Chromecast vs Roku - Which is better in 2019? [Honest Review]

Is a Chromecast better than a Roku?
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Best Chromecast price: store.google.com/us/config/chromecast?hl=en-US
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A special thanks to the whole team at Reviews.Org for working with me on this collab. Please head over to their channel to check out their Google Chromecast review (featuring my top three favorite Chromecast functions)
Review notes:
Chromecast operates out of the Google home app, Roku requires online registration, but then operates out from the remote (or app)
There are many Roku remote apps on the app store
Chromecast - Multiple people can be home members and can cast their videos as needed (i.e. one person can be casting while others are searching, or the person casting, can search in another window on their phone/laptop)
Chromecast - requires a PIN unless you enable guest mode
Primary features: headphones, mobility, multiple users, privacy
Both are 1080p
Roku must be registered online - requires a credit card upon registration for in-app purchases (not cool!!)
Chromecast comes in Chalk and Charcoal (to match your home)
Chromecast can mirror phone or laptop to play anything on your laptop (not just one of the 500k apps)... literally anything
Interface comparison - showcase of compatible apps
Chromecast does not natively display Amazon music or video
Chromecast has thousands of compatible casting apps
Chromecast does work with Spotify
Capabilities:
Chromecast can mirror your phone or laptop screen
Chromecast can customize ambient screen slideshow - make them your own photos, or learn more about the photos they show you
Also customize the weather, time, device information, and slideshow speed
No easy way to find all chromecast-compatible apps
Chromecast ultra has an ethernet port in the power block
Chromecast has much better Google home compatibility, but probably no Amazon Echo compatibility
Roku allows private listening on your phone (or the remote for the more expensive models)
Price difference
Both are $35
6 different Roku options - varying from $30 to ~$100 (3 cheap ones have a simple remote, 3 expensive ones have a voice remote and sometimes a headphone jack)
This Roku is missing the headphone jack, 4K, better wifi connectivity, Voice search, and TV power/volume buttons
www.roku.com/products/compare
2 different Chromecast options - $35 and $65
Conclusion
People who watch lots of traditional-style TV and want Netflix, Hulu, etc should get Roku
People with a very old TV can get either one, but Roku requires fewer setps
People who watch a ton of KZbin and modern non-Hollywood content might be more interested in Chromecast
People who leave their TV on all the time and want a nice slideshow should choose Chromecast
People who use their TV as a music player during parties should get a chromecast for ease of song selection, Queue, etc. - also queue YT videos
Anyone looking to share screens in a meeting should consider a Chromecast
Extra Notes:
* Chromecast might have a few crowd games like Monopoly or pictionary
* No remote for Chromecast, and the Roku remote is an IR remote! Plus, roku remote requires another app. If you just get Google home, it works for many other things
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Please comment below with any questions you might have. Thank you all for watching! I appreciate you!
Disclaimer: This video is purely based on my experiences, research, and opinions. You and only you are responsible for your actions. I made this channel to advise viewers and I truly hope to help you all out. I love making these videos and connecting with my viewers!
This channel is monetized via KZbin ads as well as some affiliate links. If a purchase is made after clicking the link, I will receive a small commission at no extra charge to the buyer. Thank you all for watching!

[@mattnakamura7438]

Appreciate the opportunity! I have a few of these and always looking how to fully utilize them.

[@rafaelromero6306]

They're two very different appliances with two very different purposes. The Chromecast is for when your focus is your home network, so you always need access to a computer (desktop, laptop, tablet or phone) to use it. You can cast more things from your phone to it --which is moot if you have a laptop or desktop directly connected to the TV. The Roku is for when your focus is the TV watching experience. You don't need any computers, you just sit there with your remote and turn your old TV where the apps no longer work into a "new" TV with all the apps. The focus is on you watching your movies or series, not on integrating the TV with the home network. If you order a Roku Express, and you have a very old TV, make sure it says clearly it comes with the RCA cables (yellow, red, white). Most places these days sell them with only HDMI capability.

[@KariniSandeepKumar]

When do we not have the phone with us

[@jabrooks94]

I've been using chromecast since they came out as a way to ditch cable. The screen cast function is by far the most useful. Especially with a newer phone. Watching videos is seamless.

[@johnnycinco723]

Awesome video. Great breakdown. They both have great features. I like how at the end you summarize that it depends on the situation/category. 100% true.

[@josephjaugustine4210]

I know it's 2 years old but I'm glad this is the first video that popped up when I searched comparing roku/chromecast. Your video was factual , non biased, bit not dry and boring. You didn't push any other products or have any useless fluff in it. One simple channel recommendation at the end that was relevant to the your video only makes sense since it's more info if we need it. 2 years old but great job. I'm going to subscribe and check out your newer content.

[@janeconley3386]

Appreciate this review. I have been trying to weigh these both out and you definitely helped with that decision.

[@brucetourand1548]

This was a great video....I was unaware of the chromecast features....thanks

[@ReviewsOrg]

Mike... thanks for having me on your channel. Now... let's give some Chromecasts away! Woot Woot!

[@richardharrigan3568]

Awesome news to share for us non-technical types!

[@timothymcdonald8774]

Love the Tech aspects, I'm a little older so it takes me a little longer, but I'm getting there

[@hdgw629dha24hs]

What the fuck is woot woot? Lol

[@daviddominguez7676]

Thanks for all the Chrome Cast Features !

[@rosepaul9681]

A chromecast looks like it would work for me best. I wanted to learn how to make my older TV smarter so I could watch KZbin videos. Thanks for making this so clear.

[@erichschroder1330]

Wich is better for a TV without HDMI input /older Projection TV ? Thank You.

[@donfry673]

now you got me thinking about trying them both. Thanks for a great video, your are always great !!!

[@acejj4show]

All the way from South Africa - Nice review bru enjoyed the information that covered all I wanted to know..

[@ln8070]

I have been thinking of getting either chromecast or roku. Your detailed review gave me a better perception on what should I go for. Thank you!

[@melanieevans4443]

Hey great video! Wasn’t sure what to buy and now I’ve got the full picture! Thanks

[@bethmccullough1385]

Hello, I've had a Roku device for a long time one of the original. I didn't know there was private listening. This video was very informative

[@Alisha_Kmetz]

Great review & presentation, really appreciate how you get to the point quickly and clearly. Subscribing...

[@patriciawilk7993]

Just got rid of cable. I was feeling a little overwhelmed. Clear and helpful video. Thanks so much! I'm on team Chromecast.

[@jessie9653]

What did you decide to go with? I'm ditching my dish TV and just getting Wi-Fi for the first time. I think I'm going with the Chromecast it looks pretty easy

[@davcarm.744]

Very helpful..thank you so much for posting this review.

[@Tunes8863]

I really appreciate your reviews and comparisons. Thanks.

[@michaelwalker7961]

I bought Chromecast, but I am having issues connecting to my iPhone and Apple-tablet, but my wife's Samsung Tablet connected rather easily, and I was able to connect it to my Desktop Win10' PC.Also, this comparison was done excellently, thank you for taking the time to do this. appppreciate it!

[@homed1765]

Thanks man for this video. Helped me decide which one is better.

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

Thanks for watching! Which one is it?

[@purrfectknot8347]

Was very impressed with your coverage on both the Roku and Chromecast. I'm now in the market to get a mirroring/streaming device. Thanks for providing this excellent content.

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

Thanks for watching!!!

[@purrfectknot8347]

@@MikeOBrienMedia Sure thing. Although, with a recent read, apparently you can now pair your Roku with a Google Home mini. Making it a little easier to stream to I guess. I'm still shopping around and although I missed the chance to win a Chromecast, I might go with the Roku. It's still a research in progress.

[@fredagundes1218]

I would like a chrome cast as my old one is not working all the time

[@joycereynolds1728]

Looking to use a Roku for our older tv so we have the remote capability, love the chromecast for our smart tvs

[@cudoodle]

Love your channel, really helpful reviews. Thanks

[@TheGrandsam1]

The Chromecast will solve my problem of no access to youtube tv on 2 older tvs.

[@missbriogirl]

This was a super helpful video! Thank you so much for all your research.

[@burrito2242]

Yes, your explanation is clearly well. I’ve noticed that a friend of mind has chrome cast and it works well for him. What I like the most is the slide show when using chrome cast due to better preference I would like play up there.

[@The324000]

Thanks for explaining and showing how the Chromecast works, because now I think that's a great choice.

[@christinecamera6150]

Thank you for the Chromecast offer. I am looking forward to using the chromecast.

[@josephh9615]

Thanks. Great review. I didn't realize Chromecast didn't have a remote, like that the Roku does with many of the same features.

[@richardharrigan3568]

I am looking fwd to moving away from traditional cable & movie watching...your comparisons were on point & informative...thank u

[@cshover8669]

I just watched your video on chromecast vs roku, and I actually will be using both. I am a long time roku user and use it to watch amazon, and a bunch of other channels. However, I recently got chromecast because I watch a lot of training videos and attend a number of webinars and I wanted to cast them to my tv to watch while following along on my computer.

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

That is a good point... They are different enough that I could see a lot of people using both

[@rudyayotte1956]

Great vids very informational and great in depth reviews good job man I would recommend his channel any day for someone looking on information on these products 10 /10 :)

[@DrSprockets]

Very informative!... I subscribed because of the clarity of your presentation!

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

Thank you!

[@CCCV87]

Thank you for explaining! Can't wait to try it out. Chromecast would be awesome for my daughters TV 📺

[@PeterGalbraith]

Just got a Chromecast yesterday... to use it's screensaver! Been looking for an easy way to display photos on the tv as a big picture frame. So easy!

[@charli5288]

Great review. I like all the information you gave

[@sallyramthun6054]

Great info that I did not know prior to today, thank you for all the info. Helps me a ton because I so want to cut the cord.

[@annetteharte1211]

Thank you for explaining all so clearly.would love either system as they both seem to make it easy for tv. But chromecast seems best for me.

[@kaliwathen8172]

This was very helpful for deciding how they are different and gave me a better idea how they work.

[@ChrisDuran11]

Thanks for the review

[@Lady_Ingenious]

Very helpful! Thanks!

[@elsielanor]

Thanks for the review....very helpful.

[@MarkSmith-hl7tw]

hey I like Chrome cast , it something new different and evolving for more applications , thanks for all the info

[@jluiscv1757]

Great !!!... congratulations - thank you so much for sharing. This helps me a a lot for choosing one. ☺️👍

[@roxannemills1986]

So glad I found you!

[@tonyleverett6917]

I have both of them. I did not know about the roku app on the phone. That's good info:)

[@wmalvarez1]

Great information. I have a chromecast right now. Still haven’t decided if Rocky is for me.

[@billiejoadams5460]

Thanks Mike. This video really helped me to understand the difference.

[@oliviacook5359]

Thanks for posting an honest review! This video has made me decide to get a chromecast. I already have 3 Google home minis so it just makes sense.

[@melanieroutt9679]

Have used both, prefer Chromecast over Roku because I like to be able to cast some of my personal stuff on TV to do work on. They are both great for what they do. Thanks Mike.

[@SteveMenardDesignDXM]

Hi Mike. Just purchased a Roku Streaming Stick +, as our LG TV is from 2011 and isn't a smart TV. Since we watch A LOT of Netflix, Disney+ (for the kids), and we already had an Amazon Prime account, it was a no-brainer. The only drawback is that Roku does not offer an app for Crave TV (which up here in Canada offers HBO, Showtime and STARZ as a bundle). I believe that both Chromecast and (Amazon) Fire TV do offer the Crave TV app. Although I'm happy with my purchase, I probably shoulda done a bit more research beforehand…

[@davidtrevi2914]

Wow, great review; concise and detailed. I prefer the traditional TV watching. Roku is my choice, but I'll buy Chrome cast to toy with.

[@tc2333]

I just bought the Chrome Cast today because my fire stick and Roku does not work or show up on my 2010 TV, so I thought I would get a Chrome and I'm loving it. This is for our bedroom and since I watch KZbin, Hulu, Netflix, and Pluto TV it works great for me.

[@Tay1Tay111]

Great comparison buddy , you deserve way more subscribers

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

Thanks for your kind comment! I really appreciate it!

[@hb52003]

Great information. Really helped me make my choice.

[@WraptorSignsGraphicsCalgary]

Great vid thanks. Chromecast makes sense for me and my business. However I can't see why not have both, Roku hooked permanently to a Home TV/ Device and Chomecast more portable take on road trips meetings conferences.

[@lorneinkelowna]

Excellent overview. I am leaning to Chromecast for ease of use. Thanks for the note about how to get amazon on chromecast, without that it may have been a dealbreaker! Are there still ‘free’ chromecasts?

[@williamwilson8376]

Mike I like the understanding and overall what u talk about on the chrome home. I would like to have it also fits my mind taste much easier

[@fredod5271]

Thank you Mike... I found this information very informative I am looking to cast the zoom meetings, we all or having more often now theses days, from my android phone.

[@dheeragudur5062]

Hey Mike this video made me decide on what to buy! As you promised I will be waiting to get a free chrome cast. Thanks!

[@MrSubstance6]

I've had the Chrome Cast and audio for 6 years.. It's the best thing since sliced bread.. Seriously.. No need for a Smart TV..

[@louisedery1049]

I am constantly amazed, I highly recommend GC to everyone.

[@Fozzee.1970]

louise dery unless you have Apple TV+ or any content to airplay.

[@TELEVISIONARCHIVES]

Same. I love it. I just got the Tivo 4k Stream and it does everything the Chromecast does but it also has a remote. Still use my Chromecast in the bedroom

[@pappysavage11]

very informative, useful & helpful. thank you.

[@Its_romanpolak]

Great video ❤ I can't wait to see more 😇 I enjoyed watching it 😇

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

Thanks for watching!

[@johnsheehan1483]

I had a Roku and wanted to try a Google Chromecast and I'm glad I did. Love my Chromecast.

[@cherlax]

Nice review, thx!

[@charlesharper7002]

Keep the videos coming I’m still learning

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

Thanks for watching!! Any requests?

[@emersonhelmer6349]

Great presentation Mike.

[@ritastone990]

great info, I have Roku and was wondering if Chromecast would be better for me. This definitely helps.

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

Thank you for watching, Rita!

[@blakehouchens1258]

Thanks for the opportunity to win one.

[@hiespin]

I've had a Roku, but I'm really leaning towards a Chromecast now because it seems like it's so streamlined. Also, you and Craig are super thorough, keep up the awesome insight!

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

Thanks for watching! It was really fun working with Craig on this video (and his)!

[@thinktank8389]

Hiram Espinosa borrow someone's to test first. It depends on the area ur using it in, your carrier, tv, etc. Chromecast is Not so streamy!! Unless ur hard wired. I've had 2, stream stunk. The Roku works much easier, less crashes. My CC would drop out every half hour, had to spend couple minutes each time. Both units are in pieces. Got upset one morning, so now I use Roku, not one issue so far. And smoother too.

[@Cristasphoto]

This video is a lot of help as Im torn between the two. I'm leaning towards to chromecast.

[@1stmrcapncaveman]

Reviews.org said I need to comment on your video as well, Hey there Im here.

[@inhocho828]

really awesome video for description of Chrome cast and roku, it's easy to understand how it works. thanks. i think chrome cast is better work for me. Thanks again for all explanation.

[@dorisrowell7304]

Looking forward to trying the Chromecast...thanx

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

NOTE: I realize that I didn't mention that you can also cast your screen with a Roku. Don't forget to enter to win the Chromecast! Rules are in the video description!

[@rudyayotte1956]

I would love to win a Chromecast but either or would be cool ,well hopefully I get picked lol thanks for the great video man keep up the good work ! It was a great informanational review on the products ,anyways great job thanks again and you have a great day :) and am new to all this the Chromecast and roku and I just acquired a older style Amazon stick wich I watched how to use it in your previous video so that was excellent thanks again bud and am about to go plug it in for the first time now that I know what to do because I watched your video so ya thanks a million again and cheers !!! :):):

[@trinitytrinity8482]

Can I screen mirror with Roku from my iPhone?

[@kendramorgan7923]

Thanks this really helped me pick the right one for my family and I

[@MisterUrbanWorld]

There's something even better, i get 3 months of cable for $45 (all channels), but an internet connection is required

[@g.r.roberts450]

Sign me up. Great video, you really helped me decide on Chromecast. Thanks!!

[@MegaEarthenergy]

Hello Mike, Your show is awesome. I need to watch more video how to upgrade my old tv to smart TV Thanks

[@leeglover6599]

I really enjoyed this video I learned a bunch of things I didn't know about the Chromecast and Roku my opinion and I think I like that Chromecast much better thanks

[@svenvanhorebeek9250]

Nice Review mate

[@1624patric]

Chromecast is awesome! Ps: Love your channel and your reviews are great. New subscriber!

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

Thank you so much!! I really appreciate your kind comment! If you have any review requests, please don't hesitate to let me know!

[@anthonyhall4181]

I have both devices connected to my smart tv. I use them all the time for what ever my needs are at the time. Everything that you mentioned About both devices or true. Just want to say that by having both and smart tv, really makes cutting the cable cord nice. It gives a very vast array of more entertainment. Although my chromecast is first generation.

[@philips4797]

Great review of the two devices!

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

Thanks for watching!!

[@Propnut48]

I have both and use both for different things. Roku has a lot more “channels” so to speak and a lot of carryovers from the CC but the CC has its own useful quirks too. I use them in my RV and hotspot them to my phone so with the CC I have to use another device such as an android tablet and the remote to use it. With the Roku I just use the remote that comes with it once linked to my phone hotspot. I can use the tablet with it also with the Roku app and browse the channels on it and play it on the tv. The Roku has some air channels and games the the CC doesn’t have but I can switch between the two easy enough. I like having both and at the price of each I can afford to have both. It’s a 50/50 thing.

[@ROBHYMIAMI]

Thanks for the video...now i can decide.

[@costco1993]

1st Time on your channel, looks good

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

Thanks for watching, David!

[@williamlowe2743]

Very good,and informing, I just caught this just in time Just moved and I don't want cable no more this is a good choice for me!Crhomcast I like better! Keep up the good job!

[@jimmski9908]

I had initially purchased a Chrome cast, but after doing some more homework, I will be purchasing a Roku. I am mostly just trying to replace my Dish Network and "cut the cord". I have not settled on which streaming service to get, but am leaning toward either KZbin TV or Hulu (or possibly Fubo TV) all have their pluses and minuses.

[@jessie9653]

Which did you like better

[@LatinGurl2002]

Hi! I watched your video and I was a big fan of chromecast but now roku sounds interesting. I do love how I can control everything through my phone with CC. Now I just need one for the bedroom. Thanks for explaining everything great! I hope I win!

[@DashingPartyCrasher]

Great comparison and summary -- especially the helpful description. Since I'm watching this in September I'm guessing your contest is over? :( Anyway, I've subscribed and also to Reviews dot org. After watching this video, I think a Chromecast is best for me. But Roku for my mom, who hates keeping her phone on. She's still paying too much for cable, and I want to cut the cord for her.

[@suziegagnon8694]

Thanks for the video , I'm interested in the chromecast device

[@hoppinhoudini]

Thanks for bvb the information,I need a chromecast :)

[@craigwilkins7941]

This video helped me decide which one to buy

[@raysingleton6257]

Information is very helpful

[@garypaul9814]

Love the info

[@delroyhamilton883]

Love your review

[@rorlowski77]

I'm old and really don't understand much about the new tech world. Thank you for your help.

[@MikeOBrienMedia]

Thank you for watching, Ronald! I'm glad you enjoyed my video!

[@sergeyzerkin8029]

I am only 29 and I also donno ahit about the new technology

[@kimwilliams8917]

Excellent info easy for the novice to understand

[@SteveH-TN]

Thanks for helping me make my selection. Between the two I am on Team Chromecast. I am on my way to Best Buy to pick one up so I can see the Super Bowl today. But feel to send me a free one to for my Travel trailer TV.

[@22graybob]

Very intresting and apprecitate you insight. I would like on of the free Chromecasts. Thank you

[@hell-sol5240]

Go to walmart and spend 30 bucks ya cheapass quit asking for handouts