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Review: Nvidia Shield
By Sci-Gaming
One of the main issues people seem to have with PC gaming, as we often see on the internet, is that they don’t like sitting in front of their PC to play games. There are solutions to this issue, such as Steam Link. However, not all TVs natively support the Steam Link app, and additional hardware may be required.
One of the better hardware options for game streaming to your TV appears to be the Nvidia Shield. It not only supports Steam Link but also the Nvidia GameStream service. We decided to purchase one for a review.
Image Credit: Nvidia
Design and Build Quality
The Nvidia Shield TV sports a sleek, compact design, with the base model *(the one we reviewed) resembling a small tube that easily blends into any entertainment centre. For those looking for more storage and ram as well as some extra ports, the Shield Pro offers a more traditional set-top box design.
Both models are built with high-quality plastics and are coupled with backlit remote control featuring a comfortable triangular shape and customizable buttons. Although the remote is nice to hold there are two issues we found with it. There is an annoying Netflix button prone to accidental pressing (we would rather pay a bit extra for the device if it meant it would not come with a sponsored button like this one). And switching the batteries can be a bit challenging opening up the device for the first time.
upscaling of video content
When it comes to streaming, the Shield TV sets the bar high. It supports 4K HDR, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos, delivering good visuals and immersive sound. What truly makes the Shield stand out is its AI-enhanced upscaling, which uses machine learning to upscale HD content to 4K. In practise however it doesn’t make a world of difference. Nvidia has made a name for itself with its incredible DLSS features for gaming GPU’s, this however is a different type of upscaling.
DLSS works in real-time during gameplay, while the Shield's AI upscaling is applied to pre-rendered video content. This allows DLSS to take advantage of additional information from the game engine, resulting in better image quality. On top of that DLSS is typically run on more powerful GPUs in gaming PCs or consoles, while the Shield's AI upscaling is limited by the Tegra X1+ processor1. This difference in hardware capabilities allows DLSS to perform more complex calculations in real-time.
Gaming Features: Nvidia Gamestream and More
Powered by the Tegra X1+ chip (an updated chip but similar to the one found in the Nintendo Switch) , it delivers an acceptable level of performance for andorid games, but nothing special. Keep in mind that Nintendo games are far more optimized for the console whereas games played on the android platform are not.
One of its standout features is Nvidia Gamestream, which allows you to stream games directly from your Nvidia-powered PC to your Shield device. Gamestream supports up to 4K HDR resolution for select games, offering a near-console-quality experience on your TV. The feature is smooth, provided you have a strong local network, and it supports a variety of controllers, including the Nvidia Shield Controller and even Xbox and PlayStation gamepads.
On top of the higher resolution, the shield typically seems offers better performance and lower latency compared to Steam Link probably benefiting from Nvidia's hardware encoding. It is important to keep in mind that a cabled connection is requiored for the best performance.
Additionally, the Shield is compatible with GeForce NOW, Nvidia’s cloud gaming service. With GeForce NOW, you can play PC games from your online PC storefront libraries without needing a high-end gaming PC. The combination of Gamestream and GeForce NOW makes the Shield an good option for gaming enthusiasts.
The Nvidia Shield TV is also an excellent option for emulation enthusiasts. Its powerful hardware allows it to run retro games through emulators like RetroArch, making it a versatile choice for gamers who enjoy revisiting classics.
Drawbacks
On top of the mentioned issues with the remote and the not very spectacular ai upscaling the Nvidia Shield TV’s main downside is its price, which is higher than most streaming devices on the market. The base Shield TV costs around $149, while the Shield Pro is priced at $199. Whether or not the features justify the cost, it may be overkill for users who only need basic streaming capabilities.
Another minor drawback is the Shield’s reliance on a strong network for its gaming features, especially Nvidia Gamestream and GeForce NOW. Without a robust internet connection or local network, the experience may suffer.
For those that wish to play their PC games on the couch and willing to invest in a premium device, the Nvidia Shield TV is a good addition to your entertainment setup. If you are planning on using it just as a video streaming device or for playing just android games on your TV there are more affordable options out there.
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