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You need power to use Chromecast because the receiver doesn’t have batteries. It comes with a power charger that connects to the receiver via a micro USB port on one end and a USB port that connects to the TV on the other. Chromecast Ultra uses an AC power supply.
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Does Chromecast Work Without Power?
Chromecast doesn’t work without power because there’s nothing in the compact device to hold a charge. However, many Chromecast receivers don’t need long cables or AC wall outlets to be powered (except Chromecast Ultra). Unfortunately, you can’t add batteries to a Chromecast receiver.
We advise against using the USB input as a power source for the Chromecast Ultra and older models that require AC power supplies.
Doing so will end up overloading the TV, which can damage the TV and the Chromecast. Make sure you know how your Chromecast should be powered (more information on that below).
How Does Chromecast Get Power?
Chromecast gets power via a USB cable that plugs into the receiver on one end and the TV on the other. Since Chromecast doesn’t require a lot of electricity, it doesn’t affect the TV’s performance. Chromecast Ultra gets its power from an AC power supply (provided with the device).
Here are the two ways Chromecast gets its power:
- Google explains that you can plug a Chromecast into a power supply that connects to the TV’s USB input. The receiver plugs into an available HDMI cable, but they don’t draw energy from these cables. A Chromecast receiver requires a micro USB to USB cable that’s provided with the device.
- If you have a Chromecast Ultra, it gets its power from a provided AC power supply. The supply connects to a wall outlet on one side and the Chromecast receiver on the other side. Like the regular Chromecast, the Chromecast Ultra receiver also connects to an HDMI input on the TV.
Not having the right power source could be one of the many reasons you can’t cast to your TV. Make sure you have a compatible power supply for your Chromecast.
How Much Power Does Chromecast Require?
Chromecast requires 1 volt at 5 amps for a total of 5 watts an hour. It’s one of the most energy-efficient ways to cast and watch your favorite movies and shows. Chromecasts come with the required power supply, so you don’t have to worry about getting any cables.
Google estimates that every Chromecast device uses about 5 watts per hour, but the Chromecast Ultra has an ethernet port that could slightly increase its power usage.
Regardless of whether or not you use the ethernet port, you won’t have to worry about using too much electricity. In fact, it’s significantly lower than your TV’s energy usage.
Does Chromecast Use Power When the TV Is Off?
Chromecast uses power when the TV is off because the device is still activated. Unplugging the Chromecast will stop it from trickling electricity from the TV. However, 5 watts is a negligible amount of energy, which is why most Chromecast owners never unplug their receivers.
According to Google, all Chromecast devices use power when the TV is off (unless you unplug them). The USB cable from the Chromecast trickles a small amount of power, as does your TV. On the other hand, the Ultra variant trickles power from the AC wall outlet. All electronics pull a small amount of electricity when they’re plugged in.
If your power bill goes up after using Chromecast, it’s more than likely due to your increased TV usage. Chromecast’s effects on your utility usage are extremely small and barely noticeable. Keep in mind that casting can use a lot of data, which could take its toll on your internet provider and bandwidth.
How Long Do Chromecast Remote Batteries Last?
Chromecast remote batteries last between one to five months or more, depending on how often you use the remote. High-quality batteries last much longer. Chromecast remotes require two AAA batteries. The remote includes batteries, so you won’t have to replace them for a while.
Community members of Google Nest report their original Chromecast batteries lose their charge fairly quickly compared to other remotes. Once you replace the stock batteries, their longevity depends on the make and model.
The battery’s longevity depends on how often you click the remote. A Chromecast remote is always on when it has batteries, even if the lights aren’t illuminated.
You can remove the batteries between each use, but this ends up being a bit too tedious. My best recommendation is to get your batteries from a reliable company like Energizer or Duracell.
Final Thoughts
Chromecast receivers are compact and typically remove the need for an AC outlet (unless you choose the Chromecast Ultra). All Chromecast receivers use very little electricity, so their power consumption shouldn’t be an issue.