The two key players have continued to maintain their space in the market since their launch and still are the most loved by customers. These are streaming devices. Chromecast is by Google, and Firestick is by Amazon, commonly known as Amazon Fire TV Stick. These both have their benefits, and choosing the best is an interesting task, right out. However, you can use Chromecast without wifi too.
With technological advancements, we come across a diverse range of options for streaming media on various devices. At times, it becomes difficult to compare the various available options and hence, we end up getting confused about the selection of the most suitable alternative. But you don’t have to worry anymore about being stuck between choosing as this article covers all the points you need to know about fire stick and Chromecast and then select the better alternative for you.
Let us explore everything one by one, all their pros and cons, to find out the best option to invest your money.
Chromecast vs. Fire TV Stick: Aesthetics and Cost
As newer devices get launched, it becomes difficult to keep track of their best features as well as all the new variants getting introduced in the market. You may spend hours on the internet trying to enlist the good as well as the bad points about these devices and still end up being confused about the final choice.
Google’s Chromecast is a streaming media adapter that enables users to watch web videos and listen to music on digital television. The dongle-shaped adaptor inserts into the HDMI connection on the TV, and a cable connects to a USB port to provide power. You may effectively utilize a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer as a TV remote by using a mobile app.
Similar to Chromecast, any current television may be made into a smart TV by plugging in an Amazon Fire Stick (also known as a Fire TV Stick), an HDMI streaming device. On Fire TV, the majority of lesser-known providers, as well as all the main streaming services, have downloadable apps.
These streaming services include, to mention a few, Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and Sling. Many customers are even able to totally replace their cable bundle with their Fire Stick thanks to the live TV alternatives offered by some of these applications. In addition to streaming services, the Fire TV Stick also offers access to apps, games, and other content available through the Amazon Appstore. Some versions of the Fire TV Stick even support 4K Ultra HD resolution and HDR (High Dynamic Range) content for a more immersive viewing experience.
The Chromecast comes oval and is available in Sky, Sunrise, and Snow colors, while Fire TV Stick is a long curvy square-shaped device available in black color only. Chromecast looks way more pleasant to the eyes than the Fire TV stick.
The Google TV Chromecast comes for $49.99, whereas the Fire TV Stick 4K Max is $54.99, and Fire TV Stick 4K is $49.99. Size-wise, Chromecast is 6.4 x 2.4 x 0.5 inches, and both Fire TV Sticks are 4.25 x 1.18 x 0.55 inches.
Other than these, there is a Chromecast with Google TV HD which is less in price. If you enjoy your TV without 4K. Then the Amazon Fire TV Stick is $39, and the Amazon Fire TV Stick Lite, $29, is way more affordable.
Difference between the two
Chromecast has been officially launched by Google, while Firestick is a product of Amazon. Their method of functioning is somewhat similar, however, there are some differences that you need to understand before making the final purchase.
Pros of Google Chromecast
- Streams up to 4K high definition Resolution (HDR)
- Comes with a user-friendly, easy-to-use interface.
- Comes along with Google Assistant voice control.
Cons of Google Chromecast
- If you are searching for a cheaper alternative, Google Chromecast may be a little heavy on your pockets.
Pros of Firestick
- Presents with 4K High Definition Resolution, Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision.
- Helps you to stream videos over the wifi.
- The processor of the Firestick is more powerful and works efficiently.
Cons of Firestick
- Does not come with an Ethernet connection.
Compatibility with Dolby Atmos
The only Chromecast model compatible with Dolby Atmos is Chromecast with Google TV while all the Firestick models are compatible with Dolby Atmos. Another major difference lies in the fact that all Firestick models are HDR compatible while only two models of Google Chromecast show HDR compatibility.
Ease of Usage
As far as the ease of Usage is concerned, using Chromecast is child’s play as it gets connected to your device within seconds and enables you to stream videos of your choice. You can also follow the instructions to be able to link the Chromecast to your device without encountering much trouble. Using Firestick is equally easy. The only difference is in the fact that you connect Amazon Fire Stick to your device for streaming by using a remote, rather than an app. Although it is somewhat difficult, Chromecast’s integration with Google TV offers several outstanding capabilities. The majority of installation procedures are completed by your smartphone, however, connecting to Wi-Fi is challenging.
Currently, Amazon TV Stick holds the most positive review among global customers to this date. So, Fire Stick is definitely a winner in this debate.
Variety of content
As far as the variety of content available is concerned, both the Chromecast as well as the Firestick are compatible with a wide range of OTT platforms including Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video, HBO, YouTube, Hulu, etc. Therefore we cannot make a clear segregation as to which one is better as they both offer almost the same variety of content.
Voice remote
Amazon Fire TV sticks come along with a voice remote that gives it an upper hand over Google Chromecast as this feature draws the attention of people and makes them slightly more interested towards purchasing Amazon Fire Stick.
Range of models
When we talk about the range of models available for video streaming and the difference in features between all of these, we conclude that the more options that are available at hand for the user, the more they can compare the properties of the two and make their final choice. One Google Chromecast has the same functionality as three different Amazon TV fire sticks and hence we can conclude that Google Chromecast can fulfil multiple functions at the same time.
Voice Assistance
Google makes it easy for you with Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa is also a feature creating much hype around. Both of them get initiated by pressing a button on the remote, and you can speak on the microphone of the remote to get your task done.
Although you can link your third-generation Chromecast with your Google smart speaker and display, you can also provide orders using your voice remote by pressing the Google Assistant button, such as “Play XYZ on Netflix.” Additionally, you may ask it to launch your preferred streaming services and display material from your preferred movie genres. You can program your remote to operate your TV (turn it on, off, change inputs, etc.). If you’re tired of carrying a lot of remote controls, this can be rather useful.
All Firestick versions, unlike Chromecast, come with a remote that supports Alexa’s voice commands. The Alexa remote has distinct stop, play, rewind, and fast-forward buttons, making it a little more conventional than the Google TV remote. Because the remote is so similar to a standard TV remote, it’s an excellent option for folks who are a little tech-conscious.
These can do anything like playing music, launching apps, and controlling home lights to other auxiliaries in the home. Identifying the Alexa button is easier on the Firestick as the button is a distinct blue color. Alexa can answer your queries in its own voice with selected answers, while Google Assistant will list out the relevant things to you, and you again have to tell it to select the one you like.
Features and Performance
The loading speed of both Chromecast and Fire TV Stick is around 18 to 20 seconds. These both have the same 1.7 GHz quad-core processor. Firestick remote gets to play and volume buttons which make it easier to use it without any secondary TV remote. This feature however is lacking in Google Chromecast remote.
Both of them support Dolby Atmos and multi-channel (up to 7.1) audio. But the Fire TV Stick lite does not come up with the option of Atmos, but all other Fire TV sticks are Dolby Sound. In terms of space, Amazon Fire TV Stick bags it up with 8GB of storage and the additional feature of Wi-Fi 6.
Both the remotes have 4K UHD with 60 fps. The video quality gets even more enhanced with the Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HDR10+ features. Amazon and Chromecast both score head-to-head in these segments.
User Interface
Google has a well-developed Google OS, which makes it a robust combination with the Chromecast to use. The screen is very easy to use and select. Every corner of the display screen is precisely defined and can be used easily for multiple features and functions.
The Firestick leads the pack in terms of user interface and navigation. It provides a specialized interface with an easy-to-use menu structure, making it simple to browse among different apps and streaming providers. By giving users rapid access to all the capabilities, the integrated remote control improves the entire user experience. On the other hand, Chromecast requires mobile device control, which while easy for some people may be less natural for others.
You can customize the menu and main page as per your choice and the favorite shows and movies you like to watch. Amazon here keeps up with the latest features but still lags on the neatness of the interface. The app’s orientation forces the user to think and then move ahead
to select the option to use. It prominently shows up the options for Prime Videos and Prime channels. Sometimes, Apple TV apps are also shown on the top ribbon of the screen.
Gaming and applications
Through the Amazon Appstore, Firestick provides a greater selection of apps, including games. Firestick could be a better option if you want to play games on your streaming device. In contrast, Chromecast focuses primarily on media streaming and might not provide as many game possibilities.
Cost
For many consumers, the cost is a key consideration, and both Chromecast and Firestick provide budget-friendly alternatives. Because Chromecast is often a little less expensive, it appeals to people who are concerned about their money. For those looking for improved capability, Firestick’s extra features, including the remote control and support for 4K streaming, justify its somewhat higher price tag.
Final Verdict
Both options are performing very well, with good customer reviews. If you want a smooth interface experience with minimal lagging, then Chromecast is the best option for you. The features are all-inclusive of everything you need from a streaming device.
Although Google Chromecast and Amazon Fire Stick don’t have a world of difference between the two, there are some minor differences that one may look through and then make up their mind as to what streaming device they wish to pick for themselves as well as their loved ones. Making the choice won’t be much trouble once you go through the pros and cons as well as the salient features of the two.
People may make their choice between Google Chromecast and Amazon Fire Stick after comparing the salient features of the two as well as making a comparison between the prices of the models of both these varieties.
If you want a device with numerous apps, show options, better storage, and suggestions on the latest products available in the market, then Amazon Fire TV The stick is the best option for you. So, it would be good to say to select the device that reflects your priorities and choices extensively.