Google TV Streamer vs Walmart Onn Pro: A Comprehensive Comparison
After a lengthy four-year wait, Google has introduced a new, more robust streaming device for Google TV. At $99, the Google TV Streamer is double the price of Walmart’s Onn Pro, but is it worth the extra cost? Let’s delve into the specifics.
Comparing Specifications: Google TV Streamer vs Walmart Onn Pro
For quite some time, Google TV devices have been criticized for their lack of raw power, especially when compared to Nvidia Shield TV. However, both the Google TV Streamer and Walmart Onn Pro have stepped up to offer significant improvements.
Processing Power
The Walmart Onn Pro operates on an Amlogic S905X4 chip, a quad-core processor that, while capable with technologies like AV1 decoding and 4k120 output, remains focused primarily on TV functionalities. It lacks the additional power for more demanding tasks.
In contrast, the Google TV Streamer uses the MediaTek 8696 chipset, the same used in Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max. Clocked at 2.0GHz, it is similarly optimized for TV operations, including AV1 support.
Memory
A key differentiator is memory capacity. The Google TV Streamer boasts 4GB of RAM, more than any mainstream Android TV OS device to date. Walmart’s device, on the other hand, has 3GB, matching the Nvidia Shield TV. This additional memory in the Google TV Streamer translates to quicker app load times and smoother multitasking.
Hardware Design: A Matter of Preference
When it comes to hardware design, personal preference plays a significant role.
Design and Ports
The Google TV Streamer features a slim, wide design that fits seamlessly in various setups, such as under a TV or on a cabinet. It includes three essential ports: USB-C for power and external storage, Ethernet for wired internet, and HDMI 2.1.
Conversely, Walmart Onn Pro presents a thicker yet smaller design, with a fabric top concealing built-in speakers and microphones for “Hey Google” voice commands. It offers four ports: Ethernet, HDMI, full-size USB-A, and a barrel plug for power.
Connectivity
Notably, Google TV Streamer does not come with an HDMI cable, requiring users to purchase it separately for $20, adding perceived value to Walmart’s offering. However, Google TV Streamer provides superior Ethernet connectivity with Gigabit speeds compared to Walmart’s 100mbps limit, albeit this difference is negligible for standard streaming.
Remote Controls: Simplicity vs. Functionality
The remote controls of these devices also differ significantly.
Google TV Streamer Remote
The Google TV Streamer remote features a minimalistic design with 10 buttons and a navigational D-Pad. It includes shortcuts for Netflix and YouTube, along with a customizable button for various functions.
Walmart Onn Pro Remote
Walmart’s remote, a generic Android TV/Google TV model, includes more buttons. It offers dedicated buttons for Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Paramount+, a “Free TV” shortcut, and a button for quick Google TV profile switching.
Unique Features: Locating the Lost Remote
Both devices include a helpful feature for locating misplaced remotes. A button on the device triggers the remote to emit a noise, assisting in its recovery. This function is also accessible via “Hey Google” on Onn Pro and through the Google Home app on both devices.
Software Support and Updates
Google TV’s platform receives many updates through apps, meaning software support between the Google TV Streamer and Walmart Onn Pro is largely similar. However, the Google TV Streamer is likely to receive new features earlier, such as the Home Panel and AI-generated screensavers, and potentially more frequent updates.
Conclusion: Price vs. Preference
Ultimately, the choice between Google TV Streamer and Walmart Onn Pro boils down to budget and personal preferences. Walmart Onn Pro, priced at a mere $49.88, offers exceptional value with similar features to Google’s latest device.
However, the Google TV Streamer justifies its $99 price tag with superior performance, a sleek design, and a more intuitive remote, appealing to those who prioritize these aspects.
Both options deliver excellent experiences within the Google TV ecosystem, making either a worthwhile purchase depending on availability—Google TV Streamer has broader international availability, whereas Walmart Onn Pro is limited to the US.
Which one will you choose?
