As a tech enthusiast, I’ve always sought the ultimate streaming device. The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K caught my attention with its promise of 4K resolution and AI upscaling. It seemed like the perfect candidate to transform my living room into a multimedia hub. I decided to dive in and see if it could deliver on its claims.
The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K stands out among streaming devices, priced at $199.99 USD (Approx $350-$400 NZD). It comes equipped with 3GB of RAM, 16GB of storage, and the Tegra X1+ processor. But does it justify its premium tag? I explored its features extensively, from its media server capabilities to its gaming performance. Now, I’m ready to share my findings on whether this device is a worthwhile investment.
Introduction to the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K
The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K is a leading Android TV box, designed for those who crave top-tier entertainment. It seamlessly blends 4K streaming with robust gaming, making it an ideal choice for your entertainment center. 
What is the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K?
Launched in 2019, the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K represents a leap in streaming technology. Equipped with a Tegra X1+ chip, 3GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage, it’s a powerhouse. It supports 4K resolution at 60 FPS, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos, ensuring breathtaking visuals and audio.
Why I decided to buy and test it
I opted for the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K due to its stellar performance and versatility. Its role as a PLEX media server and its gaming prowess make it stand out. The AI-enhanced upscaling feature, converting HD to 4K, was particularly enticing.
First impressions and unboxing experience
Unboxing the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K was straightforward. Its sleek design caught my eye immediately. The package included the device, a remote, and two AAA batteries. Setup was swift, taking only 5-10 minutes to connect and configure. The customizable remote, with voice search and volume control, significantly enhanced the user experience.
Technical Specifications and Features
The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K is a powerhouse, equipped with the NVIDIA Tegra X1+ processor and a 256-core GPU. It also boasts 3GB RAM, ensuring smooth performance across various applications. This combination makes it a top contender in the streaming and gaming arenas.
It runs on Android 9.0, providing a user-friendly interface and access to a wide range of apps. The device comes with 16GB of storage, which can be expanded via USB. This feature is ideal for storing your favorite movies and shows.
The Shield TV Pro excels in visual quality, supporting 4K HDR playback at 60 fps. This results in vibrant colors and sharp details, enhancing your viewing experience. Dolby Vision and HDR10 support further ensure you get the best picture quality from compatible content.
For those who love immersive sound, the Dolby Atmos support is a game-changer. It delivers soundscapes that perfectly complement the visuals. Additionally, the device can handle high-resolution audio playback up to 24-bit/192 kHz over HDMI and USB.
- Gigabit Ethernet for fast, stable internet
- HDMI 2.0b with HDCP 2.2 and CEC support
- Two USB 3.0 ports for additional storage or peripherals
- 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity
The SHIELD Remote that comes with it further enhances the user experience. It features voice search capabilities and motion-activated backlit buttons. Whether you’re streaming, gaming, or using it as a Plex media server, the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K delivers exceptional performance in a compact form.
Setup and Installation Process
Setting up the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K is straightforward, requiring only 5-10 minutes. This brief time allows you to dive into streaming content swiftly. Here, we outline the essential steps for a seamless setup.
Connecting to your TV
Begin by establishing an HDMI connection. Connect one end of the HDMI cable to your TV and the other to the Shield. This action propels you towards enjoying 4K visuals.
Initial software setup
Power on the Shield, and it will guide you through Wi-Fi setup. Choose your network and input the password. The device will then verify for updates, ensuring you have the newest features. This process also involves setting up Google Assistant, enhancing voice control capabilities.
Pairing the SHIELD Remote
Pairing the SHIELD Remote is a simple process. Press the home button on the remote to initiate pairing. For TV volume control, configure the remote’s infrared (IR) function. Voice search functionality is available immediately, even before completing Google Assistant setup.
It’s worth noting that a wired ethernet connection offers faster speeds than Wi-Fi. If you’re planning to use Plex Media Server, be aware it’s not compatible with the 2019 “tube” model. For Kodi enthusiasts, the official repository is readily accessible on the Shield for add-on installation.
User Interface and Navigation
The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K features a sleek, user-friendly Android TV interface. It has earned a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from over 3,900 reviews. This shows that users find it highly intuitive.
The home screen welcomes you with apps like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video already installed. For additional apps, the Google Play Store is readily accessible. Here, you’ll discover a vast selection of entertainment options.
Voice control is a key feature with built-in Google Assistant. It allows effortless navigation, searching, or controlling smart home devices. The SHIELD Remote further enhances this with its ergonomic design and motion-activated buttons.
- Ease of Use Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
- Featured Streaming Services: Google Play Movies & TV, Hulu, Netflix, Prime Video, Spotify, YouTube
- Voice Assistant: Google Assistant (Alexa compatible with Amazon Echo)
The device supports automatic system upgrades, ensuring you always have the latest features. To enable this, go to Settings > Device Preferences > About > System upgrade.
Although 92% of users recommend the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro, some users have reported difficulties with navigation in certain apps. Despite these minor issues, the overall user interface and navigation remain exceptional.
Streaming Performance and Quality
The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K elevates streaming to unprecedented levels. This device excels in delivering visuals and audio that immerse viewers, making it a prime selection for those who love movies and TV shows.
4K HDR and Dolby Vision Support
The Shield TV Pro’s 4K streaming capabilities transform your favorite content into a visual spectacle. It supports HDR content, including Dolby Vision, which enhances color and contrast. This results in scenes from nature documentaries or action movies appearing vivid and lifelike.
AI Upscaling Technology
The AI-enhanced visuals of the Shield TV Pro are a notable feature. It employs sophisticated algorithms to upscale content from 720p and 1080p to near-4K quality. This technology ensures older shows and movies appear sharp and detailed on 4K TVs.
Audio Quality with Dolby Atmos
The device also excels in audio quality, thanks to Dolby Atmos support. This technology creates a 3D soundscape that immerses you in the action. Whether it’s soft dialogue or loud sound effects, every detail is delivered with clarity.
The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K surpasses many built-in smart TV platforms. Its Tegra X1+ processor ensures smooth playback, and its support for various audio formats appeals to audiophiles. For those seeking superior streaming performance, this device is a transformative choice.
Gaming Capabilities
The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K excels in gaming performance. It turns your TV into a robust gaming console with GeForce NOW. This cloud gaming service allows you to stream AAA titles without needing a high-end PC.
Streaming PC games on the Shield TV Pro is remarkably smooth. The Tegra X1+ processor and 256-core GPU effortlessly manage games. You’ll experience 4K HDR gaming at 60 FPS, making your favorite titles come alive on the big screen.
GeForce NOW presents various membership tiers:
- Free tier: Standard access, 1-hour sessions
- Priority tier: RTX graphics, 6-hour sessions
- RTX 3080 tier: Top performance, 8-hour sessions
The Shield TV Pro boasts 3GB RAM and supports external storage, enhancing gaming performance. You can connect an 8TB NAS for additional game storage. With internet speeds around 1-1.5Gbps, cloud gaming feels indistinguishable from playing on a local machine.
Android TV also opens up mobile gaming possibilities. The Google Play Store offers a vast array of casual and indie titles. Whether you’re into AAA gaming or mobile favorites, the Shield TV Pro caters to all your gaming needs.
NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K as a PLEX Media Server
The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K stands out as a robust PLEX media server. Its compact design belies its powerful performance, ensuring smooth streaming of local content. This device significantly enhances your home theater experience.
Setting up PLEX
Installing PLEX on the Shield TV Pro 4K is straightforward. Just download the PLEX app from Google Play and proceed with the setup instructions. For enhanced storage, connect an external hard drive to one of the two USB 3.0 ports. This is ideal for storing your extensive media collection.
Performance as a Media Server
The Shield TV Pro 4K is a powerhouse for media streaming. It supports hardware-accelerated H.264 encoding and can manage 2-3 simultaneous transcodes. This capability ensures high-quality streaming to multiple devices without interruptions. For the best experience, use an Ethernet connection to guarantee stable streaming of uncompressed files.
Advantages over Other PLEX Solutions
When compared to traditional home theater PCs, the Shield TV Pro 4K offers distinct advantages:
- Compact size saves space
- Low power consumption reduces energy costs
- Quiet operation enhances viewing experience
- Supports 4K HDR playback for stunning visuals
The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K is an exceptional choice for PLEX enthusiasts. It combines the capabilities of a media server with the ease of a streaming device. This makes it a crucial addition to any home entertainment setup.
Comparison with Other Streaming Devices
The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K distinguishes itself in the streaming device landscape, offering features not found in the Apple TV 4K, Amazon Fire TV Cube, or Roku Ultra. Its powerful GPU score of 7,217 surpasses competitors in graphics processing. This makes it a prime choice for gamers who wish to stream games from their PC or utilize NVIDIA’s GeForce Now service.
Although the Apple TV 4K excels in app load times with its A15 Bionic chip, the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K counters with AI upscaling technology. This technology enhances lower resolution content to near-4K quality. The Roku Ultra provides access to over 26,000 apps, but the Shield TV Pro’s 6,500+ Android TV apps offer a rich selection of entertainment. Its built-in Gigabit Ethernet ensures stable streaming, a feature absent in many rivals.
At $199.99, the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro 4K is more expensive than the Amazon Fire TV Cube or Roku Ultra. Yet, for those seeking a premium streaming experience with advanced gaming capabilities, it’s a valuable investment. The device boasts 3GB RAM, 4K HDR support, and Dolby Vision compatibility, delivering exceptional performance for users who prioritize quality over cost in their streaming setup.
