Pros
Fast and powerful performance
4K HDR content support
Dolby Vision and Atmos support
AI-enhanced upscaling for superb picture quality
GeForce NOW cloud gaming support
Versatility with Google Assistant and Alexa compatibility
Can run Plex Media Server
Reliable and smooth user interface
Good build quality
Voice recognition works well
USB ports for external storage and DAC compatibility
Casting capabilities
Cons
Outdated HDMI 2.0B, not future-proof with HDMI 2.1
Confusing setup instructions included
Non-ergonomic remote, easy to accidentally press Netflix button
Main Product Advantages
10 Plex Media Server
Integrated Plex Media Server capabilities, making it superior for media enthusiasts managing large libraries.
9 4K HDR movies
Excellent picture quality with advanced AI-enhanced upscaling that improves HD content to near-4K quality.
9 Dolby Vision-Atmos
Exceptional audio-visual experience with support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, though some users report intermittent sound issues.
9 AI-enhanced upscaling
Top-notch AI-enhanced upscaling that significantly improves HD video quality, praised for its impressive detail and sharpness.
9 Fast performance
Extremely fast and smooth performance, even with heavy apps and large media libraries.
8 Live sports
Smooth streaming experiences for live sports, though 4K support and content availability may vary by app.
8 GeForce NOW cloud gaming
Solid gaming performance with the GeForce NOW cloud gaming service, though optimal experience requires robust network connectivity.
8 Interface
Intuitive and user-friendly interface, though some users are unhappy with the presence of ads.
8 USB connectivity
Supports external storage and peripherals through USB ports, enhancing storage and usability, but some features like DAC support require additional setup.
7 Google Assistant Built-In
Convenient voice control with Google Assistant, though not all users find it superior to other voice assistants.
7 Works with Alexa
Compatible with Alexa, expanding smart home integration options, but doesn’t offer unique features beyond basic compatibility.
7 Compatibilty with various apps
Good app compatibility but some users note it lacks certain apps or features, such as YouTube HDR support.
6 Remote control
Mixed reviews for design and ergonomics; many users find the Netflix button too sensitive and accidental activations common.
NVIDIA SHIELD Android TV Pro Streaming Media Player Review
The NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro is the ultimate streaming media player for the modern living room. It promises a cinematic experience with top-notch 4K HDR entertainment. Users can enjoy their favorite platforms like Netflix, Amazon Video, Apple TV+, Disney+, and Google Play Movies & TV in stunning 4K HDR, along with YouTube and Hulu.
Performance and Upscaling
One of the standout features of the NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro is its ability to upscale HD video to 4K in real-time using AI and the powerful Tegra X1+ processor. This ensures that even non-4K content is given a significant quality boost, making it appear closer to true 4K resolution.
Cloud Gaming with GeForce NOW
The GeForce NOW cloud gaming service transforms the SHIELD TV into a formidable PC gaming rig. With access to over 1000+ titles and nearly 100 of the biggest free-to-play games, gamers are well-catered for. The new GeForce NOW RTX 3080 membership takes it a step further, offering 4K HDR gaming servers with the shortest wait times, longest session lengths, and enhanced graphics with RTX ON, including ray tracing and DLSS for supported games.
Smart Home Integration
The NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro comes with a built-in Google Assistant, allowing users to control playback of their favorite shows, search for information, display their calendar, check traffic updates, play music, and even dim the lights, all with voice commands. It also works seamlessly with Alexa and Amazon Echo, as well as Google Home for hands-free control.
Pro Features
Upgrading to the SHIELD TV Pro model provides additional benefits such as increased storage space, two USB 3.0 ports for expandability, Plex Media Server capability, and 3GB RAM. These enhancements make the SHIELD TV Pro a more versatile and powerful device, perfect for users who demand more from their streaming media player.
Conclusion
The NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro stands out as an all-in-one entertainment hub that combines high-quality 4K HDR streaming, powerful AI upscaling, and robust cloud gaming capabilities. Its smart home integration and extra features in the Pro version make it an ideal choice for tech-savvy individuals looking for an upgraded streaming and gaming experience. Level up to the SHIELD TV Pro and enjoy unmatched performance and versatility in your living room.
