Apple tv vs. Chromecast – Which one can stream different services to your television

Bring all the popular entertainment platforms into your home by choosing the right streaming device. Models such as Apple tv and Chromecast are popular streamers that can help you achieve this. Find out how they compare.

Both Apple tv and Chromecast are small and affordable streaming devices that can access platforms such as Hulu, Netflix, and YouTube. Though they have a similar function, these streaming devices achieve this in differing ways. Their significant differences are what make many people consider one over the other. Read on.

What are the differences between Apple TV and Chromecast?

Apple tv vs. Chromecast? How do they compare?

Apps

One of the significant differences between these two streaming devices is the availability of apps. Apple TV comes with built-in apps such as WatchESPN, YouTube, and HBO Go. If you already subscribed to either of these services, you can begin entertaining yourself as soon as you buy this streaming device. Chromecast, on the other hand, does not come with any built-in apps.

It works differently in that it broadcasts content from the apps installed in your smartphone or computer to your smart TV. Since some of the smartphone apps may not be compatible with this streaming device, it can prevent you from broadcasting certain content. Apple TV is, therefore, a better option than Chromecast since it features built-in apps.

The system

The Apple tv’s system is quite impressive since you don’t need extra software to operate it. To use Chromecast, you should have additional items such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet. Either of these devices can help you stream content to your TV. Apple tv is a better option than Chromecast since the system is fuss-free.

Display mirroring

Display mirroring is a tool that allows you to broadcast content from your device to a larger screen. Apple TV comes with a feature known as Airplay that gives it full screen mirroring abilities. This feature is quite easy to use since you can start casting content on your smart tv with only a few taps. Since Airplay is not present in Chromecast, Apple Tv is a better option.

Photos, radio, and music

Whether you choose Apple Tv or Chromecast, you can access on-video content such as radio, photos, and music. Apple tv comes with features that allow you to stream music from iTunes, podcasts, internet radio, and iTunes Radio. If you have stored some photos in the photo library of your computer, you can display them using Apple Tv streamer. Chromecast does not include these features. This makes Apple tv more equipped than Chromecast.

Remote

If you like using a remote while watching films, you should consider Apple TV. This comes with a physical remote that contains menu settings. Chromecast, on the other hand, does not come with a physical remote. Your smartphone serves as the remote. Since having a remote when viewing content is crucial, Apple tv is a better option compared to Chromecast.

Design

Apple tv and Chromecast also come in different designs. Since Chromecast has a compact size, you can utilize it from anywhere. If, for instance, you like traveling a lot, you should bring along this streaming device and connect it to the hotel’s TV. Apple tv is bigger and less portable. It should remain seated next to your TV. Chromecast has a better design that apple tv since it is lightweight, smaller, and more portable.

Apple tv vs. Chromecast – A comparison overview

Apple tv

If you need a streamer that offers an intuitive interface, you need to consider Apple tv. It is an ideal streaming device for iPhone users. This is a portable device that has been in existence since 2007. It transforms your standard TV into a smart device. Most people also like how Apple Tv organizes your content from all different apps into a single list. You should not have any problems trying to connect it to your TV via an HDMI cable.

Since this streaming device operates with iTunes, it allows you to stream games, films, and music to your smart TV. A quality streaming device should work with most of the popular services, and Apple tv is no exception. You can use to access applications such as Hulu plus or stream music from Pandora and Apple Music.

This is also an easy to control streamer since it comes with a user-friendly remote. The Bluetooth remote is small enough to fit into your pocket. It allows you to access the settings menu when you want to browse various channels. If you don’t want to use the remote, you can still control this device through a free remote app.

Pros

• Features a Bluetooth remote
• Contains built-in apps
• It operates with iTunes

 Cons

• High cost

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Apple TV specs

Chromecast

Since Google introduced Chromecast in 2013, people started moving away from the traditional way of watching films. This is a portable streaming device that comes with plugin features. You can use the dongle included to connect this streamer to the HDMI port of your smart tv.

The device uses an audio system to play video and audio content. You can also use the wifi connection to stream content using this device on your smart tv. Some of the ports that you should expect to see from Chromecast include HDMI and USB port.

The streaming device allows you to stream numerous movies and TV shows from different applications. Chromecast does not, however, come with built-in applications like the previously discussed streaming device.

Pros

• The streamer has mirroring capabilities
• It is budget-friendly
• Its compact size makes it portable

Cons

• Lacks remote control

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Chromecast specs

Conclusion

Before you choose any of these streamers, you must evaluate the kind of devices you own at your home. Doing this can help you choose a streaming device that will work well with what you already have. Both Apple tv and Chromecast are excellent streamers geared towards people with different needs. Though they are both affordable options, they can help you stream content differently.

Verdict: So, which is better? Apple tv or Chromecast

After comparing both Apple TV and Chromecast, we discovered that Apple TV is marketed to people with Apple devices while Chromecast is suitable for people with Android smartphones. Apple TV is, however, a better option compared to Chromecast since it features built-in apps, remote control, airplay mirroring, and operates with iTunes. You may not enjoy the best streaming experience if you choose Chromecast since it lacks such functionalities. On the other hand, Apple TV can help you enjoy watching movies and even gaming with fewer limitations. This made us choose Apple TV to be the winner.

FAQs

Can I use Chromecast with an old smartphone?

Though you can connect an old smartphone to this streaming device through wifi and stream content to your TV, you may not enjoy a fast streaming experience. Using a newer device is recommended.

Can I access YouTube TV through Chromecast?

Yes. This is available here.