“Assessment: Google TV 4K Streaming Device Poised to Surpass Chromecast Experience”
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Google TV 4K Streamer Review: A Strong Competitor to Surpass Chromecast
Quick Overview
- Google’s latest TV 4K Streamer is crafted to upgrade any TV into a smart TV, becoming your primary operating system.
- Compatible with popular streaming platforms like YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, Stan, and others.
- Displays a sleek, minimalist aesthetic along with a remote that can be customised.
- Supports 4K HDR, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Atmos for a fully engaging viewing and audio experience.
- Functions as a smart home hub, supporting Matter and Thread protocols to manage IoT devices.
- Includes an Ethernet port for reliable, high-speed streaming, perfect for 4K content.
- Available in Australia for A$159.00 at Google Store and JB Hi-Fi.
Design
The Google TV 4K Streamer presents a sleek and minimalist design, making it a subtle enhancement to any entertainment environment. Its rounded edges and matte rubberised finish contribute to a modern look, making it both family-friendly and visually attractive. Contrasting with the older Chromecast dongle, this device is somewhat larger and necessitates a dedicated power source. However, the increase in size brings significant performance enhancements.
The included remote is similarly understated yet practical, equipped with dedicated buttons for streaming services like Netflix and YouTube, and a built-in microphone for voice searches. A notable feature is the star button, which can be customised for quick access to your preferred app or to manage IoT devices via Google Home. Regrettably, only one button is customisable, leaving users desiring greater flexibility.
Performance
Internally, the Google TV Streamer 4K is powered by a 2GHz SoC alongside 4GB of RAM, ensuring a highly responsive and smooth operation. Switching between streaming apps is effortless, with no discernible lag or delays. The interface is user-friendly, providing tailored suggestions from various services like Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime, enabling seamless content exploration.
The device boasts 4K HDR resolution support, alongside Dolby Vision and HDR10+ for superior picture quality. During evaluation, the device managed 4K HDR content exceptionally well, with no buffering interruptions, delivering sharp and vivid visuals.
Features
The Google TV Streamer 4K is loaded with features that enhance both user experience and the functionality of your home entertainment system.
1. 4K HDR with Dolby Vision and HDR10+
Experience breathtaking 4K visuals coupled with Dolby Vision and HDR10+ for richer colours, improved contrast, and enhanced detail in both bright and dark scenes.
2. Dolby Atmos Sound
Dolby Atmos support provides a three-dimensional audio experience where sound moves around you, adding a deeper level of immersion, given you have the right content and speakers.
3. Smart Home Compatibility
Serving as a smart home hub, the device supports Matter and Thread protocols, enabling you to control smart lighting, thermostats, and view live security camera feeds directly on your TV.
4. Ethernet Port for Consistent Streaming
For users preferring a wired internet connection, the Ethernet port guarantees smooth and uninterrupted 4K streaming, a perfect solution when Wi-Fi might be unreliable.
5. Ambient Screensaver and AI Features
The Google TV Streamer can showcase AI-generated screensavers or photos from your Google Photos account when idle, adding a personal touch to your living space.
6. Improved Navigation and Voice Control
With a 22% faster processor compared to previous iterations, navigating through apps and menus is visibly quicker. Voice control through Google Assistant simplifies searching for content or managing smart home devices.
7. Customisable Remote
The remote’s customisable star button allows for instant access to your preferred app or smart home control, though having more programmable buttons would be appreciated. Additionally, the remote features a textured back for better grip and a ‘Find My Remote’ function for assistance in locating it when lost.
Concerns and Possibilities
While the Google TV Streamer 4K excels in many aspects, a few areas could be improved. Though the customisable button on the remote is beneficial, it leaves users contemplating the absence of additional programmable buttons for other apps or functionalities.
Moreover, the omission of built-in far-field microphones, akin to those in Google Home devices, seems like a lost opportunity. Including this feature in future premium models could elevate the device as an all-in-one smart home hub and entertainment centre.
Another limitation lies in the device’s maximum resolution of 4K@60fps, which may not fully leverage high-refresh-rate televisions or monitors that support 200Hz or greater. This might pose a constraint for users employing high-end displays.
Pricing and Availability
The Google TV Streamer 4K retails for A$159.00, which is noticeably higher than the prior Chromecast 4K. Nevertheless, the added features and performance enhancements justify the investment for individuals seeking to upgrade their TV experience. The device is available in Australia through the Google Store and major outlets like JB Hi-Fi.
Currently, it is offered only in Porcelain White, which may not blend well with all entertainment setups, particularly those inclined towards darker themes.
Conclusion
The Google TV Streamer 4K is a versatile, high-performance option that delivers an outstanding streaming experience. It features a commendable assortment of capabilities, including 4K HDR support, Dolby Vision, and smart home integration, positioning it as a formidable player in the streaming landscape. While there are slight areas for refinement, such as expanding the customisation options on the remote, the overall performance, user-friendliness, and feature set render it a highly recommended device for anyone aiming to enhance their TV journey.
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Summary
The Google TV 4K Streamer is an impressive choice for anyone wishing to upgrade their older TV without complete replacement. With support for 4K HDR, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and smart home integration, this device surpasses previous Chromecast iterations and numerous competitors. Its sleek design, responsive performance, and intuitive interface make it a premier selection in the streaming device market. Priced at A$159.00, it provides excellent value for those looking to modernise their home entertainment setup.
Q&A
Q: Can the Google TV 4K Streamer be utilized with any TV?
A: Indeed, the Google TV 4K Streamer can be utilized with any TV that has an available HDMI port. However, to fully enjoy its 4K HDR capabilities, you’ll need a TV that supports these features.
Q: Does the Google TV 4K Streamer support all well-known streaming services?
A: Yes, the device supports a broad range of streaming services, including YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, Stan, Amazon Prime, Paramount+, ABC iView, TenPlay, 9NOW, and 7 Plus, among others.
Q: Can I use the Google TV Streamer to manage smart home devices?
A: Absolutely. The device serves as a smart home hub, backing Matter and Thread protocols, enabling you to control compatible smart devices directly from your TV.
Q: What is the advantage of the Ethernet port on the Google TV 4K Streamer?
A: The Ethernet port provides a stable, high-speed internet connection, particularly advantageous for streaming 4K content when Wi-Fi might be unpredictable.
Q: Does the Google TV 4K Streamer offer voice control?
A: Yes, it features voice control through Google Assistant. You can use the microphone on the remote to search for content or manage smart home devices effortlessly with voice commands.
Q: Is the remote customisable?
A: The remote includes a customisable star button that you can set to launch a specific app or control smart home devices. However, with only one button available for customisation, users may wish for additional flexibility.
Q: How does the Google TV 4K Streamer compare to Chromecast?
A: The Google TV 4K Streamer presents significant advancements over Chromecast, offering superior performance, 4K HDR support, a customisable remote, and smart home integration, making it a more adaptable choice for contemporary homes.
