Nvidia Shield TV Pro (2019) vs Roku Ultra (2020)

Nvidia Shield TV review: Go-to streamer for PC gamers and geeks

The Nvidia Shield TV is a popular choice for gamers and geeks, offering 4K HDR streaming, built-in Google Assistant, and gaming options like Steam Link. It has a sleek design and comes with a new remote. The Android TV interface is user-friendly and offers a wide range of apps. The Shield TV supports cloud gaming and streaming from a gaming PC. It also has AI upscaling for improved image quality. While it is more expensive than other streamers, it offers unique features for PC gamers.

Nvidia Shield (2019) review

The Nvidia Shield (2019) is a powerful 4K HDR streaming player with AI upscaling, Dolby Vision support, and a redesigned remote. It offers a unique cylindrical design and has inputs and outputs located at each end. The device runs on the Tegra X1+ processor and comes with 2GB of RAM and 8GB of storage. It supports Android TV and offers a wide range of streaming services. The Shield can also function as a micro game console and has Google Assistant integration. The AI upscaler enhances the visual performance, making HD content look sharper. However, the Shield is more expensive than other 4K HDR streaming players and may not be necessary for budget-conscious users or those with HDTVs.

Nvidia Shield Pro (2019) review: As powerful as it is expensive

The Nvidia Shield Pro (2019) is a powerful and expensive media streamer that excels in audio/video quality. It supports all media formats, has plenty of ports, and can even run a Plex server. The design is sleek and distinctive, with a mix of glossy and textured panels. The remote is improved but still has some issues. The software runs on Android TV, which has access to all streaming platforms and offers a better app management experience than Google TV. The Shield Pro's support for high-end audio/video formats is a major strength, although it has some issues with Dolby Vision. The Tegra X1+ chip is powerful but shows its age at times. The AI upscaling feature is impressive, making 1080p content look almost as good as native 4K. Overall, the Shield Pro is a great choice for those who value audiovisual fidelity, but it may not be worth the price for everyone.

The new Roku Ultra is the most well-rounded $100 streaming box you can buy

The 2020 Roku Ultra is a well-rounded streaming device with upgrades like Dolby Vision, Bluetooth, and improved Wi-Fi reception. It offers a better value than other flagship streaming boxes. The device has a compact set-top box design, a reliable voice remote, 4K HDR and Dolby Vision support, a huge library of apps, Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and support for separate Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri devices. It lacks HDR10+ support and some buyers may find the interface to be dated.

Roku Ultra (2020) review

The Roku Ultra (2020) is a high-priced 4K streaming device that justifies its cost with faster performance, better wireless streaming, and a sleek design. It includes Roku-branded headphones and a remote with private listening and a find-my-remote feature. The device has a USB-A port for external media and offers practically every streaming app except HBO Max. It supports Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos audio. The interface is user-friendly, with customizable app tiles and strong search features. The remote is the best option available, with TV controls and programmable buttons. The device also includes Roku-branded earbuds for private listening. The Roku Ultra offers a wide range of content and apps, including the Apple TV app, and supports HomeKit and AirPlay 2. However, its high price may deter some buyers, especially with more affordable 4K streaming options available.

Roku Ultra (2020) Review

The 2020 Roku Ultra is an iterative update to the line, adding Dolby Vision support and faster processing. It can stream 4K HDR content, supports numerous apps and services, and includes a headphone jack on the remote for private listening. The design remains the same as the previous model. The Ultra offers access to thousands of Roku channels and has AirPlay support for streaming from iOS devices. It is the fastest Roku media streamer and supports Dolby Atmos. However, if you already have the previous model or the Roku Streaming Stick+, the upgrade may not be necessary. Other options like the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K and Chromecast With Google TV offer similar features at a lower price.

Roku Ultra (2020) review

The Roku Ultra (2020) is a competitive streaming device with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support. It has a responsive interface and a great universal search function. The device has a compact design and comes with a voice remote that has a headphone jack for private listening. It offers a wide range of streaming apps and supports popular video and audio codecs. The performance is good, with 4K HDR streaming and decent upscaling. However, there may be occasional audio glitches. Overall, the Roku Ultra is a great value for its price.

Roku Ultra 2020 review: If it ain't broke, don't fix it

The Roku Ultra 2020 is a 4K HDR streamer with new features like Dolby Vision, better Wi-Fi, and a faster processor. It has a remote finder, programmable buttons, and an Ethernet port. However, it is twice the price of the Roku Streaming Stick Plus and has a weaker voice assistant. The design has some small changes, and the remote includes headphones. The interface is impressive, but the voice assistant is weak compared to Amazon and Google devices. The Ultra has fast playback and improved Wi-Fi capabilities. It supports a wide range of apps, including Dolby Vision and Atmos. However, it lacks support for HBO Max. Overall, the Roku Ultra 2020 is a worthwhile upgrade for those who value convenience and Dolby Vision, but the Streaming Stick Plus is a better option for most people.