In an era where streaming devices dominate home entertainment, the withdrawal of Google's Chromecast with Google TV from many markets has left a noticeable void. Priced at $100, its absence in the budget-friendly segment is palpable. Fortunately, alternatives have emerged to fill this gap. Among these contenders, the $20 Onn 4K Google TV streaming box stands out as a compelling option. Despite being Walmart’s store brand, the Onn 4K offers impressive capabilities that rival its more expensive counterparts.

Walmart offers three Onn-branded Google TV streaming options, ranging from $15 to $49. The most affordable variant supports only up to 1080p resolution, but for just $20, the Onn 4K Streaming Box provides superior specifications across the board. This device closely matches the discontinued Chromecast with Google TV 4K in almost every metric. Though it uses an older system-on-chip (SoC), it handles modern audio and video formats effortlessly, including AV1 codec support.

The Onn 4K may not boast vibrant aesthetics like the Chromecast, presenting instead as a compact black box. However, its performance compensates for any lack in visual appeal. It supports all major streaming app certifications for 4K playback and maintains responsiveness during extended use. While some minor slowdowns were noted within certain apps, overall performance remains commendable. Notably, YouTube navigation feels smoother than on high-end TVs, and large file streaming from local servers proceeds without issues.

One standout feature is the remote control, which includes an infrared blaster—a boon for users with older TVs lacking HDMI-CEC compatibility. This functionality extends convenience even when connecting to hotel TVs abroad. Additionally, the remote undergoes regular firmware updates, ensuring ongoing enhancements. Although limited by Wi-Fi 5 and devoid of USB or Ethernet ports, these constraints are negligible given the price point.

While not perfect, the Onn 4K delivers remarkable value. Storage limitations exist but prove manageable under typical usage scenarios. Dolby Vision HDR and Atmos support are absent, yet standard HDR10 content plays seamlessly. Regional activation restrictions apply, necessitating initial setup within the U.S., but post-activation usage remains unrestricted globally.

For those seeking cost-effective yet capable streaming solutions, the Onn 4K emerges as a top choice. Its balance of affordability and functionality positions it favorably against competitors like Amazon's Fire TV Stick. Even though pricier models such as the Onn 4K Pro offer enhanced features, the basic version suffices admirably for secondary TVs or older sets. Ultimately, the Onn 4K exemplifies how a budget-conscious product can excel beyond expectations, making it an excellent Chromecast alternative moving forward.