In late 2020, Google introduced a significant evolution in its streaming device lineup with the Chromecast with Google TV. This wasn’t your typical Chromecast; it was a fully fleshed-out interface with a remote control, transforming the streaming experience. Now, nearly four years later, it’s time to evaluate if this device has held up, if it remains a viable option for today’s streaming needs, and how it compares to other streaming devices on the market. So, let’s dive in.
Most set-top boxes and streaming devices stay out of sight and out of mind, which makes Google’s decision to pair colorful options with your TV all the more interesting. If you plug it in and forget about it, the device itself, no matter what it is, is likely to stand the test of time. That said, the Chromecast with Google TV is a bit larger compared to previous models, but this is due to the additional hardware packed inside.
Despite being larger than older versions, the Chromecast with Google TV is not a large streaming dongle compared to the rest of the market. Its sleek, pebble-like design with a dash of color is less utilitarian and more visually appealing. The color may not matter much if you leave it plugged in at the back of your TV, but it’s a nice touch for those who do care about aesthetics.
The remote control also saw a significant upgrade. It’s minimalist yet functional, featuring a circular navigation pad, volume controls on the side, and dedicated buttons for YouTube and Netflix. These dedicated buttons might seem a bit confusing in hindsight, as they could have been more versatile macro buttons that you can assign to other functions. While software allows for some customization, having these options built-in would have been better. However, the dedicated Google Assistant button adds a bit of convenience and color to the remote.
One of the biggest complaints about the Chromecast with Google TV since its launch has been the lack of true internal power. It’s true that the device isn’t the most powerful streaming option available. It features an Amlogic S905X3 processor, which is relatively weak compared to newer options, 2GB of RAM, and a modest 8GB of storage. While these specs might seem limited compared to newer competitors, they have proven sufficient for most streaming tasks.
The device supports 4K resolution, HDR, and Dolby Vision, ensuring a high-quality viewing experience for compatible content. However, it lacks AV1 codec support, which is available on the weaker Chromecast HD released in 2022. The weaker hardware means that lag and slowdowns are not completely absent, but thanks to updates and optimization, the performance dips are not as noticeable as they were at launch. Almost all streaming applications run seamlessly and consistently without major fallbacks or problems, which is crucial given the core purpose of the Google TV interface.
The most significant downside is the 8GB of onboard storage, which was inadequate at launch and is even worse now. It means it’s almost essential to pick up a USB-C multiport hub that supports microSD or USB-C storage expansion if you don’t want to run out of space for installing applications. Google has reduced the system install size marginally through software updates, allowing for around 4.4GB of usable space, but it’s still not enough for heavy app users.
One of the standout features of the Chromecast with Google TV, almost four years later, is the Google TV interface. Unlike the barebones casting approach of previous Chromecast hardware, Google TV offers a comprehensive and user-friendly interface that leans into the streaming platforms you use, complete with ad-like banners for upcoming shows, movies, and events.
However, since the launch, the ad-based approach to surfacing content has become a source of frustration and annoyance for some users. At what point does a TV show recommendation become an ad? Visually, it’s something you get accustomed to, but shows and movies definitely take precedence over apps and services. The app row has been downsized to smaller circular icons, which do stand out amid a sea of recommendations. If you know what you want to watch, tuning out the noise is essential to getting the most from Google TV.
Despite the ad-based approach, the Google TV interface remains intuitive and provides easy access to a massive library of streaming apps and services. Google’s emphasis on personalized recommendations and content aggregation from various streaming services remains a significant advantage over competitors. This feature makes it easier to discover new content without jumping between multiple applications, enhancing the overall user experience.
Despite not having the fastest processor, the Chromecast with Google TV delivers impressive streaming quality. The 4K HDR content looks exceptional on various TVs, especially on OLED screens, where it appears vibrant and sharp. Buffering issues are rare, provided you have a stable internet connection. Dolby Atmos support also ensures an immersive audio experience, provided you have compatible audio equipment or a compatible TV set.
Regular software updates from Google have improved and maintained performance and compatibility with new services. Fast Pair, a feature added with recent updates, allows for quick and easy connection of earbuds or headphones directly to your TV, which was sorely missing at launch. Tying everything to your Google account also aids in manageability, creating watchlists that evolve as you use the device more. The built-in Google Assistant has proven valuable, allowing for voice searches and control that would otherwise require multiple button presses. Though it can be a little slow to react, it is fast and accurate once it recognizes the command.
Compared to competitors like the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K, which seems to get an update every six months, the Roku Ultra, and the Apple TV 4K, the Chromecast with Google TV holds its own despite its lesser specifications. As of 2024, it remains competitively priced at $49.99, with frequent discounts and bundles making it accessible to a wider audience.
While newer models and higher-spec devices are available, the combination of features, performance, and price make the Chromecast with Google TV an easy recommendation despite some of its perceived shortcomings. Like many Google products and services, limited resources have not been a significant hindrance, proving that the device has aged better than expected.
Since launch, I’ve used the Chromecast with Google TV daily on my office TV almost without fail. While I’ve had my grumbles, it has aged remarkably well. You could argue that it’s just a streaming stick at the back of your TV, and that’s a fair comment, but it’s impressive to see a product that was perceived as weak lasting as well as it has. Longevity matters for a device you use daily, and the Chromecast with Google TV delivers on that front.
In conclusion, the Chromecast with Google TV, despite its limitations, remains a solid streaming device almost four years after its launch. Its combination of user-friendly interface, impressive streaming quality, and regular updates have allowed it to remain relevant in a competitive market. The sub-$50 asking price just makes it all the more impressive.
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Have you used the Chromecast with Google TV? Share your experiences in the comments below, and let’s start a conversation about this enduring streaming device. Thanks to our channel members, and cheers for tuning into this retrospective. I’ll speak to you later!
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