This new upgrade is now what’s called ‘Google TV’. The interface on the new Chromecast with Google TV has been updated. You can cast with a range of devices such as an iPhone, iPad, Android, Mac, Windows device or Chromebook. Appsīoth the Chromecast and Chromecast Ultra allow you to cast a broad range of streaming and on-demand services including Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, YouTube and Disney+. Otherwise, we suggest saving your money and purchasing the standard Google Chromecast.
You will only be able to take advantage of the better streaming quality of the Chromecast with Google TV or Chromecast Ultra if your TV is also 4K. If you intend to use a Chromecast device to upgrade an old TV, you may want to check if it is 4K. The new Chromecast with Google TV is also a little more expensive at £59.99 but comes with 4K resolution and voice control via the newly-added remote.
The Chromecast Ultra allows you to watch content in up to 4K Ultra HD while the original Google Chromecast only supports 1080p resolution. One of the biggest reason for the difference in price is due to streaming quality. It also comes with a voice remote, similar to that of an Amazon Fire TV Stick or Roku media player. It is, however, available in three colours – white, pink and blue – rather than the traditional black. The new Chromecast with Google TV has a slightly more oval shape but still slot into the HDMI port like the other devices. The Chromecast has a black matte finish while the Chromecast Ultra is glossy. Both are round black discs that slot into the HDMI port in the back of your TV. The design of the Chromecast compared to the Chromecast Ultra is very similar. Here are the key differences between the Google Chromecast and Chromecast Ultra to help you choose the right device for you. While set-up is largely the same, there are some features that vary depending on whether you splash out for the more expensive players or stick with the cheaper Google Chromecast.
For a more detailed breakdown, read our guide on how to set up Chromecast. The streaming players plug into the HDMI port on your TV so are hidden out of sight, and stream via Wi-Fi.
What is the difference between Google Chromecast and Chromecast Ultra?īoth Google Chromecast devices allow you to stream your favourite shows from your phone to a larger screen such as a projector or TV. Or try our Chromecast vs Fire TV Stick explainer for a one-on-one comparison. Want to see how Chromecast compares to other smart TV sticks? Read our Amazon Fire TV Stick review and Roku Premiere review.
Here is our Chromecast vs Chromecast Ultra guide as we put Google’s best streaming devices head-to-head. We will be comparing price, design, streaming quality and the apps on offer to help you decide whether you should stick with your old Chromecast Ultra or if the cheaper Google Chromecast is better value for money.Īnd now there’s a new Google streaming stick on the block, we will also be considering how spending your cash on the new Chromecast with Google TV may be a better choice.