What Chromecast costs right now

Chromecast prices range from about $30 to $100 depending on the model and where you buy. The standard Chromecast (the small HDMI dongle) typically costs $30 to $40. The Chromecast with Google TV (which includes a remote and a full interface) usually runs $50 to $60. The Chromecast Ultra, an older high-end model, costs around $80 to $100 when you can find it, though Google has phased it out in favor of newer options.

Prices shift based on sales, retailer, and whether you're buying during a holiday promotion. Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, and the Google Store all carry Chromecast devices, and prices can vary between them by $5 to $10. Checking multiple retailers before you buy takes five minutes and often saves money.

Key Takeaways

  • The basic Chromecast dongle costs $30 to $40 and works with any TV that has an HDMI port.
  • Chromecast with Google TV costs $50 to $60 and includes a remote control and on-screen menu system.
  • Prices vary by retailer and season, so comparing Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, and Google Store takes minutes and can save $5 to $10.
  • Older Chromecast Ultra models cost $80 to $100 but are harder to find since Google discontinued them.
  • Many retailers offer discounts during Black Friday, back-to-school sales, and holiday shopping periods.

Standard Chromecast vs. Chromecast with Google TV

The standard Chromecast is the cheapest option at $30 to $40. It is a small dongle you plug into your TV's HDMI port. You control it entirely from your phone or computer—there is no physical remote. It works well if you already use Google services like YouTube, Google Photos, or Spotify, or if you want to mirror your phone screen to the TV.

Chromecast with Google TV costs $50 to $60 and adds a physical remote and an on-screen menu. Instead of controlling everything from your phone, you can browse apps, search, and adjust settings using the remote. This model is better if you want a more traditional TV experience or if you have family members who prefer not to use their phones to control the device.

The choice between them depends on how you plan to use it. If you mostly cast from your phone and do not mind picking it up every time, the standard model saves $20. If you want to browse apps and use the TV more like a traditional streaming device, the Google TV version is worth the extra cost.

Where to find the best prices

The Google Store sells Chromecast at the official retail price, which is usually $30 to $40 for the standard model and $50 to $60 for the Google TV version. Buying directly from Google guarantees you get the current model and full warranty support.

Amazon and Best Buy typically match Google's prices but sometimes offer discounts or bundle deals. Amazon Prime members occasionally see exclusive pricing. Best Buy's return policy is generous—30 days for most electronics—which matters if you want to test it before keeping it.

Walmart and Target also stock Chromecast and often run sales during major shopping events. Target's Circle membership program sometimes includes discounts on electronics. Checking these four retailers takes 10 minutes and usually shows you the lowest current price.

When prices drop and seasonal sales

Chromecast prices fall most noticeably during Black Friday and Cyber Monday (late November), when discounts of $5 to $15 are common. Back-to-school sales in August sometimes include Chromecast deals, especially at Best Buy and Amazon. Prime Day (mid-July) offers discounts for Amazon Prime members.

Holiday shopping periods in December also bring sales, though the discounts are usually smaller than Black Friday. If you are not in a rush, waiting for one of these events can save you $10 to $20. If you need it soon, the difference between retailers is usually only a few dollars, so buying now is reasonable.

What affects the final price you pay

The advertised price is not always what you pay at checkout. Sales tax varies by state and adds 5% to 10% to the total. Shipping costs matter if you are not a Prime member or do not may have access to for free shipping—expect $5 to $10 for standard delivery. Some retailers offer free in-store pickup, which eliminates shipping costs entirely.

Bundles can change the value. Some retailers sell Chromecast bundled with Google Home speakers or other devices at a discount. If you want those items anyway, a bundle might cost less than buying separately. Read the bundle details carefully to make sure you are not paying for something you do not need.

Older Chromecast models and refurbished options

The Chromecast Ultra, an older model designed for 4K streaming, costs $80 to $100 when available. Google discontinued it in favor of newer options, so it is harder to find. Unless you specifically need 4K casting and have a 4K TV, the standard Chromecast or Chromecast with Google TV is a better choice at a lower price.

Refurbished Chromecast devices sometimes appear on Amazon, Best Buy, and eBay at 20% to 30% discounts. These are returned or open-box units that have been tested and cleaned. They come with a limited warranty, usually 90 days instead of a full year. Buying refurbished is safe if you are comfortable with a shorter warranty period and want to save money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chromecast cheaper than other streaming devices?

The standard Chromecast at $30 to $40 is one of the cheapest streaming devices available. Roku and Amazon Fire TV sticks cost about the same. Chromecast with Google TV at $50 to $60 is more expensive than basic Roku or Fire TV models but less than premium options. Your choice depends on which services you use and whether you want a remote included.

Do I need to pay a monthly subscription to use Chromecast?

No. Chromecast itself is free to use once you buy it. You only pay for streaming services you subscribe to—like Netflix, YouTube Premium, or Spotify—just as you would on any other device. Chromecast is just the hardware that lets you send those services to your TV.

Can I return a Chromecast if I change my mind?

Return policies vary by retailer. Best Buy allows returns within 30 days. Amazon typically allows 30 days for most electronics. The Google Store offers a 15-day return window. Keep your receipt and check the retailer's policy before you buy, especially if you want a longer return period.

Will the price drop if I wait a few weeks?

Prices rarely drop significantly outside of major sales events. Waiting a few weeks might save you $2 to $5 if a sale happens, but it is not may provide. If you need it soon, buying now at the current price is reasonable. If you can wait until Black Friday or Prime Day, you will likely save more.

Are there any hidden costs after I buy Chromecast?

No hidden costs. You pay for the device once, and then you only pay for streaming services you choose to subscribe to. There are no monthly fees for Chromecast itself, no set up charges, and no required purchases. Some services offer free tiers with ads, so you can use Chromecast without spending anything beyond the initial hardware cost.