The Chromecast is still king, here’s why I won’t give it up

While searching for the best deal for a video game in 2020, I came across a deal from an unexpected source.

Google offered to sell me the game through Stadia, and it would throw in a brand new Chromecast and controller at no extra cost.

When Stadia shut down two years later, I was refunded the full cost of the purchase, but moving across the world meant I left the device behind.

Using the refund, I bought the 2022 Chromecast with Google TV (HD), which swiftly became my favorite smart home purchase ever.

In the three years I’ve owned this Chromecast, it’s moved with me four times, worked with every TV I’ve used, and never failed me once to stream content.

However, Google’s plans for the future of Google Home have left me apprehensive about its fate. Here’s why I’ll be holding onto my Chromecast for as long as feasibly possible.

Affordable, reliable, convenient

It’s the complete package

The Chromecast with Google TV (HD) was a complete streaming package for just $30.

I wasn’t fussed about 4K streaming or Dolby Vision HDR; I just wanted something that would stream anything I wanted within a minute of sitting on my couch.

$30 was an incredible price for such a well-rounded package, and Google has continued to update it with smart home controls and more.

I’m less happy about the preponderance of ads on Google TV, but this has nothing to do with the hardware.

What’s stopped me from upgrading my Chromecast is that I know I can use it to watch Netflix, play music for parties, or cast YouTube from my phone without a hitch.

I’ve deliberately sought out cheap TVs that don’t offer integrated Google TV support, as I know my Chromecast is more than capable of handling everything I need.

The new Google TV Streamer, which unceremoniously replaced the Chromecast in 2024, is theoretically better at streaming content.

For $100, this device includes 4K streaming, 22% faster performance, an Ethernet port, a more customizable controller, access to the Find My Device Network, and many more unique features.

It’s a powerful device, but there’s one critical failure: portability.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned not to trust while traveling, it’s the TV setup. I’ve stayed in too many rooms and Airbnbs that only offer a paltry selection of DVDs for late-night movies.

I can tuck my Chromecast into a side pocket and have it set up and working within minutes of arrival. It’s a reliable travel companion that hasn’t let me down.

The Google TV Streamer, designed to be a statement piece as much as a streamer, isn’t as portable.

If I upgraded, I would still keep my Chromecast around for travel; it’s an invaluable asset.

The future is unclear for Chromecasts

Gemini could make or break my Chromecast

Google has promised to replace Google Assistant with Gemini on its smart home devices. It’s an impressive undertaking; even the 2016 Google Home speaker will receive the update.

However, the future of Google TV devices is unclear. Google launched Gemini first on the TCL QM9K TVs and has promised to bring it to a variety of devices, including the Google TV Streamer.

Nowhere has the company mentioned the Chromecast, which makes me apprehensive about the future of my device.

One of the more reliable uses for Google Assistant in my home has been to control my Chromecast.

I can tell it to resume the show I’m watching, control playback, or search for a show without touching my remote. Basic features that nevertheless became an integral part of my routine.

Knowing Google’s propensity for sending devices to an early death, it wouldn’t surprise me if Google Assistant were removed without a replacement. I’m not keen on Gemini in my home, but it is better than nothing.

My Chromecast is currently running Android 14, which, according to Google, is capable of running Gemini.

Google also stated that it will receive security updates until the end of September 2027, but I hope to hold onto mine for even longer.

I’ll hold onto my Chromecast until the bitter end

I rarely manage to find a device that does everything I want it to with no significant compromise. Even after security updates end in 2027, I’ll hold onto it for a little while longer.

Will I shell out $100 for a device that, for me, is functionally identical? I’d rather not. What I may do is explore the range of accessories for my Chromecast.

For example, you can buy a USB-C dongle for around $10 that includes more USB ports, SD card slots, and an HDMI port. This makes streaming more reliable, and you can download shows to watch while you’re traveling.

So, if I end up in the boonies with a TV and poor internet, I can pull out my Chromecast to save the day once again.