My biggest gripe is still that the Nest Audio cannot be used as a wireless audio output for TV content played via the Chromecast with Google TV. Otherwise a great product for me!
This! You're absolutely right! And a minus for not mentioning this in the after 6 months video. And it isnt something other manufacturers havent figured out either. SONOS and Samsung already have this. Sure last november it was said that google was working on the audio integration but 6 months later still nothing.
I haven't used other Nest speakers, but on my Nest mini I am able to pair with it via bluetooth (must be setup in the app I believe). The Chromecast with Google TV is also able to pair with any bluetooth speaker through the accessories settings. Maybe this is an option for you?
@@PetersonRyan97 already tried this. I have a paired nest audio group. But there's an audio lag and you have enable it for every app. Like I said: sonos already does this seamlessly so it's a 'just fix it' problem.
Same here, I had heard about the feature and figured it would be out by now so I bought 2 Nest Audios for my sister for her birthday knowing she was in the market for a soundbar and figured two Nest Audios in stereo would sound better than any $200 soundbar seeing as she only uses the Google TV to watch anything ...aaannnnddd support still hasn’t been added by google and know one seems to know if it ever will
I also like that the service is available, but they are not monopolistic. They are competitive. You can buy a smartphone, watch TV, and computer on other platforms.
@@Halljand I believe they're saying Apple has a habit of not putting their things on devices they don't make. However, Apple is not being a good actor here, they don't have the install base of Apple TV hardware to make their Apple TV+ service make sense, they have to put it on a larger install base of hardware. If that changes they'll make Apple tv+ only work on their Apple TV hardware.
Google had a conference with app developers last week to inform them that to get into the Google TV app store they need to allow full account integration and follow certain standards. This should improve the experience going forward. A lot of the issues are caused by apps not having the correct hooks for the device to be able to request the correct content.
@@nniivekkappo7544 It’s the apps that are not correctly written. If they don’t have the correct programming to allow recommendation and watch next they will not be allowed in the App Store. Most companies had ported their phone versions.
nice review. I don't think Google has any control over how independent app builders implement forward and rewind. In the future, I can see them implementing a universal API that would allow Google TV to control them consistently.
Its been 6 month I've been using GCGTV. So far loving it. Previously I use Mi Box S and I tot its the best budget android box. But after using this, its a totally different experience. Love the remote with IR. I don't have the problem of HDMI CEC anymore going with my home theatre receiver setup. I just hope they solve the problem of using internal for for data
@RomeoJollyBun If you mean 60fps as to the actual videos, then yes, as long as the video you watch has the 60fps available obviously. If by lag you mean, the whole system, then no; from my experience CGTV has been very smooth and snappy. If you mean lag as In, the videos in TH-cam then, that would depend on your internet connection, and I only get it when my internet is suddenly bad (which is almost never).
The 4k issues aren't really a problem for me since if you have a 4k TV it's garunteed to be a smart TV and have all these features anyway (a lot even have built in Chromecast support). This device is more for upgrading your old HD TV, giving it the same functionality as a smart TV for a fraction of the cost!
I had mine for three months. It’s revolutionised my set up. Had to get it because my Sony smart tv was 1st generation and Netflix got dropped. I also needed a simple solution for my wife who didn’t like the casting thing. In summary - I love it. The ability to blue tooth to a wireless headphone was the real clincher. My bride can sit in the next room and read a book, knit or talk to herself whilst I watch some sport, bonsai channels or my latest obsession which is Dessert Drifter.
I just bought that but then again I use it for my 'dumb' tv lol....I oriiginally had the older version and I had to cast from a tablet or phone. I am just happy I can find Netflix and TH-cam with the touch of a button. Although my TV does not support 4 k the picture has improved considerably. And omg it's so easy to set up....I love that...no fuss at all. I am having a spot of bother with a download...gives me error when it tires to install but as I said I simply love it.....my 'dumb' tv has become smarter than my 'smart' tv lol
I like the support for my wireless headphones. If I turn on my headphones this device automatically pairs with them and turns off the tv speakers, and when I shut my headphones off, it automatically unpairs and turns the tv speakers back on.
so a year ago I say that I loved this device. Now that I have two of them go bad ( increased buffering and lost internet connection) and become useless I've switched to a Roku on one TV and using a LG smart TV for the second. BIG improvement in both cases, we'll see what they are like in a year.
Great review, Josh! We have 2 in our family - definitely would recommend! Yes, the universal search on the main UI is very handy. Our 4K / HDR(10) / Dolby Vision has been working well on Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, & the TH-cam app. Don't have an Atmos system, so can't confirm. Only occasional issue I find is sometimes the picture goes to a high contrast all of a sudden, and things look a little red/orange. Hopefully, just gets fixed by an update. But overall, very happy with it 😀
Going to "Display & Sound" > "Dynamic Range & Color Format" > "Match content dynamic range" and setting it to "Match content" might help, I'd recommend that in general, especially with a good TV, so the TV can display and map the SDR content, rather than the Google TV trying to map it somehow.
I bought my Chromecast with Google TV at the beginning of this year actually, It's Definitely Worth the money in my opinion 😁 I highly Recommend it And I must say I absolutely Loved my Chromecast Remote
Hi Josh, It is July 20, 2022. I just bought the Google Chromecast with TV. I have to installed it yet.(trying to get rid of Xfinity first) any way, has some of the complaints you mentioned in this video above (Apr 9, 2021), been corrected. I think i am going to enjoy my choice. Just wanted to know about the correction's. Nice review, thanks. It has been a while since I checked on your channel. Your still a great reviewer.
As someone with an old TV from 2014 the biggest downside for me isn't resolution but casting functionality. The lack of Miracast support is a real downer. Only apps that support Google's proprietary Chromecast protocol work, and if you're casting your screen, it's not terrible but a bit choppy when compared to Microsoft's Wireless Display Adapter. Plus the second you hit anything with HDCP the video drops out and you just get audio through your TV. That being said, apps like Web Video Caster are an okay workaround but I'm left missing many of the features from a more mainstream browser when using such a solution. Even with the choppy screen casting through Google's Home app it's not a total deal breaker but the lack of Miracast support almost is
Interesting was planning to use Cromecast on my really old Sony LCD TV in the bedroom won't bother now. Have a old Nvidia sheild pro will use that and buy 2019 Nvidia sheild Pro for the main room.
I like how he explained it down to details. Most people don't do that they just wanna say what they think people wanna hear and what he said is exactly what I wanna hear about this Chromecast with Google before I go and buy it at my Walmart
Great review mate. I love my chrome cast. Love how it recommends shows. I am an apple person but am glad I chose this over the Apple TV. Better for the budget and it is just brilliant. Have had it for about a year now and hasn’t missed a beat
I don't have a TV ... but use a videoprojector (4K) connected to a Denon AV (hdmi connectors + cinema sound) everything is working perfect, including the sound buttons on the chromecast remote control. I installed it two days ago. From your video I learned I will need to "educate" the chromecast with my prefernces.
Did you ever end up trying with other bluetooth headphones with AptX or just airpods? I'm considering the chromecast but without good headphone support I might have to get Roku since you can use their phone app to connect headphones.
Excellent review! I took have the unit from Day 1. It sometimes loses the Dolby Vision detection for Netflix (and only show Ultra HDR). The worst problem is that Hulu's Android app doesn't support 4K (this is the same issue on Nvidia Shield). Also it's not able to stream 4K Bluray rips over KODI on my 5G Wifi. I'm getting an Ethernet hub to resolve that issue (hopefully). I have the Apple TV 4K 2021 on order. Hopefully it will support TH-cam HDR, which is its own drawback I know from the previous generation.
I have an old 720p tv and it brought it back to life so I love device, price is good, casting works great, I could not care less about Google recommendations so I use the 'apps only mode', there's no lag at all and you only see the app icons and that's it, no advertising bloating the screen
Remote needs a more tactile feel as it is very slippery in the hand. Would love a better filter system on this, as it shows me things I am not interested in seeing (pay-per-view content). Setup of multiple hardware devices (TV, Soundbars) do not turn on/off properly (but they do work when in setup test mode) Besides that this system is fantastic!
I found lots of problems trying to cast from my phone, it seems to take 2 or 3 attempts to try and cast to Google TV Chromecast. If I try and cast to a normal Chromecast it Connects first time....
Unfortunately I had to return my Chromecast w/Google TV back to Best Buy due to the unit freezing. For the first 2-3 weeks, the unit worked flawlessly until the freezing issue appeared out of nowhere. It got old having to constantly clear cache and rebooting the unit. We have 400 Mbps down and the speed test was showing around 330 down so the bandwidth was sufficient. I really enjoyed the UI and thought the remote had great functionality with the rarely seen Input button.
Enjoyed the review! From my research Dolby vision isn’t supported on the Disney Plus app for Google tv. But I have been able to stream at 4K with HDR10. It did give me an issue before and only said it was playing everything in HD, I logged out of the app and signed in and it resolved. I think there is still more work to be done with the app. I enjoy the Google UI and at $50 it made sense more than a new Apple TV, my vizios smartcast disney plus app supports Dolby vision but I don’t like switching around apps so I’m making the best of it rn, hopefully there’s an update coming soon
Actually, signing in and out didn’t do it but what did was looking at display settings and it looks like we’re suffering from a bug where the Chromecast will flip the display resolution back down to 1080p www.reddit.com/r/Chromecast/comments/kvuxdr/ccwgtv_keeps_losing_uhd4k_capability/?
Has the Netflix originals recommendations issue been fixed yet? Seems like a big deal since Netflix has so much original content. Cant seem to find any info on this
Very informative review. Much helpful. Just curious that if any of the issues mentioned, like inconsistent rewind forward across various app, Dolby Vision/Atmos and 4K support are fixed? Thanks in advance!
Functionality can be further improved, by including audio Downmix to stereo and DRC (dynamic range compression) off options, when multichannel audio content is played and sent to other audio equipment via Bluetooth.
Anyone else experiencing a really dark screen when using chromecast? Increasing the brightness to max on my screen doesn't help at all. Issue only occurs using chromecast, I have apple tv and that works fine. Thoughts and solutions welcome.
It’s gotta be a bug with the specific apps on the Chromecast. Have no issues with the Apple TV or Netflix apps on the Chromecast playing 4K but do with Disney, Hulu and Amazon. Also I’m not alone, it looks like a lot of people are running into the same issues on Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/DisneyPlus/comments/jpx1te/not_able_to_display_4k_uhd_on_my_chromecast/?. - Josh
So, actually, you were onto something...there are two bugs I've narrowed down my issues to. One is the Chromecast will just go back down to 1080 at random. Haven't been able to figure out when it's doing it (it's not every time the device is turned off). Other bug is when Disney+ is left open and showing 4k option, when I turn the system off and back on again, same Disney+ page will appear and still be in 4k, but if you go to a different show in the Disney+ app it'll then show HD (Chromecast settings at this point is still showing 4k 60hz). When you go back to the original show you were looking at it's also now displaying HD. Quitting and reopening the app reverts everything back to 4k. Really bizarre. - Josh
@@6MonthsLater - It's a little strange to be complaining about the device, based on what other company does or does not do in their app? Surely that's down to the app maker - especially the complaint about the seek function. Do you realize that Google doesn't write those apps, only works with the developers to ensure navigation works with the remote. I wouldn't want Google telling a developer how to implement a seek on video, in fact they are probably all using different video players on the back end.
I feel like the google assistant and a lot of that extra stuff in this chromecast is just useless when we already have phones with thst and that tell us all of that. I just want a more simple way to browse through TV apps, my Xbox one is kind of annoying sometimes lol. I also have a couple firesticks, we've had a roku and we have a roku smart TV too. So here I am still wondering why should I buy a chromecast even though I already have android, and all these other streaming devices? I love google, youtube, I have youtube TV for my TV provider, and just overall support Google everything, so maybe that's it? So I'm my case would it be worth the buy?
Hey Josh, I hope you’re doing well. Quick question - how’s the Dolby Atmos support coming along? Is it now available in the apps you mentioned weren’t supporting it before? Thanks a lot!
I wish Vudu and Apple TV (especially purchases) were better integrated into the UI. Other than that, absolutely no complaints about the CC, now I want one in every room of the house.
I hooked into my Samsung 2013 Plasma TV and I super fantastic. I just bought it. I bought another streaming device and hated it. This TV has a WiFi for some that year but this one did not have it. The picture is playing Star Trek at 1920×1080/60p. Not bad actually. It works so well I am amazed.
If you are trying to get rid of your cable/satellite provider for an alternative, this device with TH-camTV is a good way to go. In the device, you have the other guys, but TH-camTV is straight forward and easy to manage. All you need is your current location/ Zip code and you get your local channels with ease. I tried Sling, Peacock and another one. They can be cheaper, but can be proven difficult to get your locals and each can under cut each other with channels. YTTV actually mirrored my current cable provider and offered more station that are known to be add-ons that you have to pay for with other providers. I bought my mom a Roku, but failed to realized that they booted the YTTV app, though there is still a way to view it with a few extra steps. Google owns TH-cam, so I can't see any BS happening with it here. Then you have all the other free stuff. I'M CANCELLING MY CABLE TOMORROW!
Thank you for the review Josh. I am very pleased with the unit except for one recurring issue - roughly once a week now the unit just has stopped working (no home screen pic when turning on) - the only remedy I've found is to reboot the unit. So far no help from support. I wonder if this is a hardware issue. Has anyone else experienced this problem?
I used to love it but lately it has been buggy. The device turns HBOMAX Dolby Vision into a ultraviolet looking screen which messes with the hue levels. It effects movies like Godzilla vs. Kong. Ugh...Almost perfect but not. The only work around is to cast it first other than using the remote.
Stupid question but can someone tell me, do you have to have a phone or tablet for this?? Like is this usable just on TV or do you need one of those devices?
Question for you about this.... will the recommendations and search results include channels I'm not subscribed to? (Example, i see HBO Max in your results, but i do not subscribe to it).
I'm seeing a lot of people saying Apple has no user base in streaming, you do realize Apple has 2% and Google has 3% Amazon only 5%. So, what's your point exactly....... It's a very fragmented sector.
People keep telling me that I still need to use my phone to watch TH-cam tv on my TV, if I use a chrome cast. But a few people have said that's not true. They say I can use this the same way I use my roku stick. Just plug it in and access the TH-cam tv app. Which one is true? I ask because roku just dumped TH-cam TV, so while I can still watch it now, that might change in the future. I really like TH-cam TV, but I'm not going to use my phone. I want to just turn my TVs on, and click my app on screen, like I've always done
I see you comparing with apple TV 4k... But in comparison to 4k Or Atmos support how does it fair against Amazon 4k max firestick?? Which one is better?
I have a chromecast and no issues. I do not have 4k as I do not see the point in upgrading as of yet. All the talk apout picture quality honestly means nothing to me. Also half the time it is just background noise if I am not interested at that time. How ever there are several video's to help make using a chromecast either more enjoyable or easier to use. Just type in chromecast tricks, secrets, or more features. Up to you...
The only downside for is that i don't have the for you tab in my region south africa but the rest i love and it works great with google home mini. Also have it connected to my Bluetooth clock/speaker and makes the sound louder and now i can listen to youtube or something near my bed without having the volume too loud and annoying other people
Unfortunately, I cannot recommend the Chromecast with Google TV. I ordered two of these last year when they were first released. Out of the two, one has messed up Wi-Fi where if I get it to connect to my Wi-Fi, it will only stay connected for a short time. I have tried numerous resets, etc. Nothing fixes it! The second Chromecast with Google TV is on the living room TV. It's performance and reliability is sporadic at best. Sometimes it will be laggy, other times apps just won't perform at all. And at times, it will not work with other Google devices such as the Google home / Google home mini. I have always been a fan of the Chromecast line. I used the original / Gen 3 Chromecast for years! But this device is buggy! Very bad! I'm really disappointed.
With this version, you still have to cast from your phone, tablet, or a computer separately? Or is the tech on the dongle like with roku or the fire stick?
You don't have to cast if the app is supported. Instead, you can use the remote control provided to navigate to your wanted app. If you wanted to or if you app isn't on the UI, you can cast from your phone/tablet etc.
I found Google TV really useful (first impression). Since the WiFi module on my LG 4K crapped out, I have been having buffering issues on all apps. So to watch TH-cam and Netflix, was looking for a device. Google TV offers TV control (power and volume) via CEC and scrolling possibilities on both TH-cam and Netflix with the provided remote. Remote could have been a little bigger and heavier though.
Still love mine, and so does my grandfather. we both got ours at launch at the same time. best purchase ever
Saw you on Linus' review
My biggest gripe is still that the Nest Audio cannot be used as a wireless audio output for TV content played via the Chromecast with Google TV. Otherwise a great product for me!
This! You're absolutely right!
And a minus for not mentioning this in the after 6 months video.
And it isnt something other manufacturers havent figured out either. SONOS and Samsung already have this.
Sure last november it was said that google was working on the audio integration but 6 months later still nothing.
I haven't used other Nest speakers, but on my Nest mini I am able to pair with it via bluetooth (must be setup in the app I believe). The Chromecast with Google TV is also able to pair with any bluetooth speaker through the accessories settings. Maybe this is an option for you?
@@PetersonRyan97 already tried this. I have a paired nest audio group. But there's an audio lag and you have enable it for every app. Like I said: sonos already does this seamlessly so it's a 'just fix it' problem.
Same here, I had heard about the feature and figured it would be out by now so I bought 2 Nest Audios for my sister for her birthday knowing she was in the market for a soundbar and figured two Nest Audios in stereo would sound better than any $200 soundbar seeing as she only uses the Google TV to watch anything ...aaannnnddd support still hasn’t been added by google and know one seems to know if it ever will
Yes it can! There is an audio lag with some apps, but it works well with Netflix...
I like how apple put apple tv+ on here. Much less monopolistic then they usually are.
I also like that the service is available, but they are not monopolistic. They are competitive. You can buy a smartphone, watch TV, and computer on other platforms.
@@Halljand I believe they're saying Apple has a habit of not putting their things on devices they don't make. However, Apple is not being a good actor here, they don't have the install base of Apple TV hardware to make their Apple TV+ service make sense, they have to put it on a larger install base of hardware. If that changes they'll make Apple tv+ only work on their Apple TV hardware.
I wish Apple were more integrated though, purchases don't show up in your general google library you still have to go to the app
The test of that would be if they keep it available when it actually becomes a popular streaming platform
Apple and google are buddies. Apple and Facebook are not!! lol
Very helpful. I like the feature of not having to click in and out of each app to see what's on
How
Only have one complaint... no profiles for Google TV. I hope this comes soon!
Right?! They added profiles for kids. Ok? What about the other adults?!
Google had a conference with app developers last week to inform them that to get into the Google TV app store they need to allow full account integration and follow certain standards. This should improve the experience going forward. A lot of the issues are caused by apps not having the correct hooks for the device to be able to request the correct content.
so there is going to be an update/patch to be released? that is nice if it is
@@nniivekkappo7544 It’s the apps that are not correctly written. If they don’t have the correct programming to allow recommendation and watch next they will not be allowed in the App Store. Most companies had ported their phone versions.
@@GordonHudson i see. That would be great then. Where do you get this news btw?
@@nniivekkappo7544 On one of the Google developer news feeds.
I hope they sort out the 4k and Dolby issues. I really wanted to buy one but those issues have really dissuaded me.
You’re an awesome reviewer man! Keep it up!
Thanks, will do!
nice review. I don't think Google has any control over how independent app builders implement forward and rewind. In the future, I can see them implementing a universal API that would allow Google TV to control them consistently.
Its been 6 month I've been using GCGTV. So far loving it. Previously I use Mi Box S and I tot its the best budget android box. But after using this, its a totally different experience. Love the remote with IR. I don't have the problem of HDMI CEC anymore going with my home theatre receiver setup. I just hope they solve the problem of using internal for for data
@RomeoJollyBun If you mean 60fps as to the actual videos, then yes, as long as the video you watch has the 60fps available obviously.
If by lag you mean, the whole system, then no; from my experience CGTV has been very smooth and snappy. If you mean lag as In, the videos in TH-cam then, that would depend on your internet connection, and I only get it when my internet is suddenly bad (which is almost never).
The 4k issues aren't really a problem for me since if you have a 4k TV it's garunteed to be a smart TV and have all these features anyway (a lot even have built in Chromecast support).
This device is more for upgrading your old HD TV, giving it the same functionality as a smart TV for a fraction of the cost!
Well said.
I had mine for three months. It’s revolutionised my set up. Had to get it because my Sony smart tv was 1st generation and Netflix got dropped. I also needed a simple solution for my wife who didn’t like the casting thing. In summary - I love it. The ability to blue tooth to a wireless headphone was the real clincher. My bride can sit in the next room and read a book, knit or talk to herself whilst I watch some sport, bonsai channels or my latest obsession which is Dessert Drifter.
I just bought that but then again I use it for my 'dumb' tv lol....I oriiginally had the older version and I had to cast from a tablet or phone. I am just happy I can find Netflix and TH-cam with the touch of a button. Although my TV does not support 4 k the picture has improved considerably. And omg it's so easy to set up....I love that...no fuss at all. I am having a spot of bother with a download...gives me error when it tires to install but as I said I simply love it.....my 'dumb' tv has become smarter than my 'smart' tv lol
I like the support for my wireless headphones. If I turn on my headphones this device automatically pairs with them and turns off the tv speakers, and when I shut my headphones off, it automatically unpairs and turns the tv speakers back on.
Hello! What about latency, are you having any issues when using Bluetooth headphones?
so a year ago I say that I loved this device. Now that I have two of them go bad ( increased buffering and lost internet connection) and become useless I've switched to a Roku on one TV and using a LG smart TV for the second. BIG improvement in both cases, we'll see what they are like in a year.
Has it been 1 year yet? What's the verdict?
Great review, Josh! We have 2 in our family - definitely would recommend!
Yes, the universal search on the main UI is very handy.
Our 4K / HDR(10) / Dolby Vision has been working well on Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, & the TH-cam app.
Don't have an Atmos system, so can't confirm.
Only occasional issue I find is sometimes the picture goes to a high contrast all of a sudden, and things look a little red/orange.
Hopefully, just gets fixed by an update.
But overall, very happy with it 😀
It always happens after watching any Dolby vision content.
@@RamonMcNally Thanks, good to know why - will take note of this next time.
Going to "Display & Sound" > "Dynamic Range & Color Format" > "Match content dynamic range" and setting it to "Match content" might help, I'd recommend that in general, especially with a good TV, so the TV can display and map the SDR content, rather than the Google TV trying to map it somehow.
On mine shows 4k on Disney+, prime video and Netflix. Maybe you need change the resolution in the settings.
What an amazing review, keep up with the hard work Josh, appreciate it!👍
You’re definitely my go-to for long term reviews. Unbiased and informative. You’re doing it right.
what an awesome review! i need him to review everything tech
I bought my Chromecast with Google TV at the beginning of this year actually, It's Definitely Worth the money in my opinion 😁 I highly Recommend it And I must say I absolutely Loved my Chromecast Remote
Hi Josh, It is July 20, 2022. I just bought the Google Chromecast with TV. I have to installed it yet.(trying to get rid of Xfinity first) any way, has some of the complaints you mentioned in this video above (Apr 9, 2021), been corrected. I think i am going to enjoy my choice. Just wanted to know about the correction's. Nice review, thanks. It has been a while since I checked on your channel. Your still a great reviewer.
As someone with an old TV from 2014 the biggest downside for me isn't resolution but casting functionality. The lack of Miracast support is a real downer. Only apps that support Google's proprietary Chromecast protocol work, and if you're casting your screen, it's not terrible but a bit choppy when compared to Microsoft's Wireless Display Adapter. Plus the second you hit anything with HDCP the video drops out and you just get audio through your TV.
That being said, apps like Web Video Caster are an okay workaround but I'm left missing many of the features from a more mainstream browser when using such a solution.
Even with the choppy screen casting through Google's Home app it's not a total deal breaker but the lack of Miracast support almost is
Interesting was planning to use Cromecast on my really old Sony LCD TV in the bedroom won't bother now.
Have a old Nvidia sheild pro will use that and buy 2019 Nvidia sheild Pro for the main room.
I like how he explained it down to details. Most people don't do that they just wanna say what they think people wanna hear and what he said is exactly what I wanna hear about this Chromecast with Google before I go and buy it at my Walmart
You can also pair a Bluetooth game controller and play games or stream them from your PC or Console.
I love it for that. Especially the retro games!!
Thank you !!!!!!!
Ps5 controller work ?
@@bigfloppy26 it should work. My DS4 works on the Chromecast and there are tutorials on pairing the DualSense to an Android so that's a good sign!
@@nrg753 thanks bro!!! I appreciate the reply. Nice bike too
Is the "4K Problem" still a thing, even if you buy the Ethernet adapter?
I'd like to see a comparison between the chromecast with google tv and amazon fire tv stick 4k
I’m going to buy this, I hope they sort it out those little gripes you’ve mentioned
Great review mate. I love my chrome cast. Love how it recommends shows. I am an apple person but am glad I chose this over the Apple TV. Better for the budget and it is just brilliant. Have had it for about a year now and hasn’t missed a beat
I don't have a TV ... but use a videoprojector (4K) connected to a Denon AV (hdmi connectors + cinema sound) everything is working perfect, including the sound buttons on the chromecast remote control. I installed it two days ago. From your video I learned I will need to "educate" the chromecast with my prefernces.
Thanks for this review, Josh! I’ve experienced the same Bluetooth issue with my AirPods, which is a real bummer.
Did you ever end up trying with other bluetooth headphones with AptX or just airpods? I'm considering the chromecast but without good headphone support I might have to get Roku since you can use their phone app to connect headphones.
Excellent review! I took have the unit from Day 1. It sometimes loses the Dolby Vision detection for Netflix (and only show Ultra HDR). The worst problem is that Hulu's Android app doesn't support 4K (this is the same issue on Nvidia Shield). Also it's not able to stream 4K Bluray rips over KODI on my 5G Wifi. I'm getting an Ethernet hub to resolve that issue (hopefully). I have the Apple TV 4K 2021 on order. Hopefully it will support TH-cam HDR, which is its own drawback I know from the previous generation.
It's up to the developer or creater of the title how it shows up. Some shows that got started before 4k may never be changed.
Clearing the cache and data of the app your in will clear up drop outs with bluetooth audio. Worked for me with youtube.
Facts. I restart mine when I use it, just like my Pixel 4 daily
Damn google really needs to release Chromecast Pro with TV
I have an old 720p tv and it brought it back to life so I love device, price is good, casting works great, I could not care less about Google recommendations so I use the 'apps only mode', there's no lag at all and you only see the app icons and that's it, no advertising bloating the screen
Remote needs a more tactile feel as it is very slippery in the hand.
Would love a better filter system on this, as it shows me things I am not interested in seeing (pay-per-view content).
Setup of multiple hardware devices (TV, Soundbars) do not turn on/off properly (but they do work when in setup test mode)
Besides that this system is fantastic!
I found lots of problems trying to cast from my phone, it seems to take 2 or 3 attempts to try and cast to Google TV Chromecast.
If I try and cast to a normal Chromecast it
Connects first time....
correct having same issues but not always
Actually it seems to be a replacement for a Roku dongle, that is how I use mine. I think Google is just going to let casting legacy out.
Make sure all of your apps are updated
I use chrome cast to display art slideshows on my TV. That’s why I created this channel so I can turn my TVs into art display. 😉 so happy right now!
Unfortunately I had to return my Chromecast w/Google TV back to Best Buy due to the unit freezing. For the first 2-3 weeks, the unit worked flawlessly until the freezing issue appeared out of nowhere. It got old having to constantly clear cache and rebooting the unit. We have 400 Mbps down and the speed test was showing around 330 down so the bandwidth was sufficient. I really enjoyed the UI and thought the remote had great functionality with the rarely seen Input button.
Very common issue with that device. I am looking to replace mine now as well. It is just too slow and unreliable.
@@Mr01dschool Agreed. Fun device to use but too glitchy.
This is useful for a shitie 4k smart tv like my new Vizio where the app selection is lackluster at best with poor software.
Enjoyed the review! From my research Dolby vision isn’t supported on the Disney Plus app for Google tv. But I have been able to stream at 4K with HDR10. It did give me an issue before and only said it was playing everything in HD, I logged out of the app and signed in and it resolved. I think there is still more work to be done with the app. I enjoy the Google UI and at $50 it made sense more than a new Apple TV, my vizios smartcast disney plus app supports Dolby vision but I don’t like switching around apps so I’m making the best of it rn, hopefully there’s an update coming soon
Thanks for the tip! We’ll try the sign out and sign back in thing to see if that fixes our issue.
Actually, signing in and out didn’t do it but what did was looking at display settings and it looks like we’re suffering from a bug where the Chromecast will flip the display resolution back down to 1080p www.reddit.com/r/Chromecast/comments/kvuxdr/ccwgtv_keeps_losing_uhd4k_capability/?
@@6MonthsLater I guess it’s a bigger issue than expected, i had it happen again just recently, hope Google gets on this
Great review. Ordered the HD version. Is Apple Music available on it?😊
DFEFINITELY wait for ANY sale. Knocks $10 off and costs only $20 for the 1080p version. Just bought two!
Yeah. Got a Black Friday deal on a 1080 one.
As tested on recent TV's. Dolby vision tends to darken images and the overall accuracy and HDR effect was just as good if not better from HDR 10/10+
This is true from my personal experience with Apple TV 4K. Took me some time to realize why everything was too dark and dull.
Great review mate. My AirPods connect fine.
Has the Netflix originals recommendations issue been fixed yet? Seems like a big deal since Netflix has so much original content. Cant seem to find any info on this
Netflix doesn't want to participate in this.
@@bionicwoman9884 so dumb it only disadvantages them
Very informative review. Much helpful. Just curious that if any of the issues mentioned, like inconsistent rewind forward across various app, Dolby Vision/Atmos and 4K support are fixed? Thanks in advance!
Functionality can be further improved, by including audio Downmix to stereo and DRC (dynamic range compression) off options, when multichannel audio content is played and sent to other audio equipment via Bluetooth.
Anyone else experiencing a really dark screen when using chromecast? Increasing the brightness to max on my screen doesn't help at all. Issue only occurs using chromecast, I have apple tv and that works fine. Thoughts and solutions welcome.
Amazing video, super professional and very high quality presentation!
Supposedly, some features may be missing based on the selected region, for example some regions in EU might be missing most of the recommendations?
Been using it for a year now, it's really a reliable device.
3 years on: thank you for your helpful review.
All I care about is whether I can download apps from the Google playstore such as iptv or am I stuck with proprietary apps like on most "smart" tvs
Great review and intro. Just bought one yesterday.
Definetely does support 4k on Disney plus, Netflix etc. Might be an issue with the handshake through your receiver not seeing your TV as being 4k
It’s gotta be a bug with the specific apps on the Chromecast. Have no issues with the Apple TV or Netflix apps on the Chromecast playing 4K but do with Disney, Hulu and Amazon. Also I’m not alone, it looks like a lot of people are running into the same issues on Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/DisneyPlus/comments/jpx1te/not_able_to_display_4k_uhd_on_my_chromecast/?. - Josh
So, actually, you were onto something...there are two bugs I've narrowed down my issues to. One is the Chromecast will just go back down to 1080 at random. Haven't been able to figure out when it's doing it (it's not every time the device is turned off). Other bug is when Disney+ is left open and showing 4k option, when I turn the system off and back on again, same Disney+ page will appear and still be in 4k, but if you go to a different show in the Disney+ app it'll then show HD (Chromecast settings at this point is still showing 4k 60hz). When you go back to the original show you were looking at it's also now displaying HD. Quitting and reopening the app reverts everything back to 4k. Really bizarre. - Josh
@@6MonthsLater - It's a little strange to be complaining about the device, based on what other company does or does not do in their app? Surely that's down to the app maker - especially the complaint about the seek function. Do you realize that Google doesn't write those apps, only works with the developers to ensure navigation works with the remote. I wouldn't want Google telling a developer how to implement a seek on video, in fact they are probably all using different video players on the back end.
Good review Josh... Thank you
I feel like the google assistant and a lot of that extra stuff in this chromecast is just useless when we already have phones with thst and that tell us all of that. I just want a more simple way to browse through TV apps, my Xbox one is kind of annoying sometimes lol.
I also have a couple firesticks, we've had a roku and we have a roku smart TV too.
So here I am still wondering why should I buy a chromecast even though I already have android, and all these other streaming devices?
I love google, youtube, I have youtube TV for my TV provider, and just overall support Google everything, so maybe that's it? So I'm my case would it be worth the buy?
Hey Josh, I hope you’re doing well. Quick question - how’s the Dolby Atmos support coming along? Is it now available in the apps you mentioned weren’t supporting it before? Thanks a lot!
The 4K not on all content is a make it or break it for myself damn I didn’t know that thanx for bringing that up!
I wish Vudu and Apple TV (especially purchases) were better integrated into the UI. Other than that, absolutely no complaints about the CC, now I want one in every room of the house.
I have always had Dobby Atmos on my Dobby Atmos speaker bar. FYI the Atmos only works with an Atmos speakers
I hooked into my Samsung 2013 Plasma TV and I super fantastic. I just bought it. I bought another streaming device and hated it. This TV has a WiFi for some that year but this one did not have it. The picture is playing Star Trek at 1920×1080/60p. Not bad actually. It works so well I am amazed.
This was a great review
Glad you enjoyed it!
Chromecast Google TV will not get more app updates because is just android 10?
If you are trying to get rid of your cable/satellite provider for an alternative, this device with TH-camTV is a good way to go. In the device, you have the other guys, but TH-camTV is straight forward and easy to manage. All you need is your current location/ Zip code and you get your local channels with ease. I tried Sling, Peacock and another one. They can be cheaper, but can be proven difficult to get your locals and each can under cut each other with channels. YTTV actually mirrored my current cable provider and offered more station that are known to be add-ons that you have to pay for with other providers. I bought my mom a Roku, but failed to realized that they booted the YTTV app, though there is still a way to view it with a few extra steps. Google owns TH-cam, so I can't see any BS happening with it here. Then you have all the other free stuff. I'M CANCELLING MY CABLE TOMORROW!
The phone as the user interface is not the bad thing it is the good thing.
Browsing on phone VS browsing on TV.
It is nuch easier on the phone.
Thank you for the review Josh. I am very pleased with the unit except for one recurring issue - roughly once a week now the unit just has stopped working (no home screen pic when turning on) - the only remedy I've found is to reboot the unit. So far no help from support. I wonder if this is a hardware issue. Has anyone else experienced this problem?
I used to love it but lately it has been buggy. The device turns HBOMAX Dolby Vision into a ultraviolet looking screen which messes with the hue levels. It effects movies like Godzilla vs. Kong. Ugh...Almost perfect but not. The only work around is to cast it first other than using the remote.
Ik heb deze gekocht en is echt bellisimo!! 👌🏼
Stupid question but can someone tell me, do you have to have a phone or tablet for this?? Like is this usable just on TV or do you need one of those devices?
Google Chromecast with Google TV Recommendation from media apps would be nice...
Question for you about this.... will the recommendations and search results include channels I'm not subscribed to? (Example, i see HBO Max in your results, but i do not subscribe to it).
Dayummmm, Didn't know ZACK MORRIS had a son
I'm seeing a lot of people saying Apple has no user base in streaming, you do realize Apple has 2% and Google has 3% Amazon only 5%. So, what's your point exactly....... It's a very fragmented sector.
Is there google play store? To download other apps? Or just those apps that are shown?
Wil Dolby vision and Atmos work if my tv doesn't support it????
No, it could still play the file but you won't actually be getting the same experience.
I'm glad I watched this because I was going to buy it just for the Google interface, but I would be so annoyed at 4K was lacking.
People keep telling me that I still need to use my phone to watch TH-cam tv on my TV, if I use a chrome cast. But a few people have said that's not true. They say I can use this the same way I use my roku stick. Just plug it in and access the TH-cam tv app. Which one is true? I ask because roku just dumped TH-cam TV, so while I can still watch it now, that might change in the future. I really like TH-cam TV, but I'm not going to use my phone. I want to just turn my TVs on, and click my app on screen, like I've always done
You can access the TH-cam Tv app on Chromecast Tv.
I see you comparing with apple TV 4k... But in comparison to 4k Or Atmos support how does it fair against Amazon 4k max firestick?? Which one is better?
Thanks for the subtle apple TV advert.
I have a chromecast and no issues. I do not have 4k as I do not see the point in upgrading as of yet. All the talk apout picture quality honestly means nothing to me. Also half the time it is just background noise if I am not interested at that time. How ever there are several video's to help make using a chromecast either more enjoyable or easier to use. Just type in chromecast tricks, secrets, or more features. Up to you...
I have a TV with Android TV built in, is it worth getting a Chromecast with Google TV just for that exclusive version of the OS?
Thanks for an honest review. It was informative and helpful.
Thanks Josh 🙂
Advice Appreciated 👍🏻,
JaneLee 🕊️ - in Suburban Philadelphia
Nice video. do 9 months later reviews.
Great video. I love my device, especially the Bluetooth connections. I have a mouse, keyboard, and 8bitdo SNES controller.
Not being able to interact with Netflix originals is a deal beaker. Quite suss. Thanks for the heads up.
The only downside for is that i don't have the for you tab in my region south africa but the rest i love and it works great with google home mini. Also have it connected to my Bluetooth clock/speaker and makes the sound louder and now i can listen to youtube or something near my bed without having the volume too loud and annoying other people
I’ve had this for about 2 years the best streaming device all google products are awesome
Unfortunately, I cannot recommend the Chromecast with Google TV. I ordered two of these last year when they were first released. Out of the two, one has messed up Wi-Fi where if I get it to connect to my Wi-Fi, it will only stay connected for a short time. I have tried numerous resets, etc. Nothing fixes it! The second Chromecast with Google TV is on the living room TV. It's performance and reliability is sporadic at best. Sometimes it will be laggy, other times apps just won't perform at all. And at times, it will not work with other Google devices such as the Google home / Google home mini. I have always been a fan of the Chromecast line. I used the original / Gen 3 Chromecast for years! But this device is buggy! Very bad! I'm really disappointed.
Zero issues with my device except connecting to nest mini.
Seen that Onkyo receiver. Mine looks to be the same. HDMI CEC works decent with it but it's wonky. Love it tho amazing sound.
you are a great reviewer bro. loved it
Nice work, mate! I was looking for an honest review and this was legit, thanks a lot!
You’re welcome! Glad you found it helpful.
With this version, you still have to cast from your phone, tablet, or a computer separately? Or is the tech on the dongle like with roku or the fire stick?
You don't have to cast if the app is supported. Instead, you can use the remote control provided to navigate to your wanted app. If you wanted to or if you app isn't on the UI, you can cast from your phone/tablet etc.
I wish I could give my college presentations like this ...
Its sad when there is no Chromecast with google tv in the Philippines
My old Samsung HD TV with a 2.0 audio setup will be happy to receive a Chromecast with Google TV and without Dolby sound🤣
I bet Netflix doesn't want a 3rd party like Google knowing too much about the user statistics of their originals
Airplay support?
You need a apple tv device.
solid breakdown - thanks
I found Google TV really useful (first impression). Since the WiFi module on my LG 4K crapped out, I have been having buffering issues on all apps. So to watch TH-cam and Netflix, was looking for a device. Google TV offers TV control (power and volume) via CEC and scrolling possibilities on both TH-cam and Netflix with the provided remote. Remote could have been a little bigger and heavier though.
Can app be install on it? And how is it using it on other tv brand aside the google tv