If you aren’t already set up with a capable streamer to enjoy it all, the Chromecast with Google TV (4K) is on sale at Amazon, Best Buy, and the Google Store for $39.99 ($10 off), which is less than $2 shy of its all-time low. There’s a bit of urgency here, too, because we may be in the final proverbial hours of the Chromecast’s existence. Google recently confirmed it’s discontinuing the line in favor of the Google TV Streamer 4K, so if you want one — even if it’s only to preserve its memory — now would be a good time to grab one.
The Chromecast with Google TV (4K) has long been one of our go-to alternatives to premium streaming devices like the Apple TV 4K, which costs twice as much. That’s mostly due to its intuitive Google TV software, which offers relevant recommendations from across streaming services. You can also manage a universal watchlist, find content using Google Assistant commands via the included voice remote, or cast content from supported video and music apps. Keep in mind, however, that there’s no telling whether Google plans to keep software updates rolling once it’s fully discontinued.
Google’s budget streaming device also supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, offers a great selection of streaming apps, and has Bluetooth for connecting various devices (including controllers). That said, there’s no room on the slim dongle for an ethernet port, meaning it may be worth just stepping up to the new Google TV Streamer ($99.99) if that’s a prerequisite for you. Opting for Google’s newest set-top box also gets you a (slightly) faster processor, quadruple the storage (32GB vs. 8GB), and support for both Matter and Thread, making it a great pick if you’re in need of a capable smart home hub for Google Home.