Chromecast with Google TV Vs Fire TV Stick 4K
Design and Looks
The new Chromecast with Google TV comes in compact form factor just like previous models. Its dimensions are 6.4 x 2.4 x 0.5 inches and it comes in cool new Snow, Sunrise and Sky colours. There is still an HDMI cable hanging and a USB-C port for charge.
Specifications
The official website doesn’t mention the exact specs of the new Chromecast. However, some users suggest that it is powered by a 1.9GHz quad-core Amlogic processor, paired with 2GB RAM and 8GB storage. The Fire TV Stick 4K is powered by a 1.7GHz quad-core CPU. There is no mention of RAM on the official website but some reports suggest that it has 1.5GB of RAM. The TV stick has 8GB of internal storage.
User Interface
Google TV is a new interface that runs on Android TV that offers curated content from your streaming services like Netflix. It has a new watchlist feature that lets you list the shows and movies that you plan to watch later. Moreover, Google UI also has a Live TV Tab where you can find all the live channels that are available via YouTube TV subscription.
Talking about Fire TV stick, it also comes with a simple UI as well. The Fire TV stick also has a similar layout with fields like Home, Movies, TV Shows, Apps and settings. The home page on the Fire TV stick is a mix of content from OTT platforms and Prime Videos and you also have access to your most commonly used apps on the home screen.
App Support
The Chromecast with Google TV supports more than 6,500 Android TV apps that are available in the Play Store. Of course the list includes the usual biggies of OTT like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, etc.
While the Fire TV Stick offers access to its own app store and also offers popular OTT apps as well. However, for some users it can be useful to note that it doesn’t have HBO Max.
Streaming quality
In terms of audio formats, they both support similar audio codecs including Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby Atmos.
Other Features
As far as other features are concerned, the new Chromecast still offers to cast content from smartphones to the TV. You can also mirror a web page to the TV. Further, the Chromecast syncs easily with other Google products, so you can control your smart home lights or give commands to Google Home. Also, read | How to Mirror your Android or iPhone’s Screen to Chromecast
Remote Control
A remote control is really a big addition to the new Chromecast. Google’s new remote features YouTube & Netflix buttons, volume controls, and a dedicated Assistant button that will help you find something to watch, answer questions and also control smart devices.
On the other hand, the Fire TV Stick 4K has a remote control that doesn’t have any OTT shortcut button. However, it has smart assistant button to bring up Alexa, volume rockers, mute button, and also works as a universal remote control for your TV and soundbar.
Chromecast with Google TV Vs Fire TV Stick Price
The new Chromecast with Google TV is priced at $49.99 (Rs. 3,675 approx.) and will be available in the US and some other markets starting from October 15. Google will soon bring it to India as well.
Wrapping Up
If we look at the US price of the new Chromecast, we can expect that Google will launch in India at the same price as well. So, with Google’s new but friendly interface of Google TV, its ecosystem of apps and right pricing, the new Chromecast can be a hit in India and a better option between the two.
