Chromecast 2 vs 1 – Which Chromecast works better for you?

Google Chromecast is an affordable TV streaming device that is available in 3 different models. Since they all have similarities, it can be confusing which one to buy. The Chromecast 2 and 1 have certain similarities and differences that will help you make an informed decision.

Chromecast is a small dongle that you can easily plug at the back of your TV that give your TV smart functionalities like streaming your favorite movies, TV shows, and music using wifi. You can use your smartphone to control Chromecast or Google chrome on your browser. While Chromecast 1 was launched in 2013, Chromecast 2 followed in 2015 which features a redesigned body and a more powerful chip.

What are the differences between Chromecast 2 and 1?

Chromecast 2 vs 1. How do they differ?

Design

Chromecast 1 has a very simple design that makes it very easy to use and very portable. It’s a TV streaming stick that looks more like a flash drive. This makes it convenient and well suited to be used on your smartphone, laptop, or tablet. The Chromecast 2 on the other hand got a total redesign to feature a small disc shape with a short and flexible HDMI cable extension. It also comes in 3 new splashy colors that include bright red, yellow, and basic black. These colors are a welcome addition that gives them an aesthetic appeal if your Chromecast is visible when plugged. When the HDMI cable isn’t in use, it folds neatly against the back of the Chromecast and is held in place by magnets which makes it easy to store or when in transit. However, the Chromecast dangles when plugged into your TV.

Chromecast 2 has a more convenient design that is easy to use, transport, and draws power using the MicroUSB with a long enough charger in the box.

Wifi network

One of the biggest differences between the two Chromecast generation streaming devices is in their networking. The Chromecast 1 doesn’t support wireless AC and can only broadcast on the 2.4 GHz frequency while the Chromecast 2 supports 802.11 ac/b/g/n wifi standards on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies.

Chromecast 2 can support the latest AC wifi standards and even older ones which makes it functional.

Video playback quality

Both Chromecast 1 and 2 can handle picture resolution of up to 1080p content and both support the HDMI CEC which means you can easily control things like Netflix playback using your regular TV remote if your TV supports it. They also access the same apps and use the same Google cast protocol.

Both Chromecast 1 and 2 can deliver great picture quality on your TV.

Chromecast 2 vs 1 – A comparison review

Chromecast 2

No products found.

Chromecast 2 is a simple you can use as a streaming device that will deliver solid performance and easier to use when searching for content. This Chromecast has a very different design compared to its predecessor that had a rectangular stick with a circular handle. This Chromecast is a small round disc that comes in splashy colors with an HDMI plug attached to the 4-inch cable. It comes with a 5 feet power cable which makes it easy to reach the power source. At the side are a micro-USB port and a power button. Installing this streaming device is very easy. You just plug it in your TV’s HDMI port at the back and you use the mobile Chromecast app in your Android or iOS devices to finish the setup process. You can select any type of content you want to watch on your phone or tablet and use the cast button to transmit it to your Chromecast then watch it on your TV.

Chromecast 2 is faster than Chromecast 1 with better wifi range and connectivity with faster app loads. It’s very easy to stream content that supports it, but it can be a bit difficult to mirror your smartphone to show online content. It supports 802.11ac and 5 GHz which means it’s compatible with all modern routers to give you faster and smoother streaming. The 3 bespoke antennas in the disc ensure optimal and smooth streaming. Chromecast 2 supports most of the major media providers and besides Netflix and Hulu, you can cast TV shows and movies from HBO Go, Showtime Anywhere, Plex, Crackles, and network TV apps like Comedy Central, CBS, and ABS. you can stream music from Spotify, iHeartRadio, and Pandora, and if you’re a sporting fan you can get watch the NFL Sunday ticket, WatchESPN, and other apps dedicated to specific sports. However, you won’t find the Amazon instant video app.

Pros

• Easy to set up and use
• Improved wifi connectivity
• Smooth streaming experience
• Better design that can fit in any port

Cons

• The device dangles when you plug it into the HDMI port
• Mirroring your smartphone is a bit difficult

View Price on Amazon

Chromecast 1

No products found.

Chromecast 1 is easy to use a streaming stick that has a rectangular body with a round handle. It has an in-built HDMI attachment that you use to plug into your TV to provide you with access to online content including Google play and BBC iPlayer. However, this Chromecast doesn’t receive any major updates and is limited to an older model of Chrome (Chrome 70) while the newer Chromecast models use the Chrome 74.

While the Chromecast 2 has 3 internal antennas, the Chromecast 1 has one. It operates on an ARM Cortex-A9 processor with a 2 GB of storage and 512MB of RAM. It can handle great picture quality of up to 1080p content at 30fps or 720p at 60fps and can play videos in HD quality. However, it has limited wifi connectivity as it only supports 802.11 b/g/n. You can mirror content from your phone, tablet, or Chrome browser to your TV screen. Since it doesn’t come with remote control, you’ll need to use your smartphone or tablet for all your controls.

Pros

• Simple and easy to use
• It supports 1080p content without any problems
• You can still use your phone while casting content

Cons

• It’s wide and doesn’t fit next to another cable
• Doesn’t support Amazon instant video

View Price on Amazon

Conclusion

Both Chromecast 1 and 2 have some feature differences that are worth considering, but they won’t significantly change your experience when you’re using them. Both Chromecast models support the 1080p video playback quality and you can use your phone or tablet to easily cast content onto your TV screen.

So which one is better Chromecast 2 or 1?

Chromecast 2 is better because it supports the 802.11ac 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bandswhich means it’s compatible with most of the routers and it has better wifi connectivity and range. It’s also able to load videos faster with less buffering.

FAQ

Does the 1^st gen Chromecast still work?

The original Chromecast is still useful, but it no longer receives feature updates.

Does smart TV have a built-in Chromecast?

Many TVs made by Philips, Sharp, Sony, and otherscome with a built-in Chromecast, but there are some differences in functionality, even some TVs from Toshiba, LG, and Hisense.