Photo credit: www.androidauthority.com
The Chromecast has been a popular streaming option since its debut in 2013, but the release of the Google TV Streamer last year marked a turning point. With Google officially discontinuing the Chromecast with Google TV HD and 4K, those seeking an affordable streaming device may find themselves at a crossroads. Despite alternatives like Roku and Amazon, the Onn 4K Pro emerges as the primary option for enthusiasts of Google TV.
It’s important to note that the Onn 4K Pro is exclusively available in North America through Walmart. For consumers residing outside of this region, options become limited to purchasing the Google TV Streamer or searching for remaining stock of the Chromecast with Google TV.
While the Onn 4K Pro isn’t the only economical choice in 2025, many available streaming devices are either outdated or lack the full capabilities of a dedicated Google TV device. The Onn 4K Pro, on the other hand, was launched just last year, making it a contemporary contender in the streaming landscape.
Determining whether the Onn 4K Pro is a suitable alternative or if it’s wiser to invest in the Google TV Streamer largely hinges on user preferences and patience for experimentation.
Would you prefer the Onn 4K Pro, or hold onto the aging Chromecast with Google TV?
7 votes
I’d stick to the Chromecast, as I have reservations about the Onn brand.
14%
The Onn 4K Pro offers a better value, even with its possible quirks.
57%
Neither, I’d save extra or wait for a deal before opting for the Google TV Streamer.
29%
The Onn 4K Pro has notable features
Lanh Nguyen / Android Authority
Upon my initial review of the Onn 4K Pro ($49.88 at Walmart) in the summer of 2024, it was evident that the device was more appealing than the Chromecast with Google TV in terms of features and performance.
Here are some of the key strengths of the Onn 4K Pro:
Hands-free voice support: This feature is not present even in the Google TV Streamer. Users can interact with the interface, manage smart devices, and find their remote through a simple “Ok, Google” command.
Remote finder feature: This function is particularly useful, allowing activation via voice or a dedicated button on the device. It’s worth noting this feature has also been incorporated into the Google TV Streamer.
An enhanced remote: While it may not match the quality of the Google TV Streamer’s remote, the Onn version is a significant improvement over the Chromecast remote, featuring customizable buttons and better ergonomics.
A USB port: The USB port adds flexibility for users to sideload local media or connect accessories, although performance can vary based on the devices used.
Additionally, the Onn 4K Pro is equipped with a more powerful processor, 3GB of RAM (compared to 2GB in the Chromecast 4K), and boasts 32GB of storage—significantly more than its predecessor. This abundance of storage alleviates concerns about app management and offers room for expansion through the USB port.
Even if the Chromecast with Google TV were still available, I would lean towards recommending the Onn 4K Pro as a close approximation of a “Google TV Streamer Lite.” However, potential reliability issues may dampen its appeal.
Concerns about the Onn 4K Pro’s long-term reliability
Lanh Nguyen / Android Authority
While many Onn products are generally satisfactory, they exist in the budget category, which can lead to varied quality and durability. This observation holds for the Onn 4K Pro. After approximately nine months of usage, I have experienced multiple issues with my device.
During the initial months, performance was seamless. However, issues such as the remote finder button ceasing to function properly began to arise. Subsequently, the button lost its illumination feature, rendering the physical remote finder ineffective—though voice activation remained functional.
Shortly after, I discovered that the Onn 4K Pro failed to turn on my TV remotely, necessitating manual intervention. This issue appeared specific to the Onn device, as my PlayStation 5 did not face similar challenges. I tolerated these problems for a bit, but performance slowdowns ultimately prompted further investigation.
Despite attempts to clear cache and remove unnecessary applications, I found myself having to perform a factory reset. Post-reset, the device operated properly for another couple of months before the same performance issues returned, necessitating another reset. This could be attributed to my experimentation with sideloading various applications, but it raises questions about the device’s consistency.
Although my Chromecast with Google TV also required a factory reset after a year due to sluggishness, the frequency of resets for the Onn could be a deterrent for some users. Whether engaging in regular maintenance is acceptable will vary based on individual preferences.
Is the Google TV Streamer the better option?
Ryan Haines / Android Authority
While the Onn 4K Pro has its merits, its quirks can be frustrating. I’ve considered swapping it out for the Google TV Streamer, which, despite its higher price point and lack of hands-free voice capability and USB port, offers enhanced reliability. If budget permits, I recommend opting for the Google TV Streamer over both the Onn 4K Pro and the Chromecast with Google TV, not only for its reliability but also for anticipated future updates and features.
Walmart onn 4K Pro
Great value
Remote finder issues
USB port adds significant functionality
For those maintaining a strict budget of around $50, the Onn 4K Pro remains a solid choice. Notably, when I eventually switch to the Google TV Streamer, I plan to repurpose my Onn 4K Pro as a replacement for the Chromecast with Google TV in my bedroom, reflecting my positive view of the Onn compared to the older Chromecast device.
If you’re unsure about the Onn brand or are hesitant about managing potential issues, consider these alternatives based on your circumstances:
If you currently possess a Chromecast with Google TV: It might be wise to keep it a while longer, as it will continue receiving updates until at least September 2025, aligning with the coming holiday sales when the Google TV Streamer may see price reductions.
If you’re in search of a budget streaming device without owning a Chromecast: Prioritize finding a Chromecast with Google TV, as it remains superior to older models like the Mi Box S. Many retailers still offer discounted prices to clear inventory. For example, I recently acquired a Chromecast with Google TV 4K from Walmart for just $25, and similar refurbished or second-hand deals may soon emerge.
Ultimately, while the Onn 4K Pro might not suit everyone’s needs, it stands as the best alternative to the Chromecast for those with a $50 budget. The choice between devices will ultimately depend on individual user preferences and requirements.
Source
www.androidauthority.com