NVIDIA Shield TV _ Still One of the Best Streaming Devices Today

Nvidia's Shield TV and its Pro version have been around since 2019, but they've undergone significant changes over the years. The regular Shield turned into a cylinder-like device, while the Shield Pro retained its basic design. This is due to Nvidia's focus on gaming, which makes sense given that it's an NVIDIA company.

Nvidia has always prioritized power and performance in its devices. With the Tegra X1 processor, which was more powerful than what you needed for a streaming box like the Shield TV, Nvidia made sure that the device stayed current with software updates for years. This is in contrast to Apple's approach with their Apple TV, where they also focus on staying current but with less emphasis on raw power.

The current hardware behind the Shield TV is three years old, which is impressive given its capabilities. This makes it an ideal platform for Nvidia's cloud-based GeForce Now gaming program. However, this also means that the device may not be the best option for everyone, especially those looking to stream Netflix or YouTube without breaking the bank.

The Shield Pro, on the other hand, is designed for serious gamers and cloud gaming enthusiasts. It's capable of running AAA games, making it a top choice for those who want the best possible gaming experience. Additionally, the Shield Pro can run Plex servers right out of the box, allowing users to stream local media across their home network.

In 2019, Nvidia's Shield TV was one of the first devices to feature AI upscaling technology. This allowed it to take lower-resolution content and upscale it using machine learning algorithms, making it look better on a television. While other platforms have also adopted this technology, Nvidia's Shield TV was ahead of the curve.

So, why recommend Chromecast with Google TV over Nvidia Shield TV? The answer is simple: price. Chromecast with Google TV costs $50, while the original Nvidia Shield TV (now referred to as Shield TV) and its Pro version cost $125 and $175, respectively. This makes the Chromecast with Google TV a much more affordable option for those who just want to stream Netflix or YouTube.

However, if you're looking for a device that can run Plex servers or cloud gaming, and don't mind paying a premium for it, then Nvidia Shield TV may still be the better choice. It's still getting software updates, which is impressive considering its age. Additionally, it offers 4K and HDR support, as well as Dolby Atmos, making it a great option for those who want high-quality video streaming.

Ultimately, the decision between Chromecast with Google TV and Nvidia Shield TV comes down to your specific needs and budget. While the Shield TV is still a great device, its price point makes the Chromecast with Google TV an attractive alternative for many users. As for Nvidia's future plans, it remains to be seen whether they will update their Shield TV lineup or continue to focus on more premium offerings like the Pro version.

As of now, I think the fifty dollars Chromecast with Google TV is a really good value and that is what I'm gonna recommend to everyone who just wants Netflix, YouTube and Google Assistant. The money's going to be well spent there but if you're hardcore Android fan or you need cloud gaming here Shield Pro your money will also be well-spent and for everything else the Chromecast with Google TV is the way to go and Nvidia Shield can stay in my collection as old wiser still really good but definitely older.