Similar to Amazon Fire Sticks and Roku, Google Chromecast is a portable and affordable streaming device. Basically, it helps you upgrade a regular TV into a Smart TV. So, you can access streaming services like Netflix, Youtube, Spotify, and more.
Now there are different types of Chromecast models designed for different use cases. In fact, there’s a model you can use to stream from your phone. That’s why we’ll be comparing the different Chromecast models in this article to help you make an informed decision during purchase.
Chromecast with Google TV (4K)
Key Specifications
- 4K HDR video quality
- Voice remote control
- Google Assistant compatible
- 60 fps
- 2GB RAM
- 8GB storage
- Android OS
- Dolby Digital, digital plus, and atmos audio
Price: $47.99
This is the most updated version of Chromecast. Launched in 2020, it has a very advanced UI and Android TV OS. This user interface actually spends time understanding your streaming habits. Over time, it organizes your home page, offers recommendations, and generally personalizes your streaming experience.
There’s also access to Playstore so asides from casting your screen you can also install multiple apps and games directly on your TV. This version comes with a voice control powered by Google Assistant. At the moment, there are three colors available in the market – snow, sunrise, and SK.
What we love the most about this is that you can use the Google TV app on your mobile device to browse and save content. Later on, you can watch them on your TV.
Chromecast with Google TV (HD)
Key Specifications
- 1080p HD video quality
- Voice remote control
- Google Assistant compatible
- 60 fps
- 2GB RAM
- 8GB storage
- Android OS
- Dolby Digital, digital plus, and atmos audio
Price: $29.96
The Chromecast HD is particularly designed for users who haven’t upgraded their TVs to 4k yet. So it gives you all the functionalities of the 4k version we outlined above but in HD. This means that you have Android TV support, Playstore an intuitive user experience, and complete voice control.
Chromecast Ultra
Key Specifications
- 1GB RAM
- 4K and 1080p video resolution
- Dolby vision
- Google Home app
- Voice control for Youtube
- Micro-USB, HDMI, and Ethernet ports
Price: $69.99
The Chromecast ultra was an update of the 2nd generation Chromecast. And although the processor isn’t as fast as the Chromecast with Google Tv, it loads faster than other models. However, it’s also the most expensive Chromecast model.
This Chromecast ultra was the first Chromecast device that provided 4k streaming and an ethernet port. It was also the first to support Dolby’s vision. So it’s a pretty standard device with super clear video. The only downside is that the voice controls only work for Youtube. If you need to do more, you can always achieve this with the Google Home app.
Unfortunately, it was discontinued in 2020 and replaced with the TV version. But you can always get the renewed version for less on Amazon and other eCommerce stores.
Chromecast 3rd gen
Key Specification
- 1080p at 60fps
- Google Home app
- Voice control for Youtube
- Compatible with Google Assistant
- Supports iOS, Android, and Windows
- Micro-USB, HDMI, and Ethernet ports
Price: $41.99
This third-generation Chromecast is a high-quality streaming device. Unlike the other models on this list, this model has a short HDMI cable and a micro USB port attached to it.
It is the perfect Chromecast if you’re on a budget especially since it’s the cheapest you can currently get in the market. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a remote control. However, you can still use voice control on Youtube via Google Assistant.
We recommend this model to streamers who have simple needs. For example, it’s very ideal if you prefer to stream from your phone. It has multiple apps available on Play Store like Netflix, Youtube, Amazon Prime Video, Google Photos, etc.
Just like the ultra, this model was discontinued. However, you can still get it on Amazon and other eCommerce devices.
Chromecast 2nd Gen
Key Specifications
- Ethernet, HDMI, and Micro-USB ports
- 512 RAM
- 256MB storage
- 1080p video resolution
Price: $35.00
The 2nd generation Chromecast was launched in 2015 and it was a significant upgrade from the 1st generation Chromecast. It was the first streaming device to display 1080p. Another major difference is that it was compatible with both 2.4 and 5.0 GHz WiFi.
With 512MB RAM, the processor isn’t as fast as other models listed in this article. Which is why it was discontinued and then upgraded to the Ultra.
Unfortunately, it isn’t the cheapest or fastest model. It also doesn’t support 4k. So we do not recommend getting this model in 2023. However, if you still want to get it, it’s available on eCommerce stores like eBay.
How to Know My Chromecast Model?
If you want to be sure of the Chromecast model you have, you can use the images in this post to easily differentiate them at first glance. Another way to do this is to look at the back of your Chromecast device.
We hope you’ve found this guide useful in helping you decide on the best Chromecast device for your needs. Do share this post with your friends and family who might need this too.
Disclaimer: We might get a commission for some of the products we recommend here, but this doesn’t affect our editorial policy
