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Yes: Google TV Streamer (4K) has Ethernet, can output up to 4K HDR at 60 fps, supports apps available through Google TV and Google Play, and serves as a Google Home Matter hub with a built-in Thread border router. What you can actually use depends on your TV, network, app availability in your region, and the smart-home device’s protocol support.
Does Google TV Streamer have Ethernet?
Yes. Google lists an RJ45 Ethernet port rated at 1 Gbps, alongside dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. You can choose a wired or wireless connection during setup. Google’s specifications also mention a separate Ethernet power supply sold separately, so check the current product packaging and retailer listing if you plan to use Ethernet; do not assume that accessory is included. Google’s specifications and box contents information describe the connection and included items.
Can Google TV Streamer play 4K on my TV?
It can output up to 4K HDR at 60 fps, but that is a maximum capability, not a guarantee for every setup. The display, the content, and the Streamer all affect the resolution you see. A 1080p TV will display up to 1080p, not 4K. Google recommends a 4K TV for the best experience. Google’s product overview and specifications detail the supported output.
Check the HDMI connection for 4K
Google says HDCP 2.2 is required for 4K content. If you connect through an older TV or receiver, check the specifications for the particular HDMI input in use; not every input on a device necessarily has the same capabilities. The Streamer works with an HDMI display at another resolution, but its output will be limited by that display. Google’s device requirements cover the 4K requirement.
#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
HDR and audio formats depend on the whole setup
Google lists HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, and Dolby Vision video support, and Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby Atmos audio formats. Support for a format on the Streamer does not mean every app, title, TV, or connected audio system will deliver it. Check the service, content, display, and audio equipment you intend to use. Google recommends HDMI 2.1 support on the TV and connected audio equipment for high-quality audio guidance. If the Streamer connects directly to the TV, Google’s setup guidance is to connect the audio system to the TV’s eARC port. These are setup recommendations, not a requirement to buy a soundbar or receiver. Google’s specification page lists supported formats, while its product overview provides connection guidance.
What apps can I install on Google TV Streamer?
Google TV Streamer runs Android TV OS, and you can install apps that are available for your device and region. There is no reliable, permanent global app list: Google says content and the Google TV experience can vary by country and language, and app developers control whether their apps are submitted and available.
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
- On Google TV, search for the app you want, or browse the Apps tab.
- Select the available app and choose Install.
- Check the app or service’s own terms to see whether it requires a subscription. Installing an app does not provide a paid subscription; removing a service from Google TV also does not cancel that subscription.
If a service is essential to your purchase decision, search for it on the device or confirm its current availability for your country rather than relying on an old or region-unspecified list. See Google’s instructions for installing apps and its explanation of how Google TV and Android TV work.
Does Google TV Streamer work with Matter or Thread?
Yes. Google identifies the Streamer as a Matter hub and a Thread border router. These are related but different roles: Matter is a smart-home interoperability standard, while Thread is one network protocol compatible Matter devices may use. Matter devices may communicate over Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or Thread. If your home combines Thread and Wi-Fi Matter devices, Google says you need a Google Home hub that also acts as a Thread border router; the Streamer is specified to do both. Google’s overview and its guide to preparing a smart home for Matter explain these roles.
Rank #3
- Advanced 4K streaming - Elevate your entertainment with the next generation of our best-selling 4K stick, with improved streaming performance optimized for 4K TVs.
- 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.
- Cloud gaming, no console required – Stream Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Hogwarts Legacy, Outer Worlds 2, Ninja Gaiden 4, and hundreds of games on your Fire TV Stick 4K Select with Xbox Game Pass and Luna via cloud gaming. Xbox Game Pass subscription and compatible controller required. Each sold separately.
- Smarter picks with Alexa+ – Getting to what you love has never been easier. Press the voice remote button and talk naturally to find what to watch across your apps, manage your smart home, or dive into virtually any topic.
- Wi-Fi 6 support - Enjoy smooth 4K streaming, even when other devices are connected to your router.
Before buying a smart-home device
- Look for the Matter mark and confirm the manufacturer currently supports the device with Google Home.
- Check whether it connects over Wi-Fi or Thread. A Thread device needs an active Thread network and border router; being a Matter hub alone does not mean every smart device is compatible.
- Make sure IPv6 is enabled on your home network. Google says this is needed for Matter to work properly, including communication between Thread and Wi-Fi devices.
- Check the manufacturer’s notes for supported device types, firmware, and platform compatibility. The word “smart” by itself does not establish compatibility.
For Thread setup, Google’s instructions require the Google Home app, a Thread-enabled device, and current device firmware. You can check whether Thread is enabled in Google TV under Settings > Network & Internet. See Google’s guidance on Matter requirements and connecting Thread devices with Google TV Streamer.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What do I need to set it up?
Google lists the Streamer, voice remote, USB power cable, power supply, and two AAA alkaline batteries in the box. Plan separately for an HDMI cable: Google says an Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1 certified cable is sold separately and recommends it for optimal performance. A 4K TV is recommended for the best experience, but an HDMI display with a different resolution can work. Google’s box contents page lists what is included.
Rank #4
- No More App-Switching. Forget learning to navigate a new screen with every app. TiVo Stream 4K enables one centralized place for searching, browsing, and creating watch lists across all your apps..DC Input Range 5V/1.0A. Power Consumption : Maximum 5 W
- Recommendations Across All of Your Apps: Get rid of the walls between what you watch. TiVo recommends your next favorite shows and movies based on what you love, not where they live.
- Say it and watch it. The power of voice control makes it easy to find shows. Integrated Google Assistant allows you to launch apps, dim the lights and more.
- One place for all your favorite streaming apps. TiVo Stream 4K includes Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Peacock plus many more, so you can get to your shows fast.
- TiVo Stream 4K is one of Time Magazine’s “2020 Best Inventions, Special Mention” and PCMag hails it as “an excellent media streamer for TV lovers.” Operating Temperature 0˚C - 40˚C
Setup checklist
- An HDMI display and a separately sold HDMI cable.
- A Wi-Fi connection or Ethernet connection, plus an electrical outlet.
- A Google Account.
- A compatible mobile device with the Google Home app. Google’s requirements page specifies Android 9 or later, or iOS 17 or later, for setup.
Google’s requirements for Chromecast and Google TV Streamer cover the setup prerequisites. If you use Ethernet, confirm whether the separately sold Ethernet power supply noted in Google’s specifications is needed for your installation.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Enjoy nextlevel streaming at an affordable price with the onn Google TV 4K Pro Streaming Devicewith Gemini This powerhouse streaming device delivers uncompromising performance and stunning visualstransforming your TV into a premium entertainment hub
- Immerse yourself in vivid colorssharp contrastand cinematic quality with stunning 4K Ultra HD and Dolby Vision
- Experience theaterqualitymultidimensional sound with immersive Dolby Atmos Audio
- Powerful performance with 3GB of RAMis 50% more than the 4K Plus modelfor super smooth app performancefast navigationand seamless multitasking
- Enjoy incredibly smoothbufferfree streaming and gaming with blazingfast WiFi 6 Connectivity or use the optional Ethernet Port for the feastestreliable connectivity
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.
