After unboxing your Chromecast, plugging it into your TV's HDMI port, and streaming a few YouTube videos, it's easy to set it aside. At just $18, this device instantly makes any TV "smart," but its potential goes far beyond the basics.
With the right apps, you can transform your Chromecast into a compact, powerful media player—even outperforming setups like the Raspberry Pi. For reference, check out The Easiest Raspberry Pi Media Center - Powered by RasPlex to compare.
Once your Chromecast is connected to your TV and Wi-Fi, start by casting from the Chrome browser on your desktop or laptop using the Google Cast extension.
This works seamlessly for YouTube, Hulu, BBC iPlayer (UK residents), Netflix, or Amazon Instant Video. Explore more with 8 Creative Uses for Google's Chromecast, including screen sharing and gaming. It's even possible for Google Hangouts—see The Easiest Way to Chromecast Your Hangout.
While straightforward, this method requires a computer nearby, which isn't ideal for everyone.
Whether you're on Android, iOS, or Windows Phone, dedicated apps make Chromecast integration effortless. Android and iOS offer official setup apps, with Android boasting the widest selection.
Install Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, VLC (with Chromecast support added mid-2014—details in Chromecast Support Coming to VLC for Android, iOS, and Desktop), and more. Visit the Chromecast site for a full list, including Blinkbox, Red Bull TV, Vevo, and TuneIn Radio.
Casting browser videos is simple, but local files in your Windows Libraries (or Mac/Linux drives) won't work directly in Chrome. Enter Plex Media Server.
Index your media library on your PC, then use the Plex app ($4.99, or free with Plex Pass—learn more in Making the Best Media Center Better with a Plex Pass) on Android or iOS to cast to Chromecast. (Note: Windows Phone Plex app lacks this feature.)
Follow our Your Guide to Plex: The Awesome Media Center for installation and configuration.
Add channels like Twitch, Vimeo, YouTube, or BBC iPlayer, then point Plex to your movies, TV shows, music, and photos. It automatically fetches artwork for a polished library.
Install the Plex client on your mobile device, log in, and—as long as everything's on the same network—browse your library and tap the Cast button to stream to your TV.
Plex runs lightly on your PC, using your phone or tablet as a remote to deliver a top-tier media center experience via Chromecast.
For $18, Chromecast punches way above its weight, especially now that developers have embraced it. Streaming from phones is standard, and Plex integration seals the deal.
Still choosing? Compare it in Chromecast vs. Apple TV vs. Roku: Which Media Streamer Is Right for You? Have you built a Chromecast media center? Tried Plex? Share in the comments!
