What does Google Chromecast do? Do you need a smart TV to quit cable? And how those two questions are related. This post is sponsored by Best Buy and all opinions and statements are my own.
After sharing my reasons for quitting cable, and how my family has done it personally there was still some confusion as to the whole Smart TV thing.
Some people flat out thought the only way to quit cable was to make the financial investment into a smart TV in order to make it work.
I am glad to tell you YOU DO NOT HAVE TO HAVE A SMART TV IN ORDER TO QUIT CABLE!
If you have a TV that has an HDMI outlet, with minimal investment, you can be on your way to cutting the cord on cable and saving yourself hundreds if not thousands of dollars a year in entertainment costs.
Today I want to share about the Google Chromecast and how you can use it on your cord cutting journey.
What Does Google Chromecast Do?
The Google Chromecast is a portable device that can be plugged into the HDMI port of your TV to instantly convert it into a smart TV. Allowing you to stream some of your favorite programmings from streaming services like Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime and so many more.
Additionally, it is worth noting that it works for the Google Home service allowing you even more control. With the use of a Google Home device you can say what you want to watch from compatible apps you may be subscribed to and control your TV hands-free.
How Much Does It Cost?
The Chromecast is a direct competitor to other streaming devices like the Roku, Amazon Firestick, and Apple TV. Coming in at just $35 it is very reasonably priced.
Is There A Monthly Fee To Use The Google Chromecast?
While there is no fee associated with making the Chromecast work, some services do require a subscription. You can watch free content in the form of Youtube videos or things you may have saved to stream. But for use of streaming services, you would need a subscription.
Can The Chromecast Do Other Things?
I am glad you asked. Yes! Yes, it can. PC Mag actually outlined a whole list of awesome ways you can use the Chromecast. Now some of those things may require additional hardware along with it. But depending on what you consider to be good entertainment, the investment may be very well worth it!
Can The Chromecast Be Used Without Wifi?
This is one of those double entendre answers in that it is a yes and no.
So can the Chromecast be used without a Wifi connection? Technically yes, you can stream locally saved content without the use of an internet connection. Additionally, you can mirror another device such as a tablet or smartphone. Bear in mind though, that to mirror another device, it usually requires a really strong internet connection. With that said, it may not work out for you.
Here is the but. If you want to stream movies and television shows via apps like Hulu, Netflix, etc without using any external equipment or devices, then no you can not.
Here is my personal review of the Google Chromecast.
Overall, what you need to know from this is that you do not need to have a smart TV in order to quit cable. And the Google Chromecast is an affordably priced option to help you in the chord cutting process. You can get your very own Chromecast from your local Best Buy today!