Amazon Stick Vs Chromecast- How do the media streamers compare?
As cord-cutting takes over subtly penetrating more homes around the globe, media streamers are being improved to be comprehensive in service delivery. We have, however, noted that for sports as much as it is loved it is significantly missing in some of the media players.
Cable and Satelite, therefore, remain the best option for streaming sports, but there is also the option of using the digital antenna that provides connections to sports over the air local stations. Media streaming has become a cut-throat competition between developers, and with it has come innovation as most of the media streaming devices are embracing a compact modern design with expandable storage space.
On a different perspective, the current economic crisis is sure to give the media streamers the financial boost they so much seek, because not many people will be able to retain the subscription streaming service and the only remaining option will be to invest in a media streamer such as the Amazon Stick or the Chromecast.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between Amazon Stick and Chromecast
Model |
Amazon Stick |
Chromecast |
Processor |
quad-core up to 1.7 |
ARM Cortex-A9 processor |
Storage |
8GB |
2GB |
RAM |
1 GB |
512mb RAM |
Throughput speeds |
7-10mbps for HD
3mbps for SD |
3.0mbps for SD
5.0mbps for HD |
Ports |
HDMI port |
· Micro-USB port |
Availability |
Amazon Stick vs Chromecast – How do they compare?
Speed and Performance
Throughput speeds are the speeds with which data is transmitted to your display via network and with regards to the above things like latency, errors and jitters are bound to hamper the streaming process thus interfere with your viewing. The throughput speeds documented in the table above show how many packets are arriving at their destination, so if you re to get high performance from your media streamer the packets must reach their destination successfully.
Both the Amazon stick and Chrome offer the relevant throughput speeds given that the standard recommended speeds for SD is 3.0mbps and 5.0mbps for HD. There are, however, other factors that play into the performance of your media streamer such as storage and the processor capacity. A powerful processor will deliver superb performance while enough storage space will eliminate freezing and improve video and audio quality, all of which are in the performance bracket.
So with regards to the other factors that enhance the speed and performance of a media streamer the Amazon Stick turns out to be the best, thanks to its powerful processor and the large storage space and RAM.
Build and Design
The Amazon stick has the simplest design when compared to the Chrome cast, it is compact and portable thus users can carry it with them as they travel. The unit comes with a responsive remote for ease of browsing and has incorporated voice use thus can allow hands-free operation. The Amazon stick is available in two distinct colors, which are black and red. Each of these units incorporates different textures of red and black in the incorporated remote and which are carefully blended to offer the best aesthetics.
Chromecast on the other hand, does have a unique build it is compact, thus highly portable and we must say it takes the win when it comes to build and design simply because it has strayed away from the norm and looks unique and edgy.
Storage
The Google chrome cast has been established to run a simplified version of the Google Chrome operating system, and from the table above the unit does have a limited storage space that will of course cater to your streaming needs, but cannot be used for storage of content. So the only information that can be stored in your Google chrome cast is your WIFI password.
The Amazon stick, on the other hand, does have a lot of storage space, now the difference in the amount of storage between the two devices is because Amazon does allow users to install applications, and when they run low on storage space they can simply delete data on some of the applications or clear the cache. So once again the Amazon stick has come out as the best in storage as it even allows users to download and install applications on the device.
Amazon stick vs Chromecast – A comparison overview?
Amazon Stick
- The #1 best-selling streaming media player, with Alexa Voice Remote (2nd Gen, released 2019).
- Use the dedicated power, volume, and mute buttons to control your TV, soundbar, and receiver.
The Amazon stick provides its users with a breadth of content from the likes of YouTube, Hulu, and Netflix among others; remember, however, that for the above you will need subscriptions. And if you are still torn between the Amazon Stick and the Chromecast here is something to ponder upon, the Amazon stick does offer faster speeds, and this is the one thing that you will never have to think about when streaming with the device.
Other features that you will be treated to are such as the extra storage for games and applications, and you will also get Alexa, which has been configured to provide a comprehensive voice control experience.
Pros
- The remote is intelligent thus easily learns how to interact with your TV
- The interface is intuitive
- Set up and use is pretty easy
- The Amazon stick can be linked to a converter
Cons
- Some of the best content comes at a premium
- Buffering problems when using the free modem from your ISP provider
Chromecast
The good thing with chrome cast is that it gives you the option of turning the ordinary TV into a smart TV, which you can use to stream the Amazon prime video, Netflix, and Hulu. The unit also allows users to cast content from different devices such as their phones or laptop directly to their screens.
Remember that chrome cast is giving you the perfect opportunity to turn your ordinary TV into a smart Tv but without breaking the bank. And the best part of it all is that it allows voice control, and you will also have to use your phone as the remote control.
Pros
- Comes with a long cord for plugging directly to the USB
- Video quality is improved
- Offers flawless casting of the various applications
- The device works fast
Cons
- Must have internet service and a router to use chrome cast
- Takes longer to load new software updates
Conclusion
If you are looking for a unit with many customizable options then the Amazon Stick is your unit as it will allow you to download content and even play games, not to mention the Alexa voice remote. But if you are looking to cast content from your phone or tablet then the Chrome cast is your unit.
Final Verdict – so which is better? Amazon Stick or Chromecast?
The Amazon stick is better when compared to the Chrome cast first because control is by using the provided remote and second because the unit allows users to download and install the various relevant applications.
FAQ’s
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Does chrome cast drain my phone battery?
Chrome cast doesn’t have any effect on your battery as it simply sends a set of instructions to the TV and will then stream from the internet.
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Is it possible to use my Amazon stick in a different network?
Yes, it is possible, all you will have to do is open settings and select the new WIFI of your current location input the password of the new network and begin streaming.