Trending December 2023 # Vdi Vs Vpn: Which One Is Better & Main Differences # Suggested January 2024 # Top 21 Popular

You are reading the article Vdi Vs Vpn: Which One Is Better & Main Differences updated in December 2023 on the website Achiashop.com. We hope that the information we have shared is helpful to you. If you find the content interesting and meaningful, please share it with your friends and continue to follow and support us for the latest updates. Suggested January 2024 Vdi Vs Vpn: Which One Is Better & Main Differences

VDI vs VPN: Which one is better & main differences

342

VPNs and VDIs are both popular remote access technologies that work wonders, especially for remote working.

However, they are entirely different types of services, and choosing one or the other might not always be the easiest decision to make.

Check out our Business VPN Hub if you want to boost your company’s security.

Visit the Business Software Section for more tools that can help you grow your business.

INSTALL BY CLICKING THE DOWNLOAD FILE

To fix Windows PC system issues, you will need a dedicated tool

Fortect is a tool that does not simply cleans up your PC, but has a repository with several millions of Windows System files stored in their initial version. When your PC encounters a problem, Fortect will fix it for you, by replacing bad files with fresh versions. To fix your current PC issue, here are the steps you need to take:

Download Fortect and install it on your PC.

Start the tool’s scanning process to look for corrupt files that are the source of your problem

Fortect has been downloaded by

readers this month.

If you’re not exactly new with using PCs and, most importantly, networking techniques, you might’ve heard about VPN and VDI. Granted, VDI is not as popular as a VPN, but it’s still pretty well-known, especially for teleworkers.

In our guide, we’ll help you understand the main differences between these remote access technologies, as well as decide which one is better for your current needs.

What is a VPN?

A VPN, short for Virtual Private Network, is a technology that helps you connect to a specific network remotely if you have Internet access. Most VPNs enforce security measures, so as to prevent unauthorized connections to the network.

Once you’ve established a connection, you’re basically inside the physical network without actually being there.

You can access various network resources, such as files, and even devices by using a VPN connection.

VPN could also refer to the popular anonymization tool, which is used to keep your connection secure and identity private while you’re online.

You just run the VPN client, connect to a server, and that’s it. The VPN encrypts your traffic and routes it through its secure network of servers.

There’s a common confusion between corporate VPNs and consumer-grade VPNs (such as Private Internet Access), but in this article, we’re only going to focus on the former.

What is VDI?

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is a technology that can grant you access to a virtual desktop through a centralized server. VDI users are granted access to identical applications, managed by a system administrator.

Therefore, using a VDI is like having a dedicated server that hosts several virtual machines. Each hosted machine can be configurated separately by its owner (who reserved the machine).

It’s widely different than a VPN, which only grants you access to the network it’s configured on. A VDI also allocates resources to you, aside from the fact that you can access the corporate network through the virtual desktop you’ve been assigned.

How are VPNs and VDIs different?

While using a VPN, you establish a secure connection through a pre-configured server. Depending on the system you’re using, you may or may not need additional software to establish the secure VPN tunnel. Windows 10 has built-in VPN support, for instance.

VDI, on the other hand, provides you with a customizable virtual station that runs independently from other virtual machines on the same server. Having dedicated resources for each machine can greatly boost security and performance, but it also costs more.

Is VDI better than VPN?

Depending on your needs, you may consider one service or the other. However, you can’t really compare the two on a fair basis, since they’re different types of service (apples and oranges).

While VDI excels, a VPN might not do so good, and the other way around. For instance, setting up a VDI may take a long time, whereas deploying and configuring a corporate VPN server can be done in less than a day.

Furthermore, setting up and maintaining a VDI is significantly more expensive than a VPN.

As far as security goes, a VDI can be more secure than a VPN if configured properly. You can restrict VDIs from allowing data leaks outside the corporate network, whereas VPNs can only protect tunneled data.

Employees can copy company data (depending on permissions and privileges) on their local PC. Thus, it’s easy to see how a careless (or rogue) employee, can easily leak this sensitive information (with or without will) long after disconnecting from the VPN.

Performance-wise, VPNs are somewhat limited, since they highly depend on the client device and connection quality. If you’re using an old device and your connection is not exactly fast, your VPN connection might be awful to work with.

VDIs, on the other hand, are allocated separate resources, and only depend on bandwidth usage. As far as processing power goes, VDIs clearly have the upper hand.

To put it shortly:

VDI is significantly more expensive to deploy than a VPN

VPNs can facilitate data leaks if clients are not careful enough

VDIs are generally faster than VPNs

It would be easier to deploy security patches to VDIs than to VPN devices on the network

VPNs highly depend on client hardware, whereas VDIs use dedicated resources on the server

A VPN can be slower than a VDI since it depends on both client hardware and connection quality

It is easier and less expensive to maintain a VPN server

With VDIs, applications and data remain on the virtual machines

Using a VDI requires no complicated configuration, as it can be accessed even through your web browser

VDI runs on a broad variety of devices, whereas VPNs may have certain compatibility issues

Final thoughts on VDI vs VPN

All things considered, VDIs and VPNs are both great technologies that can come in handy especially if you’re a remote worker, or if you have remote-working employees.

Each service type has its strength and weaknesses, so it’s crucial to understand what sets them apart before making your choice.

However, VDIs are generally more fit for big companies that can afford the investment, whereas VPNs cater more to the needs of small enterprises.

Your connection is not secure – websites you visit can find out your details:

Use a VPN to protect your privacy and secure your connection.

We recommend Visit Private Internet Access

We recommend Private Internet Access , a VPN with a no-log policy, open source code, ad blocking and much more; now 79% off.

Was this page helpful?

Start a conversation

You're reading Vdi Vs Vpn: Which One Is Better & Main Differences

Amd Vs Intel: Which One Is Better?

See also: What’s the best GPU for gaming?

AMD vs Intel — Where they stand

AMD and Intel have a long intertwined history in the semiconductor market. Intel is a Goliath in the space, leading the charge with its CPUs since the IBM era. AMD hopped on the scene fairly early as a licensed manufacturer for Intel and others. It later started making its own chips, offering cheaper alternatives to Intel. AMD’s first big moment came when it introduced the first x86_64 chip in 2003, beating Intel. This 64-bit move pushed AMD forward. It became an Intel alternative with a better price-to-performance in the 2000s.

AMD and Intel have a cross-licensing agreement under which Intel lets AMD make x86 CPUs, and AMD lets Intel use its x86_64 instruction set. AMD has historically been the underdog in this race. It lagged behind Intel by failing to implement a proper equivalent to Hyperthreading, among other architectural improvements. This is why Intel’s lower-end offerings could often beat AMD CPUs with much higher core counts. This was until AMD introduced its Zen architecture in 2023, with the first-gen Ryzen CPUs.

What does AMD offer?

AMD

AMD has a relatively lean lineup of CPUs. With the new Zen architecture, its offerings have gotten much more streamlined. There are options available at different prices for consumers, although not as many as Intel offers.

AMD has managed to expand its range of CPUs with the Ryzen lineup. You get four tiers of Ryzen CPUs — Ryzen 3, 5, 7, and 9. You also get the Threadripper series, the beefiest consumer CPU AMD sells. On the lower end are the Athlon processors. AMD also has a solid graphics card lineup under the Radeon brand and server solutions under the EPYC branding.

AMD vs Intel — budget and mid-range CPUs

Kris Carlon / Android Authority

Both Intel and AMD have a solid presence in the budget and mid-range segments. They have head-to-head competitors in the space for the most part, which means that consumers have options between the two.

AMD A-Series and Athlon vs Intel Pentium and Celeron

Both AMD and Intel have two prominent series in the low-budget market. AMD has the A-Series APUs, which have enjoyed popularity in super affordable systems and come with integrated graphics. The other offering is the Athlon series, which has come from being its former flagship series to powering budget AMD systems.

Intel has two offerings in the space as well. First off is the legendary Pentium series, which was also Intel’s flagship range back in the days. Along with it is the Celeron lineup, which slots slightly lower than Pentium.

There are quite a few models in these ranges, but many of those are OEM-only models that you cannot purchase separately. If you were to pick one, the best AMD pick would be the AMD Athlon 3000G, and the best Intel pick would be the Intel Pentium Gold 6400G. Both offer similar specifications, but the Pentium pulls ahead in a few metrics.

AMD Ryzen 3 vs Intel Core i3

AMD and Intel face off in the budget performance categories with their Ryzen 3 and Core i3 CPUs. However, their strategies are a bit different. While both have offerings that compete well and have a solid value for money, AMD has taken a different approach with its Ryzen 3 lineup.

AMD’s Ryzen 3 lineup has gone OEM-only, which means you can get the newer Ryzen 3 models, i.e., 4000 series and 5000 series models, in pre-built systems only. You cannot purchase these newer Ryzen 3 CPUs to build your own PC. The best AMD Ryzen 3 CPU you can get individually is the Ryzen 3 3300X, which is a couple of generations old.

AMD Ryzen 5 vs Intel Core i5

AMD vs Intel — high-end CPUs

Kris Carlon / Android Authority

Intel and AMD compete in the high-end market on several levels, ranging from high-performance consumer systems to maxed-out core-packed offerings for power users.

AMD Ryzen 7 vs Intel Core i7

AMD Ryzen 9 vs Intel Core i9

The consumer flagship CPU segment also has tough competition between the two chipmakers. AMD has two solid entrants in the space, with the 5900X with a 12-core, 24-thread design, and the top-of-the-line 5950x with a 16-core 32-thread design. You can get the 5900X for around $400 versus the $570 MSRP, and the 5950X for $550 versus the $800 MSRP.

Intel has retaken the lead with its 12th Gen refresh. The standard model is the i9-12900K, with an eight-core, 16-thread design. The beefiest model is the i9-12900KS at 150W, with the 125W 12900K right behind. You can get the 12900K for around $600, with the 12900KS going for between $750 and $800.

Stool Vs. Chair: Which Is Better For Your Posture?

How do you know if an ergonomic stool or chair is your best option? The answer may astound you!

There are numerous reasons to invest in an ergonomic chair or stool, but the consequences will differ significantly.

So, which is better for your posture? Stool or chair?

In general, ergonomic stools, compared to office chairs, are better for correcting posture through active sitting and neutral spine positioning. Office chairs do not encourage active sitting; prolonged sitting in a chair can increase fatigue and stress.

If you are confused about choosing an ergonomic chair or stool for your home office, learn its pros and cons.

This article will also guide you on how to sit on office chairs and stools and provide you with some of the best ergonomic chairs and stools.

Stool Vs. Chair: Which is Better for Posture?

Several debates and studies support the need for an ergonomic stool or an office chair for proper posture. Both, however, provide postural benefits.

Ergonomic chairs offer comfort and support features like headrests and armrests. However, stools work best for posture correction.

Ergonomic stools provide lumbopelvic region support. Meanwhile, chairs are suitable for you if you work long hours.

They support the lordotic lumbar posture, which can be achieved using height-adjustable stools.

Refer to the table below for the differences between an ergonomic chair and a stool.

Ergonomic ChairErgonomic Stool

Lacks other ergonomic features like armrest, headrest but it can be height-adjustable.

They have four legs.

Usually takes up more space.Takes up minimal space.

It is more comfortable with features like recline and chúng tôi focuses on active sitting.

They are usually more chúng tôi are cheaper than chairs.

Costs between $150-$2000Costs between $150-$1300

Doesn’t promote active sittingPromotes active sitting

Keeps your back straight at 90 degrees angle with your legs.Keeps your back in its natural curve position.

Office chairs are usually stationary.Stools provide mobility.

Chairs are generally used for sitting purpose.Stools can be used for standing and sitting purpose.

Stools correct your posture without the use of any ergonomic supports. So, using chairs is better for your posture in the long run.

Different types of stool help you in different ways. Here are some of the types of chairs and their functions.

Generally, stools do not have arms or backs and have only a single seat.

However, you can also find stools with ergonomic features like swoppers, saddles, and ghopec.

1. Saddle Stool

Saddle stools are shaped like a saddle, putting you in a forward-leaning position where your hips and knees bend at 135 degrees.

Saddle stools are designed to allow the user to sit in a position that promotes good posture by aligning the spine and supporting the natural curvature of the lower back.

These stools are best for muscle activation. The saddle rotates your pelvis to support the natural spine curve, providing effortless movement.

Some saddle stools may also have adjustable height, a footrest, and a backrest to enhance their ergonomic design.

2. Ghopec Stool

Research on the effects of different types of stools on muscle activity and lumbar posture showed that the Ghopec stool was the best compared to the saddle and standard chair for maintaining neutral lumbar posture.

3. Wobble Stool

Wobble stool works best for active sitting. They have a round base that allows the seat to move in all directions, which can help improve balance and promote good posture.

It engages the leg and hip muscles to maintain an upright posture.

For instance, the height-adjustable feature of the FLEXISPOT Wobble Stool allows you to switch between sitting and standing while engaging your core muscles.

However, wobble stools may not be suitable and ergonomic for everyone as they may not be as stable as traditional stools or chairs. They may not provide as much support for the back.

Disclaimer: Wobble stools may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions or disabilities that affect balance or mobility.

Advantages of Sitting on the Ergonomic Stool

Office chairs have been so commonly used that using a stool might sound bizarre.

1. Active Sitting for Posture Improvement

Using a comfortable chair with back support seems like a comfortable idea. However, comfort and support will not correct your slouching posture.

Active sitting uses an unstable surface that increases trunk movement, resulting in an upright posture.

Stools with uneven postures promote active sitting, keeping you alert and correcting your slouching habit through active sitting.

2. Neutral Spine Position

Stools promote a natural spine position by maintaining the spine’s natural curve.

Sitting in a natural position will remove the pressure on your muscles and back, preventing chronic back pain.

Ergonomic chairs support your back with back support, which keeps your back straight. On the other hand, a stool will force you to straighten your back, correcting your slouching habit.

It also enables you to withhold the upright position by engaging your core muscles and making them stronger.

Secondly, Stools seat you at elevation compared to ordinary chairs; slant your thighs downwards.

This moves your lower back into a neutral posture which improves your posture and reduces pain.

3. Burn More Calories

You are likely to burn fewer calories when you work hours in your office, leaving you too tired to exercise.

You can burn calories while working in your office using active sitting methods.

Active sitting allowed by the stools helps you burn calories by engaging your muscles.

According to the research published in the International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics , an active sitting stool showed more significant caloric expenditure per minute among participants compared to standard chairs.

4. Reduces Back Pain

Most work-induced back pain is due to pressure buildup in the spine and back while sitting.

The neutral position achieved while using a stool will gradually decrease your back pain by correcting your posture through active sitting.

Stools such as saddle stools allow you to sit with the forwarding tilt of the seat pan.

According to the research, this position helps maintain a lumbar lordosis sitting posture, which reduces pressure and pain in the lower back.

An ergonomic stool can help reduce the risk of injury by promoting good posture and reducing strain on the body.

Read on to discover 10 Best Office Chair Alternatives for lower back pain.

5. Strengthens Core Muscles

Stools do not have any back or arm support. The design does not add discomfort but helps you strengthen your core muscles.

According to Senior Ergonomist Sukhi Assee, stools help strengthen core muscles by working the abdominal, shoulder, and lateral forces.

You are forced to maintain an upright structure while using a stool. By correcting your posture constantly, your back muscles will be stronger.

Moreover, an ergonomic stool allows the user to move around freely, which can help increase blood flow and reduce muscle strain.

Stools can correct your posture, and some people opt for ergonomic chairs instead when presented with the benefits.

So, what can be the reason behind it? Let’s find out!

1. Increased Slouch

Sitting on the stool with your thighs slanted can correct your posture. However, sitting this way for an extended time can increase slouching.

Lumbar lordosis is maintained when sitting in an optimum position. However, your body limits keeping your back upright, so you slouch more.

However, there are stools with lumbar support to solve this problem.

2. Increased Fatigue and Muscle Soreness

Sitting on the stool encourages a neutral posture by not providing support.

However, if you already have a habit of slouching, you must work your muscles more to stay upright.

Consequently, you might be tired, and your muscles can be sore initially. Saddle stools can also increase discomfort in your hips and limbs.

A survey among students comparing an office chair and an active stool showed that students experienced more discomfort using a functional seat than using office chairs.

3. Poor Leg Circulation

You are in a sit/stand position while using a high stool which can cause leg swelling.

The legs swell due to compression of the veins in the thighs and hips, which cuts off the circulation in your legs, leading to fluid accumulation.

This generally occurs when sitting on a stool too high for height.

The problem is more common because most non-height adjustable stools are built high, which is unsuitable for shorter people.

Read on to discover preventive measures to avoid feet swelling when sittiing in an office chair.

4. Problems for Short People

Most saddle chairs are built for tall people, with 19.5 inches being the shortest saddle chair available.

You will have problems using a saddle stool if you are less than 5.2 feet.

Usually, stools are high, so you might face difficulties sitting and getting off them.

Although, the availability of height-adjustable stools like the Height adjustable Wobble Stool eliminates the problem.

If the stool is not height-adjustable and you are short, it can cause your feet to dangle, leading to swelling of the feet due to fluid accumulation.

Tips to Sit on an Ergonomic Stool Properly

Although sitting on a stool is not as comfortable as sitting on a chair, you can cut the discomfort correctly.

Here are some of the best ways to sit on a stool.

Keep your seating position elevated with your knees below the hip level.

Sit with your elbows in an L shape and your forearms perpendicular to your elbows.

While sitting on a stool, do not sit on the edge; move to the back with your back aligned with the back end of the chair.

Take breaks; walk around after every hour.

Balance your weight at your hips.

Keep your ankles in front of your knees.

Keep your shoulders relaxed and rest your feet on the ground while working.

Do not leave your feet dangling in any condition.

Also, do not sit in a crossed-leg position, even if it feels comfortable.

Stools are no longer wooden kitchen pieces; many ergonomic stools with features aid ergonomic sitting.

Here are some of the season’s best.

Are Ergonomic Chairs Good for Your Posture?

When comparing stools vs. chairs, Ergonomic chairs offer ergonomic benefits like a backrest, armrest, headrest, etc.

While sitting on a regular chair, your pelvis is rotated, reducing the lumbar lordosis and increasing disc pressure.

Type of Ergonomic Chairs

There are ergonomic chairs of different types, like Synchro-tilt task chairs, ergonomic office chairs, gaming chairs, etc.

Let’s have a look at a few of them.

Types of Ergonomic ChairFeatures

Adjustable back height, back angle adjustments with infinite lock positions.

Fully adjustable seat height and seat back.

Fully Adjustable Arms adjust

Advantages of Sitting in an Ergonomic chair

Ergonomic chairs contain ergonomic features, making them more functional and supporting your body.

1. Provides Optimal Sitting Posture

Ergonomic chairs come with a backrest, and some come with back support that matches the spine’s natural curvature.

Research states that an optimal position is when the natural spine posture and lumbar lordosis when sitting are matched with the standing posture.

Back support in the chair supports the lumbar region of the spine, which helps you sit optimally with a straight back.

2. Provides Adjustable Features

Ergonomic chairs include headrests and armrests. The office chairs like Gabrylly Ergonomic Mesh Chair include a headrest for better head and shoulder posture.

According to research, headrests maintain a horizontal head position in a reclined position. It supports the head and neck, so we do not recline.

Armrests are also essential for keeping muscles relaxed and optimally positioned.

According to the research, it also supports one’s upper body weight and reduces the seating force.

Ergonomic chairs usually have more adjustable features like seat pan tilt, adjustable height feature, backrest tilt, etc.

These adjustability features make working comfortable, and you can adjust the seat according to your height and body.

3. Enhanced Productivity

Employees spend the majority of their office hours sitting on their chairs. They must have a comfy chair to be productive at work.

Work productivity is increased by increased comfort due to features like headrests, backrests, etc.

Also, preventing issues like back pain, neck pain, and slipped discs allows workers to focus on their work.

Research on ergonomic work interventions showed that combining ergonomic training with an ergonomic chair improves productivity.

Similarly, another research focuses on preventing musculoskeletal disorders and correcting posture as a factor for productivity improvement.

Research conducted among female office workers shows that using an ergonomic chair with adjustable features can improve work productivity by 40%.

4. Comfortable to Use

Ergonomic chairs are usually more comfortable than stools. So, it can also be used for relaxation.

The ergonomic chairs have headrests, armrests, and padded backing to lean back and relax. Some of the chairs also include reclining features.

The adjustable features are also easy to operate with easy-to-spin knobs or levers.

5. Reduces Pressure on Hips and Body Pain

Pressure can build up in your hips when sitting on an office chair with a 90-degree knee bend.

Slightly tilt your seat pan forward to reduce the pressure on your hips. However, standard office chairs do not have this feature.

Ergonomic chairs with seat pan tilt allow you to tilt your seat pan forward about 10 degrees, allowing your knees to bend slightly above 90 degrees, depressurizing your hip joints.

According to the research, using the forward seat tilt feature reduces hip flexion which can cause Lumbar kyphosis.

An ergonomic chair has many features like a backrest, armrest, headrest, etc.

Those features work together to reduce pain like neck, back, and shoulder discomfort by providing support.

According to the research, using an ergonomic chair reduces pain intensity compared to using fewer ergonomic features.

1. Bad for Back

You sit in an office chair with your elbows, hips, and knees at a 90-degree angle, which is ideal.

However, this position does not maintain the natural back position.

The lumbar support feature in office chairs supports the back by pushing against the back. However, it does not correct your posture itself.

Long durations of sitting in an office chair might induce low back pain.

The leading cause is that an office chair’s static position causes tension in the back, shoulders, arms, and legs.

It can add significant pressure to the back muscles and spinal discs.

Incorrect sitting posture can damage spinal structures over time and can worsen back pain.

2. Risk of a Sedentary Lifestyle

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in four Americans sits for more than eight hours daily. This increases the sedentary lifestyle.

A sedentary lifestyle essentially means an inactive lifestyle. Sitting on an ergonomic chair is comfortable. As a result, increased comfort can also make you lazy.

You might spend long hours on the chair without taking breaks, increasing your disc and spine pressure. It can also lead to reduced circulation.

3. Office Chairs Can Explode

Office chairs do not usually explode, but, as rare as it gets, sometimes the gas cylinders used in chair height adjustment can explode.

A 14-year-old boy in China lost his life in 2009 after the pneumatic gas cylinder in an office chair exploded.

Typically, office chairs use compressed nitrogen gas in their gas cylinders, but some low-quality cheap chairs use pressurized air instead of any gas.

The gas cylinder can also explode if its loose piston or chamber seals are broken.

Tips for Sitting on an Ergonomic Chair

Adjust the chair’s height to lay flat on the ground.

If your chair has armrests, rest your arms on the armrest with your shoulders relaxed.

Sit with your hips at the back of the chair seat.

If your chair has a forward seat pan tilt option, adjust the seat pan to 20 to 30 degrees forward.

Recline the back of the chair to 100 to 110 degrees.

Best Ergonomic Chairs in 2023

Here are some of the best ergonomic office chairs.

Read more: Is an Office chair better with wheels or without wheels

The Bottom Line

A rigorous comparison demonstrates that stools are ideal for improving posture.

Stools encourage active sitting, slope your thighs downwards for less lumbar and pelvic pain, and place your spine in a natural curve rather than slouching.

To maximize comfort and avoid pain, you must sit ergonomically with the proper posture, regardless of whether you use an ergonomic chair or stool.

If you feel discomfort while using stools, the suitable type might not fit you, so explore different kinds of seats to choose the best one for you.

Whatever you decide, always maintain a healthy work habit by taking the necessary steps, such as taking a break at least once every hour.

Related article: What should be the ideal height of an office chair?

Chromecast Vs. Airplay: What’s Different And Which Is Better?

Chromecast and Apple AirPlay are two of the most popular streaming dongle services available — but what’s the difference, and which is better?

In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Chromecast vs. AirPlay so that you can choose which is better for you.

Table of Contents

Google Chromecast vs. Apple Airplay With Apple TV 4K: The Breakdown

Chromecast and Apple AirPlay are similar streaming services, but the devices they work with and the features they offer are vastly different.

There are two different Google Chromecast devices available, the Google Chromecast HD version and the 4K version.

However, there’s only one Apple AirPlay device currently available — the Apple TV 4K.

Keep reading to find a detailed comparison of these two casting methods.

Price

When making a purchasing decision, price is usually a big factor — and the price difference between the Chromecast and Apple TV 4K is pretty significant.

The Google Chromecast with Google TV HD costs just $33, and the 4K version will only set you back $49. In contrast, the Apple TV 4K starts at $129, with the Wi-Fi and Ethernet option costing a whopping $149.

When it comes to price, Google Chromecast definitely comes out on top.

Video quality

In terms of video quality, the two versions of Google Chromecast offer different capabilities. The Google Chromecast HD version only offers 1080p support, while the 4K option offers far superior video quality.

For the sake of this review, we’ll compare the Apple TV 4K to the Google Chromecast 4K.

Both devices offer the latest in streaming tech: 4K HDR video up to 60fps with support for Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and HDMI 2.1.

Google Chromecast 3rd generation close-up isolated on white background. Selective focus. Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil. May 2023.

However, there is a slight difference in optimization capabilities. The Chromecast with Google TV 4K does not allow users to optimize the video quality to their preference and device — it’s completely automatic.

The Apple TV 4K, however, lets you optimize your settings during setup. You can view video quality information, test HDMI connections, and even use your iPhone’s camera to calibrate the Apple TV’s color profile to your TV’s display.

This optimization is undoubtedly useful, but most users probably won’t use it to the best of their ability. Unless you’re keen on doing some serious playing around, the standard 4K features for either device are probably sufficient.

Remote

The Chromecast with Google TV remote control also includes voice control via Google Assistant. The remote itself has a slightly cheaper feel than the Apple TV 4K remote. It’s powered by AAA batteries which makes it a little less sleek.

Overall, the Apple TV 4K wins when it comes to remote design. However, whether the price jump is worth it for the remote is a personal call. Streaming Services

Both devices currently offer access to every major video streaming service available in the United States, as long as you have an account.

This means you can stream content from Amazon Prime, Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Apple TV, YouTube Red, and many more through either device. Both devices are also compatible with multiple audio streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Pandora, so you can stream music and podcasts through your TV too.

The Google Chromecast with Google TV also allows screen mirroring through the Google Chrome browser. However, this feature is not compatible with other web browsers.

Compatibility

Unlike their devices, there is a definite difference between Chromecast and AirPlay when it comes to compatibility. Google Chromecast support is more widespread, while Apple AirPlay is restricted to Apple devices.

In simple terms, your iPhone can cast to Chromecast but your Android can’t AirPlay to Apple TV 4K. You also can’t Chromecast Apple TV+ content or anything purchased through iTunes from an Apple iPhone.

Apple has an irritating tendency to force users into its own technical ecosystem. While this means your iOS devices such as your Mac, iPad, and iPhone will communicate easily, it also restricts you to Apple devices.

In terms of Smart Home compatibility, the Chromecast with Google TV can also work with your other Google Home devices, such as your Google Nest.

So, if you are already the owner of a few Apple products, and buy content from iTunes through an Apple TV+, it’s probably worth shelling out the extra money for an Apple TV 4K. However, if you own an Android device such as a Samsung, it would be wise to stick with Chromecast.

Audio

In terms of audio quality, either device will only be as good as the speakers or headphones you are using. But there are some cool audio features depending on what other audio gadgets you have.

If you own a pair of AirPods Max or AirPods Pro, then you’ll have access to the Spatial Audio feature. This is an in-ear surround experience that locks the position of the audio to the screen or device you’re watching on. If you turn your head while wearing AirPods, voices will still sound like they’re coming from the TV’s position.

This feature is a fantastic way to further immerse yourself in your media. However, unless you’re going to be using AirPods, then it isn’t going to do much for you.

The Google Chromecast with Google TV is compatible with other Google Home devices. This includes Google Nest smart speakers. If you have them, you can place them around and create a surround sound or multi-room audio experience.

Storage

The Apple TV 4K comes with 64GB or 128GB internal storage, while the Chromecast with Google TV has a paltry 8GB. That said, with how the Chromecast works, you shouldn’t need much space. The Apple TV 4K having that extra storage is important if you plan to use it to play games.

Gameplay

While gaming certainly isn’t the main use of these devices, they do have some cool gaming features.

Chromecast has a small selection of supported games. These are generally the sort of games you would find pre-downloaded on a computer, like solitaire or pinball.

The Apple TV 4K supports a long list of App Store and Apple Arcade games. Additionally, your data and progress are stored in the Game Center, so you can start a game on your iPhone and pick up where you left off on your TV. You can even use your PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series S/Series X controller to play those games on the Apple TV 4K.

When it comes to gaming, Apple TV 4K is definitely the way to go.

Tech Specifications

The Apple TV 4K is powered by the A15 Bionic processor. This is the same chip you’ll find in the standard iPhone 14, so it’s pretty fast. It’s certainly faster than the Chromecast with Google TVs Quad-core Amlogic processor. However, the Chromecast is more than sufficient for smooth video playback.

The Apple TV 4K also has superior Wi-Fi technology (Wi-Fi 6) and, on the Ethernet model, a Gigabit Ethernet port. These add to the speed of the Apple TV 4K experience — but only if you have a super fast internet connection.

The Apple TV 4K uses the Apple tvOS operating system, while the Google Chromecast uses Android TV. When it comes to the HDMI port, both devices use HDMI 2.1. However, the HDMI cable is not included with the Apple TV 4K like it is with the Google Chromecast with Google TV.

Google Chromecast vs. Apple Airplay With Apple TV 4K: Which One to Buy?

In our opinion, the Chromecast’s smaller price tag and decent feature list make it a winner. Most users will do fine without the few additional features that the Apple TV 4K offers, and will even have a better experience in some ways. In the end, it’s definitely the most versatile and accessible streaming device available for users of any mobile device, including iPhone or Android models.

And, unlike the Apple TV 4K, you don’t have to use Google products like a Chromebook to get the most out of the product.

That said, if you’re already deep into the Apple ecosystem, the Apple TV 4K with Apple AirPlay 2 offers a fantastic experience. But if you’re simply an iPhone user and not too entrenched in the ecosystem, the Chromecast with Google TV is a better value choice.

The Final Word

As video streaming services like Netflix and Hulu become more popular, so do streaming dongles like Google Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, and Roku. These all have their pros and cons, and choosing the right device to support your tech ecosystem can be difficult — especially if you own a smart TV.

Hopefully, this article has helped clear up any confusion you had about Chromecast vs AirPlay so that you can choose the right device for your home.

1080P Vs 4K: Which Is Better For Your Work

Should you buy a 1080p or 4K monitor for your home office? This is a question you’ll inevitably face, especially if you’ve been trying to work off of a single monitor or a cramped laptop display at home. If you have the budget and space to add a second or third monitor, you then have the choice between buying the ubiquitous 1080p resolution (1920×1080 pixels), or 4K (3840×2160 pixels), the higher resolution that’s already common on TVs and some high-end laptops.

Who should buy one (or two) 1080p displays

The biggest reason to buy 1080p first is bang for your buck. Because 1080p displays are a lot cheaper than 4K displays, you can get more monitors for your money; and more monitors are better than more resolution.

While a 4K (3840×2160) display translates into four times as many pixels as 1080p (1920×1080), it certainly doesn’t equate to four times the screen space. Scaling text and images can increase the usable screen space somewhat by allowing you to cram more information onto a single screen, but tiny text and images aren’t fun to work with.

You do not need to go this crazy in creating a home workstation, but multiple monitors do create a vastly more productive workspace.

Windows 10’s Snap feature and its spiritual successor, FancyZones, can help, as they both allow you to organize windows to various corners and zones on your monitor or monitors. But Snap limits you to four windows on a screen at one time, for reasons that should be obvious: The windows eventually become too small to use. Adding display space allows you to see more apps and windows at once, so you can juggle multiple tasks or add focal points to your workspace.

Microsoft

Microsoft’s FancyZones tool allows far more flexibility for organizing windows than Snap does, but you’re still limited by available screen space.

Right now, even a pair of 1080p displays are vastly cheaper than a single 4K monitor. A decent 1080p display like this Acer KA220HQ 22-inch display is priced at $100, while the cheapest standalone 4K display we could find was the LG 24UD58-B, a 24-inch display priced at $297. If you’re interested in a multi-monitor setup, you’re simply getting more for your money with 1080p.

We haven’t reviewed these 1080p displays ourselves, but here are some suggestions:

Asus VA229HRRemove non-product link: Another 21.5-inch frameless display that also runs at 75Hz, for $100. It’s an IPS panel, with wide viewing angles and good color.

What if I don’t have room for two monitors?

Some of you may be saying, the reason I wanted to buy a 4K display is that I don’t actually have space for an extra monitor. Think again! Start thinking like a city planner. Think up.

A monitor in portrait mode next to a monitor in landscape mode.

(Here’s a buying tip: if you’re searching a shopping site, use either “pivot” or “portrait” as a search term to search for displays that can be aligned vertically.)

If you have a monitor capable of supporting a VESA mount, going vertical is an option.

Another option is a VESA mount, which essentially replaces the monitor’s display stand with a custom mount that you can buy. A VESA mount like this $35 optionRemove non-product link can elevate a display above your desk, either suspending it from a wall, or—much easier and cheaper—mounting it on your desk using a C-clamp or grommet.

Here are some suggestions:

Philips 226E9QDSBRemove non-product link: The Philips 226E9QDSB does not rotate into portrait mode on its own stand, though it does have a VESA mount that you can use to orient it as you wish. While it’s small at 22 inches, it’s priced comfortably under $100 and offers 75Hz frame rates to boot.

Samsung S24E450DLRemove non-product link: You’ll pay closer to $160 for this larger 23.6-inch TN display, which includes pivot, tilt, and VESA mounting along with some attractive low-power capabilities.

Should I get a widescreen display?

Taking the 1,920 horizontal pixels of a 1080p display and doubling them to create a 3,840-pixel-wide display might sound like a terrific way of buying more screen space for your money. After all, you’re effectively stretching two 1080p panels across a single display, with just a single monitor stand on your desk.

Ben Patterson/IDG

Ultrawide monitors like this HP S430c curved display look amazing, but they’re not always the cheapest option.

Instead, consider “frameless monitors,” whose nearly nonexistent bezels may make good candidates for placing them directly next to one another. We have a guide for setting up a dual-display configuration.

The 1440p compromise

There’s a reason that we’ve begun to round up the best graphics cards for 1440p gaming—because 1440p (2560×1440 pixels) represents a sweet spot between 1080p and 4K. A 1440p display has 1.78 times the pixels of a 1080p monitor, allowing for more detail. An inexpensive 1440p monitor like this 24-inch B01K1IO2DGRemove non-product linkcosts about $230.

With that price, however, our base argument still holds: A 1080p display, even a more expensive model, simply makes more financial sense. There are reasons to consider 1440p, especially if you’re thinking about gaming at higher resolutions. In general, though, stick to a 1080p display if additional space is the priority.

Who should buy a 4K display? When you’re ready to move up from 1080p

If you already own a pair of external displays, now might be the time to start thinking about higher-resolution upgrades, especially if the ones you already own are 1080p.

Getty Images

If you have the hardware, three displays is an option as well. We have a guide for setting up a three-display system, or even more.

It’s at this point that 1440p or even a 4K display makes more sense, especially if you’re trying to fit more information on your screen or use the displays for watching video and want your favorite shows or streams in a higher-resolution format. Of course, you can also simply choose a larger monitor in the same resolution, or choose among HDR or higher-refresh-rate options for more visual improvements.

Spotify Vs Youtube Music Vs Apple Music: Which One Is Best

Read next: What is YouTube Music? Everything you need to know

What we like:

Excellent library of songs.

Excellent discoverability and social features.

The app is easy to use and get used to.

The extra features, like the lyrics, are top-notch.

Podcasts and audiobooks round out a full media experience.

Compatible with almost everything.

What we don’t like:

Hi-Fi option is taking an eternity to launch, and audio quality is otherwise middle of the road.

The free version on mobile is notably worse than free Spotify on other platforms.

The search function is a little cluttered.

Integration with your existing library is just okay.

Spotify is the most popular music streaming service in the world for a reason. When you open the app, you’re met with a simple UI that takes you exactly where you want to go. The library lets you create playlists or follow individual artists, while the home section is rife with playlists catered to your tastes. The low-fi, all-black UI keeps distractions at bay so you can just chill and listen to music.

The only negative aspect of the app, in terms of usability, is the search function. It works really well if you’re searching for a podcast or a song. However, it can feel cluttered occasionally if you’re searching for a specific live performance or something more obscure.