Where to buy Chromecast

You can buy Chromecast from major electronics retailers, online marketplaces, and Google's own store. The most common places are Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, and Target — all stock multiple Chromecast models and usually have them in stock or available for next-day delivery. Google's official store (store.google.com) sells Chromecast directly and sometimes offers bundles with other Google devices.

Prices vary slightly between retailers, but the difference is usually a few dollars. Chromecast with Google TV (the current standard model) typically costs between $30 and $40, while the older Chromecast Audio and Chromecast Ultra have been discontinued. Check the product listing carefully to confirm you are buying the model you want — retailers sometimes list older stock or regional variants under similar names.

If you want to see the device in person before buying, Best Buy and Walmart have physical locations where you can examine the box and ask staff questions. This is useful if you are unsure whether your TV has an HDMI port or whether you need an adapter.

Key Takeaways

  • Chromecast with Google TV is sold at Best Buy, Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Google's official store, with prices ranging from $30 to $40.
  • The device arrives in a small box containing the Chromecast unit itself, a USB power cable, a power adapter, and an HDMI extender cable.
  • You will need an HDMI port on your TV and a 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz Wi-Fi network to set up and use Chromecast.
  • Setup takes about 10 minutes and requires the Google Home app on a smartphone or tablet to complete the initial connection.
  • Refunds and returns are available within the retailer's standard window (usually 14 to 30 days) if the device does not work with your TV.

What comes in the box

When your Chromecast arrives, the box contains the Chromecast unit itself (a small black or white stick about the size of a thumb drive), a USB power cable, a power adapter that plugs into a wall outlet, and an HDMI extender cable. The extender cable is useful if your TV's HDMI ports are positioned awkwardly or blocked by other cables — you can plug the Chromecast into the extender instead of directly into the TV.

The box does not include an HDMI-to-USB adapter, so if your TV has only older ports (composite or component video), you will need to buy an adapter separately. Most modern TVs have at least one HDMI port, so this is rarely necessary. Check your TV's back panel before ordering to confirm you have an available HDMI slot.

Checking compatibility before you buy

Chromecast works with any TV that has an HDMI port and supports HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection), a copy-protection standard built into most TVs made after 2008. If your TV is older than that, check the manual or the manufacturer's website to confirm HDCP support — the retailer's return policy will cover you if it turns out your TV is not compatible.

You also need a Wi-Fi network to use Chromecast. The device connects to 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi bands, so it works with most home networks. If you use a guest network or a network that requires a login page (like some apartment or hotel networks), Chromecast may have trouble connecting — this is a known limitation, not a defect in the device.

Chromecast works with phones and tablets running Android 6.0 or later, iOS 12.0 or later, or computers running Chrome on Windows, Mac, or Linux. You do not need a smart TV or a cable box — Chromecast works independently once it is plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi.

Delivery times and shipping options

If you order from Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, or Target, standard shipping usually takes 5 to 7 business days. Many of these retailers offer expedited options (next-day or 2-day delivery) for an additional fee, or free expedited shipping if you have a membership like Amazon Prime or Best Buy Plus. Google's store ships within 1 to 2 business days for standard orders.

In-store pickup is available at Best Buy and Walmart if you want the device the same day. Check the retailer's website to see if your local store has stock, then reserve it online or call ahead to confirm availability.

Price comparison and sales

Chromecast with Google TV typically sells for $29.99 to $39.99 depending on the retailer and whether a sale is running. Prices are fairly consistent across major retailers, so shopping around usually saves only a few dollars. Watch for sales during major shopping events like Black Friday, Prime Day, or back-to-school season — discounts of $5 to $10 are common during these periods.

Bundles that pair Chromecast with Google Home speakers or other Google devices sometimes offer better value than buying items separately. Check Google's official store and Best Buy for current bundle offers.

Returns and refunds

Most retailers allow returns within 14 to 30 days of purchase if the device is unopened or in original condition. Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target all accept returns at physical locations or by mail. Google's store has a 30-day return window. Keep your receipt and the original packaging in case you need to return the device.

If Chromecast does not work with your TV after setup, the retailer's return policy covers it. You do not need to contact Google or prove the device is defective — straightforward return it within the window and request a refund or exchange.

What to do after it arrives

Once your Chromecast arrives, unbox it and plug the USB power cable into the power adapter, then plug the adapter into a wall outlet near your TV. Plug the Chromecast unit into an available HDMI port on your TV (or into the HDMI extender cable if your ports are blocked). Turn on your TV and switch to the HDMI input where you plugged in the Chromecast.

read the Google Home app on your smartphone or tablet, open it, and follow the on-screen prompts to connect Chromecast to your Wi-Fi network. The app will ask you to select your home Wi-Fi network and enter the password. Once connected, you can start casting video, music, and photos from your phone or computer to your TV. The whole process takes about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Chromecast without a Google account?

You need a Google account to set up Chromecast using the Google Home app, but once it is set up, other people can cast to it without signing in. Guests can use their own phones to send content to your TV without needing access to your account or Wi-Fi password — you share a temporary code instead.

What if my TV does not have an HDMI port?

If your TV is older and lacks HDMI, you will need an HDMI-to-composite or HDMI-to-component adapter, which you can buy separately from electronics retailers. These adapters cost $15 to $30 and convert the HDMI signal to older video formats. Check your TV's manual to see which ports it has before buying an adapter.

Does Chromecast work with all streaming apps?

Most major streaming apps (Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, Disney+, Hulu) support Chromecast casting. Some apps require a paid subscription to cast, and a few regional or niche apps may not support it. Check the app's settings or help page to confirm casting is available before you buy.

How much does Chromecast cost compared to other streaming devices?

Chromecast with Google TV costs $30 to $40 and is one of the least expensive streaming devices available. Roku and Amazon Fire TV devices are similarly priced. More expensive options like Apple TV cost $150 and up but offer additional features like gaming and HomeKit integration.

Can I return Chromecast if I change my mind?

Yes. All major retailers accept returns within 14 to 30 days if the device is in original condition. You do not need a reason — return it unopened or opened, and you will receive a refund or exchange. Check your receipt for the specific return window at your retailer.