Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Chromecast can mean either Google’s former line of HDMI streaming devices or the Google Cast technology those devices use. With Google Cast, you select a compatible receiver—such as a TV or streaming device—from a supported app and control playback from your phone or tablet. Some TVs have Google Cast built in, so they do not need a separate Chromecast device.
What Chromecast and Google Cast mean
Chromecast is the name Google used for a family of streaming devices that connect to a TV’s HDMI input. Google Cast is the technology that lets supported apps send content to a compatible receiver. The terms are related, but they are not interchangeable: a television can support Google Cast without being a Chromecast device. Google’s casting instructions explain the basic process, while its device specifications distinguish Chromecast hardware from newer products.
How casting works
From a phone or tablet app
- Connect the phone or tablet and the TV or streaming receiver to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open an app that supports Google Cast and tap its Cast button. Its location varies by app.
- Select the TV or receiver from the device list. The app then provides playback controls.
This is not the same as mirroring every app on the phone. Casting starts from an app that supports a receiver; not every app, website, or video format is guaranteed to work. On iPhone, iPad, and Mac, local-network permission may be needed for device discovery.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFrom Chrome on a computer
Chrome can send a browser tab or mirror the computer’s screen to a compatible receiver. Update Chrome, connect the computer and receiver to the same Wi-Fi, then use Chrome’s Cast option to choose a destination and what to share. A strong Wi-Fi connection helps. Some older browser plugins do not work. When casting a tab, its image appears on both displays and its sound plays on the TV; when mirroring the whole screen, sound may remain on the computer. See Google’s Chrome casting instructions.
#1 Best Overall
- 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
What you need to set it up
- For a Chromecast device: a display with an available HDMI input, a mobile device, and the Google Home app. Google currently lists Android 9 or later and iOS 17 or later for setup; setup with a computer is not supported.
- For app casting: a Google Cast-compatible receiver, a supported app, and a network that lets the sender and receiver discover each other. Google generally requires both to be on the same Wi-Fi network.
- For HDCP: Google streaming devices require a display with HDCP 1.3 or higher. 4K playback requires HDCP 2.2.
- For 4K: a 4K-capable display and at least 20 Mbps internet, according to Google’s support requirements. HDR also requires an HDR-capable display.
These are Google’s stated requirements, not a guarantee that every service or network will deliver the same performance. Availability and features can vary by app, device, provider, and region. See Google’s streaming-device requirements.
How Chromecast models differ
“Chromecast” does not describe one uniform set of features. Resolution and interface differ by model, and Google Cast may be built into a TV rather than supplied by a separate device.
Rank #2
- 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
| Device or setup | What it does | Resolution detail established by Google |
|---|---|---|
| Chromecast with Google TV (HD) | Streaming device with Google TV interface and remote | Up to 1080p HDR at 60 fps |
| Chromecast with Google TV (4K) | Streaming device with Google TV interface and remote | Up to 4K Ultra HD at 60 fps; HDR formats supported |
| Chromecast Ultra | Chromecast streaming device | Listed by Google as supporting 4K content |
| Google TV Streamer (4K) | Separate, newer streaming device with Google TV interface | Up to 4K HDR at 60 fps |
| TV with Google Cast built in | Receives Cast content without a separate Chromecast dongle | Depends on the TV model; check its specifications |
Google’s model specifications describe supported resolutions. A 4K-capable receiver cannot make non-4K content or a non-4K display output 4K; Google says output is optimized to the display’s maximum resolution when 4K is unavailable.
Chromecast’s status and Google’s newer device
Google announced on August 6, 2024, that it was ending Chromecast hardware production and that remaining stock would be sold while supplies lasted. The company said the move did not change its support policy for existing Chromecast devices, including continued software and security updates for the latest devices. Those were Google’s statements in 2024; check current local availability and support information rather than assuming the announcement guarantees either today.
Rank #3
- 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
Google positioned Google TV Streamer as its newer premium streaming device. It is a separate product, not simply another name for an HDMI Chromecast dongle: it has a different form factor and a Google TV interface. Google lists 4K HDR up to 60 fps, Ethernet, and Google Cast support on its Google TV Streamer specifications page. In its 2024 announcement, Google said more than 100 million Chromecast devices had been sold over 11 years; that is a dated company figure, not a current sales total. Read Google’s Google TV Streamer announcement and its Chromecast history and transition post.
What to choose for your TV
- Your TV already has Google Cast: try casting from a supported app before buying a separate receiver.
- You want to cast from a phone or computer: focus on receiver compatibility and Wi-Fi reliability; an on-screen remote-led interface is not essential to the casting process.
- You want 4K: verify the exact device model, 4K display, HDCP 2.2 support, and internet requirements. The Chromecast with Google TV HD model is specified for up to 1080p, not 4K.
- You prefer browsing on the TV with a remote: Chromecast with Google TV models add an on-screen Google TV interface and voice remote, unlike the original Chromecast-style experience centered on selecting content from another device. Availability of older Chromecast hardware may be limited because production ended.
If the receiver does not appear or the connection is weak
- Confirm the phone or computer and receiver are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Check the receiver’s network settings and make sure local-network access is enabled on Apple devices if prompted.
- If supported by the router and receiver, try the 5 GHz Wi-Fi network.
- Restart the streaming device and router, and check for router updates.
- Move the receiver away from interference and nearby cables. Ethernet may help where supported: Chromecast and Chromecast with Google TV require a separately sold compatible adapter for wired networking and do not have built-in Ethernet ports. Verify adapter compatibility for the exact model.
These steps follow Google’s troubleshooting guidance for Wi-Fi and connection problems.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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 #4
- Expand your home entertainment without buying a new TV; Google Chromecast lets you stream your favorites from your phone, tablet, or laptop; no remote needed
- Chromecast is easy to set up up; just plug it in, connect to Wi-Fi, and start streaming to turn your TV into a smart TV; it works with almost any TV that has an HDMI port
- Works with the apps you already know and love; enjoy shows, movies, music, games, sports, photos, live TV, and more from over 2,000 streaming apps in up to 1080p
- With Chromecast, you can stream, pause, play, or adjust the volume right from your phone with just a tap; while you’re streaming, you can still use your phone as you normally do
- Mirror your laptop screen or turn your tablet into an even better entertainment system; surf the web or see your media on the big screen
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.
Recommended Free Tools
