Chromecast does not come with a physical remote in the box
Most Chromecast models ship without a remote control. Instead, you control playback and volume using your phone, tablet, or computer as a remote through the Google Home app or compatible casting apps. The exception is Chromecast with Google TV, which includes a physical remote with voice control built in.
If you have a standard Chromecast (the small HDMI dongle) or Chromecast Audio, you will need a smartphone or another casting device to send content to it. This is by design — Google built Chromecast around the idea that you already have a phone in your hand, so a separate remote is unnecessary for most people.
Key Takeaways
- Standard Chromecast models do not include a physical remote and rely on your phone or computer to control them.
- Chromecast with Google TV is the only model that comes with a physical remote control in the box.
- You can control any Chromecast using the Google Home app on your phone, or through compatible apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify.
- A physical remote is optional for standard Chromecast but useful if you frequently lose your phone or prefer not to use it as a remote.
How to control a standard Chromecast without a remote
To cast content to a standard Chromecast, open any compatible app on your phone or tablet and look for the cast icon — it looks like a rectangle with curved lines in the corner. Tap it, select your Chromecast device, and the app will send the video, music, or photo to your TV. Once it starts playing, you can pause, play, skip, and adjust volume directly from your phone.
The Google Home app gives you central control over all your Chromecast devices. You can pause playback, change the volume, and switch between different content sources without opening individual apps. On a computer, you can cast from Chrome browser tabs or use the cast feature in Google apps like YouTube and Google Photos.
Voice control is also built in if you have a Google Home speaker or display in the same room. You can say "Hey Google, pause the TV" or "Hey Google, turn up the volume" and it will control your Chromecast without touching your phone.
What Chromecast with Google TV includes
Chromecast with Google TV is a different product from the standard Chromecast dongle. It comes with a physical remote that has dedicated buttons for power, volume, play/pause, and a Google Assistant button for voice commands. The remote uses Bluetooth, so it does not require a line of sight to the device.
This remote makes Chromecast with Google TV work more like a traditional streaming box. You can navigate menus, search for content, and control playback without picking up your phone. The voice button lets you search by saying the name of a show or movie, and the remote can also control your TV's power and volume if you set it up.
When you might want to buy a separate remote
If you own a standard Chromecast and find yourself frequently without your phone, or if you share the device with people who do not have the casting app installed, a third-party remote can be useful. Some universal remotes and smart home remotes can control Chromecast devices, though compatibility varies.
Google does not sell an official remote for standard Chromecast models, so any remote you buy will be from a third-party manufacturer. Before purchasing, check that it explicitly supports Chromecast and read reviews to confirm it works with your specific model. Many people find that the phone-based control is sufficient and never feel the need for a separate remote.
Alternatives if you do not want to use your phone
If you want physical remote control without buying Chromecast with Google TV, you have a few options. A Google Home speaker or display in the same room lets you control playback entirely by voice. You can also use a smart home hub like a Google Nest Hub Max, which has a touchscreen and can control Chromecast devices.
Some people use their TV remote if it supports Google Cast or has a built-in Chromecast receiver. Newer smart TVs from Samsung, LG, and other manufacturers often have Chromecast built in, which means you can cast to the TV itself without needing a separate device. Check your TV's manual or settings to see if this feature is available.
Comparing control methods across Chromecast models
| Chromecast Model | Comes With Remote | Phone Control | Voice Control |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Chromecast (HDMI) | No | Yes, via Google Home app | Yes, with Google Home speaker |
| Chromecast Audio | No | Yes, via Google Home app | Yes, with Google Home speaker |
| Chromecast with Google TV | Yes, included | Yes, via Google Home app | Yes, built into remote |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my TV remote to control a standard Chromecast?
Not directly. Your TV remote cannot control a standard Chromecast dongle because they use different control systems. However, if your TV has Chromecast built in, you can cast to the TV itself and then use your TV remote to control playback. Check your TV's settings or manual to see if it has this feature.
What if I lose my phone — how do I control my Chromecast?
You can use any other phone, tablet, or computer with the Google Home app or a compatible casting app installed. You can also control it by voice if you have a Google Home speaker in the room. If you have Chromecast with Google TV, the physical remote works independently of your phone.
Is the Google Home app the only way to control Chromecast?
No. You can cast from individual apps like YouTube, Netflix, Spotify, and Google Photos. Once content is playing, you can control it from that app. The Google Home app is the central hub, but it is not required if you are casting from a specific app.
Does Chromecast with Google TV remote work with other devices?
The remote is designed for Chromecast with Google TV and may not work with standard Chromecast models or other devices. Some functions like the Google Assistant button are specific to Google TV. If you need a remote for a standard Chromecast, you would need to look at third-party options.
Can I buy an official Google remote for standard Chromecast?
No. Google does not sell an official remote for standard Chromecast. The physical remote is only included with Chromecast with Google TV. If you want a remote for a standard Chromecast, you would need to purchase a third-party universal remote that supports Chromecast.