Google Chromecast Guide
Recommended Models

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Google Chromecast GuideThe Equipment/setup

Chromecast is another very popular TV streaming device through which you can access many of the best music and video providers (such as Netflix, HBO Now, Hulu Plus, YouTube, Pandora, Spotify, Crackle, Google Play Movies, TV & Music, WatchESPN, NFL Sunday Ticket by DirecTV, YouTube Kids and many more).

Chromecast also sports a dongle (like Fire TV) that you plug into your TV's HDMI port. Although the unit can be powered by a USB cable (included), for best results, plug the included power adapter into wall current. This is especially advised for the Chromecast Ultra for 4K content.

You must have a robust and stable Wi-fi network in your home in order to use Chromecast wirelessly. Read all about home networks and the best router to get here: Home Networking Tutorials.

There is no separate remote controller; you control the Chromecast through your smartphone, tablet or computer.

Setup is easy once Chromecast and your chosen "controller" connect to your Wi-Fi network; they recognize each other and onscreen instructions help you complete the process.

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Google Chromecast Guide
What's Unique?

There are two main features which set the Chromecast Streaming Media Player apart from the others:

No separate remote controller (you use your Android or iOS mobile device; or a PC running Windows or Mac OS X instead)

No access to Amazon Videos (due to legal battles between Amazon and Google)

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Google Chromecast Guide
Pros & Cons

PROS

• Chromecast Ultra has the most HDR options
  
  
• Works with Google Home (voice control). "Hey Google, play "Goodfellas" via Netflix on my Chromecast". 
  
  
• Almost anything you can pull up on your Chrome browser on a mobile device or PC can be "Cast" straight to your TV via Chromecast. This includes videos from random sites, podcasts, etc.
  
  
• Enjoy gorgeous photos on the big screen, cast from Facebook, Flickr or your Google Photos account. "OK Google, show me pictures from our 2008 reunion".
  
  
• Share your VR experience. Google Daydream headset + Google Home + Chromecast allow you to send what you are seeing in the headset directly to the TV screen for everyone else. 

CONS

• No Amazon Video
  
  
• No dedicated remote control; smartphone or computer acts as the remote. This also means:
  
  
• No on-screen menu like you get with other streaming devices
  
  

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Google Chromecast Guide
The Bottom Line

If you just love "all things Google", then Chromecast will fit right into your network.

If the idea of "casting" anything you see on your mobile device or computer, straight to your big-screen TV intrigues you, Google Chromecast is for you.

If you consider no separate remote, no on-screen menu, or the absence of Amazon Prime videos as a problem, then skip Chromecast.

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Google Chromecast Guide
Buying Links

Google Chromecast 3rd Gen

• "Cast your favorite entertainment from your phone, tablet, or laptop straight to the TV."
• Simply tap the Cast button in your apps to start watching on the TV
• Thousands of apps at chromecast.com/apps
• Mirror your smartphone screen or Chrome browser on TV.
• Order by clicking on the image below:

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Google Chromecast Ultra

• The Ultra includes a wired Ethernet cable connection instead of the WiFi. 
• Stream up to 4K Ultra HD & HDR picture quality 
• Order by clicking on the image below:

1. [Gadgets HOME]
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2. [Household Management]
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3. [Smart TV]
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4. [You Are Here (Google Chromecast Guide)]

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