Why nvidia shield

Nonetheless it remains a popular choice for geeks and gamers who want more extras and capabilities, including 4K HDR now with Dolby Vision , built-in Google Assistant and an array of gaming options that makes Apple Arcade seem like a one-trick pony, especially for PC gamers.

In addition to the GeForce Now game streaming platform, Android games store and GameStream ability for compatible PCs, another extra makes this device a head-turner for gamers: Steam. Yes, the Shield TV costs more than most competitors, and the price is tough to justify for "just a streamer," but once again geeks and gamers will find plenty of reasons to splurge.

The Shield TV is the most covert device I can recall from the gaming company. It's roughly the size and shape of a runner's baton; at 6. The Shield TV comes with a total of four ports, with two at each end -- one side houses a standard power socket no adapter required and Ethernet, while the other includes an HDMI port and a microSD expansion slot. There is a single reset button, but sadly, there's no room for USB. The device is also able to upscale streamed content using its proprietary AI upscaling.

Here's how the two new Shields compare with the previous version from The remote that comes in the package is completely rebuilt from before and features a new, Toblerone-like triangular shape. While on paper this sounds pretty terrible, it's actually quite comfortable to hold. The button array now includes dedicated volume, settings and Netflix shortcuts. To learn more or opt-out, read our Cookie Policy.

If you buy something from a Verge link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics statement. The new Nvidia Shield devices that leaked last week are both going on sale today. Both now feature Dolby Vision, in addition to the HDR10 and Dolby Atmos audio that were offered by the previous Shield, and they come with a redesigned remote.

The other big new feature is an AI-powered upscaling system that makes p content look more detailed and closer to 4K quality. Want to load the Shield up with emulators and game ROMs? Have at it. This kind of speed and fluidity is rivaled only by the Apple TV 4K. Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, and other apps open near-instantly and are buttery smooth as you scroll around for something to watch. I like that I can scroll through recent videos from my YouTube subscriptions right on the home screen.

But not many apps offer these horizontal carousels. Bizarrely, not even YouTube TV does. This lack of support for Android TV features including picture-in-picture from third-party developers and Google itself is disappointing. Motion-activated, backlit buttons—including a user-customizable button.

Voice control. Bluetooth control. An IR blaster to control your TV. Even a built-in lost-remote locator. Netflix streaming membership required. Netflix HDR limitations apply. The fusion of Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for advanced image and sound combines two technologies that directors, sound mixers and colorists use to create spectacular entertainment experiences. Crisper, clearer, video enhanced to 4K resolution in real-time.

It has a multitasking menu invoked by double-tapping the home button , so you can quickly switch between apps, and you can use an Alexa-powered smart speaker to control basic playback. In my review of the previous Nvidia Shield TV from , I argued that its strength was in not catering to the lowest common denominator. Those ifs and buts are no longer quite as necessary.

Jared Newman covers personal technology from his remote Cincinnati outpost. He also publishes two newsletters, Advisorator for tech advice and Cord Cutter Weekly for help with ditching cable or satellite TV. Music Streaming Media. At a Glance.