Chromecast with Google TV vs onn 4K Streaming Box: Both Google TV, $80 Apart
Chromecast with Google TV vs onn 4K Streaming Box — both run Google TV, but one costs $99 and one costs $20. We explain what the Chromecast's premium actually buys.
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Contains affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate disclosure
The Chromecast with Google TV costs $99-$109. The Walmart onn 4K Streaming Box costs $19-$29. Both run Google TV (Android TV-based). Both have Google Assistant. Both receive Google Cast. The $80 gap between two devices on the same platform raises a natural question: is the Chromecast worth 4-5x the price of the onn?
Quick Comparison
Same Platform, Real Hardware Differences
Since both run Google TV and both have Google Assistant and Google Cast, the comparison is primarily about hardware — what you get for the extra $80.
Dolby Vision: The Chromecast supports Dolby Vision HDR; the onn supports HDR10 only. On a Dolby Vision-capable TV, this is visible in tone mapping accuracy and highlight rendering.
Dolby Atmos passthrough: The Chromecast passes Dolby Atmos to external soundbars and AV receivers; the onn does not.
Performance: The Chromecast's processor handles the Google TV interface more fluidly than the onn's budget chip. The onn is adequate but slower.
Wi-Fi 6: The Chromecast has a faster wireless radio.
For Casual Streaming: onn Is Surprisingly Sufficient
For apps-only streaming — Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Max — the onn's performance is adequate. It loads major streaming apps and plays 4K content. For a secondary TV or budget household, the onn delivers the essentials.
The $80 difference is justified primarily by Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and smoother performance — meaningful for living room home theater setups, less important for casual viewing.
Our Picks
Bottom Line
Buy Chromecast with Google TV for a living room setup where Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos matter, or where the $80 investment in a faster, more polished device is justified. Buy onn 4K Streaming Box for secondary TVs, budget builds, or any situation where the core Google TV experience at $19-$29 serves the need.
Also see: Chromecast with Google TV Review, onn 4K Streaming Box Review, and Roku Ultra vs Chromecast with Google TV.
Editorial Team
Our editorial team consists of streaming experts who research and test products so you can make informed buying decisions.