When it comes to streaming devices, the Nvidia Shield TV (2017) has been a popular choice among consumers for its impressive performance and features. However, when it comes to choosing between the Nvidia Shield TV Pro and Mi Box S as add-ons for the Nvidia Shield TV, the decision can be tougher. This article aims to provide a detailed comparison of Nvidia Shield TV Pro vs Mi Box S for Nvidia Shield TV (2017) to help you make an informed decision.
What is Nvidia Shield TV (2017)?
The Nvidia Shield TV (2017) is a streaming device that runs on Android TV OS and features impressive performance thanks to its Tegra X1 processor. It supports 4K resolution and HDR, and is compatible with popular streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. It also has Google Assistant integration, which allows users to use voice commands to perform various actions.
In addition to its streaming capabilities, the Nvidia Shield TV (2017) also has the ability to play video games. It has access to the Google Play Store, where users can download and play a variety of Android games. It also has the ability to stream games from a compatible PC with Nvidia GeForce Experience installed.
Another feature of the Nvidia Shield TV (2017) is its expandable storage. It has a microSD card slot and two USB 3.0 ports, allowing users to easily add additional storage for their media and games. It also has a sleek and compact design, making it easy to fit into any entertainment setup.
What is Nvidia Shield TV Pro?
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro is an upgraded version of the Nvidia Shield TV (2017) with more advanced features. It comes with a more powerful Tegra X1+ processor, which provides better performance and supports a wider range of apps and games. It also has 3 GB of RAM and 16 GB of internal storage, as well as support for external storage through USB 3.0 ports. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro also features a built-in IR receiver and is compatible with Logitech Harmony remote controls.
In addition to its hardware upgrades, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro also offers a variety of software features. It runs on Android TV, which provides access to popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. It also has Google Assistant built-in, allowing users to control their TV and smart home devices with voice commands. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro also supports 4K HDR streaming, making it a great choice for those with high-end TVs.
Another unique feature of the Nvidia Shield TV Pro is its ability to act as a Plex media server. This means that users can store their media files on the device and stream them to other devices on their network. This is a great option for those who have a large collection of movies and TV shows and want to access them from multiple devices without having to transfer files between them.
What is Mi Box S?
The Mi Box S is another streaming device that runs on Android TV OS and offers similar features as the Nvidia Shield TV (2017). It supports 4K resolution and HDR and is compatible with popular streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. It also has Google Assistant integration, which allows users to use voice commands to perform various actions.
In addition to its streaming capabilities, the Mi Box S also has a built-in Chromecast, which allows users to cast content from their mobile devices or laptops directly to their TV. It also has a USB port and supports Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to connect to other devices such as gaming controllers or external hard drives. The Mi Box S is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly streaming device with a variety of features.
Features of Nvidia Shield TV (2017)
Aside from the impressive performance and wide app and game support, the Nvidia Shield TV (2017) also features a unique remote control with a touchpad and voice search capabilities. It also has a small form factor that allows it to easily blend in with other home theater components. Additionally, the Nvidia Shield TV (2017) features a proprietary AI upscaling technology which enhances lower quality video to near-4K quality.
Moreover, the Nvidia Shield TV (2017) has a built-in Chromecast feature that allows users to cast their favorite movies, TV shows, and music from their mobile devices to their TV. This feature eliminates the need for additional hardware and cables, making it a convenient and hassle-free way to enjoy your media content. Additionally, the Nvidia Shield TV (2017) supports 4K HDR streaming, providing users with stunning visuals and vibrant colors for an immersive viewing experience.
Features of Nvidia Shield TV Pro
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro builds on the features of the Nvidia Shield TV (2017) with a more powerful Tegra X1+ processor that provides better performance and support for more apps and games. It also features a built-in IR receiver and is compatible with Logitech Harmony remote controls. Additionally, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro has more internal storage than the Nvidia Shield TV (2017) with 16 GB of storage and 3 GB of RAM, as well as support for external storage through USB 3.0 ports.
Moreover, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro comes with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support, which enhances the viewing and listening experience. It also has AI upscaling technology that can upscale 720p or 1080p content to 4K resolution, making it look sharper and more detailed. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro also has a Gigabit Ethernet port for faster internet connectivity and supports dual-band Wi-Fi for seamless streaming. With its advanced features and capabilities, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-performance streaming device.
Features of Mi Box S
The Mi Box S has similar features to the Nvidia Shield TV (2017), with support for 4K resolution and HDR, voice commands through Google Assistant integration, and compatibility with popular streaming services. However, it has less powerful hardware compared to the Nvidia Shield TV (2017) and Nvidia Shield TV Pro, with only 2 GB of RAM and 8 GB of internal storage. It also lacks the proprietary AI upscaling technology available on the Nvidia Shield TV (2017).
Despite its limitations, the Mi Box S offers a user-friendly interface and easy setup process. It also comes with a Bluetooth remote control that allows for easy navigation and voice commands. Additionally, the Mi Box S supports Dolby Digital Plus and DTS surround sound, providing an immersive audio experience for users.
Another advantage of the Mi Box S is its compact size, making it easy to fit into any entertainment setup. It also supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless streaming and connection to other devices. Overall, the Mi Box S is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly streaming device with solid features and performance.
Design comparison: Nvidia Shield TV Pro vs Mi Box S
When it comes to design, both the Nvidia Shield TV Pro and Mi Box S have a small form factor that can easily blend in with other home theater components. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro has a slightly larger size compared to the Mi Box S and has a more premium feel with its all-black design and angular lines. The Mi Box S, on the other hand, has a rounded design and a white top with a black bottom. Both devices have a similar set of ports, including USB, HDMI, and Ethernet ports.
Performance comparison: Nvidia Shield TV Pro vs Mi Box S
In terms of performance, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro has a more powerful Tegra X1+ processor that provides better performance and support for more apps and games compared to the Mi Box S. Both devices support 4K resolution and HDR, but the Nvidia Shield TV Pro has better upscaling technology compared to the Mi Box S. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro also has more internal storage and RAM compared to the Mi Box S, which can impact overall performance.
User experience comparison: Nvidia Shield TV Pro vs Mi Box S
When it comes to user experience, both devices run on Android TV OS, which provides a clean and easy-to-use interface. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro, however, has a more feature-rich experience with access to more apps and games and Google Assistant integration. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro also offers a unique AI upscaling technology that enhances lower quality video to near-4K quality.
Gaming capabilities: Nvidia Shield TV Pro vs Mi Box S
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro is known for its impressive gaming capabilities, with support for a wide range of Android games and GeForce Now cloud gaming service. It also has a more powerful Tegra X1+ processor compared to the Mi Box S, which can impact gaming performance. While the Mi Box S can also support Android games, it’s not as well suited for gaming as the Nvidia Shield TV Pro.
Streaming options: Nvidia Shield TV Pro vs Mi Box S
Both devices are compatible with popular streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. They also have Google Assistant integration for voice commands and access to the Google Play Store for additional apps. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro, however, has support for more apps and games and offers a more feature-rich experience overall.
Price comparison: Nvidia Shield TV Pro vs Mi Box S
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro is priced at $199, while the Mi Box S is priced at $59. This significant price difference reflects the difference in features and performance between the devices, making it a matter of personal preference and budget when choosing between them.
Verdict: Which is better for Nvidia Shield TV (2017)?
While both the Nvidia Shield TV Pro and Mi Box S offer impressive features and compatibility with the Nvidia Shield TV (2017), the Nvidia Shield TV Pro is the superior option. Its more powerful hardware provides better performance and support for more apps and games, while its unique AI upscaling technology enhances lower quality video to near-4K quality. However, if you’re looking for an affordable option and don’t require as many high-end features, the Mi Box S is still a solid streaming device.
Pros and cons of each device
Here’s a quick summary of the pros and cons of each streaming device:
- Nvidia Shield TV Pro
- Pros: More advanced hardware, unique AI upscaling technology, built-in IR receiver, more internal storage and RAM, support for Logitech Harmony remote controls
- Cons: Higher price point
- Mi Box S
- Pros: Affordable price point, compatible with popular streaming services and Google Assistant integration
- Cons: Less advanced hardware, less internal storage and RAM compared to other devices, lacks unique AI upscaling technology
Frequently asked questions about the devices
Q: Can I use the Nvidia Shield TV Pro or Mi Box S with other TVs?
A: Yes, both devices can be used with any TV that has an HDMI port.
Q: Does the Nvidia Shield TV Pro support voice commands?
A: Yes, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro supports Google Assistant integration and can be controlled using voice commands.
Q: Can I play games on the Mi Box S?
A: While the Mi Box S supports Android games, it is not as well suited for gaming as the Nvidia Shield TV Pro.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re looking for the most advanced streaming device to pair with your Nvidia Shield TV (2017), the Nvidia Shield TV Pro is the way to go. Its advanced hardware and unique AI upscaling technology offer a superior user experience. However, if you’re on a tight budget and don’t require as many high-end features, the Mi Box S is still a solid streaming device. Ultimately, the choice between the two devices will depend on your personal preferences and budget.