Nvidia Shield TV Pro
VERDICT
It is baffling that a device released years ago is still unbeatable in 2026. For power users who have a local library of movies (Plex/Emby) or want to stream PC games via GeForce Now, the Shield TV Pro is the only serious option. It handles heavy files and audio formats that make other sticks choke.
The Big Picture
While Apple TV focuses on streaming apps, Nvidia Shield focuses on raw power and versatility. Running on the Tegra X1+ processor (similar to the Switch), it uses Artificial Intelligence to upscale grainy HD content into sharp 4K. It also has USB ports to connect hard drives directly, acting as a standalone media server for your entire home.
🧠 AI Upscaling
The Magic: Most TVs have basic upscaling. Nvidia uses a neural network trained on thousands of hours of footage.
The Result: Watch a 1080p YouTube video or an old 720p TV show, and the Shield sharpens edges and enhances detail in real-time. It’s the best upscaling tech in any streaming box, period.
🎞️ Lossless Audio Passthrough
The Audiophile's Choice.
Capability: It supports passing through advanced audio formats like Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD MA, and DTS:X directly to your receiver. Other devices (like Fire Stick or Chromecast) often compress this audio, losing quality. The Shield keeps it pure.
✅ The Pros
- Format Support: Plays literally anything (Dolby Vision, Atmos, MKV, ISO).
- GeForce Now: Stream PC games from the cloud at 4K 60fps.
- Plex Server: Can host your media library directly.
- USB Expansion: Two USB 3.0 ports for hard drives or keyboards.
❌ The Cons
- Price: Expensive ($199) for dated hardware.
- No Youtube HDR: Does not support the VP9 Profile 2 codec for HDR on YouTube specifically.
- Remote: The triangular "Toblerone" remote is unique but awkward to hold.
🤔 Should you buy it?
YES if you have a local movie collection (Plex) or a high-end sound system. It is the power user's dream.
NO if you only stream Netflix and Disney+; a Chromecast with Google TV does the same job for 1/4th the price.
See the showdown: Nvidia Shield TV Pro vs. Apple TV 4K Comparison