In a market overwhelmed with streaming devices of varying price points, why should you buy the Nvidia Shield TV Pro? A great deal of streaming devices is considerably cheaper than this high-spec model, this choice essentially boils down to whether you want the best. From Fire TV Cubes to Roku streaming sticks, if all you want is the most recent movies and shows streamed without fuss, you can do it without spending much – and premium features like Dolby Vision are now filtering down to less pricey devices. However, if you want more ‘thrill’ from the electronics that serve your television, only the Shield TV Pro would suffice.
The Shield TV Pro, an Android-powered television top box/games console, is an amazingly capable streaming technology jam-packed with features that appeal to movie enthusiasts and gamers. It got you covered if you want high-end PC gaming streamed to your television or 4K movies in numerous HDR formats. Despite the increased specifications, it offers less value for money than prior models.
Pricing and Availability of the Nvidia Shield TV Pro
The Nvidia Shield Pro is currently available for purchase at 199.99 USD or 179.99 Pounds. This price includes the console itself along with an upgraded remote control and access to 20 PC games via the GeForce Now service. You can also expand your game library with your purchases.
Although the Shield TV Pro boasts improved hardware and new features, it faces competition from Nvidia’s previous offering, the Nvidia Shield TV Gaming Edition pack. This earlier package included the previous-generation box, remote, and Nvidia Shield Controller (now sold separately) for a similar price. While it now supports a wide range of gamepads including PS4, Xbox One, PS5 DualSense, and Xbox Series X controllers, determining if it’s a better value than its predecessor is a bit challenging.
Nvidia Shield TV Pro: Smart Features
Nvidia Shield TV Pro stands out the best considering the number of features it offers. It goes above and beyond traditional entertainment alternatives. Let us preview them one by one:
4K HDR Streaming
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro offers four times the resolution of Full HD, displaying detailed details and vivid colors. HDR technology enhances the depth and realism of scenes, making movies and television broadcasts compelling.
Google Assistant Integration
Google Assistant integration allows for smooth voice control. You can use simple voice commands to search for specific material, ask questions, control playing, adjust volume, and even manage your smart home devices, bringing ease to your entertainment setup.
AI Upscaling
The AI upscaling, powered by artificial intelligence, analyzes and improves the quality of lower-resolution material in real-time. It means even older content appear noticeably clear and more detailed on your 4K Televisions.
GeForce NOW Gaming
Using Nvidia’s powerful technology, GeForce NOW allows you to broadcast a wide range of PC games to your television. Play high-end games, even ones that aren’t natively accessible on other platforms, without the need for a piece of powerful gaming equipment.
Voice Search and Remote Control
The bundled remote control has specialized buttons for major streaming services, making navigating simple. The built-in microphone enables you to utilize voice search to quickly and easily discover material. Moreover, this remote can be used to play games also. It is convenient and quite easy to handle.
Nvidia Shield TV Pro App Compatibility
It supports a wide selection of apps, including streaming services, music platforms, and games. This means that you have myriad of entertainment alternatives, suited to your tastes.
Expandable Storage and Plex Media Server
The gadget allows you to extend storage by connecting external USB devices. You may also configure a Plex Media Server to manage and broadcast your media library to many devices.
Nvidia Shield TV Pro: Device Layout
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro may be small yet considerably powerful. It has a slim wedge shape with angular patterns, akin to two stacked Kindle e-readers. You can even slip it into your jeans’ back pocket. It blends well with other AV devices, whether laid flat or upright (with a separate stand). A bright neon green light indicates when it’s on, and you can adjust its intensity.
At the back of the device, you’ll discover two USB 3.0 ports, a 4K HDR HDMI port, an Ethernet port, and a unique power port. It comes with built-in Wi-Fi (802.11ac dual-band) and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connections. The box only provides a power cable, so add your HDMI and USB if needed. Internally, it holds 3GB of RAM and 16GB of storage. While the RAM remains the same, other Shield models have had up to 500GB of storage. Nevertheless, the two USB ports let you expand storage or connect peripherals without much effort.
Nvidia Shield TV Pro: Gaming Console
If you’re thinking about getting the Nvidia Shield TV Pro, it’s probably because you’re interested in its gaming features. It’s more than just a regular streaming device like others. It has a special service called GeForce Now, which lets you play computer games without needing a powerful gaming computer. There are lots of games available, and you can even play games you already own in other stores. The Shield TV Pro can make games look better with its AI upscaling feature, making them clearer and more detailed. The speed of your internet connection will affect how well the games stream, but with a good connection, they should run smoothly. The AI upscaling works similarly to what it does for TV shows and movies.
If you want to get the best experience with the cloud gaming service, you can pay a monthly fee for a Priority Membership. This lets you play games more easily and for longer periods. But if you don’t want to pay, there’s a free option too, where you can play games for up to an hour at a time. The real change lies in the processor, a significant upgrade since 2015. It’s equipped with the Tegra X1+ processor, delivering a 25% performance boost over the previous Tegra X1. This chip family powers the latest Nintendo Switch models, making the Shield TV snappier and enabling new features.
Nvidia Shield TV Pro: Setup Procedure
Setting up the Nvidia Shield TV Pro is not a complicated task. The entire setup process takes less than 10 minutes, with the main time-consuming part being entering your passwords for different apps and streaming services. Here is a step-by-step setup procedure for the Nvidia Shield TV Pro:
- 1. Connect the streaming device to an HDMI port on your television.
- 2. Then, plug the power adapter into a power outlet and connect it to the Nvidia TV Pro.
- 3. Turn on your television and navigate to the HDMI input to which the device is attached.
- 4. Select your language, region, and Wi-Fi network by following the on-screen directions.
- 5. Use your Google Account to log in or create a new account if you do not currently have one.
- 6. If the remote doesn’t pairs itself, follow the on-screen instructions to pair it manually.
- 7. Check for any available software updates. Allow the updates to install if prompted.
- 8. Access the Google Play Store and Search for and install your preferred streaming apps
- 9. Customize the home screen layout by arranging apps and widgets to your liking.
- 10. Set up Google Assistant if you wish to use voice commands.
- 11. Connect the additional accessories(gaming controller, keyboard, or mouse) via USB or Bluetooth in the device settings.
Your Nvidia Shield TV Pro is now ready to deliver a high-quality streaming and gaming experience. Navigate around the home screen and access your installed applications to begin streaming movies, TV programs, and other content. If you enjoy gaming, you may use the GeForce Now app to play cloud-based PC games or download Android games from the Google Play Store.
Nvidia Shield TV Pro: Interface
The home screen prominently displays apps, making navigation easy. If you’re familiar with other Android-based TV devices, it should feel familiar. Here’s a brief description of its user interface:
Home Screen
The main screen displays a customizable array of app icons, presenting your frequently used apps and services. You can arrange, add, and remove apps accordingly.
App Drawer
Access the full list of installed apps by scrolling down from the home screen. This drawer contains all your apps and streaming services for quick and easy access.
App Row
Below the main row of apps, you’ll find a horizontal row of recommended content and recently used apps. This area dynamically updates based on your viewing habits.
Plex Integration
With Plex media management, you can easily access Plex library and content via interface.
Voice Control
The built-in Google Assistant allows you to use voice commands to control your Nvidia Shield TV Pro.
System Notifications
Important notifications, updates, and messages appear at the top-right corner of the interface.
Google Search Bar
At the top of the screen, there’s a Google search bar. You can use voice search or type to quickly find apps, streaming content, and other information.
Content Row
Beneath the app row, you’ll find content recommendations from various apps. This area suggests streaming content based on your preferences.
Settings and Quick Access Menu
By swiping down the screen, you can access the quick settings menu. Itprovides shortcuts to settings like Wi-Fi, display, sound, and more.
Live Channels and Guide
Nvidia Shield TV Pro includes a Live Channels app that lets you integrate live TV and over-the-air broadcasts. You can also access an electronic program guide (EPG) to see what’s playing on different channels.
What is GeForce Now and How Does It Affect Nvidia Shield TV Pro?
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro stands out for a special feature called GeForce Now. This lets you play advanced computer games on the television without needing a powerful computer. It’s like magic – the games run on powerful faraway computers, and their pictures come to your TV. A good internet connection is key. You can play a variety of games, and if you have games on the Steam platform, you can also play them. It used to be expensive, but several games are now free to play. There may be a learning curve, but it’s worth it because the games start instantly, with no waiting for downloads. There’s also GameStream, which allows you to play games from your computer on the TV. However, the computing device must be capable of tackling it. With all these advanced gaming capabilities, it feels like having a gaming supercomputer in your living room.
Nvidia Shield TV Pro: Intuitive Remote
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro comes with a new remote control that’s been thoughtfully redesigned. Instead of being flat, it now has a prism shape and includes special buttons for playing content and a selection wheel. You’ll find a dedicated Netflix button, a microphone button, and a customizable ‘Quick Menu’ button to quickly go to your preferred functions.
This remote also works as an IR blaster for your TV and can beep if you lose it, thanks to the Nvidia Shield TV mobile app. The remote now uses AAA batteries, which is an improvement over the previous button-shaped watch batteries. However, it’s not as convenient as the original Shield remote which had a USB rechargeable battery.
Nvidia Shield standard: Affordable Yet Intelligent
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro is released alongside a more budget-friendly standard Nvidia Shield model priced at 149.99 USD/129.99 Pounds. While they share similar capabilities like the upgraded processor and upscaling features, their looks are quite distinct. The standard Shield takes the shape of a relay baton, intended to be discreetly positioned behind your TV to enhance your Wi-Fi signal. It also includes the new remote.
The standard Shield has 8GB of storage and 2GB of RAM, and it lacks full-size USB ports (you’ll need microSD cards for extra storage, and using USB controllers can be a bit tricky). This version is targeted at individuals who enjoy media streaming, whereas the Pro variant is better suited for gamers who like to explore advanced settings.
Nvidia Shield TV Pro: Device Compatibility
Unlock the world of streaming, gaming, and media possibilities with Nvidia Shield Pr. You can seamlessly integrate the Nvidia Shield Pro into your entertainment setup, by ensuring you have the following components:
Television or Display
Ensure you have a compatible television or display with an available HDMI port to connect the Nvidia Shield TV Pro.
Internet Connection
A reliable and high-speed internet connection is essential for streaming content and accessing online services.
HDMI Cable
An HDMI cable is needed to connect the device to the TV or display. The cable may need to be purchased separately.
Power Supply
The Shield TV Pro comes with its power supply. Make sure to connect it to a power source using the provided cable.
Nvidia Account
Create or log in to Nvidia account. This account offers access to various Nvidia services and features, including GeForce Now.
Optional Accessories
Consider additional accessories like gaming controllers (e.g., PS4, Xbox One controllers) for an enhanced gaming.
Remarkable Specs Comparison of Nvidia Shield TV Pro and Nvidia Shield Standard
Shield TV Pro is undoubtedly a preferred choice for gaming enthusiasts. But for those who are only concerned with online media streaming Nvidia introduced Nvidia Shield Standard, an affordable and intuitive choice. Here’s a comparison of the remarkable specifications of the Nvidia Shield TV Pro and the Nvidia Shield TV Standard:
| Specifications | Nvidia Shield Standard | Nvidia Shield TV Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Price | 149.99 USD | 174.99 USD |
| Video Quality | 4K HDR Support Dolby Vision HDR & HDR10 | 4K HDR Support Dolby Vision HDR, and HDR10 |
| AI upscaling | Yes | Yes |
| GPU | 256-core NVIDIA GPU | 256-core NVIDIA GPU |
| Sound | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Digital+ Dolby Atmos |
| Processors | NVIDIA Tegra X1+ | NVIDIA Tegra X1+ |
| Processing Speed (RAM) | 2 GBs | 3 GBs |
| Internal Storage | 8 GBs | 16 GBs |
| External Storage | Allows MicroSD | Allows USB and MicroSD |
| Device Ports | Gigabit Ethernet HDMI 2.0b MicroSD | Gigabit Ethernet HDMI 2.0b 2x USB 3.0 Type A MicroSD |
| PLEX Media Server | No | Yes |
| GeForce NOW | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac dual-band MIMO (2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz) | 802.11ac dual-band MIMO (2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz) |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 + LE | Bluetooth 5.0 + LE |
| Smart home (VA) compatibility | Google Home or Alexa/Amazon Echo (devices sold separately) | Google Home or Alexa/Amazon Echo (devices sold separately) |
| Google Assistant Availability | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Chromecast 4K | Yes | Yes |
| BT Gaming Controller Compatibility | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Control | SHIELD Remote | SHIELD Remote |
Best Possible Alternatives to Nvidia Shield TV Pro
let’s delve deeper into each of the top alternatives to the Nvidia Shield TV Pro. When choosing among these alternatives, consider factors such as compatibility with your existing devices, preferred ecosystem, app availability, and additional features that align with your entertainment needs.
Amazon Fire TV Cube
The Fire TV Cube is a versatile device that combines streaming media with the convenience of voice control through Amazon’s Alexa. It supports 4K HDR content, delivering sharp and vibrant visuals. With Alexa, you can control your TV and other devices using voice commands. The Fire TV Cube also offers a wide variety of apps, including popular streaming services like Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu, making it a comprehensive entertainment hub.
Apple TV 4K
Apple’s streaming device provides a premium experience with its integration into the Apple ecosystem. Offering 4K HDR streaming, it ensures stunning picture quality. The Apple TV 4K supports seamless integration with other Apple devices, allowing you to begin watching on one device and finish watching on another. The App Store has a diverse selection of applications and games, and the Siri Remote adds voice control for navigation and search.
Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5
While primarily known as gaming consoles, the Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 also excel as media players. They support 4K HDR streaming and offer a wide range of popular streaming apps. These consoles provide a comprehensive entertainment experience, allowing you to switch seamlessly between gaming and media consumption. The powerful hardware ensures smooth playback of high-quality content.
Roku Ultra
The Roku Ultra stands out with its powerful performance and user-friendly interface. It supports 4K HDR streaming and includes a voice remote for convenient navigation and search. The Roku Channel provides a collection of free, ad-supported movies and shows, while the extensive app selection caters to various streaming preferences. The customizable home screen lets you organize your favorite apps and channels for quick access.
Nvidia Shield TV Pro: Pros and Cons
Nvidia Shield TV Pro has its advantages and disadvantages, and weighing these pros and cons can provide valuable insights into making informed decisions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Equipped with a strong processor and memory for smooth streaming and gaming. | Costlier than some competitors. |
| Remote with Google Assistant for convenient voice commands. | Certain features like GameStream can be complicated for beginners. |
| Built-in service to stream high-quality PC games to your smart televisions. | The remote design might be overwhelming for some. |
| Streams games from a compatible gaming PC. | Some gaming subscriptions or purchases might add costs. |
| Enhances video quality, upgrading lower-res content to near 4K. | |
| Access to numerous streaming apps, including 4K HDR content. | |
| Multiple ports, Bluetooth, and Ethernet for easy accessory use. |
Conclusion
Nvidia Shield TV Pro: FAQs
Here are a few frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Nvidia Shield TV Pro:
