The Nvidia Shield has been out for almost three months now and that is typically when a new device is at its best after a few updates. So we decided to take a close look at the Shield to see how it is holding up.
Before we get into that here are a few highlights of the system itself:
- 16GB or 500GB storage, plus a Shield controller and HDMI cable
- 4K Ultra HD
- Google voice commands
- Google Cast support across Android and iOS devices
- A new class of Android games-only on Shield
- 256-core Nvidia processor
Hardware
The Shield is made out of metal, which gives it a very sturdy well-made feel. From the stand to the location of the ports and buttons, the Shield feels like a well-made device.
Remotes
The game controller is made of both metal and plastic and the remote is all metal. Both remotes run off of rechargeable built-in batteries that use a standard micro USB to charge. Both remotes have volume buttons allowing you to control the volume of your TV.
Three Months Later
The Nvidia Shield has held up very well and is surprisingly easy to use. It is may be the fastest streaming player we have ever tested when looking at the user experience. Videos load quickly and games play smoothly, leaving you to focus on your entertainment not the load times.
Both the number of games and streaming apps have increased over the last three months. As with any new system it takes time to get all the apps everyone now expects, and the Shield is quickly bringing out all the apps you would expect with more on the way.
Overall I was impressed with how stable and powerful the system is. If you want a streaming player that also plays a lot of games the Shield is a player you should consider.