Google TV Streamer 4K (2024)
šÆ Best For: Google ecosystem & smart home users
Resolution
4K Ultra HD
HDR
ā Yes
Dolby Atmos
ā Yes
ā Pros
- āBuilt-in Gigabit Ethernet port
- ā4 GB RAM + 32 GB storage
- āMatter + Thread smart home hub
- āGemini AI recommendations
- āNeutral Google TV interface
ā Cons
- āOnly Wi-Fi 5 (no Wi-Fi 6)
- āMore expensive than sticks at ā¬119
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š Technical Specifications
| Processor | MediaTek MT8696 (22% faster than Chromecast) |
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Storage | 32 GB |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac, dual-band) |
| Ethernet | Gigabit (1 Gbps) ā built-in |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 |
| Resolution | 4K Ultra HD @ 60fps |
| HDR Formats | Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, HLG |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus |
| Smart Home | Matter + Thread Border Router built-in |
| OS | Android 14 for TV / Google TV |
| Ports | HDMI 2.1, USB-C |
š Full Review
Overview
The Google TV Streamer 4K (2024) is Google's most significant streaming hardware since the original Chromecast. It replaces the dongle form factor entirely with a wedge-shaped box packing 4 GB RAM, 32 GB storage, HDMI 2.1, a Gigabit Ethernet port, and a Matter + Thread Border Router ā all for ā¬119.99. It is the most future-proof streaming device Google has ever made.
Ethernet: The Headline Feature
The built-in Gigabit Ethernet port is the defining upgrade. Plug in a cable and your 4K streams are completely independent of Wi-Fi congestion ā no more buffering caused by a neighbour's router or a busy home network. For home theatre setups with a nearby network switch, this alone justifies the price over any streaming stick.
Google TV Interface
Google TV remains the most neutral and useful streaming interface available. The unified "For You" feed aggregates recommendations from Netflix, Disney+, Max, YouTube, and dozens of services without promoting any single platform. The Watchlist lets you save content from different services in one place. Gemini AI integration adds smart content summaries and personalised recommendations.
Smart Home Hub
The Google TV Streamer doubles as a Matter + Thread Border Router, making it a smart home hub that controls compatible devices even when your phone is not home. This is the same role that Apple TV 4K plays for HomeKit users.
Verdict
At ā¬119.99, it costs more than streaming sticks ā but the combination of Ethernet, 4 GB RAM, Matter hub capability, and the best streaming interface available makes it exceptional value for anyone building a proper home entertainment setup.
