(Disclosure, I may receive a small referral fee when you make a purchase through links on this post.)
We here at Chromecastchat.com put together a chart comparing the Chromecast, Apple TV, and Roku 3. All are great devices and none shouts as a distinct winner. We really have high hopes for the future of Chromecast and what Google has in plan.
| Chromecast | Apple TV | Roku 3 | ||
| Price | $35 | $99 | $99 | |
| Quality | 1080P | 1080P | 1080P | |
| Content | Netflix, Google Play Store, Youtube, Cast from Chrome browser. Eventually will support Pandora. | iTunes, Mirror iOS device, and many subscription available such as sports, news. | Lots of free content and other paid subscription channels. Look at their list here. No Youtube. | |
| Netflix | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Hulu Plus | No | Yes | Yes | |
| HBO Go | No | Yes | Yes | |
| Amazon Prime | Yes (through Chrome Browser) | Yes (through Airplay) | Yes | |
| YouTube | Yes | Yes | No | |
| Movie Rentals | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Sports Package | No | Yes | Yes | |
| Free Internet Radio | No | No | Yes | |
| Photo Viewing | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Major News Program | No | Yes | Yes | |
| Instant Replay on Remote | No | No | Yes | |
| Stream from local media via browser | Yes | No | No | |
| Devices | Any device with WiFi capability and Chrome browser and Android devices (phone, tablet). No ability to mirror but can ‘cast’ media. | iOS devices using Airplay and also ability to mirror your Mac device’s screen. | No need or ability to mirror any devices such as tablet, phone, or PC. Has app to stream music and photos but not video. | |
| Actual Device | Size of a USB Stick. Very small. Powered by USB chord. Vrtually invisible if plugged into HDMI port at the rearof your HDTV | Size of your palm. Very well designed as any Apple product. | A bit outdated but also size of your palm. | |
| Remote | None | Small, basic functions. | Bulky but has headphone and instant replay buton. |
