When it comes to streaming audio and video on a Vizio V-Series TV, you have two options that are both designed to deliver excellent picture and sound quality – the Vizio XRT136 and Nvidia Shield. While both devices have their unique features and specifications, they both promise a smooth and seamless streaming experience, especially when used with Vizio V-Series TVs. In this article, we’ll compare the two devices to help you determine which one is better suited to your needs.
What is Vizio XRT136 and Nvidia Shield?
Before we delve into the features and specifications of the two devices, let’s start with a brief overview of what they are.
The Vizio XRT136 is a remote control that comes standard with Vizio V-Series TVs. The remote is designed to navigate through the smart TV interface without difficulty and to be able to control most aspects of the TV. It’s noted for its sleek design and ease of use.
The Nvidia Shield is a streaming device that is designed to connect to your TV and provide 4k HDR streaming options for a variety of streaming services. The device is compatible with various home automation platforms, gaming options, and streaming platforms. It’s known for its advanced streaming capabilities, high-speed processor, and Google assistant integration.
One of the unique features of the Vizio XRT136 is its ability to control other devices in your home. With the remote’s built-in infrared technology, you can control your cable box, soundbar, and other devices without needing multiple remotes. This feature makes it a convenient addition to your home entertainment setup.
On the other hand, the Nvidia Shield offers more than just streaming capabilities. It also has a built-in gaming platform, allowing you to play games on your TV without needing a separate gaming console. Additionally, the device has a feature called “AI upscaling,” which uses artificial intelligence to enhance the picture quality of non-4k content, making it look sharper and more detailed.
Features and specifications of Vizio XRT136 and Nvidia Shield
Features and specifications of Vizio XRT136:
- The Vizio XRT136 has a simple design with basic playback controls and the inclusion of voice assistance.
- The remote control is relatively light and well balanced, making it easy to hold and use for extended periods.
- The Vizio XRT136 also has a rubber back to prevent slipping out of the hand.
- The device uses IR for control, so it can’t be used without a direct line of sight.
Features and specifications of Nvidia Shield:
- The Nvidia Shield has a more robust design with advanced features like game streaming, 4K HDR, and voice search.
- The device has built-in Google Assistant, which makes it easy to search for content and control the unit with your voice.
- The Nvidia Shield has a Bluetooth 5 connection and 802.11ac Wi-Fi, so you can connect to your home network easily.
- The device has 8GB of storage but also has a MicroSD card slot to expand storage capability.
Both the Vizio XRT136 and Nvidia Shield have their own unique features and specifications that make them stand out from each other. However, one thing they have in common is their compatibility with popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. This means that users can easily access their favorite shows and movies with just a few clicks of a button.
Pros and cons of using Vizio XRT136 and Nvidia Shield
Pros of using Vizio XRT136:
- The Vizio XRT136 is simple to operate and has a basic layout.
- The remote control is affordable and comes standard with Vizio V-Series TVs.
- The remote doesn’t require any setup or pairing, and it’s compatible with most Vizio TVs.
Cons of using Vizio XRT136:
- The Vizio XRT136 is limited in its capabilities and is only intended for basic TV control.
- The remote control requires a direct line of sight to the TV to operate.
- The low sensitivity of the infrared signal can be frustrating when trying to change channels or fast forwarding.
Pros of using Nvidia Shield:
- The Nvidia Shield has advanced features and streaming capabilities, making it stand out from other streaming devices in its price range.
- The device can connect to various home automation platforms, making it a desirable option for those who already have a significant smart home setup.
- The built-in Google Assistant integration makes it easy to use and control.
Cons of using Nvidia Shield:
- The Nvidia Shield is more expensive than some other streaming devices on the market.
- The device doesn’t come with a remote, and users have to purchase one separately.
- The complexity of the device may make it challenging for some users to set up, resulting in a potentially frustrating experience.
It’s worth noting that the Nvidia Shield also has a gaming component, allowing users to play games on their TV. This feature may be appealing to those who want a device that can serve multiple purposes. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the gaming aspect of the Nvidia Shield may not be as robust as a dedicated gaming console.
Compatibility with Vizio V-Series TVs
Both Vizio XRT136 and Nvidia Shield are compatible with Vizio V-Series TVs. The Vizio XRT136 comes standard with Vizio TVs, and most V-Series TVs are pre-programmed to work with the remote control. Nvidia Shield also works smoothly with Vizio V-Series TVs, provided that you have the correct HDMI cables and settings correctly configured on the TV.
It is worth noting that while both the Vizio XRT136 and Nvidia Shield are compatible with Vizio V-Series TVs, they offer different features and functionalities. The Vizio XRT136 is a standard remote control that allows you to navigate through the TV’s menus, adjust the volume, and change channels. On the other hand, Nvidia Shield is a streaming device that offers access to a wide range of apps and services, including Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. It also allows you to play games and stream content in 4K HDR quality.
Ease of setup and use for both devices
The Vizio XRT136 requires no setup or pairing, making it easy to set up and operate. As long as it’s in direct line of sight to the TV, the remote will work without issue. The Nvidia Shield is more complicated to set up and requires additional setup steps to configure. More advanced users may prefer this as it gives them the flexibility to customize their settings, but it may be overwhelming for novice users and lead to frustration.
However, once the Nvidia Shield is set up, it offers a more seamless and intuitive user experience. Its interface is user-friendly and easy to navigate, with customizable home screens and voice search capabilities. The Vizio XRT136, on the other hand, has a more basic interface and limited features. It may be suitable for those who prefer a simple and straightforward remote, but it may not meet the needs of users who want more advanced features and customization options.
Picture quality comparison between Vizio XRT136 and Nvidia Shield on Vizio V-Series TVs
The picture quality of the Vizio XRT136 and Nvidia Shield will depend on the resolution of the TV and what you’re streaming. However, when it comes to 4k HDR streaming, the Nvidia Shield has an advantage over the Vizio XRT136, as it’s designed for a much higher resolution compared to the Vizio XRT136. This means that when streaming 4k HDR content, the picture quality on Nvidia Shield will be much better than that of the Vizio XRT136 on V-Series TVs.
It’s important to note that while the Nvidia Shield may have an advantage in 4k HDR streaming, the Vizio XRT136 still provides excellent picture quality for non-4k content. Additionally, the Vizio XRT136 is often more affordable than the Nvidia Shield, making it a great option for those who don’t need the highest resolution streaming capabilities. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and budget.
Audio performance comparison between Vizio XRT136 and Nvidia Shield on Vizio V-Series TVs
Regarding audio performance, both the Vizio XRT136 and Nvidia Shield have basic capabilities for controlling the TV’s sound. However, the Nvidia Shield has an advantage over the Vizio XRT136, as it can connect to more advanced audio devices and output high-quality audio via Dolby Atmos, a feature not available on Vizio XRT136. The Nvidia Shield also supports various audio codecs, which means you’ll have more options to choose from when streaming content.
Another advantage of the Nvidia Shield is its ability to upscale audio to higher quality. This means that even if you’re playing content with lower quality audio, the Nvidia Shield can enhance it to sound better on your Vizio V-Series TV. This feature is not available on the Vizio XRT136.
However, it’s worth noting that the Vizio XRT136 is still a good option for those who don’t require advanced audio features. It’s a simple and easy-to-use remote that can control the TV’s volume and mute functions. Plus, it’s included with the Vizio V-Series TV, so you don’t need to purchase an additional device.
Gaming experience on both devices with Vizio V-Series TVs
The Nvidia Shield has an advantage over Vizio XRT136, as it’s designed to be gaming-friendly. The device has gaming-specific features like GeForce Now, which allows you to stream PC games to your Shield device and controller, making it possible to play computer video games on your TV. The Vizio XRT136 does not have any gaming-specific features and is not designed to handle gaming sessions on Vizio V-Series TVs.
However, the Vizio V-Series TVs offer a unique gaming experience that both devices can take advantage of. With a low input lag and a high refresh rate, the Vizio V-Series TVs provide a smooth and responsive gaming experience. Additionally, the TVs come equipped with a game mode that optimizes the picture and sound settings for gaming, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Furthermore, the Vizio V-Series TVs offer a range of screen sizes, from 40 inches to 75 inches, providing gamers with a variety of options to choose from. This means that gamers can enjoy their favorite games on a large screen, immersing themselves in the game world and enhancing their overall gaming experience.
Streaming options available on both devices for Vizio V-Series TVs
Both the Vizio XRT136 and Nvidia Shield provide streaming options for Vizio V-Series TVs. However, the Nvidia Shield has an advantage over the Vizio XRT136, as it offers more streaming options due to its advanced streaming capabilities. Nvidia Shield is compatible with various platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube TV.
Price comparison between the two devices for use with Vizio V-Series TVs
The Vizio XRT136 is a remote control that comes standard with Vizio V-Series TVs, so there is no additional cost to use it. The Nvidia Shield, on the other hand, is a separate streaming device that comes with an additional cost. The Nvidia Shield starts at a reasonable price, but it’s still more expensive than a standard remote control.
User reviews and ratings of the two devices for use with Vizio V-Series TVs
Users’ reviews and ratings of both devices demonstrate a trend of positive feedback and satisfaction, although the ratings for Nvidia Shield are higher overall. Nvidia Shield is well-regarded for its advanced features and capabilities, while Vizio XRT136 stands out for its simplicity and easy-to-use design.
Final verdict: Which device is better suited for use with a Vizio V-Series TV?
If you’re looking for a simple remote control solution to navigate through the Vizio V-Series smart TV interface, the Vizio XRT136 is an excellent option. It’s straightforward, reliable, and won’t add any unnecessary costs.
If you’re looking for advanced features and streaming capabilities, such as gaming sessions, home automation, and advanced audio and video settings, the Nvidia Shield is a better choice. It’s a more expensive option than a standard remote control, but it’s a valuable investment if you require advanced streaming capabilities and are willing to pay a higher upfront cost for a streaming device that delivers top-notch performance. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your usage habits and budgetary constraints.