I am in the market for a new streaming device and I am considering two options: the Chromecast Ultra and the Chromecast with Google TV. I have heard great things about both devices, but I am not sure which one is the better choice for me.
On one hand, the Chromecast Ultra has been around for a few years and is known for its excellent 4K streaming capabilities. I am a big fan of watching movies and TV shows in high definition, so the Ultra’s ability to deliver crystal-clear picture quality is definitely appealing to me.
On the other hand, the Chromecast with Google TV comes with a few extra features that the Ultra doesn’t have. For example, it has a built-in interface that lets you browse and search for content across multiple streaming services, making it easier to find something to watch. It also comes with a remote control, which might be more convenient for you than using your phone to control the Ultra.
So in this article, I will discuss the pros and cons of each device in detail so you can easily decide which device is best for you.
What to buy? – Chromecast with Google TV or Chromecast Ultra
Let us discuss the article about Chromecast devices. So, you can choose according to your choice or suitability but before opting for any of them let’s get through the guide here.
In 2013, Google introduced a new gadget that is the Chromecast TV Dongle. It was specially designed for casting smartphone apps, and video streaming apps to a bigger screen.
As the market changed and introduced streaming TV apps, finally in 2020 google officially launched its Chromecast With Google TV. It takes a long time to introduce the Chromecast with Google TV.
Chromecast is always a great streaming dongle. With the evolution of technology, it gets updated from time to time. Google is one of the leading companies to give a big hand towards a better overall user experience.
The previous Google Chromecast Ultra dongle supports 4K, which was the first to introduce the feature.
Chromecast Ultra vs Chromecast with Google TV – Key Features and Differences
Let us discuss some of the key features that will act as a clear line between the Chromecast with Google TV and the Chromecast Ultra.
You will know that Chromecast Ultra is a previous device whereas Chromecast with Google TV is a newer one. This article will surely help you to pick the better Chromecast dongle that is suitable for you.
| Features | Chromecast Ultra | Chromecast with Google TV |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Design, Shape, and Material Used | Scratch-able plastic surface | Matte finish and an oval-shaped design come in more color options |
| With Remote or Without a Remote | Without a remote | Matte finish and an oval-shaped design comes in more color options |
| Display and Streaming Features | 4K resolution, supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision video formats, Ethernet ports | Can stream content from multiple subscription services, in-built Android TV |
| Google Stadia Game Streaming Service | Compatible with Google Stadia service | Not compatible with Google Stadia service (might be added in the future) |
| Pricing | No longer available for sale (can be purchased with Stadia Premiere Edition for $99.99) | Available for $49.99 in the US |
Now let us take a look at the features mentioned in the table above in more detail to help you understand better.
1. Physical design, shape, and material used
As the Chromecast with Google TV is a newer one, the first change Google will replace its physical appearance with a new design.
Google Chromecast Ultra has scratch-able plastic on its surface while the Chromecast with Google TV has replaced it with a new and attractive matte finish.
In addition, the power supply is slightly different from the Ultra’s getting Ethernet. Moreover, previously it is circular-shaped now the newly introduced Chromecast with Google TV comes in an oval-shaped design.
The one minor addition that comes with Chromecast with Google TV is the color choices. It offers more color options compared to the Chromecast Ultra. The new color variations are snow, sunrise, and sky colors.
2. With Remote or Without a Remote
Google has taken a page from the Amazon Fire TV Stick’s book and built the new Chromecast with Google TV with a new physical remote. This is surely taking a big advantage of the Chromecast with Google TV over the other versions of Chromecast.
It makes the Chromecast with Google TV a different device. Moreover, it is still able to cast smartphone apps to the TV.
In addition, it has an inbuilt Android TV, which enables you to watch the streaming TV and apps directly without any smartphone.
For controlling those apps and other controls, it has its own hardware which is the Remote. The remote comes with the Google Assistant feature that enables you to control the apps with your voice.
3. Display and streaming Features
Google TV has the feature to pull out the content from every subscription service for which you have signed up and is easy to navigate.
It is reported in the papers that with Google TV you will be able to search and play content from Google Play, Netflix, Disney Plus, and numerous types of other services in one place.
So, this feature can be said as one of the key upgrades in Ultra. It will enable you to stream the content from the apps on your phone or tablet.
The current Chromecast of third-generation streamed smartphone content at 1080 pixels resolution.
Whereas the Chromecast Ultra was the first that increased the streaming resolution to 4K. It supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision Video Formats and Ethernet ports.
4. Google Stadia game streaming Service
Chromecast with Google TV is no doubt up to date but it lacks its place when it comes to gaming. Whereas the Chromecast Ultra is compatible in this area.
The new Chromecast with Google TV will not support Google’s Stadia streaming service. It is supposed that this feature is added to the Chromecast with google tv in the near future.
But if you want to play Stadia gaming on the big TV screen now, you must have the Chromecast Ultra or purchase the Stadia Premiere edition which Chromecast Ultra comes along with the Stadia Controller.
The Chromecast Ultra allows users to stream high-end PC and Console games to the Smart TV via the Google Stadia Service.
5. Pricing
The Chromecast with Google Tv is available on sale in the US at the cost of $49.99. Whereas the Chromecast Ultra is no longer available for sale.
You can get it along with the purchase of Stadia Premiere Edition for $99.99, but that’s a little bit expensive. The current third-generation Chromecast starts at a price of $29.99.
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Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! We’ve compared the Chromecast Ultra and the Chromecast with Google TV and outlined their key differences in terms of physical design, the inclusion of a remote, display and streaming features, and gaming capabilities.
If you’re looking for a newer design with a matte finish and more color options, plus the added bonus of a remote and built-in Android TV, then the Chromecast with Google TV might be the right choice for you.
But if you’re a serious gamer, you might want to stick with the Chromecast Ultra for now.
Whichever one you choose, you’re sure to enjoy all the benefits of streaming your favorite content from your phone or tablet to your TV.
FAQs
What is the maximum resolution that Chromecast Ultra supports?
Chromecast Ultra supports up to 4K resolution at 60 frames per second (fps).
Does Chromecast Ultra support HDR?
Yes, Chromecast Ultra supports both HDR10 and Dolby Vision formats, which provide a wider range of colors and a more immersive viewing experience.
Can I play Stadia games on Chromecast with Google TV?
Not at the moment. Chromecast with Google TV does not support Google Stadia game streaming service. However, it is expected to be added in the near future.
Does Chromecast with Google TV come with a remote?
Yes, Chromecast with Google TV comes with a remote, unlike previous Chromecast devices.
Can I stream content from my phone to Chromecast with Google TV?
Yes, you can stream content from apps on your phone or tablet to Chromecast with Google TV, just like previous Chromecast devices.
