolling, and more time watching.
- Make your TV even smarter – Fire TV gives you instant access to a world of content, tailor-made recommendations, and Alexa, all backed by fast performance.
- All your favorite apps in one place – Experience endless entertainment with access to Prime Video, Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Apple TV+, HBO Max, Hulu, Peacock, Paramount+, and thousands more. Easily discover what to watch from hundreds of thousands of movies and TV episodes (subscription fees may apply), including free, ad-supported content.
- Getting set up is easy – Plug in and connect to Wi-Fi for smooth streaming.
Rank #4
Google Chromecast with Google TV - Streaming Entertainment with Voice Search - Watch Movies, Shows, and Live TV in 4K HDR Streaming Media Player - Includes Pouch and Cleaning Cloth - Snow
- Watch the entertainment you love with Chromecast with Google TV, including live TV in up to 4K HDR; discover over 700,000 movies and TV episodes, plus millions of songs
- Get fast streaming, and enjoy a crystal clear picture up to 4K and brighter colors with HDR
- Your home screen displays movies and TV shows from all your services in one place with Chromecast 4K; get personal recommendations based on your subscriptions, viewing habits, and content you own
- Press the Google Assistant button on the remote and use voice search to find specific shows, youtube tv streaming, or search by mood, genre, actress, and more; control the volume, switch inputs, play music, and get answers, hands-free
- Chromecast is easy to install and compatible with almost any TV that has an HDMI port; to get started, just plug it into your TV’s HDMI port, connect to Wi-Fi, and start streaming
Rank #3
Sale
Roku Streaming Stick HD with Voice Remote
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
Rank #2
Google Streamer 4K – Fast Streaming Entertainment with Voice Search Remote, Watch Movies, Shows, Live Channels and Netflix in HDR, Smart Home Control, 32 GB Storage, Porcelain
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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