We compared Chromecast and the Microsoft Display Adapter: Google’s streaming-stick Chromecast enjoys uninterrupted popularity. No wonder, finally, the accessory, which turns every HD TV into a full-fledged streaming receiver in just a few minutes, costs just 35 euros. But now the Google accessory gets a lot of competition. With the Wireless Display Adapter, Microsoft has introduced a device that offers a similar range of functions but is twice as expensive.
Installation: No major differences
In our comparison, we are comparing Chromecast and the display adapter to
Furnishings: With WLAN or without
The installation of the two devices is the same: both Chromecast and the Microsoft Display Adapter are first connected to a free HDMI port on the TV. Both devices are powered by the USB port. If the TV does not have a USB port, as is the case with older models, the Microsoft Display Adapter can not be used. However, Chromecast does not know this limitation. The dongle has an additional adapter, which allows the Google accessories to be connected to the socket. A great plus.
Operation: With or without Apps
The Microsoft Display Adapter is clearly advantageous when you first start up, since the use of additional software is not required. And since the connection between adapter and device is directly established, this works independently of WLAN and Internet connection. If the unit is connected to the HDTV or AV receiver, it is sufficient to select the settings for PC and devices / screen / With wireless display device on a notebook or tablet equipped with Windows 8.1 Br>
Compatibility: There is still a lot to do
In the next page, select Add Wireless Display. The Microsoft adapter that is connected to the Windows device is then listed under Devices / Projectors. Optionally, the Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter can be installed from the Windows Store in order to adapt adapter settings and to protect the contact between the adapter and computer with a PIN. The first-time setup of the Google add-on is significantly more time-consuming and requires WLAN and Internet access.
First, you need to install and start the free app Google Chromeecast on your Android or iOS device. If the configuration is to be made via the PC, the Chrome browser must be installed. Then connect the device to the WLAN built by Chromecast to perform the basic configuration. In the last step, you'll add Google Accessories to your home Wi-Fi.
Chromecast is based on the in-house transmission method, while the Microsoft adapter is based on Miracast. The difference between the two variants: While Microsoft brings the entire screen space 1: 1 to the screen and thus makes each HD-enabled device a second monitor, Chromecast is dependent on apps. Although the direct screen transmission of Android devices works, however, the function is still in beta.
Lesetipp: Use TV as a PC monitor
So if you want to play a YouTube video, a Netflix movie or a video file stored on the network, you must start the app and press the Chromecast button. The PC screen can also be transferred using the Chrome browser. In practice, however, this works more badly than right. By the way, both adapters support resolutions up to a maximum of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels.
In terms of compatibility, none of the adapters can fully convince, but not to Google and Microsoft, but to the manufacturers of other devices, the Chromecast and Miracast only inadequately integrate. Chromecast is supported by Android 2.3. In addition, devices equipped with iOS 7.0 or later are also capable of contacting Google Accessories. However, the selection of apps for iPhone and iPad is manageable. Miracast is tightly integrated with Windows 8.1 so that all devices equipped with this operating system can be connected to the Wireless Display Adapter at the factory.
The same is true for notebooks that support the Intel Wireless Display technology. It looks much leaner on the side of the smartphone support: Just a handful of Nokia Lumia devices with Windows Phone 8.1 can be used as a player. Interesting detail: Some Android smartphones and tablets also support Miracast, which has been integrated into the Google operating system since version 4.2.1
Our comparison test shows that Chromecast is and remains the first choice when it comes to streaming in the home WLAN. The transfer of the screen space from Android devices and PCs to the TV works, but leaves a lot to be desired in practice.
Clearly for the Microsoft adapter speak two factors: First, it does not need WLAN, so it can be used everywhere. On the other hand, it transfers the screen resolution 1: 1 to the HD device, which should not only appeal to business users who present the Powerpoint presentation. Gamers may also like to enjoy their favorite games on the 50-inch TV.
Chomecast vs. Display Adapter: Conclusion
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