

Then i can easily stream the converted local video from computer to chromecast for play on tv by the following way: Is this as good as it gets? Netflix, YouTube and some mp4s? Little underwhelmed… I reduced the bit rate to the lowest setting but does seem to make a difference. If you already have a Roku or Apple TV that you use as your set-top box, there’s not much of a reason to get the Chromecast unless you’re like me, a cord cutter, and want another toy to watch videos and listen to music.Īre you using a Chromecast? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think about it. Still, there is a lot of room for improvement with this new device. It’s also worth noting that there’s an app for your iPhone or iPad, and it seems to work as advertised. In fact, a lot of the media I tested for this article I streamed directly from my Windows Home Server. I was considering giving the device a mediocre review until I discovered this workaround for streaming local media. This is kind of annoying, in my opinion, but it doesn’t necessarily make it a deal-breaker.

It comes with a power cord that connects to it. Conclusion #Ī few more things to note about the Chromecast: while all the images of it give the impression you plug the stick into an HDMI port on your TV, you also have to connect it to a power source. In this example, I’m streaming a video from my home server, which is cool to stream from network locations. Otherwise, it displays at a smaller aspect ratio which isn’t that ideal for viewing. You’ll also want to make the video display in full-screen mode, so it shows larger on your HDTV. Or, if things are streaming well, you can increase the quality – up to 720p only. If you’re having streaming problems, change the options to a lower quality setting. The quality of the stream will depend on the state of your WiFi router and the amount of traffic on the network. You can even stream compatible media files from Google Drive. Here’s an example of streaming an MP3 file. If the media plays in the Chrome browser, click the Google Cast button and send it to your HDTV. Then start playing the video or music file you want to stream in the browser. Install the Google Cast extension in your Chrome browser. Stream Local Media from Your PC to Chromecast # But here are some ways to get more content to your HDTV via the Chromecast.Īfter you set up Chromecast on your Android device, you’ll have the option to download apps that allow you to send content to Chromecast. Unfortunately, compared to the Roku, Apple TV, or Xbox 360, it currently doesn’t have much to offer. Out of the box, the Chromecast allows you to send YouTube, Netflix, and music, TV, and movies from Google Play.
