- Chromecast restarts could be due to bad data or insufficient power; reboot the device or ensure it receives at least 1 Amp of power using an adapter.
- Update your Chromecast’s firmware or apps and consider replacing older models to prevent crashes and restarts.
- A strong Wi-Fi signal is crucial; position your router close to Chromecast or use a wired connection, and disable router power-saving modes for optimal performance.
Are you suffering from a Chromecast that keeps rebooting or crashing?
This concise guide dives straight into addressing these frustrating interruptions, ensuring your streaming gets back on track smoothly.
Quick Navigation
Below is our list of all the possible reasons and how to fix them.
1. Bad Data
Sometimes, device software data is stuck in a misbehaving state. The most effective way to set the device straight is with a reboot.
Reboot Your Chromecast Device
A reboot is one of the first steps to consider when troubleshooting media devices. It is surprisingly very effective.
Simply disconnect your Chromecast from the power source and reconnect it after a minute. You can also perform the reboot through your “Google Home” app.
Step 1: Open the Google Home app.
Step 2: Press and hold your Chromecast to select it from the list of connected devices.
Step 3: Click on the Settings icon on the top right corner of the screen.
Step 4: Click the three-dot icon to bring out the Menu tray.
Step 5: Click on the Reboot option to initiate the process.
Reboot Your Source Device
If you are casting through a smartphone or a PC, the problem may come from the device and not your Chromecast.
Reboot your source device and see if it helps.
2. Insufficient Power supply
Every electronic device has a designated range of power needed to work. Anything more or less can cause it to perform poorly or crash and restart randomly.
Your Chromecast dongle needs at least 1 Amp of power. Your TV USB ports are mostly for USB storage sticks — they supply 0.5 – 0.9 Amps and may be unable to efficiently power a Chromecast device.
If your Chromecast’s power cable is connected to your TV, we advise you to explore other power supply options. Below are possible solutions:
Use a Power Adapter
Power adapters go into AC outlets and supply a higher current than the TV’s power outlet. You only have to connect the Chromecast’s power cable to the adapter.
Your new Chromecast device comes with its own power adapter. However, if you misplace yours, you can purchase a new one. We advise you to get a power adapter that outputs 1 Amp of power.
Check for Faults
A faulty connection or power source can also cause your Chromecast to crash.
Check if your AC outlet is faulty and replace it if this is the case. Also, check the power cable and ensure it is not damaged or loose.
Use a Surge Protector
A surge protector or power conditioner is a good investment if you’re experiencing power fluctuations or surges. Also, if you are using an HDMI splitter, try disconnecting it and plugging in your Chromecast directly.
3. Outdated Firmware
A Chromecast device can crash and restart as a result of outdated firmware. In this case, just update your Chromecast to the most recent software version.
Steps to Update Chromecast:
- Power on your Chromecast device.
- Open your Google Home app.
- Locate your Chromecast on the list of connected devices.
- Press the Chromecast icon to see the overview.
- Press the Settings icon on the overview page to see your firmware version.
- Tap the three-dot Menu icon on the top right corner of the Settings page.
- Select Reboot.
During the reboot, your Chromecast will download and install the latest firmware.
Steps to Update Chromecast with Google TV:
For Chromecast with Google TV, the updates are not available on the Home app. You can update your device from your TV.
- Power on your Chromecast with Google TV.
- On the home screen, go to Settings > System > About > System update.
If an update doesn’t solve the problem with your Chromecast, consider a simple factory reset. It will clear user data and restore the Chromecast’s original settings.
Steps to Conduct a Factory Reset
- Step 1: Open Google Home on your mobile device.
- Step 2: Click on your Chromecast device from the list of home devices on the screen.
- Step 3: Click on the Settings icon at the top right corner of your screen.
- Step 4: On the pop-up tray containing the list of options, select “Factory Reset.”
- Step 5: Click “OK” to confirm the action, and the factory reset will begin.
4. Poor Internet/Wi-Fi signal
A poor internet connection can cause your Chromecast to stutter and restart.
Keep your router close to the Chromecast for a stronger network signal; they should be less than 15 feet apart. It is best if there are no walls between them because walls can weaken signals.
Another option is to connect your Chromecast to a wired network; this eliminates the possibility of poor signal caused by distance. Buy an ethernet cable long enough to cover the distance between your Chromecast and router.
You will need an Ethernet Adapter too. The Ethernet cable plugs into the adapter, which is connected to your Chromecast’s micro-USB port.
The Ethernet Adapter also has an AC plug for supplying power to the device.
5. Router Power-Saving Mode
The power-saving mode on Wi-Fi routers conserves power but affects network performance. When using a router with your Chromecast, disable the power-saving feature.
Steps to Disable Power Saver
Step 1: Log into your router, and go to Advanced Settings.
Step 2: Click on Setup and select “QoS Setup.”
Step 3: Uncheck the Power Saver option.
Step 4: Select the option that fits the kind of media you’re streaming on Chromecast. (The options usually include Voice, Video, and Background).
Step 5: Click the Apply button to save your changes.
Note: These steps may vary depending on your router’s manufacturer. Consult the user manual if you have one.
6. Outdated Apps
Pay attention to and identify the apps in use whenever your Chromecast appears to crash or restart. Outdated apps can crash while starting up or while in use, causing the screen to go blank and return to the screensaver.
The apps most likely to cause crashes are Chrome, YouTube, and the Home app on your tablet or smartphone. Check to see if there are updates available for these apps. Install the updates, if any.
7. Outdated Chromecast Device
If you are using a very old model of Chromecast, it will be prone to issues like overheating, which can cause it to crash and restart.
Also, 1st generation Chromecast devices no longer get major software updates. We advise that you switch to newer models whose issues are easily fixed with regular software updates.
Gabriella ‘Diogo is a technical writer with a vested interest in tech hardware and equipment. She shares her knowledge and processes in an easy-to-grasp, lighthearted style. When she’s not testing or researching device performance, you’ll find her writing short stories or rewatching episodes of her favorite sitcoms.