Identify which generation of Chromecast you have and how you tell the difference.

Google Chromecast explained

Google Chromecast is a small electronic device, that let you steam online video.  your TV from your smartphone, tablet or laptop using wi-fi. You simply attach the device on the back of your TV, using a HDMI and a USB port. Chromecast where first released in 2013 and have been improved over the years. The smart thing about the Chromecast is that you only have to start the video from your phone/tablet and can then, turn off the screen, meaning that you will not drain your phone/tablet for power while watching a movie/video.

You can use Google Chromecast to cast video from streaming services like, Netflix, YouTube, HBO, Plex, Spotify, Vevo etc. For more information about Chromecast click here.

Generation Compare

Below you can see all the Chromecast generations and specifications. Be aware, that the Chromecast Ultra is not named 3rd Generation despite the fact, it was released a year after the 2nd generation and 2 years before 3rd generation Chromecast.

Edition	Chromecast 1st gen.	Chromecast 2nd gen.	Chromecast Audio	Chromecast Ultra (4K)	Chromecast 3rd gen.
Release date	July 24, 2013	Sep. 29, 2015	Sep. 29, 2015	Nov. 6, 2016	Oct. 10, 2018
Launch price	$35	$35	$35	$69	$35
Display	1080p @ 30fps or 720p @ 60fps	1080p @ 60fps	N/A (audio only)	4K Ultra HD	1080p @ 60fps
Connectivity	HDMI (can use CEC)	HDMI (can use CEC)	Combined 3.5 mm audio jack and mini-TOSLINK socket	HDMI (can use CEC)	HDMI (can use CEC)
Wi-Fi	802.11 b/g/n @ 2.4 GHz	802.11 b/g/n/ac @ 2.4/5 GHz	802.11 b/g/n/ac @ 2.4/5 GHz	802.11 b/g/n/ac @ 2.4/5 GHz	802.11 b/g/n/ac @ 2.4/5 GHz
Weight	34 g	39.1 g	30.7 g	47 g	40 g
Colors	Gray	Yellow, Black or Red	Black	Black	Gray
Model Number	H2G2-42	NC2-6A5	RUX-J42	GA3A00403A14	NC2-6A5B GA00439

Chromecast Ultra

Chromecast Ultra is featured with upgraded hardware that supported streaming of 4K resolution content. In addition, Google has stated that the Chromecast Ultra loads video 1.8 times faster, than previous models. Unlike previous models the Ultra version can’t be powered through a USB port. As a result, the Ultra requires the use of the included power supply for connecting to a wall outlet. Furthermore, does the power supply also offers an Ethernet port for a wired connection to accommodate the fast network speeds needed to stream 4K content. Be aware that the Chromecast Ultra cost almost double the price of the other models.

See also: Compare Gen 1 vs Gen 2 or Chromecast Gen. 2 Stopped Working (Issue fixed)

 

How to Identify version

To begin with, identify your model is easy. Just take a look on the back of your Chromecast device. Here you can find your model and look in the table above to see what version you have. In the case below it is an Audio model (Model: RUX-J42).

Can’t access it physically? Maybe it is stocked behind a wall mounted TV. Don’t worry, you can also use the Google Home app to find the model number:

Google Home → Select device → Settings → Device information → Model / Firmware

However, this require it to be turned on and connected to your wi-fi.

 

Which Chromecast should you buy in 2020?

Well, that all depend on your needs. If you just want to listen to Music, it is obviously a the Audio edition. However, if you want to stream 4K, it is only the Chromecast Ultra that is up for the task. If you don’t have a 4K TV and don’t plan to buy one anytime soon, you can just go for the cheaper 3rd generation Chromecast. 1st and 2nd generation is no longer available for sale.

The future of Chromecast

Google has, as far as I know, not announced any plans for a new generation of Chromecast in the near future. With 3rd release back in October 2018 you would think that it soon will be time for a new generation to keep up with technology of streaming trends. We will have to wait and see if Google will announce an update later this year.

FAQ

Is Chromecast discontinued?
Yes, Google has retired the Chromecast brand, but existing devices still receive updates.

Does Chromecast Audio still work?
It works, but some unit experienced certificate failures in 2025. However, this issue where later fixed with an update from Google.

Is Chromecast Ultra still worth buying?
I don’t believe you can find it anywhere and it’s discontinued. You should look at the Google TV Streamer 4K instead.

 

Questions or Comments

If you have any questions or comment about Chromecast please drop me a comment below.