Build a DIY Chromecast Alternative with Raspberry Pi: Complete Raspicast Guide

Google Chromecast offers an affordable way to stream media, with the Ultra model priced under $100. But it's unavailable in some regions. The perfect workaround? Transform a Raspberry Pi into a DIY streaming receiver for under $50. This credit card-sized computer can mirror content from your Android apps directly to your TV.

I've successfully set up this solution on multiple Raspberry Pi models. Here's a step-by-step guide using Raspicast to turn your Pi into a reliable Chromecast alternative.

Install the Raspicast App

Begin by downloading Raspicast on your Android device from the Google Play Store. This free app connects to your Raspberry Pi over your local network, sending video, audio, and images seamlessly. Note: There's no stable iOS equivalent.

Download: Raspicast for Android

Ensure your phone and Pi are on the same Wi-Fi network. For remote sharing, simply send the link instead.

Configure Raspbian for Streaming

Connect your Raspberry Pi to your TV via HDMI and power it with a dedicated supply—avoid TV USB ports to prevent SD card corruption from improper shutdowns.

We tested this on a Raspberry Pi 4 with Raspbian Buster Lite, but it works across models and distros (commands may vary slightly).

First, install omxplayer:

sudo apt install omxplayer

Enable SSH with one of these methods:

1. Run sudo raspi-config, select Interfacing Options > SSH, and enable.
2. From desktop: Menu > Preferences > Raspberry Pi Configuration > Interfaces tab > Enable SSH.
3. Pre-boot: Create an empty ssh file (no extension) in the SD card's boot partition.

Connect via SSH using the Pi's IP from ifconfig (e.g., eth0 for Ethernet, wlan0 for Wi-Fi). Then update:

sudo apt updatesudo apt upgrade

Install and Build OpenMax

Install prerequisites:

sudo apt install libjpeg9-dev libpng12-dev

These enable JPG/PNG handling for image streaming.

Install git if needed:

sudo apt install git

Clone OpenMax (superior for Pi media streaming):

git clone https://github.com/HaarigerHarald/omxiv

Build it:

cd omxivmake ilclientmake

Install:

sudo make install

Prepare to Stream

Launch Raspicast, enter your Pi's IP/hostname, username, and password in SSH settings, then save.

Stream options:

• Search in-app and hit play.
• From YouTube: Share > Stream (Raspicast).

Use Cast for local videos, music, or photos—they'll play instantly on the Pi. Update IP via the three-dots menu > SSH Settings.

Advanced Raspicast Features

Enable Repeat playback. Customize Audio Output: HDMI (default), local, both, or alsa for external audio setups.

In Advanced Options: Manage queues, volume offsets, custom controls, or switch to HTTP.

Browse Pi folders via Folders for local media playback, including audio-only streaming.

Stream with Kodi Using Kore

Raspicast doesn't work with Kodi, but use the Kore app:

Download: Kore, official remote control for Kodi

Configure with Pi IP, then YouTube Share > Play on Kodi.

Other Chromecast Alternatives

Check your smart TV, console, or set-top box for built-in YouTube apps. Devices like Apple TV support casting too. For wireless mirroring, try Miracast.

Explore more: best ways to use a Raspberry Pi as a media server.