New Chromecast with Google TV (HD) is locked to 1080p, mad cheap

In 2020, Google launched a new version of its popular Chromecast streaming dongle. The Chromecast with Google TV — its official name — came with a remote control, which was a first for the line. It also supported 4K streams.

Today, Google is launching a downgraded version of that model. The Chromecast with Google TV (HD) now exists as a cheaper way to enter the Google TV ecosystem.

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Streaming resolution is the main tradeoff with this model as opposed to the old one. The Chromecast with Google TV (HD) only supports up to 1080p streaming. The older model — now renamed the Chromecast with Google TV (4K) — will continue to be the top-of-the-line streamer from Google.

Chromecast with Google TV (HD): What’s different?

Outside of streaming resolution, there aren’t too many differences to see here. The new Chromecast comes in one of the same three colors the original came in: Snow, which is cool white. It’s powered by a USB-C cable, has the exact same remote control, and supports casting from smartphones, tablets, and computers.

Unfortunately, the HD Chromecast also has the same 8GB of storage as the 4K Chromecast. This means one of the biggest pain points of the Chromecast line isn’t getting fixed this time around.

One notable thing about the Chromecast with Google TV (HD) is that it comes with Android 12 out of the box. The 4K model does not have Android 12 yet, which puts the HD model slightly ahead of the curve. However, the 4K model will get Android 12 “soon,” according to Google.

Finally, one of the best aspects of this new Chromecast is its price. It will set you back $29.99, which is $20 cheaper than the 4K model. This makes it an ideal streamer for folks looking for an inexpensive way to “upgrade” an older TV in the home.

The new Chromecast is available today in the United States and 19 other countries.