Android TV vs Chromecast – What’s the Difference?

Since we have a lot of sources for entertainment, it is common to be confused about which device to choose from. If that is the case with you, keep on reading. The following section is a comparison between the features of Android TV vs Chromecast. If you have been curious to find out which among these two devices is better, this section is dedicated to you. You might have seen or used an Android TV or Chromecast before. If you have used them, you already know how they work for streaming media content. So, let’s start comparing these two devices available in the market.

What is Android TV

Android TV is the most popular version of the Android operating system. On Android TV, you can download apps and games from an in-built Google Play Store. Therefore, you can access apps specially designed for your Android TV. It includes popular apps like YouTube, Netflix, and HBO Max.

The Android operating system is used in smart TVs like Sony and Smart TV boxes like the Nvidia Shield. Android TVs come with physical remotes to operate different functions in them. You can also access web browsers on your Android TV.

What is Chromecast

Chromecast is one of Google’s most successful streaming devices. The Chromecast device connects to your TV via the HDMI port. Once they connect properly, they help you cast apps and games from other devices. Chromecast is small, easy to connect, affordable, and worth the cost. Also, you don’t need a remote to operate your TV after connecting to Chromecast. You can use or phone or tablet to cast applications on your TV. Many apps have an in-built cast icon, as shown below.

There is no limit to what you can cast your TV. In other words, you can cast TV shows, movies, music, sports, podcasts, slideshows, photos, and more. Additionally, you can screen mirror your phone or tablet on your TV. It becomes helpful when you like to access an app on your TV, and the app doesn’t support casting.

Does Android TV have an in-built Chromecast?

Now, you have a basic idea of what the two devices in concern are. Most of the Android Smart TVs come with a built-in Chromecast feature. It simply means that in those devices, you don’t need to add a Chromecast device for casting. To be more specific, you can cast on an Android TV everything that you can cast on a Chromecast. Also, you can screen mirror your smartphone or tablet on your Android TV.

Chromecast vs Android TV Box: Which is better?

From what we have discussed in the above section, you can find out that Android TV is a step ahead of that Chromecast. This is because of the fact that Android TV combines the features of Chromecast and the Android operating system. On Android TV, you can download apps that might not support casting as well. Also, the apps in the Google Play Store are specially designed for your TV. In addition, you can cast apps and screen mirror your phone and desktop to the TV.

Chromecast is a lot more affordable than an Android TV. A Chromecast device can cost you $30, while Android TVs cost more than $150. Also, it gives your TV a smart feature like that of casting. If you don’t want to get the luxury of the Play Store with whole lots of apps, then you don’t need an Android TV. You can simply make use of Chromecast to cast videos from YouTube and Netflix to your TV and enjoy watching them. It includes streaming titles in 4K as well.

In short, Android TV is better than a Chromecast as it already has the built-in Chromecast feature. If you are looking to replace your older smart TV, then getting a new Android TV might be more useful. You can also get other Operating Systems, like Linux on Android TV. However, you should choose a device depending on your requirements and budget.

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