Streaming devices / Compare

Google Chromecast (3rd Gen, 2018) vs Google Chromecast with Google TV (4K)

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Chromecast (3rd Gen, 2018)

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Product B: Google

Chromecast with Google TV (4K)

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Only differences

AGoogle Chromecast (3rd Gen, 2018)

BGoogle Chromecast with Google TV (4K)

General

5 of 8 differ

Series

Chromecast8Reviewwhathifi.com/reviews/google-chromecast-2018Read 13 October 2026Review of the 2018 Chromecast, the successor of the 2015 Chromecast. Same family name.

Chromecast1Press releaseblog.google/products-and-platforms/products/chromecast/best-chromecast-google-tvRead 7 October 2026Original September 30, 2020 Chromecast with Google TV launch. The later 2022 HD model is excluded.

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

NC2-6A52Maker product pagesupport.google.com/store/answer/6160585Read 13 October 2026Google Store Help device information for Korea: product Chromecast, model name NC2-6A5, release date Jan 23, 2019. The 2015 2nd-gen Chromecast used the same model name, but this entry shows the 1080p 60fps device. Release date here is the Korean release.

GZRNL4Owner's manualsupport.google.com/product-documentation/answer/4541589Read 7 October 2026Exact original Chromecast with Google TV (4K) section US regulatory Model number row names GZRNL. Regional retail SKUs are not mixed into the generic model identifier.

GTIN / EAN

84277610613112Spec databaseupcitemdb.com/upc/842776106131Read 21 October 2026UPC 842776106131 (EAN-13 0842776106131), model GA00439-US, listed by Target, Best Buy, Dell, Home Depot and others as Chromecast 3rd Generation in Charcoal. A Chalk unit may carry another code and is not covered.

Not available

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

9 October 20181Press releaseblog.google/products/chromecast/five-reasons-and-two-colors-why-we-love-new-chromecastRead 13 October 2026Google blog post by the Chromecast product manager. Thurrott and Engadget date the launch to October 9, 2018.

30 September 20201Press releaseblog.google/products-and-platforms/products/chromecast/best-chromecast-google-tvRead 7 October 2026Dated original maker launch release.

Status

Discontinued5Press article9to5google.com/2022/09/22/chromecast-discontinuedRead 13 October 20269to5Google, September 22, 2022: with the launch of the Chromecast with Google TV (HD), Google confirmed the Chromecast (third generation) is being discontinued. It stays on sale until stock runs out. Updates continue.

Discontinued15Press releaseblog.google/products-and-platforms/devices/google-nest/chromecast-historyRead 7 October 2026Maker August 6, 2024 announcement explicitly ends Chromecast production and limits remaining retail to supplies last. Software support and reseller stock are separate.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Google Chromecast with Google TV (HD)5Press article9to5google.com/2022/09/22/chromecast-discontinuedRead 13 October 2026Google confirmed the third generation is discontinued with the launch of the Chromecast with Google TV (HD) at the same $29.99 price. A Google spokesperson said Chromecast with Google TV is the next generation of Chromecast.16Press article9to5google.com/2022/09/22/chromecast-google-tv-hd-priceRead 23 October 20269to5Google says the Chromecast with Google TV (HD) replaces the Chromecast 3rd Generation at the same $29.99 price.

Google TV Streamer (4K)19Maker product pageblog.google/products-and-platforms/devices/google-nest/google-tv-streamerRead 23 October 2026Google says the Google TV Streamer replaces Chromecast and calls it its next-generation 4K TV streaming device.20Reviewandroidauthority.com/google-tv-streamer-review-3482950Read 23 October 2026Android Authority's review calls the Google TV Streamer a worthy successor and compares it with the 2020 Chromecast with Google TV.

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$351Press releaseblog.google/products/chromecast/five-reasons-and-two-colors-why-we-love-new-chromecastRead 13 October 2026Post says Chromecast is still just $35. US price excluding sales tax. Later cuts to $29.99 are excluded.

$49.991Press releaseblog.google/products-and-platforms/products/chromecast/best-chromecast-google-tvRead 7 October 2026Original US standard launch price for the 2020 4K Chromecast with Google TV. Excludes bundles, sales and taxes. The maker says available starting today in the US.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

€3913Press articlegooglewatchblog.de/2018/10/google-bringt-neuen-chromecast-nach-deutschlandRead 21 October 2026GoogleWatchBlog, October 24, 2018: the new Chromecast costs 39 euros in Germany, sold through the Google Store, Saturn and MediaMarkt. The smarthomeassistent.de article of December 2018 gives the same price. Price includes VAT as published.

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US, CA, GB, AU, NZ, JP, SG, NL, SE, NO, FI1Press releaseblog.google/products/chromecast/five-reasons-and-two-colors-why-we-love-new-chromecastRead 13 October 2026Post lists the first Google Store countries, including the U.S., Canada, Great Britain, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Finland. More countries followed in 2019. The stored list is not claimed to be complete.

US, AU, CA, FR, DE, IE, IT, ES, GB1Press releaseblog.google/products-and-platforms/products/chromecast/best-chromecast-google-tvRead 7 October 2026Launch release names US immediate availability and these eight other markets for October 15 availability. Hardware is the original 2020 4K product, not the later HD model.

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Charcoal, Chalk1Press releaseblog.google/products/chromecast/five-reasons-and-two-colors-why-we-love-new-chromecastRead 13 October 2026Post names two colors, Chalk and Charcoal.

Snow, Sunrise, Sky1Press releaseblog.google/products-and-platforms/products/chromecast/best-chromecast-google-tvRead 7 October 2026Original maker launch names these three colors. Photo uses Snow.

Form factoriA stick plugs straight into the HDMI port. A dongle hangs from its own short fixed HDMI lead. A box stands on its own and connects by a separate cable.

Dongle7Reviewtomsguide.com/us/google-chromecast-3rd-generation,review-5843.htmlRead 13 October 2026Review calls it a circular dongle that attaches to the back of the TV with a built-in HDMI cable.

Dongle6Reviewflatpanelshd.com/review.phpRead 7 October 2026Original 2021 exact 4K review identifies dongle hardware, not the later Streamer box.

Video output

6 of 11 differ

Max output resolutioniHighest published video output resolution. Decoder capability and app streaming quality do not establish the output resolution.

1920 × 1080px2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/store/answer/6160585Read 13 October 2026Specifications: Resolution up to 1080p 60fps. Full HD 1920 x 1080 is the standard 1080p raster. TechRadar says Chromecast is not 4K.

3840 × 2160px2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/3046409Read 7 October 2026Exact 4K section supports up to 4K Ultra HD output. UHD is 3840 x 2160. Requires a compatible 4K television, 4K content and adequate broadband. This is output, not decoder maximum.

Max output refresh rateiHighest published output refresh rate. Resolution, HDR and connection conditions belong in the source note. This is not a television panel refresh rate.

60Hz2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/store/answer/6160585Read 13 October 2026Specifications: up to 1080p 60fps. HDR and chroma conditions are not stated.

60Hz2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/3046409Read 7 October 2026Exact 4K section supports up to 60 fps at 4K Ultra HD. Requires compatible TV and content. No lower-resolution maxima inferred.

Video output modesiPublished video output combinations. A row records support, not a proved maximum at every lower resolution. Keep HDR, chroma and bit depth conditions in source notes.

AGoogle Chromecast (3rd Gen, 2018)

Height (px)	Refresh rate (Hz)
1080	60

Source2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/store/answer/6160585Read 13 October 2026Specifications: up to 1080p 60fps. Only the highest published combination is stored.

BGoogle Chromecast with Google TV (4K)

Width (px)	Height (px)	Refresh rate (Hz)
3840	2160	60

Source2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/3046409Read 7 October 2026Exact 4K section explicitly supports up to 4K Ultra HD in up to 60 fps. Row describes UHD 60 Hz support without inferred HDR, chroma or bit-depth combination. Lower-resolution modes remain unproved.

HDR formats

Not available

HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/3046409Read 7 October 2026Exact 4K section names Dolby Vision, HLG decode, HDR10 and HDR10+. Format works only with compatible content and television.

Dolby Vision profilesiPublished supported Dolby Vision profiles and levels. Streaming support does not prove local-file support.

Not available

Not available

HDMI versioniPublished HDMI output revision. A revision does not establish every optional HDMI feature.

Not available

2.02Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/3046409Read 7 October 2026Exact 4K Output row names HDMI 2.0 with ALLM. No optional 2.1 capability inferred.

HDCP version

Not available

Not available

HDMI-CEC

Yes4Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/7199917Read 13 October 2026Google help page What is CEC for Chromecast and Google TV Streamer devices. Casting switches the TV input and can power on a CEC TV. The device must use a wall outlet for power and not a USB port on the TV. The page is not specific to the 3rd gen.

Yes6Reviewflatpanelshd.com/review.phpRead 7 October 2026Original review describes TV remote controlling Chromecast UI and TV power/volume interoperability using HDMI CEC. TV and setup compatibility still applies.

Automatic frame rate matchingiCan switch the video output rate to match content. App, operating system and playback restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

Yes8Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/10117046Read 7 October 2026Current exact 4K display help says Match content frame rate allows matching source content. Requires app and TV support. This is later software support, with exact introduced firmware version unstated in this help page. Original 2021 review absence is historical, not current hardware absence.

Dynamic range matchingiCan switch the output dynamic range to match SDR or HDR content. App and firmware restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

Yes8Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/10117046Read 7 October 2026Current display help explicitly turns on Match content for correct SDR rather than forced HDR. Original exact review independently tested switching SDR/HDR10/Dolby Vision. Compatible app and television required.

UpscalingiNamed video upscaling modes. Record source resolution and output restrictions in source notes.

Not available

Not available

Video decoding

4 of 4 differ

Video codecsiExplicitly supported video decoding formats. Use names such as H.264, HEVC, AV1 and VP9. Chip capabilities alone do not prove device playback support.

H.264, VP83Maker product pagedevelopers.google.com/cast/docs/mediaRead 13 October 2026Supported Media for Google Cast, Video codecs, Chromecast 3rd Gen: H.264 High Profile and VP8. TechRadar also lists MPEG-4. The maker page wins.

H.264, HEVC (H.265), VP912Maker product pagedevelopers.google.com/cast/docs/mediaRead 7 October 2026Exact Chromecast with Google TV subsection lists H.264 High Profile level 5.1, HEVC Main/Main10 level 5.1 and VP9 Profile 2. Generic Streamer AV1 and other devices are excluded.

Video decode limitsiPublished supported decoding limits. Profiles, levels and playback route matter. Output resolution and service support are separate.

AGoogle Chromecast (3rd Gen, 2018)

Codec	Profile	Level	Height (px)	Max frame rate (fps)
H.264	High	4.2	1080	60
VP8	Not available	Not available	720	60
VP8	Not available	Not available	1080	30

Source3Maker product pagedevelopers.google.com/cast/docs/mediaRead 13 October 2026Chromecast 3rd Gen: H.264 High Profile up to level 4.2 (1080p/60fps). VP8 720p/60fps or 1080p/30fps. The page gives only vertical resolution. These are Cast receiver limits for streamed media.

BGoogle Chromecast with Google TV (4K)

Codec	Profile	Level	Max frame rate (fps)
H.264	High	5.1	30
HEVC (H.265)	Main / Main10	5.1	60
VP9	2	Not available	60

Source12Maker product pagedevelopers.google.com/cast/docs/mediaRead 7 October 2026Exact device subsection gives H.264 up to 4Kx2K/30 fps, HEVC up to 4Kx2K/60 fps and VP9 Profile-2 up to 4Kx2K/60 fps for Google Cast. Pixel axes and HEVC bit depth not calculated from codec profile. These decoder limits do not establish output combinations.

Video containersiExplicitly supported local playback containers. App requirements belong in the source note.

MP4, WebM, MPEG-TS3Maker product pagedevelopers.google.com/cast/docs/mediaRead 13 October 2026Supported Media for Google Cast lists the media container formats MP2T, MP3, MP4, OGG, WAV and WebM for all Cast Web Receivers, not per device. Only the three video containers shown with video codecs on the page are stored: MP4 (video/mp4), WebM (video/webm) and MP2T (stored as MPEG-TS). The page warns that HEVC is not supported in Transport Stream, which does not affect this device. Cast receiver apps decide what plays, so this is not a local-file player list.

Not available

DRM systemsiNamed supported DRM systems and security levels. DRM certification does not prove a particular service streams at 4K.

Not available

Widevine L113Spec databaseandroidtv-guide.com/streaming-gaming/google-chromecastRead 7 October 2026Exact Chromecast with Google TV (4K), year 2020, DRM table explicitly names Widevine L1. No PlayReady or FairPlay inferred. DRM does not establish any particular app streaming at 4K.

Audio

5 of 8 differ

Audio formatsiPublished supported audio formats. Decoder, output and passthrough roles are qualified in source notes.

AAC-LC, AC-3 (Dolby Digital), E-AC-3 (Dolby Digital Plus), FLAC, MP3, PCM/WAV, Vorbis6Reviewtechradar.com/reviews/chromecastRead 13 October 2026Review: the Chromecast supports AAC-LC, AC3, eAC3 (Dolby Digital Plus), FLAC, MP3, PCM/WAV and Vorbis audio files. Decoder and passthrough roles are not stated. What Hi-Fi says the Chromecast outputs up to Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 with compatible apps.

Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos3Maker spec sheet (PDF)linqcdn.avbportal.com/documents/030e0ff4-253f-4479-a0ee-4aa70f825bca.pdfRead 7 October 2026Original device Audio formats row names these formats and explicitly qualifies Dolby Atmos as pass-through. Requires compatible HDMI audio equipment and app/content.

Audio passthrough formatsiCompressed formats explicitly passed to external audio equipment without decoding. Dolby Atmos support alone does not establish TrueHD passthrough.

Not available

Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos3Maker spec sheet (PDF)linqcdn.avbportal.com/documents/030e0ff4-253f-4479-a0ee-4aa70f825bca.pdfRead 7 October 2026Original Audio formats row names Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby Atmos (pass-through). Current maker help confirms Dolby audio pass-through mode. This does not prove TrueHD-based Atmos or lossless DTS formats.

Dolby AtmosiExplicit device support for Dolby Atmos. Codec, service, app and output requirements belong in the source note.

No14Reviewtvguide.com/news/chromecast-reviewRead 21 October 2026TV Guide Chromecast review: the 3rd gen does not support 4K or HDR video, or Dolby Atmos sound.

Yes3Maker spec sheet (PDF)linqcdn.avbportal.com/documents/030e0ff4-253f-4479-a0ee-4aa70f825bca.pdfRead 7 October 2026Original maker sheet explicitly identifies Dolby Atmos pass-through, not every Atmos transport. Requires compatible audio output equipment and supporting application.

Audio channel configurationsiPublished output configurations, such as 2.0, 5.1 or 7.1. Keep PCM and compressed audio routes separate in source notes. Dolby Atmos support alone does not establish a channel configuration.

5.18Reviewwhathifi.com/reviews/google-chromecast-2018Read 13 October 2026Review text: plugged into a soundbar or home cinema system, the Chromecast outputs sound at up to Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 with compatible apps and videos. The review spec box instead lists Dolby Digital 5.1 and Dolby Digital Plus 7.1, so only the 5.1 layout both statements share is stored. Surround output also needs a TV or receiver that reports support.

Not available

Max audio sample rateiHighest published audio output sample rate. Keep playback route and format in source notes.

Not available

Not available

Max audio bit depthiHighest published audio output bit depth. Keep playback route and format in source notes.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth audio output

Not available

Yes10Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/14632555Read 7 October 2026Current maker guide explicitly allows Bluetooth headphones or speakers with Chromecast with Google TV. Only one audio device at a time. No Bluetooth codec inferred from version.

Bluetooth audio codecsiExplicitly supported codecs for audio sent to Bluetooth headphones or speakers. Bluetooth version alone is not proof.

Not available

Not available

Processor and memory

9 of 11 differ

System on chip

Marvell ARMADA 1500 Mini Plus (88DE3006)10Reviewedn.com/the-google-chromecast-gen-3-gluey-and-screwyRead 21 October 2026EDN teardown of a 3rd generation Chromecast (label shows FCC ID A4RNC2-6A5B) by Brian Dipert, February 18, 2025: the processor is the Synaptics MM3006, formerly the Marvell 88DE3006, the same IC as the 2nd generation. The ARMADA 1500 Mini Plus name for the 88DE3006 comes from Marvell's press release.

Not available

CPU

ARM Cortex-A711Press releaseinvestor.marvell.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/427/marvell-teams-up-with-google-to-enable-chromecast-2-0-and-chromecast-audioRead 21 October 2026Marvell press release (October 2015) describes the ARMADA 1500 Mini Plus (88DE3006) as a dual-core ARM Cortex-A7 design. The EDN teardown found the same IC in the 3rd generation. No clock speed is stated, so cpu_clock_max_ghz is empty.

ARM Cortex-A556Reviewflatpanelshd.com/review.phpRead 7 October 2026Original exact Chromecast review identifies four ARM A55 cores. Public TechInsights physical teardown independently identifies Cortex-A55.

CPU cores

211Press releaseinvestor.marvell.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/427/marvell-teams-up-with-google-to-enable-chromecast-2-0-and-chromecast-audioRead 21 October 2026Dual-core, from the same press release.

46Reviewflatpanelshd.com/review.phpRead 7 October 2026Original exact device specification and prose explicitly give quad-core processor.

Max CPU clockiHighest explicitly published processor clock for this device. Generic chipset limits are not device evidence.

Not available

1.9GHz6Reviewflatpanelshd.com/review.phpRead 7 October 2026Original review states four 1.9 GHz ARM-based cores on this device. Android TV Guide exact 4K specification independently gives 1.9 GHz. Not a generic Amlogic chip maximum.

GPU

Not available

ARM Mali-G316Reviewflatpanelshd.com/review.phpRead 7 October 2026Original exact review prose identifies Mali-G31 GPU. No shader count or optional mode inferred.

RAMiKeep published GB values as stated. Convert a source explicitly labelled MB using 1000 MB per GB and preserve its original figure and unit in the note. Do not assume MB means MiB. Convert explicit MiB or GiB to decimal GB through their byte definitions, recording the conversion in the note. This normalization does not establish an exact physical byte count.

512MB8Reviewwhathifi.com/reviews/google-chromecast-2018Read 13 October 2026Review tech specs list Memory (RAM) 512 MB. Stored as 0.512 GB, dividing the labelled MB by 1000. The same box lists Hard drive 2GB, which conflicts with the 4 Gbit NAND found in the EDN teardown, so storage_gb is left empty. EDN found a 4 Gbit DRAM chip, which is also 512 MB.

2GB6Reviewflatpanelshd.com/review.phpRead 7 October 2026Original exact review states 2 GB RAM. TechInsights physical teardown independently reports 2 GB.

RAM type

Not available

LPDDR47Reviewtechinsights.com/products/ddt-2010-818Read 7 October 2026Public physical teardown of GA01919-CA identifies SK Hynix H9HCNNNBKUMLHR-NME 2 GB mobile LPDDR4 SDRAM. This describes the original Canadian teardown sample. Supplier revisions are not asserted.

StorageiMarketed built-in storage capacity in decimal GB. Free space after the operating system is separate.

Not available

8GB6Reviewflatpanelshd.com/review.phpRead 7 October 2026Original exact review states 8 GB built-in storage. Free 4.4 GB after setup is not marketed capacity. TechInsights physical teardown independently reports 8 GB flash.

Storage type

NAND flash10Reviewedn.com/the-google-chromecast-gen-3-gluey-and-screwyRead 21 October 2026Teardown: Toshiba TC58NVG2S0 4 Gbit NAND flash, twice the capacity of the 2nd generation. The article does not state a marketed storage size, so storage_gb is empty. The same article calls the Hynix H5TC4G63EFR-RDA a 4 Gbit LPDDR3-1866 SDRAM, but that part number belongs to the DDR3L family, so ram_type is left empty.

MLC NAND flash7Reviewtechinsights.com/products/ddt-2010-818Read 7 October 2026Public physical teardown of original GA01919-CA names Samsung KLM8G1GETF-B041 8 GB MLC NAND Flash memory. No unproved interface or bus generation added. Supplier revision is not generalized.

Expandable storageiCan use added removable or external storage to store installed apps or play media directly. Copying files through a USB data connection alone does not qualify. The source note states whether apps, media or both are supported and names the connection and limitations. Storage must be attached to the streaming device. Cloud and network streaming do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Storage expansion methodsiPublished methods for adding app or media storage. USB support alone does not prove app installation on external storage.

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

2 of 7 differ

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi 52Maker product pagesupport.google.com/store/answer/6160585Read 13 October 2026Specifications: Wi-Fi 802.11ac (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz).

Wi-Fi 52Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/3046409Read 7 October 2026Exact 4K Wireless standards row names 802.11ac.

Wi-Fi bands

2.4 GHz, 5 GHz2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/store/answer/6160585Read 13 October 2026Specifications: Wi-Fi 802.11ac (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz).

2.4 GHz, 5 GHz2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/3046409Read 7 October 2026Exact 4K Wireless standards row explicitly names 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.

Wi-Fi MIMOiWritten as 2x2 MIMO when the maker gives the stream count, or MIMO when it does not. 2T2R counts as 2x2. MU-MIMO support alone does not show more than one stream, so it is not stored. Band wording goes in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Built-in Ethernet speediRated speed of a built-in Ethernet port. An optional USB Ethernet adapter does not count.

Not available

Not available

Optional Ethernet adapter supportiExplicit support for an external Ethernet adapter. Required adapter and connection belong in the source note.

Yes15Maker product pagestore.google.com/us/product/ethernet_adapter_for_chromecastRead 21 October 2026Google Store listing titled Ethernet Adapter for Chromecast 3rd & 1st Gen, seen in search results on 2026-10-21. The page now redirects to the Google Store home page, so the title is the only text read. Google's Australian listing is quoted as working with Chromecast and Chromecast 1st Generation. The adapter plugs into the micro-USB power port, replaces the power supply and gives a 10/100 Ethernet port. The device has no built-in Ethernet port, so ethernet_speed_mbps is empty.

Yes2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/3046409Read 7 October 2026Exact 4K Power and Ports rows explicitly support a separate Ethernet power adapter sold separately. No Ethernet port is built into the dongle.

Bluetooth versioniPublished device Bluetooth version. The remote can use a different Bluetooth version.

Not available

4.22Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/3046409Read 7 October 2026Exact device 4K Wireless standards row names Bluetooth 4.2. No later Streamer radio inherited.

PortsiPhysical device connectors, including a fixed HDMI plug and power-only USB. Excludes connectors on the remote and optional adapters. Count identical connectors in each row.

AGoogle Chromecast (3rd Gen, 2018)

Connector	Count	Role
HDMI	1	Video and audio output on a built-in flat cable
Micro USB	1	Power input

Source2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/store/answer/6160585Read 13 October 2026Specifications: Ports HDMI and Micro-USB. Tom's Guide describes a built-in HDMI cable on one side and the micro-USB port on the other. TechRadar calls it a flat HDMI cable.

BGoogle Chromecast with Google TV (4K)

Connector	Count	Version	Role
HDMI	1	2.0	Fixed HDMI plug for video and audio output
USB-C	1	Not available	Power and data

Source2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/3046409Read 7 October 2026Exact 4K complete ports list has fixed HDMI plug and USB-C for power and data. Optional Ethernet-adapter connector is not counted as a built-in port.

Smart home

0 of 3 differ

Thread border router

Not available

Not available

Matter controlleriCan commission and control Matter accessories. Acting as a Matter accessory alone does not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Smart home platforms

Google Home8Reviewwhathifi.com/reviews/google-chromecast-2018Read 13 October 2026Review: the Chromecast is now part of Google's Home family of products and is set up and assigned to a room with the Google Home app.

Google Home1Press releaseblog.google/products-and-platforms/products/chromecast/best-chromecast-google-tvRead 7 October 2026Maker launch shows controlling smart-home lights and viewing a Nest Camera through Google Assistant. This records Google ecosystem controls, not Matter commissioning or Thread routing.

Remote control

7 of 9 differ

Remote model

Not available

G9N9N4Owner's manualsupport.google.com/product-documentation/answer/4541589Read 7 October 2026Exact original 4K and Voice Remote regulatory section names G9N9N as Google Chromecast Voice Remote. Later Streamer remote is a separate product.

Remote connectioniEvery wireless link the included remote uses, to the device or to other equipment. An infrared transmitter that controls the TV counts as infrared.

Not available

Bluetooth, Infrared3Maker spec sheet (PDF)linqcdn.avbportal.com/documents/030e0ff4-253f-4479-a0ee-4aa70f825bca.pdfRead 7 October 2026Original Voice Remote Connectivity table names Bluetooth and IR to control TV, soundbar or receiver. Device navigation is Bluetooth. TV/audio equipment controls use IR where configured.

Remote microphone

Not available

Yes2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/3046409Read 7 October 2026Original Chromecast Voice Remote Audio row names microphone for voice input between power and input buttons.

Remote voice assistantsiVoice assistants usable from the supplied remote. Region, language, app and firmware restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

Google Assistant1Press releaseblog.google/products-and-platforms/products/chromecast/best-chromecast-google-tvRead 7 October 2026Original supplied voice remote has a dedicated Google Assistant button. This is original software functionality, not a claim about every later firmware or language.

Remote TV controliSupported TV controls, such as power, volume and input. Infrared and HDMI-CEC routes are qualified in source notes.

Not available

Power, Volume, Input1Press releaseblog.google/products-and-platforms/products/chromecast/best-chromecast-google-tvRead 7 October 2026Maker launch explicitly names programmable TV controls for power, volume and input. Original remote IR route is separately documented in the tech sheet.

Remote finder

Not available

No9Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/10092687Read 7 October 2026Original Chromecast Voice Remote section and final Important note say Find My Remote only works with Google TV Streamer. Original G9N9N remote is not the separately compatible replacement Streamer remote.14Reviewandroidauthority.com/chromecast-with-google-tv-review-1162931Read 7 October 2026Exact Chromecast with Google TV review says a remote finder would be welcome. This describes the original supplied remote, not the separately sold later Streamer remote.

Remote backlight

Not available

Not available

Remote poweriPublished batteries or rechargeable battery arrangement for the supplied remote.

Not available

2 AAA batteries2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/3046409Read 7 October 2026Original Chromecast Voice Remote Battery row explicitly names two AAA batteries included. Not the later Streamer Voice Remote.

Remote charging port

Not available

Not available

Software

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Operating systemiPlatform name. The launch version is stored separately from later firmware support.

Not available

Google TV (Android TV OS)1Press releaseblog.google/products-and-platforms/products/chromecast/best-chromecast-google-tvRead 7 October 2026Original maker launch identifies the Google TV experience on the new Chromecast. Underlying Android TV OS is separately named in original technical sheet.

Operating system at launch

Not available

Android TV 106Reviewflatpanelshd.com/review.phpRead 7 October 2026Original 2021 review explicitly says Chromecast with Google TV was launched with Android 10 in late 2020. Later Android 12/14 software is separate.

App store

Not available

Google Play Store6Reviewflatpanelshd.com/review.phpRead 7 October 2026Original exact review explicitly says Google Play store installs Android TV apps on the device.

Casting protocolsiPublished casting or screen mirroring protocols. AirPlay and Google Cast are distinct. App-only playback support does not prove system-wide mirroring.

Google Cast1Press releaseblog.google/products/chromecast/five-reasons-and-two-colors-why-we-love-new-chromecastRead 13 October 2026The post describes casting from apps through the Cast button. The Google Cast name comes from the Google Cast developer page.

Google Cast12Maker product pagedevelopers.google.com/cast/docs/mediaRead 7 October 2026Maker Google Cast supported-media documentation explicitly has a Chromecast with Google TV device subsection. This establishes Google Cast receiving. AirPlay and Miracast not inferred.

Voice assistantsiVoice assistants supported by the device. A remote microphone and hands-free activation are separate features.

Google Assistant1Press releaseblog.google/products/chromecast/five-reasons-and-two-colors-why-we-love-new-chromecastRead 13 October 2026Post: Chromecast and Google Home work together. Say what to watch with Hey Google and control the TV by asking. Needs a compatible Google Assistant device.

Google Assistant1Press releaseblog.google/products-and-platforms/products/chromecast/best-chromecast-google-tvRead 7 October 2026Maker launch names Google Assistant on the device through the supplied remote. External smart-speaker voice control does not establish a built-in far-field microphone.

Hands-free voice controliControl the streaming device by voice without pressing a button. This may use built-in microphones or a compatible linked smart speaker, phone or headset. The source note names the required device, connection, software and supported commands. A microphone on a press-to-talk remote alone does not qualify.

Yes1Press releaseblog.google/products/chromecast/five-reasons-and-two-colors-why-we-love-new-chromecastRead 13 October 2026Post describes hands-free voice requests through Google Home. The Chromecast has no microphone and no remote. A linked Google Home speaker or other Assistant device is required.

Yes18Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/9563059Read 7 October 2026Supported-device list explicitly names Chromecast with Google TV. Google Assistant commands spoken to a linked Google Home/Nest speaker or display can move/cast currently streaming audio and YouTube videos to the streaming device. Media is limited to supported audio and YouTube. This is external-speaker hands-free control, not an onboard microphone or full UI navigation. Accounts/network and compatible speaker setup required.

Mobile remote platforms

Android, iOS2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/store/answer/6160585Read 13 October 2026Specifications: Operating systems Android, iOS, Mac and Windows. Only the two mobile systems fit the schema. Casting from a Mac or Windows PC uses the Chrome browser.

Android, iOS11Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/11221499Read 7 October 2026Maker exact device guide supports Android phone Google TV app 4.27.8.93 or later and iPhone iOS 14 or later with current Google Home/Google TV app. Features vary by app route.

Accessibility features

Not available

Text scaling, TalkBack screen reader8Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/10117046Read 7 October 2026Current exact 4K display help explicitly names text scaling. Original launcher behavior and later firmware may differ.9Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/10092687Read 7 October 2026Exact maker guide covers Chromecast with Google TV 4K setup using TalkBack. Text scaling independently supported by display-help source. No general Android accessibility feature inherited.

Gaming

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Game servicesiPublished native or cloud gaming services. Service availability is time-sensitive. Record software and region requirements in source notes.

Not available

Not available

Game controller supportiExplicitly supported controllers or connection methods. Bluetooth alone does not establish game controller support.

Not available

USB wired game controllers through a powered USB-C hub17Reviewpcworld.com/article/578898/chromecast-with-google-tv-review.htmlRead 7 October 2026Original September 2020 exact 4K review states powered USB-C hub allows wired game controllers. Controller model is unspecified. No broad Bluetooth compatibility stored because FlatpanelsHD failed to pair several Xbox and PlayStation controllers on its 2021 firmware. Both routes are distinct.

Power

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Power supply

USB8Reviewwhathifi.com/reviews/google-chromecast-2018Read 13 October 2026Review spec box: Power USB, power adapter included. Power comes from a bundled micro-USB cable. A wall plug is included, and a TV USB socket may also supply power.

USB4Owner's manualsupport.google.com/product-documentation/answer/4541589Read 7 October 2026Exact original 4K safety guide requires external AC adapter and included cable. USB-C device power connector established by exact device spec.

Rated power inputiDevice input rating, as published. An external adapter output rating is separate.

5 V, 1 A2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/store/answer/6160585Read 13 October 2026Specifications: Power 5 V, 1 A power supply.

Not available

Included adapter outputiRated output of the included power adapter. This is not device power consumption.

5W2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/store/answer/6160585Read 13 October 2026Specifications: 5 V, 1 A power supply. 5 W is the exact product of the published voltage and current. Tom's Guide says the box holds a power adapter.

7.5W4Owner's manualsupport.google.com/product-documentation/answer/4541589Read 7 October 2026Exact original 4K regulatory appendix for models G1002/G1003 states 5.0 V output, 1.5 A output current and output power 7.5 W. This is power-adapter output, not device consumption. The device technical sheet specifies included 5 V/1.5 A supply.

Max power consumption (claimed)iMaker-published maximum device power consumption. Adapter rating is not proof.

5W2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/store/answer/6160585Read 13 October 2026Korea device information lists Rated power consumption 5 W. This is the maker's rated figure on the KC label. It is not a measurement.

Not available

Standby power (claimed)iMaker-published device standby consumption under the source conditions.

Not available

Not available

Measured

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Video playback power (measured)iReviewer-measured device consumption. Video format, app, resolution, power measurement point and equipment belong in source notes.

Not available

3.2W16Measurementflatpanelshd.com/review.phpRead 7 October 2026Original April 2021 exact 4K review Measurements Energy consumption table gives 4K HDR streaming 2.5 to 3.2 W. Stored value is the upper observed endpoint of that range, not a device rating or every-content average. Firmware Android 10, December 2020 security patch. App, HDR format, meter model and exact measurement point are unstated. Review general test methodology linked at https://www.flatpanelshd.com/focus.php?subaction=showfull&id=1229335089.

Idle power (measured)iReviewer-measured device consumption when idle. Firmware, measurement point and conditions belong in source notes.

Not available

2W16Measurementflatpanelshd.com/review.phpRead 7 October 2026Same original exact review measures menus 1.5 to 2 W. Stored value is upper observed menu-idle endpoint. Android 10, December 2020 security patch. Network traffic, meter model and exact measurement point unstated. Not sleep/standby.

Standby power (measured)iReviewer-measured device consumption in standby. Network state, firmware and measurement point belong in source notes.

Not available

0.9W16Measurementflatpanelshd.com/review.phpRead 7 October 2026Same original exact review Measurements table gives standby average 0.9 W. Android 10, December 2020 security patch. Network state, meter model and exact measurement point unstated. No device off or adapter unloaded equivalence inferred.

Boot time (measured)iReviewer-measured time from power-on to usable home screen. Cold boot and standby wake are different. Record timing method and firmware.

Not available

Not available

Dimensions and weight

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DimensionsiDevice body without remote, cables or adapter. Width is left-to-right in normal use, height is bottom-to-top and depth is front-to-back. For a stick, include the fixed plug only when the source does. A stick's length from the plug to its end is depth and its thickness is height. A puck that lies flat has its thickness as height.

Width51.8Height51.9Depth13.8mm(2 × 2 × 0.5 in)2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/store/answer/6160585Read 13 October 2026Korea device information Size: 51.8 x 13.8 x 51.9 mm. The axes are not labeled. The disc is about 51.8 to 51.9 mm across and 13.8 mm thick. TechRadar gives 51.9 x 51.9 x 13.8 mm. Stored as two disc diameters and the thickness. The flat HDMI cable is not included.

Not available

WeightiDevice only, without remote, cable or power adapter. Included fixed cable or plug conditions belong in source notes.

40g(1.4 oz)2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/store/answer/6160585Read 13 October 2026Korea device information Weight: 40g.

55g(1.9 oz)3Maker spec sheet (PDF)linqcdn.avbportal.com/documents/030e0ff4-253f-4479-a0ee-4aa70f825bca.pdfRead 7 October 2026Original exact 4K technical sheet Device Weight 1.9 oz (55 g), device only. Preferred literal metric datasheet figure over current help page 56.7 g (2 oz). FlatpanelsHD original 4K specification also says 55 g. Fixed HDMI lead scope is not separated.

Remote dimensionsiSupplied remote body. Height is its length along the buttons, width is across the buttons and depth is front-to-back.

Not available

Width38Height122Depth18mm(1.5 × 4.8 × 0.7 in)2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/3046409Read 7 October 2026Original Chromecast Voice Remote dimensions 122 x 38 x 18 mm. Original technical sheet labels length 122, width 38 and thickness 18. Height follows schema remote length along buttons.

Remote weightiSupplied remote weight. State whether replaceable batteries are included.

Not available

Not available

Certifications

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FCC ID

A4RNC2-6A5B9Regulatory filingfccid.io/A4RNC2-6A5B/User-Manual/NC2-6A5B-Manual-US-3943740Read 21 October 2026Google's Chromecast regulatory manual on the FCC filing lists Model NC2-6A5 and FCC ID A4RNC2-6A5B and says the FCC ID is printed on the back of the Chromecast. The 2015 device used A4RNC2-6A5 without the B. The UL test report 15U20917-E2V4 under A4RNC2-6A5B (July 2018) describes the 5 GHz antenna gain change from 2.1 to 4 dBi that Google announced for this model.

Not available

Other certifications

FCC Part 15 Class B, KC MSIP-CRM-A4H-NC2-6A52Maker product pagesupport.google.com/store/answer/6160585Read 13 October 2026Korea device information lists KC certification MSIP-CRM-A4H-NC2-6A5 for model NC2-6A5. Stored as printed with a KC prefix. FCC Part 15 Class B comes from the FCC manual source.9Regulatory filingfccid.io/A4RNC2-6A5B/User-Manual/NC2-6A5B-Manual-US-3943740Read 21 October 2026The manual states the device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules and with the limits for a Class B digital device.

RoHS4Owner's manualsupport.google.com/product-documentation/answer/4541589Read 7 October 2026Exact original 4K regulatory section explicitly states compliance with Directive 2011/65/EU and its amendments. This names European compliance, not an ENERGY STAR or Bluetooth-SIG certification inferred from radio version.

In the box

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In the box

Chromecast, Micro-USB power cable, Power adapter7Reviewtomsguide.com/us/google-chromecast-3rd-generation,review-5843.htmlRead 13 October 2026Review: the Chromecast comes with both a micro-USB cable and a power adapter.

Chromecast with Google TV (4K), Chromecast Voice Remote, Power cable, Power adapter, 2 AAA batteries3Maker spec sheet (PDF)linqcdn.avbportal.com/documents/030e0ff4-253f-4479-a0ee-4aa70f825bca.pdfRead 7 October 2026Original exact device What is in the box table lists dongle, remote, cable and adapter. Original remote table adds two AAA batteries included. No optional Ethernet adapter included.

HDMI cable includediA separate HDMI cable supplied in the box. A fixed HDMI plug or captive lead does not count. A short HDMI extender supplied with a stick counts, and the source note says it is an extender.

No7Reviewtomsguide.com/us/google-chromecast-3rd-generation,review-5843.htmlRead 13 October 2026Review: a built-in HDMI cable on one side. No separate HDMI cable is supplied.

No3Maker spec sheet (PDF)linqcdn.avbportal.com/documents/030e0ff4-253f-4479-a0ee-4aa70f825bca.pdfRead 7 October 2026Complete original maker box table has power cable only. Fixed HDMI lead/plug is integral to dongle and does not count as a separate HDMI cable. FlatpanelsHD box shorthand HDMI cable does not identify a separate cable.

Links

Not compared

Product page

Not available

support.google.com/chromecast/answer/30464092Maker product pagesupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/3046409Read 7 October 2026Exact original 4K technical section read independently of the HD and Streamer sections.

Spec sheet

Not available

linqcdn.avbportal.com/documents/030e0ff4-253f-4479-a0ee-4aa70f825bca.pdf3Maker spec sheet (PDF)linqcdn.avbportal.com/documents/030e0ff4-253f-4479-a0ee-4aa70f825bca.pdfRead 7 October 2026Original Google Chromecast with Google TV Tech Specs, May 2020, publicly hosted by distributor. Full device, original Voice Remote, Ethernet adapter and power-adapter tables read.

Manual

Not available

support.google.com/chromecast/answer/101099905Owner's manualsupport.google.com/chromecast/answer/10109990Read 7 October 2026Current maker setup manual explicitly covers Chromecast with Google TV (4K), including power, remote pairing and TV volume/power/input setup.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

1 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year2Maker product pagesupport.google.com/store/answer/6160585Read 13 October 2026Korea device information: covered by a 1-year Google Hardware Limited Warranty. Market is Korea. Other markets were not checked.

Not available

Both are also in the API. Back to all streaming devices.