For years, Google’s Chromecast stood as a dongle without a remote, solely used for streaming content from phones or laptops to the TV. However, the new Chromecast with Google TV marks a significant departure. With the addition of a dedicated remote control and an entirely revamped menu interface infused with Google Assistant smarts, this device offers a unique experience. While Roku takes the top spot as our overall pick, the Google Chromecast shines for users seeking a personalized interface and robust voice controls.
The highlight of the new Chromecast is Google TV, an evolution of Android TV that takes center stage. The home screen is tailored to your viewing habits, presenting a rotating carousel of trending TV shows, curated top picks, and convenient category headers like “Continue watching” and “Trending on Google.” Notably, the “Continue Watching” row offers a seamless shortcut to catch up on the programming you were already engrossed in.
Algorithm-generated recommendations, such as “Shows about aliens” or “Shows about murder,” further enhance the experience. What sets these suggestions apart is that they predominantly come from services you’re already subscribed to. YouTube TV subscribers will particularly appreciate the Live TV tab, acting as a comprehensive channel guide for the service. Google has also expressed plans to expand the tab’s functionality to include other live TV services like Sling or Hulu Live.
Another standout feature of Google TV is the wealth of information it provides about specific shows or movies. From Rotten Tomatoes ratings to an overview of the various streaming platforms where a title is available, you gain comprehensive insights. Additionally, you can conveniently add shows to your watchlist directly from the show page, irrespective of the streaming service hosting it. However, it’s worth mentioning that renting or purchasing shows is limited to the Google Play Movies & TV store.
One of our favorite aspects of the new Chromecast is its seamless integration with Google Assistant. You can effortlessly make general queries, such as requesting a five-day weather forecast. Contextual commands like “Find movies with Bill Murray” or “Show me true crime documentaries” yield highly relevant results. Moreover, you have complete control over the TV through voice commands, including power on/off functionality and volume adjustments.
The Chromecast with Google TV supports 4K HDR and Dolby Vision, ensuring a visually immersive experience. However, it’s important to note that it lacks support for Apple’s AirPlay 2 protocol, making it slightly less compatible with Macs and iOS devices. Additionally, it currently does not offer Apple TV+ or iTunes video content. Another noteworthy detail is that unlike other streaming sticks, the latest Google Chromecast cannot be powered by a TV’s USB port; instead, it requires the use of the included 7.5-watt power adapter.
Number 4. Apple TV 4K
For those seeking a higher-end streaming option and fully immersed in the Apple ecosystem, the Apple TV 4K presents a compelling splurge. Boasting 4K HDR and Dolby Vision capabilities, as well as support for AirPlay 2, it seamlessly integrates with Mac and iOS devices. The tvOS platform offers an aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly interface, ensuring a delightful user experience. Notably, the “One Home Screen” feature allows for app and layout synchronization across multiple Apple TVs, while Siri functionality enables effortless searching for your favorite shows. With the recent redesign of the Siri remote, navigation between apps, content scrolling, and content discovery have become notably smoother and more efficient.
