Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a comparison that's been on many minds: the Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2017 versus the 2019 model. Both are fantastic streaming devices, but understanding their differences is key to making the right choice for your entertainment setup. Let's get started!

Design and Build Quality

When we talk about design, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro models don't stray too far from each other, but there are subtle yet significant differences. The 2017 version sports a sleek, rectangular design with a matte black finish that easily blends into any home theater setup. It's understated yet elegant, fitting well with other high-end devices. The build quality is robust, ensuring it can withstand the test of time, which is crucial for a device meant to be a long-term investment. On the other hand, the 2019 model takes a slightly different approach. While it maintains a similar form factor, it introduces a more refined and minimalist aesthetic. The edges are smoother, and the overall finish feels more premium. This version also includes subtle design tweaks that make it appear more modern and less boxy than its predecessor. The build quality remains top-notch, ensuring it can handle the daily wear and tear of being a central component of your entertainment system. Despite these differences, both models share a similar footprint, meaning they won't take up excessive space in your media cabinet. Ultimately, the choice between the two in terms of design comes down to personal preference. Do you prefer the classic, understated look of the 2017 model, or the more refined and modern aesthetic of the 2019 version? Either way, you're getting a well-built and visually appealing device that will enhance your home theater experience.

Hardware and Performance

When it comes to hardware and performance, this is where the Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2019 truly shines, offering significant upgrades over the 2017 model. The 2017 version is powered by the Nvidia Tegra X1 processor, which was a powerhouse at the time of its release. It handled 4K streaming, gaming, and multitasking with ease, providing a smooth and responsive user experience. However, technology moves fast, and the 2019 model steps it up a notch with the Tegra X1+ processor. This updated chip offers a noticeable boost in performance, making everything feel snappier and more fluid. Apps launch faster, streaming is smoother, and even demanding games run better. One of the key improvements in the 2019 model is its AI upscaling capabilities. Thanks to the more powerful processor, it can upscale HD content to near-4K quality in real-time, making your older movies and TV shows look better than ever before. This feature alone is a compelling reason to upgrade for many users. Both models come with 3GB of RAM, which is sufficient for most tasks, but the faster processor in the 2019 version makes better use of it. In terms of storage, both offer 16GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via USB. This is adequate for most users, but if you plan on downloading a lot of games or media, you might want to invest in an external hard drive. Overall, the 2019 model offers a clear advantage in terms of hardware and performance. The Tegra X1+ processor and AI upscaling capabilities make it a more future-proof device that will provide a better user experience for years to come. If you're looking for the best possible performance, the 2019 version is the way to go.

Software and Features

Delving into the software and features of both the Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2017 and 2019 models, you'll find a lot of similarities, but also some key differences that can influence your decision. Both devices run on Android TV, providing access to a vast library of apps, games, and streaming services through the Google Play Store. This includes popular platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+, ensuring you have plenty of entertainment options at your fingertips. One of the standout features of the Nvidia Shield TV Pro is its support for GeForce Now, Nvidia's cloud gaming service. This allows you to stream PC games to your TV, opening up a whole new world of gaming possibilities. Both models support GeForce Now, but the 2019 version benefits from the more powerful Tegra X1+ processor, which can provide a smoother and more responsive gaming experience. Another important feature is Google Assistant integration. Both devices have built-in microphones that allow you to control your TV and other smart home devices with your voice. You can use voice commands to search for content, adjust the volume, control playback, and even turn on your lights or adjust the thermostat. The 2019 model also includes Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support, which provide a more immersive audio-visual experience. Dolby Vision enhances the picture quality with dynamic metadata, while Dolby Atmos creates a three-dimensional soundstage that surrounds you. While the 2017 model supports HDR10, it lacks Dolby Vision, which is becoming increasingly popular. In terms of software updates, Nvidia has a good track record of providing regular updates for both models, ensuring they stay up-to-date with the latest features and security patches. However, the 2019 model is likely to receive updates for a longer period of time, as it is the newer device. Overall, both models offer a comprehensive set of software and features, but the 2019 version has a slight edge with its Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support, as well as its more powerful processor, which enhances the performance of various apps and services.

Remote Control

The remote control is a crucial aspect of any streaming device, as it's your primary interface for navigating the user interface and controlling playback. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2017 and 2019 models come with different remote controls, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The 2017 remote is a slim, rectangular device with a minimalist design. It features a directional pad, a few buttons for navigation and playback, and a voice search button. While it's functional, it can be a bit slippery and the buttons can feel a bit cramped. One of the notable features of the 2017 remote is its support for Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to control the Shield TV Pro even when it's hidden away in a cabinet. It also has an IR blaster, which can be used to control other devices like your TV or soundbar. The 2019 remote is a significant upgrade over the 2017 version. It has a triangular shape that fits comfortably in your hand, and the buttons are more spaced out and easier to press. It also includes dedicated buttons for Netflix and voice search, as well as customizable buttons that can be programmed to launch your favorite apps or perform specific actions. One of the standout features of the 2019 remote is its built-in lost remote locator. If you misplace the remote, you can simply press a button on the Shield TV Pro, and the remote will emit a sound to help you find it. This is a handy feature that can save you time and frustration. Like the 2017 remote, the 2019 version supports Bluetooth connectivity and has an IR blaster. However, it also adds support for HDMI-CEC, which allows you to control other devices connected to your TV via HDMI with the Shield TV Pro remote. Overall, the 2019 remote is a significant improvement over the 2017 version. Its ergonomic design, customizable buttons, and lost remote locator make it a more user-friendly and convenient device to use.

Gaming Capabilities

For gamers, the gaming capabilities of the Nvidia Shield TV Pro are a major draw. Both the 2017 and 2019 models offer excellent gaming performance, but there are some key differences to consider. Both devices support GeForce Now, Nvidia's cloud gaming service, which allows you to stream PC games to your TV. This opens up a vast library of games that you can play without having to own a high-end gaming PC. The 2019 model, with its more powerful Tegra X1+ processor, provides a smoother and more responsive gaming experience with GeForce Now. Games load faster, and the overall performance is more stable, especially in demanding titles. In addition to GeForce Now, both models can also play Android games from the Google Play Store. There are thousands of games available, ranging from casual titles to more complex games that take advantage of the Shield TV Pro's processing power. Both devices support gamepads, allowing you to play games with a traditional controller. The Nvidia Shield Controller is a popular choice, but you can also use other Bluetooth gamepads. The 2017 model can handle most Android games without any issues, but the 2019 version offers a noticeable performance boost in more demanding games. Games load faster, and the frame rates are generally higher, resulting in a smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience. One of the unique features of the Nvidia Shield TV Pro is its support for game streaming from your PC. If you have a gaming PC with an Nvidia GeForce graphics card, you can stream games to your TV using the Shield TV Pro. This allows you to play your PC games on the big screen without having to move your PC. Overall, both models offer excellent gaming capabilities, but the 2019 version has a slight edge with its more powerful processor and improved GeForce Now performance. If you're a serious gamer, the 2019 model is the better choice.

Price and Value

Evaluating the price and value proposition of the Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2017 versus the 2019 model is essential for making an informed purchase decision. When the 2017 model was first released, it was priced competitively for a high-end streaming device. However, as it has aged, its price has gradually decreased, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. You can often find the 2017 model on sale or used for a significantly lower price than the 2019 version. On the other hand, the 2019 model is priced higher, reflecting its upgraded hardware and features. While it may be more expensive upfront, it offers better performance, AI upscaling, and Dolby Vision support, which can enhance your overall viewing experience. When considering the value, it's important to weigh your priorities. If you're primarily looking for a basic streaming device for watching Netflix and YouTube, the 2017 model may be sufficient. However, if you want the best possible performance, gaming capabilities, and future-proof features, the 2019 model is worth the investment. Another factor to consider is the longevity of the device. The 2019 model is likely to receive software updates and support for a longer period of time, making it a more sustainable choice in the long run. The 2017 model may eventually stop receiving updates, which could limit its functionality over time. Ultimately, the decision of which model offers the best value depends on your individual needs and budget. If you're willing to spend more for a better experience and future-proof features, the 2019 model is the clear winner. However, if you're on a tight budget and don't need the latest and greatest features, the 2017 model is still a capable device that can provide a solid streaming experience.

Which Should You Buy?

So, which should you buy: the Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2017 or the 2019 model? It really boils down to your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for a solid, reliable streaming device and don't want to break the bank, the 2017 model is still a great option. It handles all the major streaming services with ease and offers access to a wide range of apps and games. However, if you're a power user who wants the best possible performance, the 2019 model is the way to go. Its faster processor, AI upscaling, and Dolby Vision support make it a more future-proof device that will provide a better user experience for years to come. Plus, the upgraded remote is a joy to use. For gamers, the 2019 model is also the better choice, thanks to its improved GeForce Now performance and smoother Android gaming. The extra horsepower makes a noticeable difference in demanding titles. Ultimately, both devices are excellent streaming devices that offer a lot of value. But if you can afford it, the 2019 model is the clear winner. It's simply a more refined and capable device that will enhance your home entertainment experience.