If you’re in the market for a new streaming device to add to your home entertainment setup, you’ve likely stumbled upon the Nvidia Shield TV Pro and the Mi Box S. As a Xiaomi Mi Box 3 user, choosing between these two devices can seem overwhelming. In this detailed comparison, we’ll examine everything from the design and technical specifications to the gaming experience and user interface. By the end of this article, you’ll be able to make an informed decision on which device is the best fit for your needs.
Introduction to Nvidia Shield TV Pro and Mi Box S
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro and the Mi Box S are both streaming devices that allow you to access popular streaming apps such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and more. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro is a high-end device that boasts impressive hardware specs and advanced features such as 4K HDR streaming and the ability to play games. The Mi Box S, on the other hand, is a mid-range device that is designed to be an affordable option for those looking to stream content.
One of the key differences between the Nvidia Shield TV Pro and the Mi Box S is the operating system they run on. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro runs on Android TV, which offers a more customizable and user-friendly interface. The Mi Box S, on the other hand, runs on the Android operating system, which is more limited in terms of customization options.
Another important factor to consider when choosing between these two devices is the storage capacity. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro comes with 16GB of internal storage, which can be expanded with an external hard drive. The Mi Box S, on the other hand, only has 8GB of internal storage and does not support external storage options. This means that if you plan on downloading a lot of apps or storing large files, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro may be the better option for you.
Design and Build Quality Comparison
When it comes to design and build quality, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro and the Mi Box S are quite different. The Shield TV Pro has a sleek black design with a slim and compact form factor. It’s made of high-quality plastic and feels sturdy and durable. The Mi Box S, on the other hand, is made of plastic with a small form factor. While it’s not as premium as the Shield TV Pro, it’s still well-built and has a sleek appearance.
Additionally, the Shield TV Pro has a unique triangular shape that allows it to be easily stacked on top of other devices. It also has a built-in fan to prevent overheating during extended use. The Mi Box S, on the other hand, has a more traditional rectangular shape and does not have a built-in fan. However, it does come with a remote control that has a built-in microphone for voice commands, which is a feature not found on the Shield TV Pro.
Technical Specifications Comparison
When it comes to technical specifications, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro is the clear winner. It has a powerful Tegra X1+ processor, 3GB of RAM, and 16GB of storage, making it capable of handling even the most demanding apps and games. The Mi Box S has a less powerful S905X-H processor, 2GB of RAM, and 8GB of storage, making it better suited for casual streaming and light use.
However, it’s important to note that the Mi Box S does have some advantages over the Nvidia Shield TV Pro. For one, it is significantly cheaper, making it a more budget-friendly option for those who don’t need the highest level of performance. Additionally, the Mi Box S is smaller and more compact, making it easier to fit into tight spaces or take with you on the go.
Another factor to consider is the user interface. While both devices run on Android TV, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro has a more advanced and customizable interface, with features like picture-in-picture and the ability to add your own apps to the home screen. The Mi Box S, on the other hand, has a simpler and more streamlined interface that may be easier for some users to navigate.
Performance Comparison
In terms of performance, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro outperforms the Mi Box S. Its powerful hardware allows for lightning-fast streaming and smooth navigation through menus and apps. The Mi Box S is still a capable device, but it may struggle with more demanding apps and games.
Additionally, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro has a larger storage capacity than the Mi Box S, which can be beneficial for users who want to download and store a lot of content on their device. The Shield TV Pro comes with 16GB of internal storage, while the Mi Box S only has 8GB. This means that users of the Shield TV Pro can download more apps, games, and media without having to worry about running out of space.
Gaming Experience Comparison
If you’re a gamer, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro is the clear choice. It has built-in support for popular game engines such as Unity and Unreal, allowing for console-quality gaming. The Shield TV Pro also comes with a dedicated game controller, making it a great choice for serious gamers. The Mi Box S, on the other hand, is not designed for gaming and lacks the hardware and software support for console-quality gaming.
However, if you’re looking for a more casual gaming experience, the Mi Box S can still provide some entertainment. It has access to the Google Play Store, which offers a variety of mobile games that can be played on the TV. Additionally, the Mi Box S supports Bluetooth controllers, so you can connect a compatible controller for a better gaming experience.
It’s also worth noting that both devices support streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. So, if gaming isn’t your main priority, you may want to consider other factors such as price and overall user experience when making your decision.
Audio and Video Quality Comparison
When it comes to audio and video quality, both devices offer support for 4K HDR streaming. However, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro offers better upscaling and color quality, thanks to its advanced features such as AI upscaling and Dolby Vision. The Mi Box S still offers impressive audio and video quality, but it may not be as sharp or vibrant as the Shield TV Pro.
In addition to the audio and video quality, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro also offers better gaming performance compared to the Mi Box S. With its powerful processor and graphics card, the Shield TV Pro can handle more demanding games and provide a smoother gaming experience.
Another advantage of the Nvidia Shield TV Pro is its compatibility with a wider range of apps and services. While the Mi Box S supports popular streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu, the Shield TV Pro also offers access to niche apps and services that may not be available on other devices.
Remote Control Comparison
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro comes with a sleek and ergonomic remote control that has a built-in microphone for voice commands. The Mi Box S also comes with a compact remote control that has a basic set of buttons, but it lacks the advanced features of the Shield TV Pro remote control.
Additionally, the Shield TV Pro remote control has a touchpad for easy navigation and a headphone jack for private listening. It also has a “find my remote” feature that allows you to locate your lost remote control by pressing a button on the Shield TV Pro device. On the other hand, the Mi Box S remote control does not have any of these advanced features, but it is still a functional and easy-to-use remote control.
User Interface and Navigation Comparison
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro has a clean and intuitive user interface that is easy to navigate. The Mi Box S also has a simple user interface, but it may not be as smooth or responsive as the Shield TV Pro’s interface.
One of the standout features of the Nvidia Shield TV Pro’s user interface is its ability to integrate with Google Assistant. This allows users to control their TV and other smart home devices using voice commands. The Mi Box S also has voice control capabilities, but it may not be as seamless as the Shield TV Pro’s integration with Google Assistant.
In terms of navigation, both devices offer similar options such as browsing through apps and searching for content. However, the Shield TV Pro has an advantage with its ability to customize the home screen with frequently used apps and shortcuts. This can save users time and make accessing their favorite content even easier.
App Selection and Availability Comparison
Both devices offer access to popular streaming apps such as Netflix and Hulu. However, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro offers access to a wider range of apps, including popular gaming apps such as Steam and GeForce Now. The Mi Box S may not offer as many apps as the Shield TV Pro, but it still offers access to essential apps such as YouTube and Netflix.
In addition to app availability, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro also offers more advanced features such as voice search and the ability to control smart home devices through Google Assistant. The Mi Box S also has voice search capabilities, but it may not be as seamless as the Shield TV Pro’s integration with Google Assistant.
Another factor to consider is the price point. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro is more expensive than the Mi Box S, but it may be worth the investment for those who prioritize a wider range of app options and advanced features. On the other hand, the Mi Box S offers a more affordable option for those who primarily use streaming apps and do not require the additional features offered by the Shield TV Pro.
Price and Value for Money Comparison
When it comes to price, the Mi Box S is significantly cheaper than the Nvidia Shield TV Pro. However, the Shield TV Pro offers advanced features such as console-quality gaming and AI upscaling, making it a better value for money for those who want high-end features.
Pros and Cons of Nvidia Shield TV Pro
Pros:
– Advanced features such as console-quality gaming and AI upscaling
– Powerful hardware and lightning-fast performance
– Access to a wide range of apps and games
Cons:
– High price point
– May be too advanced for casual users
Pros and Cons of Mi Box S
Pros:
– Affordable price point
– Sleek and compact design
– Easy to use user interface
Cons:
– Limited hardware and software support
– Lacks advanced features such as console-quality gaming
Which One Should You Buy – Nvidia Shield TV Pro or Mi Box S?
Choosing between the Nvidia Shield TV Pro and the Mi Box S really comes down to your specific needs. If you’re a serious gamer or want advanced features such as AI upscaling, the Shield TV Pro is the clear choice. However, if you’re looking for an affordable device for casual streaming, the Mi Box S is a great option.
Final Verdict – Our Recommendation for Xiaomi Mi Box 3 Users
If you’re a Xiaomi Mi Box 3 user, we recommend the Nvidia Shield TV Pro as the best upgrade option. While it may be more expensive than the Mi Box S, it offers advanced features such as console-quality gaming and AI upscaling, making it a great investment for those who want high-end features and performance.