The Google TV Streamer has emerged as a versatile upgrade to Google’s previous Chromecast line, aimed at delivering both a rich media experience and smart home integration. Priced at $99.99, this new streamer positions itself as a middle ground between budget options and premium models like the Apple TV 4K, making it an appealing choice for users invested in the Google ecosystem.

Design & Connectivity

The Google TV Streamer is a sleek, compact device with a clean, minimalist design that’s easy to fit into any entertainment setup. It comes in two finishes, Porcelain and Hazel, adding a bit of style to its practicality. Unlike its Chromecast predecessors, which are designed to tuck behind the TV, the Google TV Streamer is meant to be on display, sporting ports for HDMI 2.1, USB-C power, and Ethernet for those who prefer a stable, wired internet connection.

Performance & Features

Powered by Google’s latest Gemini processor and equipped with 4GB of RAM, the Google TV Streamer is built to handle the demands of 4K HDR streaming, supporting formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10+. This setup results in faster navigation and app loading compared to the Chromecast with Google TV, allowing for a smooth viewing experience even with demanding video formats. The 32GB storage is a significant improvement, making room for more apps and faster access to stored content without frequent lag or crashes.

The user interface will be familiar to Google TV users, with easy access to streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube, all personalized based on viewing habits. Google’s Gemini AI adds another layer of convenience, helping with content recommendations and even offering show summaries, so you get a clear idea of what to watch without scrolling endlessly.

Smart Home Integration

One of the defining features of the Google TV Streamer is its capability as a smart home hub. Equipped with Thread and Matter support, it serves as a control center for compatible smart devices, making it ideal for managing smart lights, cameras, and other gadgets through the Google Home interface on your TV screen. Voice integration through Google Assistant makes it simple to issue commands like adjusting lighting or checking a door camera without reaching for your phone.

Audio & Remote Features

Dolby Atmos support ensures that the Google TV Streamer also delivers high-quality audio to match its visual output, particularly noticeable when paired with a soundbar or home theater system. Additionally, the remote control has been redesigned for improved grip and function, now featuring a customizable button that can be mapped to open a specific app or access the Smart Home panel. The remote also includes a “Find My Device” function, so if it gets lost, it’s easy to locate with a voice command through a Google speaker or app.

Drawbacks

Despite its capabilities, the Google TV Streamer lacks Wi-Fi 6 or 7 support, which may impact performance on congested networks, particularly for those relying heavily on wireless connections. While the Ethernet option compensates for this, it does mean additional wiring for those seeking top-tier connectivity. Additionally, while it competes closely with Apple TV in terms of features, its performance as a gaming device may be more limited, with some reviewers expressing that Apple’s model may still be preferable for users interested in streaming games or using heavier apps.

Verdict

The Google TV Streamer strikes a compelling balance between high-end streaming features and smart home integration, making it an ideal choice for Google ecosystem users. Its combination of streaming quality, AI-driven recommendations, and smart home management elevates it beyond a standard streaming box. While the lack of advanced Wi-Fi could deter some, its range of features at a competitive price makes it a robust option for anyone looking to enhance their home entertainment and smart home capabilities.

This device is clearly aimed at being more than a Chromecast replacement—it’s a substantial upgrade in functionality and usability, ideal for those who want more control and connectivity right from their TV. For $99.99 (1 390 SEK), it stands as an affordable yet powerful addition to any smart home and streaming setup.