Whether you opt for the Chromecast with Google TV (HD) or the slightly more expensive 4K version, you're getting a straightforward streaming stick with a snappy interface and powerful video capabilities. However, neither includes much in the way of storage or connectivity, so you'll need to supplement your purchase in the form of a USB-C hub and a sufficient wall charger.

With the release of the cheaper HD version of the Google TV dongle, it's worth revisiting some of the best hubs for expanding the storage and functionality of two of the best streaming devices out there. Just make sure the hub has all the ports you need and that the charger can deliver enough power to run everything consistently.

  • Totu 7 in 1 white background with cables
    Totu 7-in-1 Type C Hub
    Best overall

    Totu's 7-in-1 Type C Hub has all the essentials and then some. For starters, its HDMI output displays 4K at 30Hz on compatible TVs, monitors, and projectors. The hub also includes two USB 3.0 ports and one USB-C with transfer speeds of 5Gps. And you'll receive dual SD/TF card readers with adequate transfer speeds. Moreover, the 90W power delivery port ensures fast charge times. Despite these extra connections, this hub assumes little real estate, tucking away nicely behind your TV.

  • Ugreen Revodok Pro 10 in 1 USB C Hub white background side shot
    Ugreen Revodok Pro 10 in 1 USB C Hub
    Premium pick

    This 10-in-1 USB C hub is a port powerhouse. It has dual HDMI outputs for a 4K display at 60HZ each or one 8K connection at 30HZ. On top of that, you'll also get high-speed USB ports (USB-C and USB-A), two extra USB 2.0 for peripherals, 100W power delivery, and an Ethernet output capable of 1Gbps. Oh, and let's not forget about the SD/Micro SD slots. Suffice it to say, this hub has every port you'll probably need.

  • Mission USB Power Cable white background connected to tv
    Mission USB Power Cable
    Best value

    Mission’s USB Power Cable uses your TV's USB port, circumventing the need for an extra AC outlet. This simple but effective cable utilizes its own Power Boost management system, which stores extra juice for when your Chromecast TV needs it. The cable length is long enough for an unencumbered connection and works seamlessly with 4K and HD Chromecast TV models. As a bonus, it includes a glow-in-the-dark sleeve for your Chromecast remote.

  • spigen arcstation pro 45w
    Spigen 45W ArcStation Pro
    For your power needs

    The Spigen 45W ArcStation Pro stands out for a few reasons. It's built with high-quality internal components, including gallium nitride transistors and a controller that supports Programmable Power Supply technology. Those may not help much with the Chromecast in particular, but they're evidence that it's a well-engineered piece of equipment. What might help Chromecast owners is the detachable cable, which keeps the charger effective in case the included cable ever malfunctions.

  • utechsmart usb-c hub white baground
    UTechSmart UCN3273

    If you're having connection issues with other USB-C hubs but still want to connect a mouse or external storage, the UTechSmart UCN3273 is worth considering. The manufacturer ensures that it supports Chromecast with Google TV. In addition, there are 3 USB Type-A ports for connecting your favorite peripherals, and the aluminum casing is more durable than most and acts as a heat sink. Just be aware that it doesn't have a microSD card reader.

  • anker 543 usb hub white background
    Anker PowerExpand A8365

    If you're a stickler for avoiding cable clutter, the Anker PowerExpand A8365 should be high on your list. It's considerably slimmer than most of the competition, making it much easier to tuck out of the way. But despite its compact size, it has a decent port selection that allows you to connect to a wired network, USB webcam, and more. After you plug in the charger, you'll have one free Type-C port and two Type-A ports, which are enough for most users.

  • Itramax usb-c ethernet adapter white background front angled
    Itramax Ethernet Adapter

    There's not much to the Itramax Ethernet Adapter. As you can see, it's meant to add a wired network connection to your Google streaming device. While Wi-Fi is good enough for a lot of users, many people have issues with stuttering and load times due to poor wireless networking conditions. If your router is far from your TV and you want to ensure you always get the best possible resolution, this affordable option is right for you.

  • nekteck usb-c 45w charger white background
    Nekteck 45W USB-C PD Charger

    To keep devices like your external storage and webcam from shutting off during use, you'll need a USB-C PD power source. The Nekteck 45W USB-C Wall Charger is the lowest-priced option we could track down that meets its manufacturer's claims and delivers enough juice to run both the USB-C hub and Google Chromecast with Google TV. The plug folds away for easy storage, and it supports international voltages in case you need to travel with it.

Chromecast 4K vs. Chromecast HD

The 2020 release of the Chromecast with Google TV was a significant step in the right direction for Google. It pushed forward into the realm of USB-C while offering up to a 4K resolution and a significantly improved user interface.

If you can afford it, the $50 4K Chromecast is an excellent purchase. And don't worry that it's a bit older than its lower-resolution relative. It received an Android 12 update, which further streamlines the user experience, in addition to adding more in-depth control HDR, surround sound, privacy, and security options. This update also addressed one specific bug that periodically prevented supported USB hubs from working after a reboot.

If you're not concerned with 4K resolution or don't have a setup that supports HDR and surround sound, though, the more recent HD Chromecast is an even better deal at just $30. In terms of menu navigation, performance, and ongoing security, it's basically identical to the more expensive option.

Check out our full comparison of the two Chromecasts for more on how they compare.

Don't forget a USB-C charger

First, know that you likely won't be able to power any of these devices using the power supply that comes with either the newer or older Chromecast model. The included wall adapter simply can't deliver enough juice to power the streaming dongle and a USB-C hub, which requires roughly a 15W overhead. Moreover, connecting multiple devices to the hub increases its power consumption. You'll know if you've exceeded the power supply capacity if your Chromecast freezes or if individual components, such as a flash drive, webcam, or mouse freeze or disappear.

Any power supply you choose must support the USB-C Power Delivery protocol and should have a capacity of at least 45W to ensure reliable performance. As always, opting for a USB-C charger that's USB-IF certified to protect your devices is a good idea. We've highlighted two appropriate USB-C chargers from Nekteck and Ugreen.

The Nekteck 45W USB-C Charger is the least expensive and will work fine, but the Ugreen's Revodok 10-in-1 USB C is a newer model and built with 100W PD charging. Plus, its extra ports are a welcome streamline to your workflow, accommodating multiple peripherals while offering efficient power management. Of course, you don't need to spend a ton for a decent USB hub. The budget-friendly Mission USB hub is a worthy bare-bones alternative. And Totu's 7-in-1 Type C hub is a worthy mid-grade option with enough ports and power for the average user.

Do you need an Ethernet connection?

Slow Wi-Fi connections are a common problem with streaming devices, so many users want a USB-C hub mainly for a wired network connection. This keeps your resolution as high as possible and helps streamline the entire user experience since much of it takes place within apps as they're actively accessing the internet. If a wired connection is your main goal, the Itramax Ethernet Adapter is worth considering because it's purpose-built to add a wired connection, and that's it.

Make it easier to navigate the Chromecast

It's also common to add a keyboard and mouse to the Chromecast to make it easier to use apps and search for media. These should both be plug-and-play installations. If enhanced input is something you're interested in, make sure you get a hub with two or more USB-A ports. The only hub on our list that doesn't fit that description is the Itramax; all others support multiple Type-A peripherals.

Alternatively, since Chromecast dongles support Bluetooth connections, you can use a wireless keyboard and mouse without much hassle.

Store more offline content

If you're looking to expand the onboard storage of your Chromecast, a flash drive, SD card, or microSD card can help. Keep in mind these devices must be formatted in FAT32 for the Chromecast to access them. This does limit the viewing of external media to files of 4GB or less. If you want to access larger video files, you'll have to convert them to a different format with a more efficient codec and get them under the 4GB mark.

It's worth noting that at its initial release, the new Chromecast with Google TV had an app storage issue that led to a nearly full internal drive (and, therefore, frequent slowdowns) after just a couple of apps were installed. If you're still experiencing that issue, make sure you've updated your Chromecast, as later patches have largely mitigated the problem.

A note on file storage

Both recent Chromecast dongles use only the FAT32 file system, which is slower, older, and less versatile than the NTFS or exFAT architectures. You won't notice any issues in terms of pure performance, but there's one big limitation with FAT32. Drives using the FAT32 standard can't store individual files greater than 4 GB, smaller than some uncompressed video files that may or may not be in your collection.

Make sure to format all microSD and USB storage using the FAT32 file system, or they won't work with a Chromecast dongle, no matter what hub you use to connect them.

Using peripherals with Chromecast

For what it's worth, we have confirmed that each of our recommendations is compatible with the Chromecast with Google TV as long as you have an appropriate power supply. To use most of the added peripherals, you will have to access some developer options that are slightly hidden in the settings, but it's not that difficult. To enable the developer options, first, go into the Settings menu and then into the Device Preferences submenu. Next, select About and click on the Android TV OS Build seven times. It's basically the same process used to unlock Developer Mode on a Chromebook or Android smartphone.