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In the world of Android TV boxes and media streamers, NVIDIA Shield holds the throne as the highest performer. Apart from being a great TV and movies streaming box, the Shield’s gaming features make it an attractive option for those looking for a box that goes the extra mile.
Set at a higher price point than competitors such as Amazon Fire TVand Roku TV, at first glance, the NVIDIA Shield may seem excessive. But with 4K UHD, AI upscaling, Dolby HDR and Atmos audio, unmatched processing speed and a designated gaming service, its offerings are far-reaching and intricate.
If you’re unsure on exactly what the NVIDIA Shield can do, read on for our guide that decodes everything you need to know about the devices and its services.
What is NVIDIA Shield?
NVIDIA Shield TV is a range of Android TV streaming boxes, designed to accommodate both gaming and entertainment streaming.
NVIDIA Shield is the fastest and most powerful Android TV streaming media platform. In addition to a capable processor, RAM and graphics card, the devices come with built-in Chromecast, Google Assistant, as well as high-quality video and audio streaming through Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos.
What does a NVIDIA Shield do?
NVIDIA Shield merges both streaming and gaming features to suit a variety of needs.
Unlike other Android TV systems, the NVIDIA Shield platform offers users unrestricted access to thousands of Android games through the Google Play store, and through GeForce NOW; NVIDIA’s very own on-demand subscription cloud gaming service.
Apart from downloading and streaming games, Shield users can enjoy a range of TV shows and movies through subscription services like Amazon Prime Video and Netflix, as well as free apps like PLEX.
What games can I play on NVIDIA Shield?
Hundreds of games are available on NVIDIA Shield via the Google Play store and GeForce NOW streaming service. Examples of Android games include console and PC classics, like Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas and Minecraft, through to casual mobile-gaming favourites, like Alto’s Adventure and Bloons TD.
On GeForce NOW, over 100 PC games are supported, some of which include Assassins Creed 3, Fortnite, Destiny 2 and Counter Strike: Global Offensive.
NVIDIA Shield devices carry Bluetooth 5.0, meaning that gaming controllers can be linked for play, as well as general navigation. NVIDIA also offers its own controller.
Related: The best budget gaming PCs
How much does NVIDIA Shield cost?
Depending on which model you opt for, the NVIDIA Shield will cost you between £150 to £200. We’ve created an overview of the available models below:
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Description
The classic Shield TV model boasts a fast-processing speed with the latest advanced NVIDIA Tegra X1+, 2GB RAM, GPU and high quality 4K viewing. Shield TV supports Dolby Vision HDR Picture, as well as Dolby Atmos sound for a powerful streaming experience. 8GB of expandable storage is offered on the standard Shield device, and smart home functionality can be programmed through Google Assistant.
Description
The Shield TV Pro contains the same basic components as the standard variant, only with 3 GB RAM, making it a more powerful device. It also carries 16GB of expandable storage, and boasts a number of additional USB ports for increased functionality. The Pro offers the same perks as the Shield TV, such as Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos, as well as 4K streaming. Another key difference between the two models lies in the Prou2019s ability to use Samsung SmartThings to monitor security cameras, light bulbs, motion centres and more, giving you even great control over your home.
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Both the NVIDIA Shield and NVIDIA Shield TV Pro use NVIDIA’s excellent upscaling AI to improve the quality of non-4K content.
Is NVIDIA Shield good for gaming?
Yes, NVIDIA was designed with powerful gaming features, and its very own subscription cloud gaming service. While it isn’t as powerful as a PC, PS5 or Xbox Series X|S, it’s a solid system for an easy gaming life.
NVIDIA has also released a Shield controller, designed for hours of comfortable gaming, voice control and dual vibration feedback.
Related: The best PS5 games
Are games on NVIDIA Shield free?
Shield owners have access to over 70 free-to-play games via GeForce NOW.
Can you play Fortnite on NVIDIA Shield?
Yes, Fortnite is available on NVIDIA Shield via GeForce NOW.
What apps are on NVIDIA Shield?
Thousands of streaming and gaming apps are available through the Google Play store and Android TV operating system.
Apps such as Amazon Prime Video, Netflix and YouTube come pre-installed, as well as BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub and more. The NVIDIA Shield platform can also use services such as PLEX Media Server.
Is the NVIDIA Shield worth it?
The bottom line is, the NVIDIA Shield has many perks to those looking to stream more than just movies and TV shows. If you’re a gamer, the NVIDIA is well worth it due to good game streaming, high-image quality, and AI upscaling.
That said, if you’re simply looking for a straight-forward high-quality 4K streaming device to access Prime Video, Netflix and BBC iPlayer, the NVIDIA Shield isn’t going to offer you much more than a Fire TV Stick 4K or Apple TV 4K.
If you'd like to read more about the best media streamers, visit our 'best of' list here.