If you really want it, you can link Chromecast and AirPlay together. They are two completely different systems; it is not possible without help. That is why in this article we explain how to make the connection and what the differences are between the two systems.
Chromecast is a system from Google; AirPlay is a system from Apple. Both systems are basically the same, but cannot simply work together.
To do that, you need an extra app that bridges the gap between the two technologies.
With both chromecast as AirPlay you transfer content from one device to another. For example, you can send a new episode of your favorite Netflix series of your Mac to the Apple TV. But what if you don't have an Apple media player, but do have a Chromecast?
Chromecast and AirPlay: The Link
There are a number of apps that bridge the gap between Chromecast and AirPlay. One of the better apps at the moment is AirParrot 3.
This is a Mac program that is initially free to use for seven days. After that you have to pay 20,17 euros once.
Also read: Download Netflix Macbook: this method does work
Within those seven days you can determine for yourself whether this is the right app for you and whether it is worth the 20 euros. How do you install the app and how do you use it afterwards? You can read that below.
After installing and opening the app, AirParrot 3 will automatically search for available target devices. A target device is a device within your home network to which content is streamed. The Mac in question is then a source device; i.e. a device from which the content originates.
In addition, as a Mac or macOS user, you have other options at your disposal. We previously published an extensive article about this. In that piece you can read all about casting content from a Mac(Book) to a Chromecast device. So you don't have to buy a program.
Differences Chromecast and AirPlay
Finally, we briefly discuss the differences between Chromecast and AirPlay. As mentioned, both platforms are very similar.
The use of it is the same: you select the content you want to watch and press the available cast button to stream the content.
The Google Cast platform, as Chromecast is also called, can be used much more widely than Apple's AirPlay. Cast works on a wider range of devices, while AirPlay is limited to Apple devices. In addition, far fewer third-party apps work off the Apple standard.
Another difference is the support for voice assistants. Again, Apple's platform only works with Apple's voice assistant on Apple's products.
Then we're talking about Siri. However, the Google Assistant is much more widely available on many more (types of) devices.
Then we have the costs. If you want a simple Chromecast, it will cost you a few tenners at the most. But if you go for an Apple TV, the media player from the iPhone maker, you will soon lose more than a hundred euros — so we understand that as an Apple user you are considering alternatives.
Chromecast and AirPlay: which do you choose?
In general, digital nomads are very pleased with the quality and possibilities of the Google Chromecast.
That doesn't mean AirPlay is a bad alternative. However, you will spend more money on it, while you are somewhat limited in terms of functions and possibilities.
With the above options, it no longer has to matter which media player you choose. Because if you buy a Chromecast and then purchase this program, you will still be cheaper than if you only bought an Apple TV.
Read also:
- Apple TV and Chromecast: these are the options (+ explanation)
- Which Chromecast to buy? I've tested them all
- The ultimate Netflix guide: 20 things you should definitely know
- Buy Chromecast 4 with Google TV: best deals + useful tips
- TV with built-in Chromecast: options and possibilities at a glance
- Install Chromecast: with this guide you always succeed
- Chromecast Powerpoint: this is how you present on the big screen
