The Chromecast has been one of Google’s most popular devices. However, with the rise of Smart TVs and the expansion of Android TV, users have started to favor the simplicity of using their TV’s built-in apps for content consumption. As a result, devices that enhance smart TVs have begun targeting a more premium audience. The Google TV Streamer embodies this shift: it offers an experience similar to Google TV integrated into your TV, with added features, all in a premium package. Its price, however, may deter those who previously viewed Chromecast as a simple, low-cost product.
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The Google TV Streamer moves away from its low-cost, convenient roots to compete with more expensive devices like the Apple TV 4K and the Fire TV Cube. It retains Google’s hallmarks: ease of use, a familiar interface, and full compatibility with the entire ecosystem. It also offers integration with connected home devices, allowing users to control many gadgets from the control center. However, for most users, the experience will not differ significantly from that of a modern TV with Google TV. Thus, the higher price, which exceeds 100 euros, positions it more as a hub for connected home and entertainment rather than just a streaming device.
There are two types of users who will benefit from the Google TV Streamer. First, those with older Smart TVs who want to add modern capabilities. Second, those looking to center their smart home around the Google ecosystem. If you don’t fit into either group, this device may not be for you.
The challenge for Google, which becomes clear in the first few hours of use, is that 90% of the user experience and features can be achieved with the Chromecast with Google TV 4K, which costs almost half as much. This version still offers 4K, Dolby Vision, and other features. Therefore, upgrading to the Google TV Streamer is only worthwhile if you want to focus on building a connected home around the Google ecosystem, particularly with its integration of standards like Matter and the benefits of Google AI.
Google TV Streamer: The Hub of the Ecosystem
Google is well-known for providing quality set-top boxes, and this is evident from the unboxing to the start-up. The product feels premium, even though it’s a simple plastic box that you’ll likely forget about once placed under your TV. The setup process is straightforward: just download Google Home, connect the HDMI (not included) and charging cable to the Google TV Streamer, and follow the steps. In just a few minutes, you’ll have it fully operational. There are no complicated steps. If you’re already in the Google ecosystem, everything will work seamlessly once you activate your Google account on the device.
After setting up your Google TV Streamer (4K), you’ll see an interface similar to the one on your TV. If you have a Google account, the home screen will likely look the same as well, just like any version of Chromecast with Google TV. The main difference is the remote. It’s longer and slimmer, with some handy features worth noting. One notable feature is a button on the back of the device that helps you find the remote if you lose it. While you might not need this every day, it’s a nice addition.
Another noteworthy feature is the customizable shortcut button on the remote. In addition to the dedicated buttons for YouTube and Netflix, you can set one to perform a specific action or open an app of your choice. The remote operates on batteries (included in the box) rather than a rechargeable battery like the one on the Apple TV. This is a welcome change, as it eliminates the frustration of dead batteries when you don’t have a spare at home—you’ll only need a cable to recharge.
Another reason to consider upgrading from your Chromecast with Google TV to the Streamer is the inclusion of an Ethernet port. While Mesh networks and Wi-Fi 7 are becoming more common, and wired connections are less critical for good streaming, they still offer significant advantages, particularly for connected homes. A wired connection provides the best stability, which is essential as smart home devices continue to grow in number. It’s important for the “brain” of your connected home to maintain a stable, low-latency connection. Given that one of the benefits of the Google TV Streamer is its role as a hub for connected devices, it’s notable that Google has included this Ethernet port.
At this point, we could discuss its benefits as the center of the digital home in detail, but it can be summed up by saying that once configured, the Google TV Streamer operates seamlessly. It responds quickly, and setting it up using Google Home is extremely simple. Devices like the Eve Energy and Aqara’s sensors and plugs work well, and thanks to Matter, they can be controlled easily from the Google TV Streamer or HomeKit.
There’s not much more to say about a device designed to be as unobtrusive as possible next to your TV. We haven’t encountered any compatibility issues with apps or while playing 4K content with HDR. For example, Plex works without requiring conversions to play high-quality local network content, handling all formats we tested without any problems. The experience using apps like Netflix or Prime Video is the same as what Google TV has offered in previous versions, so the Google TV Streamer doesn’t add anything new in that regard. The same applies to Google Assistant. One of its potential strengths is the use of AI for content recommendations, but the true benefits of this feature will need to be evaluated over time as we consume more content and utilize our Google account data.
Is Google TV Streamer worth it?
You don’t need the Google TV Streamer if you have a modern TV with Google TV. The experience is the same in every way, and the extra features of the Google TV Streamer don’t justify its high price, which is nearly double that of the Chromecast 4K with Google TV.
You might consider it if you have an older TV that doesn’t have Google TV or can’t support streaming apps anymore. While the Google TV Streamer won’t change how you use your TV, it will bring it up to date with features like 4K streaming, Dolby Vision, and access to all Android apps, along with Google Assistant and AI recommendations. There are cheaper devices that offer similar functions, but if you want a set-top box that will last for years and be ready for the future, the Google TV Streamer is a great choice, especially if you’re in the Google ecosystem. It has everything you need, and navigating through apps and menus is much easier than on a mid-range Google Smart TV. Plus, with HDMI-CEC, the Google TV Streamer interface can appear as soon as you turn on your TV. It’s worth it if you’re willing to spend over 100 euros for it in Europe.
Absolutely! It’s 100% recommended for users seeking a powerful device that opens the door to a connected home with Matter and future standards like Thread. While it excels as a streaming device, its wired network connection and strong performance also make it one of the best options to serve as the central hub for a connected home within Google Home.
In short, the Google Streamer 4K is an upgrade from the classic Chromecast. The only downside is the price, which was the biggest advantage of the original in a market where each ecosystem is trying to establish itself as the industry gradually moves toward standardization. The question is whether the small additional features are worth the higher cost. Given how much Google has improved its operating system for TVs, that isn’t entirely clear.
