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Google’s rumored Chromecast replacement is now official: the Google TV Streamer (4K) is a $99.99 U.S. streaming box with 4K HDR, 32GB of storage, 4GB of memory, built-in Ethernet, and Google Home smart-home features. But Google has not abandoned casting. The company has replaced the Chromecast hardware brand, while Google Cast remains built into the Streamer and supported across Google’s ecosystem.
That distinction matters. The Streamer is not a cheap, hidden HDMI dongle that works exactly like an old Chromecast. It is a faster, remote-controlled Google TV set-top box—and many existing Chromecast owners do not need to replace a working device.
The short version
- What replaced Chromecast? Google TV Streamer (4K), a box-style device that runs Google TV directly and also supports Google Cast.
- U.S. price: $99.99 on Google’s Store page; prices and promotions vary by market and can change.
- What is better? It has 4GB of memory, 32GB of storage, built-in Ethernet, a redesigned remote, and Google Home, Matter, and Thread features.
- Do current Chromecast owners need to upgrade? No. If your Chromecast is fast enough, has sufficient storage, and meets your TV and network needs, it can remain useful.
The practical change is from an inexpensive, phone-first casting dongle to a more capable Google TV and smart-home box.
What happened to Chromecast?
Google no longer presents Chromecast as its current standalone streaming-device line. Its product pages now direct buyers toward the Google TV Streamer (4K), which is Google’s current branded streaming hardware. The company has effectively said goodbye to Chromecast as a hardware product.
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- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
That does not mean Google Cast has disappeared. The Streamer supports casting from compatible phones, tablets, and browsers, and Google continues to document Cast features for Chromecast and Google TV Streamer devices through its support center.
It also does not mean every existing Chromecast has stopped working. Different Chromecast generations have different software, security, and app-compatibility histories, so support is model-specific. A Chromecast with Google TV that still performs well can continue to stream and cast without an immediate replacement requirement.
Google TV Streamer versus Chromecast with Google TV
Google’s published comparison lists the following differences:
| Feature | Chromecast with Google TV HD | Chromecast with Google TV 4K | Google TV Streamer (4K) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | HDMI dongle | HDMI dongle | Set-top box |
| Maximum resolution | 1080p | 4K | 4K |
| Memory | 1.5GB | 2GB | 4GB |
| Storage | 8GB | 8GB | 32GB |
| Built-in Ethernet | No | No | Yes |
| Dolby Vision | No | Yes | Yes |
| Thread border router | No | No | Yes |
| Google Home/Matter hub | No | No | Yes |
| Remote finder | No | No | Yes |
| Customizable remote button | No | No | Yes |
| Google-listed price | $29.99 | $49.99 | $99.99 |
These are Google’s listed comparison figures, not a guarantee of current retailer pricing or availability. Older Chromecast devices may also appear at discounts while supplies last.
What the Google TV Streamer adds
More memory and storage
The Streamer has twice the memory of Chromecast with Google TV 4K and four times its listed storage: 4GB and 32GB versus 2GB and 8GB. Google also claims that its CPU is 22% faster than the Chromecast with Google TV 4K. That figure is Google’s hardware comparison, not a promise that every app will load exactly 22% faster.
In practical terms, the upgrade provides more room for apps and updates, less pressure from low-storage warnings, and more headroom for navigating the Google TV interface. The 32GB figure is measured before system software and formatting consume part of the capacity, so it is not all available for apps.
Rank #2
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
Built-in Ethernet
Unlike Chromecast dongles, the Streamer includes Ethernet in the device. Wired networking can help when a television is far from a Wi-Fi router, sits in an area with interference, or needs more consistent playback.
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A more useful remote
The redesigned remote includes a customizable button and supports voice search across supported apps. If the remote goes missing, a button on the Streamer can make it ring, and the Streamer can help locate it. Remote behavior, available customization, and supported services can vary with software version and region; the customizable button is not a promise that every control can be freely remapped.
Google Home, Matter, and Thread
The Streamer is more than a media player. It includes a built-in Thread border router and functions as a Google Home and Matter hub, allowing compatible smart-home devices to be controlled from the TV experience.
This feature is most valuable for households already using Google Home, Nest, Thread, or Matter products. Matter and Thread compatibility does not mean every smart-home device offers identical controls or works without configuration. Devices still need to be compatible with Google Home and properly set up.
It is still both a Google TV device and a Chromecast
The Streamer supports two distinct ways to watch content:
Rank #3
- Expand your home entertainment without buying a new TV; Google Chromecast lets you stream your favorites from your phone, tablet, or laptop; no remote needed
- Chromecast is easy to set up up; just plug it in, connect to Wi-Fi, and start streaming to turn your TV into a smart TV; it works with almost any TV that has an HDMI port
- Works with the apps you already know and love; enjoy shows, movies, music, games, sports, photos, live TV, and more from over 2,000 streaming apps in up to 1080p
- With Chromecast, you can stream, pause, play, or adjust the volume right from your phone with just a tap; while you’re streaming, you can still use your phone as you normally do
- Mirror your laptop screen or turn your tablet into an even better entertainment system; surf the web or see your media on the big screen
- On-device viewing: Use the remote to browse the Google TV home screen, launch installed apps, search, and play content directly.
- Casting: Send compatible video, music, or other content from a phone, tablet, or browser to the Streamer.
This is a major difference in product philosophy. Original Chromecast hardware emphasized inexpensive phone-controlled streaming. The Streamer preserves that capability but adds a conventional interface and remote-first experience.
Video, audio, and connectivity limits
Google lists support for up to 4K HDR output at 60 frames per second, Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby Atmos. The published technical specifications are available in Google’s specification sheet.
Format support is not the same as guaranteed playback. To receive 4K, you need a 4K television, a title and service that provide 4K, an eligible subscription where required, sufficient network performance, and compatible HDMI equipment. Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos similarly depend on the content, app, television, receiver or soundbar, cable, and complete audio/video setup.
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The device also works with a 1080p television. It will output up to 1080p on that display, so buying it will not turn an older Full HD TV into a 4K screen.
Do not forget the HDMI cable
Google’s Store page says an HDMI 2.1 cable is required and sold separately. Google recommends an Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1-certified cable for optimal performance.
The Streamer connects to a television, A/V receiver, or soundbar through HDMI and also needs power. If you are replacing a Chromecast, do not assume the existing setup includes the cable you need. A suitable certified HDMI cable you already own may be enough, but the cable is still required for the connection.
Rank #4
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
For advanced audio configurations, the TV and connected audio equipment must support the relevant HDMI and eARC capabilities. The weakest component in the chain determines the available video and audio result.
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Why did Google move from a dongle to a box?
Google has not presented a single definitive reason for every design decision, but the published hardware differences make the trade-off clear. A larger box provides room for substantially more storage and memory, built-in Ethernet, additional smart-home connectivity, and a larger remote ecosystem.
That design also changes installation. A Chromecast hangs directly from an HDMI port and can often remain hidden behind the television. The Streamer needs shelf or cabinet space near the TV and must be connected with an HDMI cable. It is a better fit for a media console than for buyers who specifically want a nearly invisible dongle.
Who should buy the Google TV Streamer?
It makes sense if you:
- Want Google’s current branded streaming device.
- Have a 4K TV and want Google TV with more hardware headroom.
- Experience slow menus or storage problems on Chromecast with Google TV.
- Need wired Ethernet for a difficult Wi-Fi environment.
- Use Google Home, Nest, Thread, or Matter devices.
- Prefer a conventional remote-controlled streaming experience.
- Want remote-finding features or Dolby Vision support.
Keep your existing Chromecast if you:
- Are satisfied with its speed and app support.
- Mostly cast from your phone.
- Do not need additional storage or Ethernet.
- Use a 1080p TV and have no interest in the Streamer’s smart-home features.
- Recently bought Chromecast with Google TV and have no performance complaint.
- Can find Chromecast with Google TV 4K substantially cheaper and do not need the newer features.
The $99.99 premium is harder to justify if your only goal is casting, your television already has a responsive Google TV interface, or you expect a tiny dongle. It is also a weak upgrade if you already own Chromecast with Google TV 4K and are satisfied with its 4K playback.
Alternatives worth considering
The best alternative depends on the ecosystem you already use rather than on a universal ranking:
- Amazon Fire TV devices: A natural fit for Alexa and Amazon Prime households, but less integrated with Google Home.
- Roku players: Suitable for buyers who value a straightforward interface and broad app availability, but they do not provide the Streamer’s Google Home, Thread, or Matter hub features.
- Apple TV 4K: Better suited to Apple households and buyers prioritizing premium hardware, though it is not the budget-oriented choice.
- Budget Google TV devices: Low-cost models, including Walmart’s onn. Google TV products where available, may suit price-sensitive buyers. Check the current model, software support, availability, and price before buying.
- A television with Google TV built in: If its interface is responsive enough, it may eliminate the need for an external streamer. Built-in TV performance and update policies vary.
Current prices and availability for these alternatives vary by country and should be checked on the manufacturer’s official page before purchase.
Setup and troubleshooting basics
- Connect the Streamer to the TV or A/V equipment with a compatible HDMI cable.
- Connect the power supply.
- Select the correct HDMI input on the television.
- Pair or configure the remote when prompted.
- Complete the Google TV setup flow and use the Google Home app where requested.
- Sign in to Google and streaming-service accounts, then install or update apps.
If setup fails, first check the HDMI input, power connection, Wi-Fi credentials, Google Home app permissions, and remote pairing. Use Google’s Google TV Streamer support hub for model-specific setup, casting, firmware, and recovery guidance before considering a factory reset.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
