If like me, you are one of those people who has an old TV from a brand whose operating system leaves a lot to be desired, but for now it works well and you don’t want to miss out on the advantages of having streaming applications or even games, right now You have two products to fix this problem: an Amazon Fire TV Stick or a Google Chromecast with Google TV.
These are the two best-known and best-selling streaming players of the moment. There are alternatives, such as an apple TV, NVIDIA Shield TV which, although old, still works well, as well as other Android-based options.
But Amazon and Google’s solutions are not only the relatively cheapest, but also the most complete. But which one to choose? Both have more or less similar characteristics, although with differences and functions that are also very similar.
I have been using Google Chromecasts and Amazon Fire TVs for years.I even have a television with Fire TV integrated and I want to propose the most important points that you have to take into account so that you can make a good choice.
What is your favorite virtual assistant?
One of the most important things to keep in mind is the virtual assistant you use the most. Even if you would like to change assistants if necessary.
Amazon has Alexa and Google the google assistant. The good thing about Google is that it is fully integrated into Android phones, so it is easier to use it with a product like a Chromecast.
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Personally, even though I am a Google user, I think Alexa is much more “intelligent” and finds information on the Internet much faster, not to mention its enormous compatibility with connected products such as plugs or light bulbs.
If you have an Amazon Echo speaker, the truth is that it is not worth looking further and buy a Fire TV Stick. But if you are more into Android and Google Assistant, your choice would be a Chromecast.
I think the design of the controller is important and I would bet on this
It may seem like something you shouldn’t consider, but trust me, you should. The remote control of these players is important because it is something that you will surely have in your hand for a long time and there is nothing worse than an extremely simple, or overly complicated, control.
He Chromecast remote with Google TV is the simplest, few buttons, most compact, but with a rounded design that I think is not the most correct because it slips out of the hand. If you prefer fewer functions on the controller and simplicity, it is a good option.
On the other hand, the Fire TV Stick remote is longer, with more buttons to control playback or the TV, thinner and I think easier to hold and even use by touch without looking at it.
Both have advertising, but not in the same way
You will have to get used to advertising in either of the two options that we propose. Both Google and Amazon include ads, but in two very different ways.
Google includes advertising for new releases from different platforms in its upper carousel, where news or content that might interest you is usually shown based on what you see. But it doesn’t go beyond that type of advertising, which is appreciated.
On the other hand, Amazon is much more explicit. When you turn on your TV you will find advertising videos playing, it also has advertising integrated into the recommendations carousel. It is more aggressive, but for now not something that should put you off. Especially as long as the advertising that is displayed is for content related to your subscriptions.
If you have a Max (HBO) subscription you need to know this
If you are a loyal user of the programs offered by Max, formerly known as HBO Max, you should know that Amazon still does not have an official Max application in its application store.
This absurd war between Amazon and Warner prevents many Max subscribers from being able to use a Fire TV to play their favorite content.
There is a simple trick and that is to install the Max Android app manually on a Fire TV. It is relatively simple, but requires following a series of steps that some people may not be willing to follow.
Chromecast has an official Max application in its app store.
If you want to play in the cloud you have a clear winner
Streaming players do more than open apps from Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, and other platforms. You can also play with and in them. Both Fire TV and Chromecast have basic games in their stores, but there is something more interesting, streaming gaming.
Following the death of Google Stadia, users with a Chromecast with Google TV only have the option to choose NVIDIA GeForce Now. On the other hand, installing GeForce Now on a Fire TV is quite complicated. Of course, Amazon already has Luna in Spain, its native streaming game service that can be used on both a Fire TV and a PC, mobile phone or tablet.
But remember, both platforms require a subscription. The one from NVIDIA costs 10.99 euros per month or 54.99 euros for a 6-month subscription.
Meanwhile, Amazon Luna has a premium version called Luna+ that costs 9.99 euros per month, but has few games. You can add your Ubisoft+ account, which costs 17.99 euros per month.
