Does Alexa Work with Chromecast?

If you own a Chromecast, chances are you also own an Echo with Alexa or some other voice-controlled smart device. Both of these devices make streaming and listening to music much easier. However, since they’re made by different, competing manufacturers, you may be wondering if you can use Alexa with Chromecast.

Unfortunately, Alexa uses Amazon technology, and Chromecast uses Google technology. Since the devices are different, Alexa will not work with Chromecast. However, the Google Home does work with Chromecast and has many of the same features as Amazon Alexa.

You may still be wondering how Amazon Echo and Google Home compare. Don’t worry. We will cover that in this article as well as discuss the best way to set up and use Chromecast and Google Home together.

Why Doesn’t Alexa Work with Chromecast?

Many people are surprised when they learn they can’t use Amazon Alexa with Chromecast. However, Amazon and Google have yet to integrate their devices due to the fact they’re competitors.

Each company uses its own hardware to keep its devices secure from the other while simultaneously attacking the other’s business. Unfortunately, this is common in the tech world.

However, many tech users are notorious for finding ways to get around these rules. If you are dead set on using your Amazon Alexa to control your Chromecast, you can use this guide. Keep in mind that it does take some time and more advanced tech skills, but it is pretty straightforward once you get going.

Here are a few things to know before you get started:

1. You will need an Amazon Web Services account.
2. The Chromecast and Alexa have to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
3. You will need a UNIX environment setup which essentially allows you to install new hardware onto the device through a series of codes and configurations.

Once everything is set up, you will be able to give Alexa commands such as “Alexa tell Chromecast to set the volume to 5.”

But, if you want to avoid the hassle, you can use Google Home and its accompanying voice assistant instead of configuring the Alexa feature on Echo devices.

Amazon Echo Vs. Google Home

Both of the devices are smart speakers as well as platforms. Since Google Home is less expensive and can pair with all Google products, it has become more and more popular over the years.

Check out these common differences and similarities:

Google Home Features	Features of Both	Amazon Echo Features
Integrates with YouTube	They offer voice assistance capabilities	Works with the Amazon Fire Stick
Allows you to use streaming devices with Chromecast	Both support iHeartRadio, Pandora, Spotify, and TuneIn	Works with Ring Doorbell
Google Assistant is more conversational and understands words easier	Connect to a Wi-FI network	Can receive phone calls
Lets you upload all of your own music from the cloud	Allow you to make outbound calls	Come in several different sizes
Works with Home doorbells	Can recognize people’s voices and switch accounts

Overall, both devices have their own unique features as well as a few things in common. However, the Google Home’s Assistant is more flexible because it allows you to speak naturally and upload more music.

If you own a Chromecast, you are probably looking for the easiest way to integrate your devices into your home. Buying a Google Home will allow you to use voice commands to get streaming faster.

How Do I Use Chromecast with Google Home?

Setting up Chromecast and Google Home can be done in a few simple steps. First, you’ll want to link your Google Home with your Google Home app.

1. Open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet.
2. Click the “+” icon in the top left corner, then “Set up device,” followed by “New device.”
3. Follow the prompts provided to set up your device.

Then, to connect your Google Home to Chromecast:

1. Connect Chromecast to the TV.
2. Turn on the TV and set it to the right input.
3. Open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet.
4. Tap Devices on the top right corner.
5. Press Add New Device.
6. The device will walk you through how to connect to the Wi-Fi.
7. Go to the Wi-Fi settings and choose ChromecastXXXX network. The numbers and letters at the end are different for every user.
8. Go back to the Google Home app and click Continue.
9. Make sure the codes on the app and the code on the TV match.
10. Select your region, then continue.
11. Name your Chromecast and practice the Voice Commands that it prompts.
12. Choose the Wi-Fi you want to use with the Chromecast.
13. Enter the Wi-Fi password, then continue.
14. Sign in to your Google Account.
15. Control the Chromecast using your voice.

You can tell Google Home to do virtually anything involving the Chromecast now that you have the two integrated. You can tell it to play music, start a YouTube Video, and many other things.