So, you're thinking about getting an Nvidia Shield TV Pro, huh? Smart choice! These little boxes are absolute powerhouses when it comes to streaming, gaming, and overall smart home entertainment. But here's the million-dollar question: Should you go for the 2017 model or the spiffier 2019 version? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to dive deep into a head-to-head comparison that'll help you make the best decision for your needs. Let's get started and explore the world of Nvidia Shield TV Pro!

Design and Build: A Tale of Two Boxes

When it comes to design, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro (2017) and the Nvidia Shield TV Pro (2019) take distinctly different approaches. The 2017 model sports a sleek, rectangular design with sharp angles and a matte black finish. It's a classic, understated look that blends well with most entertainment setups. The larger size allows for better heat dissipation and internal component arrangement. This robust design not only contributes to its durability but also gives it a more premium feel. The 2017 version is for those who appreciate a no-nonsense, functional aesthetic that prioritizes performance and reliability. Setting it up is a breeze, and its presence is felt without being visually intrusive.

On the other hand, the 2019 model adopts a cylindrical shape, making it significantly smaller and more compact. This design is wrapped in a glossy black finish, which, while eye-catching, can be a fingerprint magnet. The smaller footprint is ideal for those with limited space, allowing it to be tucked away discreetly. The redesigned remote is a major improvement, featuring dedicated buttons and a more ergonomic layout, enhancing the overall user experience. The 2019 version is perfect for those who value space-saving design and a modern aesthetic, making it a stylish addition to any home theater setup. Its compact form factor doesn't compromise on performance, making it a versatile choice for various entertainment needs.

In essence, the 2017 model prioritizes functionality and a classic design, while the 2019 model focuses on aesthetics and space efficiency. Your choice will depend on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your entertainment space. Both models offer excellent performance, but their design philosophies cater to different user needs and tastes. Consider where you'll be placing the device and how important the visual appeal is to you when making your decision. Ultimately, both versions are fantastic devices; it just comes down to which design aligns best with your lifestyle and setup.

Hardware and Performance: Under the Hood

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about what makes these boxes tick. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro (2017) is powered by the Nvidia Tegra X1 processor, which was a beast in its day. It's still plenty capable for most streaming and gaming tasks, offering smooth 4K playback and decent performance in Android games. The 3GB of RAM ensures that the system runs smoothly, even with multiple apps open in the background. The 16GB of internal storage might feel a bit limiting, but the microSD card slot allows for easy expansion. This means you can load up on games, movies, and other media without worrying about running out of space.

Now, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro (2019) kicks things up a notch with the Tegra X1+ processor. While it's not a massive leap in performance, it does offer a noticeable improvement in overall speed and efficiency. The 3GB of RAM remains the same, but the 16GB of internal storage is complemented by improved storage management, making it feel more spacious. The biggest advantage of the 2019 model is its AI upscaling capabilities. This clever tech uses machine learning to enhance the picture quality of lower-resolution content, making everything look sharper and more detailed on your 4K TV. It's like giving your old DVDs and Blu-rays a new lease on life!

When it comes to real-world performance, both models are excellent choices for streaming your favorite shows and movies. However, the 2019 model has a slight edge in gaming, thanks to the improved processor and AI upscaling. Games look crisper and run smoother, providing a more immersive experience. The 2017 model is still perfectly capable of handling most games, but the 2019 model offers a bit more headroom for demanding titles. In summary, while both devices offer solid performance, the 2019 model's upgraded processor and AI upscaling give it a slight advantage, making it the better choice for those who want the best possible picture quality and gaming experience.

Software and Features: Smart and Smarter

Both the Nvidia Shield TV Pro (2017) and the Nvidia Shield TV Pro (2019) run on Android TV, which means you get access to a vast library of apps, games, and services. We're talking Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, YouTube – you name it, it's probably available. Plus, you get Google Assistant built-in, so you can control your TV and smart home devices with your voice. Pretty neat, huh?

However, the 2019 model comes with a few extra tricks up its sleeve. As we mentioned earlier, the AI upscaling is a game-changer for improving the picture quality of lower-resolution content. It also supports Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, which deliver stunning HDR visuals and immersive surround sound. These features make the 2019 model a true home theater powerhouse.

Another key difference is the remote. The 2017 model's remote is functional, but it's a bit clunky and lacks dedicated buttons for certain functions. The 2019 model's remote, on the other hand, is a huge improvement. It's more ergonomic, features dedicated buttons for Netflix and other popular apps, and even has a built-in mic for voice commands. Trust me, once you've used the 2019 remote, you won't want to go back.

Both devices receive regular software updates from Nvidia, which is fantastic. This means you'll get new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements over time. Nvidia is known for its long-term support, so you can rest assured that your Shield TV Pro will stay up-to-date for years to come. In short, while both models offer a great Android TV experience, the 2019 model's AI upscaling, Dolby Vision/Atmos support, and improved remote make it the smarter choice for those who want the best possible features and performance.

Gaming Capabilities: Level Up Your Play

For gamers, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro is a dream come true. Both the 2017 and 2019 models are capable gaming machines, thanks to their powerful Nvidia Tegra processors. You can play Android games directly on your TV, stream games from your PC using Nvidia GameStream, or subscribe to Nvidia GeForce Now for access to a library of streaming PC games.

The 2019 model has a slight edge in gaming performance, thanks to the Tegra X1+ processor. Games run smoother and look better, especially when combined with the AI upscaling. The 2019 model also supports more game controllers, including the latest Xbox and PlayStation controllers.

Nvidia GeForce Now is a game-changer for cloud gaming. It allows you to stream PC games to your Shield TV Pro without having to download or install them. This means you can play the latest AAA titles on your TV, even if you don't have a high-end gaming PC. GeForce Now is constantly being updated with new games and features, making it an essential service for any gamer.

Both models support 4K HDR gaming, which looks absolutely stunning on a compatible TV. The vibrant colors, deep blacks, and incredible detail make for a truly immersive gaming experience. Whether you're playing fast-paced action games or exploring vast open worlds, the Nvidia Shield TV Pro delivers a console-quality gaming experience. In conclusion, both the 2017 and 2019 models are excellent choices for gaming, but the 2019 model's slightly better performance and wider controller support give it a slight advantage. If you're a serious gamer, the 2019 model is the way to go.

Price and Value: Bang for Your Buck

Alright, let's talk money. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro (2017) is typically available at a lower price point than the Nvidia Shield TV Pro (2019). This makes it an attractive option for those on a budget. You still get excellent streaming and gaming performance, access to a vast library of apps, and long-term software support from Nvidia.

However, the 2019 model offers several key advantages that may justify the higher price tag. The AI upscaling, Dolby Vision/Atmos support, and improved remote make it a better choice for home theater enthusiasts. The slightly better gaming performance and wider controller support make it a better choice for gamers.

When considering the value proposition, it's important to weigh your individual needs and priorities. If you're primarily looking for a streaming device and don't care much about gaming or high-end audio/video features, the 2017 model is a great choice. You'll save some money and still get a fantastic experience.

On the other hand, if you want the best possible picture quality, immersive sound, and slightly better gaming performance, the 2019 model is worth the extra investment. It's a more future-proof device that will continue to deliver excellent performance for years to come. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget and what you value most in a streaming device. Both models offer excellent value for the money, so you can't go wrong either way.

Final Verdict: Which Shield Reigns Supreme?

So, after all that, which Nvidia Shield TV Pro should you buy? Well, it depends! (I know, classic cop-out answer, right?). Let's break it down one last time:

• Nvidia Shield TV Pro (2017): Best for budget-conscious buyers who primarily want a reliable streaming device with decent gaming capabilities. It's a workhorse that gets the job done without breaking the bank.
• Nvidia Shield TV Pro (2019): Best for home theater enthusiasts and gamers who want the best possible picture quality, immersive sound, and slightly better performance. It's a premium device that offers a truly cutting-edge experience.

Ultimately, both the 2017 and 2019 models are fantastic devices that offer excellent value for the money. You really can't go wrong with either one. Consider your budget, your needs, and your priorities, and then make the choice that's right for you. Happy streaming!