Summary
So if you could only purchase one stream casting device which should you purchase and why? Well after using the three different streaming and remote display options mentioned I've come up with the following features table to help you determine which you may want to purchase. I used a scale from 0 to 3 with 3 being the best of the set. The totals show the Roku as a clear winner however the unique features of the other devices may be the deciding factor in which you ultimately purchase for yourself. For example if you're a road warrior living out of hotels the Windows Display Adapter is perfect. You only need a WiFi capable device (neither internet or Access Point required) since it works over WiFi Direct. Most hotels require logging into their "free" WiFi. This is something you may not be able to do with your Roku or Chromecast device. Furthermore while Roku does have a Miracast beta app it is still very buggy. Chromecast's closest thing to Miracast is Chromecast from a web browser but it only casts the page and media on the page not your full desktop. Furthermore disconnected mode may be one of your requirements since contrary to popular belief good bandwidth access to the internet is not ubiquitous. You may also come across country restrictions when trying to view certain films which can be easily avoided if you download your content prior to leaving the country. Chromecast has great integration with Google Now and your Google Plus Photo album. While Roku does have a few screensavers to display your photo album most of the apps are outdated or require the use of a service you may not be a current subscriber of. Furthermore the Roku screen savers offered are not as functional as the Chromecast Google Now Backdrop. All three devices will do DLNA either directly or indirectly so you can always watch media from your personal media server. As of this writing most of the devices are $65 and under with Chromecast being the cheapest currently on Amazon for $29.
Devices such as BluRay/DVD players, Game Consoles, Computer with HDMI output, Smart TVs, Firestick, Nexus, VUDU Spark, and users viewing habits (portability requirements/Road Warrior scenario) are not addressed and should be considered before making a purchase.
Definitions:
- Solo Operation - The device does not require a computer/smartphone to set it up nor to operate it.
- Presentation Capability - the device can be used to extend or mirror your computer or smartphone screen.
- Disconnected mode - the device does not require an internet connection to operate (note local WiFi is required).
- Device Integration - Integration with computers and smartphones to allow control of device.
- Available Apps - Average quantity of apps available for the device.
- Unique Features - Feature which is unique to the device and not available in the others.
- Miracast - Screen Mirroring Protocol using WiFi Direct. Supported from Windows 8+ and Android 4.3+. Android will not allow streaming content to be cast and will error with "Display Not Secure" message. You may mirror the rest of the device.
- Google Now - Your personal digital assistant reminding you of package deliveries, weather, traffic, and upcoming events.
| Device | Solo Operation | Presentation Capability | Disconnected mode | Device Integration | Available Apps | Unique Feature | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Roku 3500R Streaming Stick (HDMI)
|
3 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 3 | Miracast Beta* | 10 |
Google Chromecast HDMI Streaming Media Player
|
0 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 2 | Google Now & Photos Integration | 6 |
Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter
(Miracast) |
0 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 0 | Device Screen Mirroring | 8 |
* Miracast Beta works on occasion but is still a bit buggy. You may find yourself rebooting devices several times before you get stable mirroring of your device screen.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links to the devices reviewed. I may receive compensation for any purchase made from the affiliate links. Except when stated all items reviewed are purchased by me and are not provided by sponsors. Please follow the Disclosures link at the bottom of this page for further details.
