I finally found a true Chromecast Audio successor, and it just hit a new low price
Google's $35 Chromecast Audio was an outstanding product; it allowed any old speaker to connect to the internet and stream music. I still consider it to be one of Google's best products, which is why it's annoying that the brand didn't bother making a new model after sunsetting the Chromecast Audio in 2019.
If you're looking at a product that has similar functionality in 2026, you'll have to buy the WiiM Pro or Pro Plus. WiiM is doing all the right things in home audio, and whether it's the terrific Amp Ultra, Amp models, or the Sonos-beating Sound, WiiM is consistently delivering high-quality products that just work.
I used the Pro Plus for the better part of a year now, and it does everything I need in a network streamer. It has Google Cast, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Alexa Cast, Tidal Connect, and is Roon Ready, and it is the easiest way to connect older audio gear to the internet. I plugged it to a pair of active speakers, and it does everything the Chromecast managed, and much more. The Pro Plus is now on sale for $175, which in itself is a 20% discount from its usual $219 retail price. If you don't need the extras that it comes with, there's a regular WiiM Pro that's down to just $119 right now.
There isn't a better device than the WiiM Pro or Pro Plus if you just need a reliable way to connect your powered speakers to the internet and stream music. It's extremely easy to set up and use, the WiiM Home app has outstanding features, and it is flawless in daily use. If you don't need the better DAC, the WiiM Pro is a great option at $119. View Deal
Recommended if: You need an easy way to connect existing stereo gear to the internet. The WiiM Pro and Pro Plus have all the streaming protocols available, and they're straightforward to use.
Skip this deal if: You need a sub out, or you use passive monitors that need amplification. In that situation, I'd suggest looking at the WiiM Amp, which is now down to $239.
The WiiM Pro Plus is indistinguishable to the Pro model, and the key difference is that it has an AKM DAC that's technically better. Whether you're going to hear a difference between the two is up for debate, but if you want the best audio that WiiM has to offer in this segment, get the Pro Plus. That isn't to say the Pro doesn't have great audio in its own right - it's almost as good in a lot of scenarios.
Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central
Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android Central
Apoorva Bhardwaj / Android CentralOther than that, both models share the same set of features. That includes Google Cast, giving you the ability to cast music from your phone or any other device, and add the Pro and Pro Plus to any multi-room audio setup you have. It also has AirPlay 2, DLNA, Alexa, Tidal, Spotify, and Bluetooth integration, giving you extensive control over where (and how) to stream music. The best part is that you get lossless audio, with the Pro and Pro Plus going up to 192kHz/24-bit.
What I like the most is that it has Roon Ready, so if you use Roon (which you really should), it integrates natively with the music organization software. The WiiM Home app has a good design and extensive features, including a 10-band EQ that lets you tailor the music to your preferences.
Trust me, if you want to connect an existing stereo to the internet and play music, this is the best way to do so in 2026. The Pro Plus would be my recommendation at $175, but if you need the best value, the WiiM Pro is an unbeatable option at $119.
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