Google Chromecast is one of the most economical ways to stream all your favorite content straight to your TV. Whether you want to watch Game of Throne with your HBO Max app or listen to your favorite playlist on Spotify, Google Chromecast lets you cast directly from your smartphone to your TV. In addition to video and music streaming apps, you can also cast your internet browser, gaming, and live TV apps.
But, how do you set up Google Chromecast? We’re going to take you step-by-step through the Google Chromecast setup process. But, before we get started, let’s take a closer look at Chromecast.
What is Google Chromecast?
Google first developed its Chromecast streaming device in 2013, and it has since become one of the most popular ways to experience your favorite apps. That means you can use Chromecast to stream your on-demand apps (CBS All Access, Disney Plus, and ESPN+) or live TV cable-alternatives (fuboTV, Sling TV, and Vidgo).
Google Chromecast costs $29.99, down from its longstanding $35 price tag. For more power and 4K efficiency, Google also offers Chromecast Ultra for $69.
Devices that cast to Google Chromecast
Chances are that you have a few devices that you can use to cast to your Google Chromecast. You can use Android (5.0+) and iOS (12.0+) devices like laptops, smartphones, and tablets. If you intend to watch 4K content, Google Support recommends internet speeds of at least 20 Mbps.
Before you move on, make sure you have one of these devices in order to properly use Google Chromecast.
How to set up Chromecast
Setting up Google Chromecast is relatively quick and easy. You’ll just need to complete the following steps.
1. Plug Google Chromecast into your TV
When you unpackage your Google Chromecast, you’ll find the Chromecast dongle, a power supply, and a USB power cable. Firmly attach the USB cord to your power supply and the other end to the dongle. Then, plug the flat-wired cable into your TV’s HDMI port.
Google Chromecast doesn’t necessarily require a power outlet. However, the 4K-supported Chromecast Ultra device does since it needs the extra power.
2. Turn to the correct HDMI input
Once your Chromecast is plugged in, power your TV on and make sure to open the correct HDMI input. If, for whatever reason, your screen isn’t displaying Chromecast’s welcome page, re-check your Chromecast’s USB adaptor and power supply.
3. Download the Google Home app to your devices
To use any of the applicable devices, you’ll need to first download the Google Home app. You can find Google Home in the App Store or Google Play. If you own an Android device, chances are Google Home is preinstalled.
4. Choose your devices
Open the Google Home app after it’s downloaded to your device. From there, you can choose which devices you want to use with your Chromecast device. The ‘Set Up‘ icon should appear at the top right-hand corner of the screen. The icon has the appearance of a monitor and device. Tap it.
As Google Home synchronizes with your device, you’ll be prompted to select Continue to move on to the next step of the setup process.
5. Confirm with a code
A code will populate on your device and TV screen. Make sure the codes match up on both of your devices and confirm by clicking ‘Yes.’
6. Name your Chromecast
The next page that you’ll be directed to lets you choose a name for your device. You can be as creative or direct as you wish. On this page, you’ll also have the ability to check or uncheck future data usage notifications and enable Guest mode.
7. Connect Chromecast to Wi-Fi
As noted above, you’ll need to make sure that your internet connection is suitable. You’ll also want to use the same network for your device and Chromecast. Search and select your specific network and enter your password. If you own the Chromecast Ultra, you can opt to use an Ethernet cable for stronger connectivity.
8. Access your Google account
Logging into your Google account (if you have one) is optional. So, if you’re not interested, simply opt to skip this step. But if you do choose to sync up your Google account, you’ll have a much more connected experience. Any music and videos you purchase via Google or YouTube will be available for you to navigate quickly.
9. You’re all set!
Now that your Chromecast is set up with your desired devices, you can start enjoying your favorite content. Use your device to open the app you’d like to use and click the casting icon. The casting icon looks like a box with 3 bars on the lower left-hand side.
Even though not every app is Cast-enabled, you’ll be hardpressed to find one that doesn’t work. Pretty much all of the major apps support Google Chromecast.
The final cut
When it’s all said and done, setting up your Chromecast is a matter of plugging it in and clicking through a few setup screens. As long as you have one of the compatible Android or iOS devices and a TV with HDMI inputs, you’ll be able to enjoy Google Chromecast in no time. You’ll also need to make sure that your internet connection is reliable. But once you’re finished with the Chromecast setup, all your favorite apps can be streamed to your TV with the tap of a button.
Google Chromecast is an extension of your smartphone and tablet. So, if you want to find out what other things you can do with Chromecast, we recommend our complete Google Chromecast review or Google Chromecast Ultra review.