For $35, you might not expect much from Google's Chromecast. As it turns out, this little TV dongle can do a whole lot more than just stream video from Netflix and YouTube, or view browser tabs on the big screen.
Unlocking the true potential of your Chromecast, however, requires a little ingenuity and some deep digging into the Chrome browser's Cast extension. With these hints, tips, and secrets for Chromecast, you'll be able to improve streaming video performance, mirror your entire PC screen, display locally stored files, and more. Not bad for a device the price of a few pizzas!
1. Reduce streaming quality to improve video casting
That's the one you want. (Click to enlarge.)
Chromecast works best when it's streaming Netflix and YouTube videos directly from the Internet, with your phone or tablet serving as a remote control. It's not quite as reliable when you're using the "Google Cast" Chrome extension to mirror browser tabs. Depending on the strength of your wireless network and the power of your computer, you may have trouble casting videos from Chrome without the audio falling out of sync with the video.
If this happens to you, chances are you can solve the problem by turning down the video quality of the stream. Click the Cast button in Chrome and then click Options. Under Tab projection quality, select Standard (480p). Video won't look as sharp on your television, but hey, at least it'll be watchable.
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