Google Chromecast remains the most popular choice for streaming content from mobile devices and computers to our TVs. Over the years, there have been several Chromecast versions, each with improvements and new features.
Of course, there are some differences between these Chromecast generations and models, which you will find out below in our comparison of:
- Chromecast 2 vs 3
- Chromecast 3 vs 4
What is the difference between Chromecast versions?
In this post, we are going to focus on the jump from Chromecast version 3 to the fourth generation Chromecast with Google TV and the differences we can find between them.
From the beginning, we bet on this device by developing ZAFIRO Cast, the first mobile streaming solution in Europe, which years later positioned us as one of the market providers worldwide and is now present in hundreds of thousands of rooms.
Differences between Chromecast versions 2 vs 3
The third-generation Chromecast 3 was released in 2018 and followed the success of previous Chromecast versions. While it retained the core concept of its predecessor, the second-generation Chromecast, there were some significant improvements:
- Increased speed and performance. The v3 improved its processing capacity, resulting in smoother and faster transmission of content.
- Support for Full HD 1080p resolution. Unlike previous versions, Chromecast version 3 enabled streaming of content in Full HD resolution, providing a sharper and more detailed viewing experience.
- Improved connectivity. Wi-Fi connectivity was improved, making it easier to connect the device to the home network and reducing intermittent connection issues.
Accompanying the increased use of OTT apps, it was with this version that a boom in their use in the hotel sector was experienced and the use of Chromecast technology for hotels became the star of entertainment requirements in all chains.
Differences between Chromecast generations 3 vs 4
Although it was in 2020 when Google launched the Chromecast with Google TV, its more common usage did not take off until 2022, when Google announced that it had developed a cheaper Full HD model. Some of the differences between Chromecast versions 3 and 4 are:
- User interface and operating system. While the third generation Chromecast depends on a mobile device or computer to control playback and content selection, the Chromecast with Google TV has its own user interface and operating system based on Android TV. This is a key point in this gadget, as it has allowed us to use it as a STB, being the first to perform this development on the device, and use it to provide hotels without smart TVs with a complete IPTV system.
- Remote control. One of the biggest changes between the last two Chromecast versions is the inclusion of a remote control with the Chromecast with Google TV. This remote control allows you to navigate the user interface, select content and control its playback without the need to use the TV remote.
- Resolution and content support. While the Chromecast version 3 supports Full HD 1080p resolution, the fourth-generation Chromecast has two models, Full HD and another with 4K HDR resolution, which provides even better image quality. In addition, the Chromecast version 4 with Google TV also supports a wide range of apps and streaming services, expanding the available content options.
- Power supply. The v3 allows a choice between plugging into a power outlet and being powered via USB on the TV itself. However, the Google TV requires a power supply through a plug to operate.
- Apps installed. With the third-generation Chromecast all the apps you want to share content on the TV have to be installed on your phone or tablet. The key to Chromecast is to share content from your personal device to the TV seamlessly. With the new Google TV version, there will be two applications that will always be native and where you will have to go through a registration or login process, NETFLIX and APPLE TV, so that access to these contents will always be from the TV and not from your mobile.
From Chromecast to Chromecast Google TV at ZAFIRO
At ZAFIRO, we have been working with both Chromecast versions since Google made its launch, so we have been able to experience both behaviors in our project deployments.
We are already experts in their use, as well as the first to offer our solutions on these devices, so we invite you to give us a call to learn more and better understand their applications for our ZAFIRO guest casting solution for hotels and ZAFIRO IPTV system for hotels.
Request your demo and we will be happy to assist you and show you all the possibilities of our hotel services.
