The NVIDIA Shield TV was released on October 28th, 2019. This release followed an earlier leak by online retailers that took place earlier that month. The product was initially leaked.

This review, like all our others, is a complete and unbiased look at this streaming device. All of our product reviews and recommendations are unbiased.

It’s important to note that the NVIDIA SHIELD TV is different from its counterpart. This counterpart is the NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro.

To learn more, please see our complete review below. This streaming device is examined in detail.

NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro Review

This is one of our many reviews on Android TV boxes. These TV boxes are available on Amazon. You can check out our other review posts. Simply click the links below.

NinkBox N1 Max Android TV Box Review

T95Q Android TV Box Review

I highly recommend you check out a very great resource. It’s our Android TV Box Resource Guide. The guide lists the Best Android TV Boxes and Applications among other things.

NVIDIA SHIELD TV Review

The NVIDIA SHIELD TV is a powerful Android TV Box. It offers a large selection of applications. You can use these for streaming, gaming, and much more. It is considered a premium streaming device because of its price.

Most of the reviews out there recommend this device to certain folks. That includes streamers who are looking to build an affordable Plex server, cord-cutters, Kodi enthusiasts, and those who enjoy gaming regularly. People who want tons of computing power should also check it out.

Its processor is extremely fast and reliable. This makes the device a great choice for gaming. It can handle both emulation for older games, and action-packed sessions using emulators like Sega Dreamcast, Sony PSP, Nintendo 64, or the Dolphin Emulator. The processor is extremely fast and reliable.

The NVIDIA SHIELD is recognized as the very best Android TV Box currently available. This can be attributed to its significant power, which speeds up downloads when IPVanish is activated.

Typically, we tend to see a decrease in download speed when a VPN is turned on. However, the decrease is minimal on the NVIDIA SHIELD. This is due to the power of the NVIDIA SHIELD.

Click the link below to learn more. The link will show you how to install IPVanish on your NVIDIA SHIELD TV.

How To Install NVIDIA SHIELD VPN in Less Than 1 Minute

What’s in the Box

• NVIDIA SHIELD TV console
• SHIELD remote control
• Power cord
• SHIELD TV Quick Start guide
• SHIELD TV Support booklet

What’s New with the 2019 NVIDIA Shield

I previously expressed my excitement about the new NVIDIA SHIELD TV in another post. I shared my excitement for the release of this new NVIDIA SHIELD TV.

The device and the NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro are now available. The last updated model was in 2017. Now, we can finally see and share the latest changes from NVIDIA.

 

The first thing you’ll notice is the cylindrical console. It’s replaced the bulky streaming box that came with the older model. It’s smaller than an Amazon Echo. It’s the first of its kind designed to be placed horizontally at the back of your entertainment devices. NVIDIA designed it to “disappear from the media center”. This was accomplished by using end-to-end connected cables. This design choice prevents signal obstructions. As a result, you get an uninterrupted streaming experience.

The second change is the remote control. It now has a triangular shape and includes more buttons. This includes a Netflix button, for easy navigation. NVIDIA has kept the buttons from the older model. These include buttons for voice search, home, and back. They’ve also added new buttons, including power, volume, and rewind/fast-forward. The remote also includes a built-in backlit button. It is motion-activated.

Another new remote control feature is its remote locator. It’s built-in and will help you locate a misplaced or lost remote. This remote can be purchased separately for $29.99.

The device has a ton of features. One of which is AI Upscaling. You typically only find this feature on higher-end Smart TVs. AI Upscaling is a great feature that enhances the viewing experience.

This particular technology allows users to watch movies in crystal-clear definition with incredible detail. If you have movies that are lower resolution, you can upscale them. Upscale them to your smart TV’s native resolution. This is done by enabling the device’s “AI-Enhanced” setting. This will drastically improve the quality of your movies.

Unfortunately, one thing that is not included in the 2019 version is the game controller. This may be disappointing for gaming fans. You can, however, still purchase a separate NVIDIA controller unit. Or, you can use compatible controllers. The Xbox One and DualShock 4 controllers are compatible.

There are also no USB ports. The storage has also been cut in half to 8GB. And lastly, the RAM is down to 2GB from 3GB.

Comparing the 2017 and 2019 NVIDIA SHIELD TV Models

What I Like

The latest version of NVIDIA SHIELD TV has a lot of likeable features. To make things easier, I have broken them down into sections.

Console

The tubular console is a unique design for streaming devices. it’s sleeker and more elegant than the boxy design. The design also allows you to keep the device away from your entertainment center. This helps prevent signal disruption.

The console has a clever design for the ends. It keeps each connector hidden and protected.

The console’s storage space is limited to 8GB. But, the MicroSD card slot lets you expand the storage space. You can use the extra space for apps and games.

NVIDIA suggests at

For optimal performance when utilizing external storage internally, a minimum Class 10 speed rating is recommended. My tests confirmed this, as apps launched with remarkable speed. The newly added Ethernet port offers a reliable solution for high-quality streaming for users experiencing unreliable wireless networks.

Processor

The Tegra X1+ processor, equipped with a 256-core NVIDIA GPU, lives up to its reputation. It delivers exceptional device performance through enhanced visuals and pristine audio. This technology, also found in the Nintendo Switch and Switch Line, powers the AI-Enhanced Upscaling feature. It handles the system’s demands with remarkable precision and without any lag.

Remote Control

The remote control represents a significant upgrade. The motion-activated, backlit buttons are a great feature, making it user-friendly in low-light environments like home theater rooms. The integrated microphone facilitates voice search. It’s highly responsive and proves particularly useful during searches.

I tested various functions, including controlling streaming playback, powering off the TV, and searching for actors using the voice search. The AI integration is top-notch. The infrared blaster (IR blaster) effectively transmits signals directly to the television. This ensures reliable control over volume and power, even with large soundbars or receivers obstructing the signal path.

Bluetooth connectivity with the TV is excellent. Pairing was seamless and remarkably fast for an RC device. As I’ve highlighted, the lost remote locator is a valuable addition. After pairing the SHIELD TV app on my phone with the SHIELD TV, I found the device searching capability incredibly efficient. I also tested the console’s remote locator button and Google Home. Both performed flawlessly in locating the device.

HDMI-CEC settings streamline navigation, allowing CEC commands to be used as interface shortcuts. The new remote uses two AAA batteries. This change from the previous model’s CR2032 batteries offers several advantages. It provides a longer-lasting power source with higher continuous drain rates and overall capacity for the remote.

Picture Quality

For viewers who prefer watching HD content upscaled to 4K resolution, pixelation can be an issue with 1080p or lower video sources. The SHIELD TV’s AI-Enhanced upscaling feature addresses this. Users can customize sharpness and clarity by selecting from low, medium, or high settings. I experimented with the device’s Demo Mode and observed a significant difference between basic and enhanced picture clarity.

Gaming Features

NVIDIA integrates its gaming prowess into the SHIELD TV. It does this through GeForce NOW, a cloud-based service offering access to a vast library of over 400 supported games. With a connection of at least 25 Mbps, loading times are swift, and games can be enjoyed across various devices. NVIDIA has curated an expansive selection of titles, spanning from action and racing to simulation and sports.

Furthermore, if you’ve purchased games from platforms like Steam and Google Play, you can conveniently download them to your NVIDIA SHIELD TV. This allows you to expand your gaming options. The NVIDIA GameStream feature impressed me as well. It enabled me to cast games from my GeForce Now on my desktop to my SHIELD TV.

To achieve 4K streaming, I connected both my SHIELD TV and PC to the same home network via wired ethernet. With the OPTIMIZE GAMES feature active, the SHIELD TV seamlessly adjusted each game’s settings to match my TV’s display resolution. The 4K HDR (high dynamic range) capability truly shines here. It rendered richer images and finer details in the games I tested.

Built-in Chromecast

Expanding on its gaming support, the NVIDIA SHIELD TV features built-in Chromecast. This allows you to cast content from smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other mobile devices directly to your TV. I tested this with a game downloaded from the Google Play Store, and casting from my phone worked flawlessly.

I also explored whether side-loading an emulator (software that replicates a retro game console) remained straightforward with the latest NVIDIA SHIELD TV. I found the process unchanged and successfully played classics like Legend of Zelda and Pokemon. Searching for various content on the device, such as movies, apps, and games, is significantly faster thanks to Google Assistant integration.

For those who prefer Alexa, the device can also be configured to work with this virtual assistant.

Download Speed Tests

Download speed plays a crucial role when streaming large HD files on devices like this. I conducted tests using a 200 Mbps internet connection and the 5 GHz band on my Asus AC3100 router. For these tests, I employed IPVanish, the fastest VPN currently on the market. The Speed Test tool within the TROYPOINT App facilitated the testing process.

With both ethernet and VPN connection enabled, download speed registered slightly above 35 Mbps, while upload speed was 20 Mbps. Disabling the VPN nearly doubled the download speed, and the upload speed approached 36 Mbps. With a Wi-Fi connection, there’s a noticeable difference.not really much of a difference when you compare download and upload speeds. The speeds slow down by only 2 Mbps at the most.

Overall Performance

The NVIDIA SHIELD TV performed well even with regular use. The picture quality, features, and audio clarity all make it one of the best streaming players when it comes to entertainment.

I didn’t experience any serious lags, as long as I maintained a reliable internet connection. I also had plenty of storage space to stream movies without any issues.

When fast forwarding to another scene on a streaming movie, I’ve not had any major issues. However, with all of the new features that have been added, I think the device’s performance is just as efficient as the older version – nothing more and nothing less.

Purchase the 2019 NVIDIA SHIELD TV

What I Don’t Like

There are certain aspects of the NVIDIA SHIELD TV that weren’t as good as I had expected. Especially when you consider that it took a full two years for this update to be released.

Hardware and Storage

For those who have gotten used to the old version, the lack of a USB slot can be a drawback. It might be a problem when they want to connect the device to their PC using a USB cable. However, those who use the NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro can find the USB slot in the console.

The console also has a tendency to roll because it lacks a non-slip feet pad to keep it in place. It really should be tucked firmly at the back of the television or it might roll over. And since both ends have wires connected to them, it can look a bit messy.

The only thing worth noting about the remote control is that it lacks a headphone jack. This is an issue for viewers who want to listen privately.

They’ve also reduced the storage space to only 8GB, down from 16GB, which is kind of frustrating.

The MicroSD slot was included if you want to expand your storage. With the older version, users would frequently get a “low space” message when the unit was about to be full of downloaded content. It’s more likely that users of this new model are going to be annoyed by this warning as well.

Exclusions

NVIDIA has decided to exclude the game controller from this package. It previously came as part of a bundle.

While they’ve made it compatible with other Android game controllers, new NVIDIA buyers shouldn’t be deprived of the same components that were available in the previous model.

There’s also no provided HDMI cable in the package. Users will need to purchase a separate HDMI 2.0-compliant cable.

Performance

As I stated above, there’s really not a big difference between the performance of the 2019 and 2017 versions of the device. Aside from adding a bunch of new features, such as AI-Enhanced Upscaling and a cool new remote control, I don’t see much of a change. I haven’t experienced any system crashes since I started using it, but I’m basically getting the same experience as I had with the older model.

Price

For a 4K streamer at $149.99, it’s still a bit expensive for this type of product in this category. And that’s even though the 2017 version was $50 more expensive. Other streaming players, such as the Amazon Firestick at $49.99 and the Android TV Box T95Q at $54.99 (at the time of this writing), are much cheaper and often sufficient for most cord-cutters.

2019 NVIDIA SHIELD TV Streaming Services

Below are some of the content streaming services that work best with the NVIDIA SHIELD TV.

How It Compares with the 2019 NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro

If you’re looking for a higher-end device, theThe NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro version is a solid choice. Take a look at the comparison table below. It lays out the details between the NVIDIA SHIELD TV and the Pro version, helping you make an informed decision.

If you’re interested, you can purchase the 2019 NVIDIA SHIELD TV.

The 2019 NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro is also available for purchase.

Who is it For?

If you’re a streaming enthusiast, the NVIDIA SHIELD TV might be right up your alley. Particularly if you value high-quality visuals, user-friendly voice search, and diverse gaming options. It’s a premium experience for all your content needs. However, it is a bit more expensive compared to some other streaming devices.

Cord-cutters seeking more than just HD movie and TV show streaming will find it ideal.

Who is it Not For?

Those who own the 2017 NVIDIA SHIELD TV might find the latest release a tad underwhelming. The price is higher, but the performance is relatively similar. The new features might not drastically enhance the viewing experience. Gamers, however, are likely to appreciate the improvements.

If your primary need is to watch movies and TV shows, a more budget-friendly option might be preferable. Consider something like the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k. It offers excellent performance and speed for streaming in the best possible quality.

Bottom Line

The 2019 NVIDIA SHIELD TV has been eagerly anticipated by streaming fans and cord-cutters alike. The second version was released back in 2017.

New NVIDIA users will undoubtedly be impressed by its features. The TegraX1+ processor, diverse streaming options, voice control, and 4K capabilities are all noteworthy.

Furthermore, it offers an updated remote, AI-enhanced upscaling, and an overall fantastic Android TV experience.

However, if you’re hoping for a significant upgrade from the 2017 model, the latest version might not deliver. Especially considering the $149.99 price tag. The performance difference isn’t substantial.

If you’re new to cord-cutting, it might be wise to explore more affordable options. The Amazon Firestick is a solid alternative.