Complete Guide to Buying an NVIDIA Shield TV

Your Guide to buying the best NVIDIA Shield TV

Overview

The NVIDIA Shield TV is an advanced streaming device that allows users to enjoy the full range of entertainment possibilities. With powerful hardware, a sleek design, and a wide selection of apps and games, the Shield TV is the perfect device for those looking for an immersive home entertainment experience. In this buying guide, we will provide an overview of the device's features, hardware specifications, and software capabilities. We will also cover the different models available and how to make the best purchase decision for your needs. Finally, we will provide our overall verdict and some tips to help you get the most out of your Shield TV.

Key features

  1. Price - The NVIDIA Shield TV has a range of prices and bundles depending on your needs. Consider your budget and decide which model is best for you.
  2. Processor and RAM - The NVIDIA Shield TV offers a choice of Tegra X1+ or Tegra X1 processor, both of which offer powerful and reliable performance. Consider the RAM size you need for the tasks you plan to do.
  3. Storage - The NVIDIA Shield TV has either 16GB or 500GB of storage. Consider if you need the extra space for larger games or a media library.
  4. Connectivity - The NVIDIA Shield TV has Wifi, Bluetooth, Gigabit Ethernet, and microSD card slot. Consider the ports you need and any external devices you plan to use.
  5. Software - The NVIDIA Shield TV runs the latest version of Android TV, offering a range of streaming services and Google- Assistant-enabled features. Consider if any specific software or apps are required for your needs.
  6. Voice Control - The NVIDIA Shield TV offers voice control through Google Assistant, allowing you to quickly search for content and control your TV. Consider if this is a feature you need or would like to use.
  7. Remote - The NVIDIA Shield TV comes with a remote control for easy navigation and voice control. Consider if you need additional accessories or controllers for a better gaming experience.

See the most popular NVIDIA Shield TV on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Performance: NVIDIA Shield TV is powered by an NVIDIA Tegra X1+ processor, providing up to 25% faster performance than its predecessor. It also features up to 3GB of RAM and 16GB of storage, allowing it to handle almost any type of content.
  • 4K HDR: NVIDIA Shield TV supports 4K HDR video streaming from services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube. It also supports Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG video formats.
  • AI Upscaling: NVIDIA Shield TV has an AI Upscaling feature which allows the device to upscale content to 4K for improved image quality.
  • Voice Control: NVIDIA Shield TV has integrated Google Assistant, which allows users to control the device with their voice. It also supports Amazon Alexa, allowing users to access their favourite content with voice commands.
  • Gaming: NVIDIA Shield TV is capable of playing games from the Google Play Store, as well as from the NVIDIA GeForce Now and NVIDIA GameStream services.
  • Connectivity: NVIDIA Shield TV has a variety of connections, including HDMI, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. It also supports USB 3.0 for connecting external devices.
  • Smart Home Integration: NVIDIA Shield TV can be used to control other smart home devices, such as lights, locks, and thermostats.

Cons

  • Cost: The NVIDIA Shield TV is relatively expensive for a streaming media player, with the starting price being $149.99.
  • Storage: The NVIDIA Shield TV only comes with either 8GB or 16GB of internal storage, which may not be enough for some users.
  • Lack of Common Apps: The NVIDIA Shield TV does not have access to popular apps like HBO and Apple TV+, which some users may be used to or rely on.
  • Voice Control: The NVIDIA Shield TV is not compatible with Google Home or Amazon Alexa voice assistants, which limits its voice control capabilities.

Best alternatives

  1. Apple TV 4K - Offering 4K resolution and Dolby Atmos sound, Apple TV 4K is a great, albeit pricey, alternative to NVIDIA Shield TV.
  2. Roku Ultra - Roku Ultra is a budget-friendly alternative that offers 4K streaming, a remote with a headphone jack, and an ethernet port.
  3. Fire TV Cube - The Fire TV Cube is a hands-free streaming media player that supports 4K Ultra HD and Dolby Atmos.
  4. Google Chromecast Ultra - A more affordable alternative to the NVIDIA Shield TV, the Google Chromecast Ultra is capable of streaming 4K content.
  5. TiVo Bolt OTA - TiVo Bolt OTA is an over-the-air DVR with 4K streaming capabilities.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • NVIDIA Shield TV - A streaming media player with a gaming-friendly design that lets you stream content and play Android games.
  • NVIDIA Shield TV Remote - A remote control that allows users to easily navigate the NVIDIA Shield TV interface.
  • NVIDIA Shield Wireless Controller - A cordless controller that provides easy control of the NVIDIA Shield TV.
  • NVIDIA Shield Stand - A stand designed to securely hold the NVIDIA Shield TV.
  • NVIDIA Shield TV Media Server - A computer server that can store, stream, and play media on the NVIDIA Shield TV.
  • NVIDIA Shield TV Gamepad - A dedicated gaming controller designed for the NVIDIA Shield TV.
  • External Hard Drive - An external hard drive that can be connected to the NVIDIA Shield TV to expand storage space.
  • MicroSD Card - A removable memory card that can be used to expand the capacity of the NVIDIA Shield TV.
  • HDMI Cable - An HDMI cable used to connect the NVIDIA Shield TV to a television.
  • Power Adaptor - A power adaptor used to plug the NVIDIA Shield TV into a power outlet.

Common questions

  1. What is NVIDIA Shield TV?
    NVIDIA Shield TV is an Android-based home entertainment console that allows you to stream media content, play video games, and access Android apps.
  2. What features does NVIDIA Shield TV have?
    NVIDIA Shield TV features a Tegra X1 processor with 256-core GPU, 3GB RAM, 16GB of internal storage, support for 4K and HDR video, Google Assistant, and access to a variety of streaming apps.
  3. What type of controller does NVIDIA Shield TV have?
    NVIDIA Shield TV comes with a wireless Bluetooth controller that can be used to play video games and navigate the device.
  4. Does NVIDIA Shield TV support 4K and HDR video?
    Yes, NVIDIA Shield TV supports 4K and HDR video.
  5. Does NVIDIA Shield TV have voice search capabilities?
    Yes, NVIDIA Shield TV has built-in Google Assistant and voice search capabilities.
  6. Does NVIDIA Shield TV support games?
    Yes, NVIDIA Shield TV supports a wide selection of games, including Android games, GeForce NOW games, and Google Stadia games.
  7. How much does NVIDIA Shield TV cost?
    The base model of NVIDIA Shield TV retails for around $150.

Trivia

The NVIDIA Shield TV is capable of running the Steam Link app, allowing gamers to play their favorite PC games on their living room television. This is a great feature for gamers who want to experience their PC games on the big screen without having to purchase a dedicated gaming console. In addition, the NVIDIA Shield TV is the only streaming device that can support a 4K, HDR, and Dolby Atmos audio experience. This makes it the perfect choice for anyone looking for the ultimate home theatre experience. Source: NVIDIA Shield

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.