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TiVo Stream 4K vs. Google Chromecast
I’ve been using the TiVo Stream 4K streaming dongle for over 2 years after switching from the Gen2 Chromecast (hockey puck) I’d used for several years. As a prelude to getting a streaming device for my parents to use, I wanted to try the latest Google Chromecast. I’ve had it for a week, so these are my initial findings.
Regarding setup, the Chromecast is a breeze if you already have a Google account and use Google Home. The device comes with a generously long power cord. The connection was quick and easy. I signed in, and it began setup. After connecting to my Google account, I was prompted to install the update and to set up the remote. The remote setup consisted of selecting my TV brand and testing whether the buttons worked to adjust the volume and turn the TV off and on. This part was quite straightforward, even though I have an obscure TV brand.
The Chromecast comes with a few pre-installed apps, and it’s reasonably easy to download others. My only gripe is that my login information for my various apps didn’t transfer from the Android TV environment of the TiVo Streak 4K to the Chromecast. I had to sign into the apps all over again. This is easy for some apps, but for others (I’m looking at you, AppleTV+), it’s a bit of a chore. Once everything was set up, it worked as well as expected.
