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Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →For a lower-priced 4K streaming device, Chromecast with Google TV (4K) was the less expensive choice on Google’s US store page; Google TV Streamer (4K) costs more but lists greater memory and storage, built-in Ethernet, and Matter and Thread smart-home features. Google listed them at $49.99 and $149.99, respectively, when its US product page was accessed on October 7, 2026. Those are dated Google Store prices, not guaranteed live prices.
Chromecast with Google TV or Google TV Streamer: what is the difference?
Google’s US comparison page lists both devices as supporting up to 4K and HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. The Streamer has higher listed memory and storage, built-in Ethernet, and smart-home connectivity. The figures below are manufacturer specifications, not independent performance tests.
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| Feature | Chromecast with Google TV (4K) | Google TV Streamer (4K) |
|---|---|---|
| Google Store US price shown October 7, 2026 | $49.99 | $149.99 |
| Maximum resolution | Up to 4K | Up to 4K HDR at 60 FPS |
| Listed HDR formats | HDR10+, Dolby Vision | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, HLG |
| Memory | 2 GB | 4 GB |
| Storage | 8 GB | 32 GB |
| Audio | Dolby-encoded audio via HDMI pass-through | Dolby Atmos; Google’s specifications also list Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus |
| Ethernet | Not included in Google’s comparison | Included; specifications list 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet |
| Smart-home features | No Matter hub or Thread border router listed | Matter hub and Thread border router |
| Remote | Voice Remote | Voice Remote with customizable button and Find My Remote |
| HDMI cable | Check the accessories for the exact model and setup | Certified HDMI 2.1 cable required; sold separately |
Specifications and price listings are from Google’s US comparison, its US product page, and technical specifications.
The Tool Desk
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Choose Chromecast with Google TV (4K) if price is the priority
Among these two entries on Google’s US page, Chromecast with Google TV (4K) is the lower-priced option for 4K streaming. Google lists 2 GB of memory and 8 GB of storage. Those numbers describe capacity; they do not establish how the device performs in everyday use.
#1 Best Overall
- 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
Choose Google TV Streamer if you want its added connections and features
The Streamer’s listed 4 GB of memory and 32 GB of storage are higher than the Chromecast’s. It also adds Ethernet and Matter and Thread capabilities. These specifications make it the more feature-rich option in Google’s comparison, but they do not prove how much faster or better it feels in independent use.
For audio, Google lists Dolby Atmos support for the Streamer, while the Chromecast entry specifies Dolby audio through HDMI pass-through. Google says a separate Atmos-capable sound system is needed for the Chromecast to deliver the same effect. Google’s comparison also includes a processor claim of “22% faster” for the Streamer versus Chromecast with Google TV devices; that is a manufacturer claim, not an independent real-world test.
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
How much do the two devices cost?
Google’s US product page showed Chromecast with Google TV (4K) at $49.99 and Google TV Streamer (4K) at $149.99 when accessed on October 7, 2026. The Streamer was therefore $100 more on that page at that time. Prices can change, and the figures do not establish current stock or third-party prices.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsWhat do you need to connect Google TV Streamer?
Google says the Streamer requires a certified HDMI 2.1 cable, sold separately. Its listed box contents are the Streamer, Voice Remote with two AAA batteries, power adapter, power cable, Quick Start Guide, and safety and warranty document. The device has an HDMI 2.1 Type A port, USB-C power/data, Wi-Fi 802.11ac on 2.4 and 5 GHz, Bluetooth 5.1, and Android TV OS. See Google’s product page and specifications.
Rank #3
- Watch the entertainment you love with Chromecast with Google TV, including live TV in up to 4K HDR; discover over 700,000 movies and TV episodes, plus millions of songs
- Get fast streaming, and enjoy a crystal clear picture up to 4K and brighter colors with HDR
- Your home screen displays movies and TV shows from all your services in one place with Chromecast 4K; get personal recommendations based on your subscriptions, viewing habits, and content you own
- Press the Google Assistant button on the remote and use voice search to find specific shows, youtube tv streaming, or search by mood, genre, actress, and more; control the volume, switch inputs, play music, and get answers, hands-free
- Chromecast is easy to install and compatible with almost any TV that has an HDMI port; to get started, just plug it into your TV’s HDMI port, connect to Wi-Fi, and start streaming
To watch in 4K, Google says you need a 4K-capable TV and reliable broadband internet. Subscription services may require their own subscriptions. The display, connection, and service requirements are separate from the streaming device itself.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Are these all the Chromecast models available?
Google’s comparison page covers Chromecast with Google TV (4K) and Google TV Streamer (4K), but that does not establish that these are every historical Chromecast version or that older models, including the HD model, remain available new in the US. Check Google’s current listings and the exact model details before buying if you are considering a different generation. The comparison’s casting entry may vary by page rendering or region, so consult the current US comparison for that specific feature rather than assuming it applies uniformly: Google’s comparison page.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- High performance
- High product for use
- High quality
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.
