Google Chromecast

The Google Chromecast 2018 videostreaming dongle is similar to its 2015 predecessor. Slightly faster processing, support for 60fps and support for multi-room music are pretty much the extent of the upgrades, but Google didn’t need to make too many changes because the Chromecast was already brilliant.

Available in ‘charcoal’ or ‘chalk’, it is a small disc that dangles from a short HDMI cable, with power provided by micro-usb cable, though a wall plug is also included.

Once you’ve plugged the Chromecast in to the back of your TV, you probably won’t need to see it again. Instead of controlling it directly, you simply select a video, song or web page on a smartphone, tablet or computer and ‘cast’ to your TV using a button built into a large number of apps, including Netflix, BBC iplayer, ITV Player, All4, My5 and even Now TV. Google’s own apps, such as Google Play Movies & TV and Youtube, are castable, as are music apps such as Spotify, Tidal and Tunein.

The Chromecast is part of Google’s Home family of products. Use the Google Home app to set up the device and ascribe it to a specific room, and also to play content on the Chromecast by issuing voice commands to Google Assistant smart speakers, such as the Google Home Mini.

1080p is the upper resolution limit of the Chromecast (the Chromecast Ultra (£69) goes up to 4K), but the picture is sharp and detailed, boasting natural colours and a good deal of punch.

The Chromecast can output sound at up to Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 with compatible apps and videos. It’s a punchy, clean and detailed sonic delivery, with dialogue clear and nuanced.

If you’re looking to make an older TV smart in a cost-effective and innovative way, the new Chromecast is extremely easy to recommend.