Despite owning a lot of Smart TVs, people still rely on their trusty third-generation Chromecast at home and on the go. Even if you think of Chromecast as yesterday's streaming device, there are some great reasons why it's worth using in an age of built-in apps and streaming boxes.
5. Compact Chromecast
Chromecast is a perfect example of portable technology. Even the latest Google Chromecast with Google TV is smaller than the palm of your hand, and because it can be powered via your TV's USB port , it usually doesn't need a power adapter to work. It does, however, require a dedicated HDMI port, and because these are often hidden out of sight, Chromecast is both discreet and compact.
For someone who hates clutter, the Chromecast's compact size is refreshing. No one wants another device taking up space on their entertainment console (and the messy wiring that comes with it), as is the case with its successor, the Google TV Streamer 4K.
4. Easy to set up on the go
Many people enjoy watching their favorite TV shows while traveling. Hotel streaming options can be lacking or non-existent, so Chromecast comes in handy. Chromecast with Google TV even comes with its own remote and interface, so it's a standalone streaming device if your hotel TV lacks smart features, and you don't have to worry about losing your phone or running out of battery.
Setting up Chromecast is easy and only takes a few minutes. All you need is a good Wi-Fi connection or data plan.
3. Well suited for limited bandwidth situations
If you use your Chromecast on the go, you'll often find yourself in situations where your Wi-Fi signal is congested or you're limited by your data cap. In most cases, you'll be sacrificing picture quality for consistent service, and the third-generation Chromecast, which streams at 1080p, is low bandwidth.
Your Chromecast also streams directly from the internet , rather than through your mobile device, as is the case with screen mirroring, which reduces the data load on your devices. Additionally, newer Chromecasts feature adaptive streaming, which dynamically adjusts the resolution based on your available bandwidth. This reduces buffering and allows for smoother playback, even on the most unstable networks.
2. Older models are operated entirely by smartphone
If you own or are considering buying an older Chromecast as a backup, the first-generation through third-generation models are all smartphone-powered, allowing you to control them directly through streaming apps or through Google Home . This approach is user-friendly and eliminates the need to carry an extra remote control when traveling.
1. Chromecast works seamlessly with the Google ecosystem
Even if you're using a Smart TV with Samsung SmartThings compatibility , Chromecast is still a quick and easy option for screen mirroring. You can easily share photos of your recent travels via Google Photos or play YouTube videos without having to wait for apps to load or switch login credentials, and it's much less complicated than using the TV's built-in screen sharing options.
Additionally, Google Nest Hub displays, Android phones, Google Assistant , and Google Home all work seamlessly with Chromecast. Many people even use it to turn their TV into a live photo frame when in standby mode, configured to display all the photos in their favorites folder. Newer models, such as Chromecast with Google TV, also offer a user interface that lets users run apps directly on the device and include a remote control with Google Assistant built in. Chromecast is not redundant, but it greatly enhances the modern smart home.