Airplay vs Chromecast, what are the differences between the two? Stick around as we uncover these differences.
Two things can do the same thing. Serve the same purpose. But then be different at the same time. Some people may prefer one or the other. But in the end, they are all doing the same thing. In this case, we have Airplay vs Chromecast as the two things.
It is up to us to see. Compare and contrast. And choose where to side. It does not necessarily have to be strictly one side. We could take both sides. And get the best of both worlds. We start with Airplay below.
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Contents
Airplay
AirPlay is a patented wireless communication protocol stack/suite developed by Apple Inc. It allows streaming between devices of audio, video, device screens, and photos, together with related metadata.
It was initially implemented only in Apple’s software and devices. Previously, it was called AirTunes and used for audio only.
Apple has since licensed the AirPlay protocol stack as a third-party software component technology to manufacturers that build products compatible with Apple’s devices.
Chromecast
Chromecast is a line of digital media players developed by Google. The devices are designed as small adapters. And can play Internet-streamed audio-visual content on a high-definition television or home audio system.
The user controls playback with a mobile device or personal computer. This is done through mobile and web apps that support the Google Cast protocol. Or by issuing commands via Google Assistant.
Alternatively, content can be mirrored from the Google Chrome web browser on a personal computer or from the screen of some Android devices.
Airplay vs Chromecast: What’s the difference
Well, the most obvious difference we could come up with is they are both made by different companies. Airplay by Apple. Chromecast by Google. But there is more:
a) Firstly; Chromecast works with Android phones and tablets, iPhones, and iPads. And any Chrome browser. Whether it is on a PC or a Mac computer. On the other hand, AirPlay is mostly restricted to being initiated on Apple devices.
b) Secondly, Chromecast is better for voice control. This is because it works in conjunction with smart speakers from Google, Pioneer, Klipsch, insignia… etc. Whereas Airplay only uses one smart speaker that uses Siri. This is a limitation to Airplay.
c) Thirdly, it does not matter whether you have an Android device or an iPhone. Google apps like YouTube and Google Play Music let you use Chromecast. So do numerous third-party apps like Spotify, Pandora, Netflix, and Hulu. Sadly, airplay support on Android is limited.
Conclusion
Wrapping it all up. Airplay and Chromecast systems perform their functions. As well as you, need them to. Although Chromecast offers a variety of options.
Let us say you buy an AirPlay speaker or device and want to use it with an Android phone. That is not going to happen. Chromecast speakers and devices, on the other hand, will work with your both Android and Apple devices.
It is now time for you to take sides.