iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
At its newly reported US price of $299.99, the 2019 NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro is worth considering mainly if you need its specific mix of local-media playback, USB expansion, and Plex Media Server. If you primarily stream mainstream apps, that price is difficult to justify when Google lists its Google TV Streamer (4K) at $99.99. The cheaper device is a price reference, not a feature-for-feature substitute.
What changed about the SHIELD TV Pro’s price?
Ars Technica reported that the SHIELD TV Pro’s US price increased to $299.99 effective October 2, 2026. NVIDIA’s support FAQ also lists the Pro at $299.99 and says US quantities are limited. NVIDIA launched this model at $199 in 2019, so the reported current price is $100.99 higher than its launch price. Prices and stock can change; check the retailer listing before buying.
NVIDIA told Ars that the price change reflected component costs, including memory, rising substantially across the industry. That is NVIDIA’s explanation, not an independently established analysis of the increase’s cause. Ars Technica’s report covers the change.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →When does the Pro justify the premium?
You want Plex Media Server on the device
The Pro can host Plex Media Server, making it useful when you want the Shield to organize and serve media to other devices on your network. NVIDIA’s 2019 launch announcement specifically highlighted the Pro’s extra memory and USB ports for Plex Media Server and high-capacity drives. If you already rely on a separate server, this capability may be less valuable.
#1 Best Overall
- Ultra-speedy streaming: Roku Ultra is 30% faster than any other Roku player, delivering a lightning-fast interface and apps that launch in a snap.
- Cinematic streaming: This TV streaming device brings the movie theater to your living room with spectacular 4K, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision picture alongside immersive Dolby Atmos audio.
- The ultimate Roku remote: The rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro offers backlit buttons, hands-free voice controls, and a lost remote finder.
- No more fumbling in the dark: See what you’re pressing with backlit buttons.
- Say goodbye to batteries: Keep your remote powered for months on a single charge.
You play local files or need USB expansion
NVIDIA lists 16GB of internal storage, expandable through USB flash storage or a hard drive, and two USB 3.0 Type-A ports. The ports also provide flexibility for peripherals. For buyers with a library of local media, that combination is a more meaningful distinction than simply having another device for streaming apps.
You need specific format and passthrough support
NVIDIA’s specifications list Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10, AI-enhanced upscaling up to 4K/60, and HEVC playback up to 4K/60. Listed video formats also include VP8, VP9, H.264, and MPEG1/2. For audio, NVIDIA lists Dolby Atmos and DTS-X passthrough among other formats. These are manufacturer-listed capabilities; support for a format does not guarantee that every file, app, receiver, or playback setup will behave identically.
Rank #2
- 4K Ultra HD with Cinematic Visuals & Sound: Supports 4K resolution (3840 x 2160) at 60FPS, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+ for enhanced contrast, brightness, and color accuracy. Delivers immersive audio via Dolby Audio and DTS:X surround sound
- High-Performance Hardware: Equipped with a Quad-Core CPU (up to 2.5GHz) and ARM G310 V2 GPU for seamless navigation and multitasking. Includes 2GB RAM and 32GB internal storage (ROM) for ample app and content space
- Google TV Smart Platform: Runs the latest Google TV OS, offering personalized content recommendations, access to thousands of streaming apps (Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, etc.), and voice control via Google Assistant
- Advanced Connectivity & Decoding: Features dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Bluetooth 5.2, HDMI 2.1, and USB 2.0 ports. Supports decoding of 4K 60FPS video formats and Google Cast for screen mirroring
- Complete Setup Included: Comes with Xiaomi TV Box S (3rd Gen), voice remote control, power adapter, HDMI cable, and user manual. Compact design (95.25 x 95.25 x 16.7 mm) for discreet placement
The Pro also has Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI 2.0b with HDCP 2.2 and CEC, Chromecast 4K built in, and GeForce NOW cloud gaming support. NVIDIA says GeForce NOW requires a compatible controller or keyboard and mouse. Its 2019 announcement advertised the Tegra X1+ as delivering up to 25% more performance than its predecessor; that was NVIDIA’s launch-era comparison, not a current benchmark against newer streamers.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →When is a cheaper streamer the better buy?
If your priority is watching mainstream streaming apps rather than hosting a media server or connecting USB storage, compare the SHIELD’s price with simpler 4K streamers first. Google lists the Google TV Streamer (4K) at $99.99 in the US, with 4GB RAM, 32GB storage, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and built-in Ethernet. That is $200 less than the reported SHIELD price. Google’s specifications do not establish that its product matches the SHIELD’s documented codec breadth or Plex-server role.
Rank #3
- Works with SHIELD TV 2015/2017/2019 models. Requires upgrade to the latest SHIELD Experience.
- Easy to use in the most darkly lit room. Pick up the remote and the buttons will instantly light up.
- Press the microphone button to access the powerful Google Assistant on your Android TV. Search for new movies, TV shows, or YouTube videos, look up stock prices, or check your commute time, all on your SHIELD TV.
- Customize your menu button with more than 25 choices. Launch your favorite app, enable AI upscaling, or mute your sound, or more! Different options can be applied to up to 3 actions: single press, double press, long press.
- Control your home entertainment center with SHIELD Remote’s built in IR blaster. Control volume, power, or input source.
| Decision point | NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro | Google TV Streamer (4K) |
|---|---|---|
| Listed US price | $299.99 as reported effective October 2, 2026; NVIDIA’s support FAQ also lists this price. | $99.99 listed by Google on its US help page, checked in 2026. |
| Plex Media Server hosted on device | Supported; NVIDIA highlights the Pro for this role. | Not stated on Google’s cited product information. |
| USB expansion and ports | 16GB storage expandable through USB; two USB 3.0 Type-A ports. | Not stated on Google’s cited product information. |
| HDR and audio | Dolby Vision HDR, HDR10, Dolby Atmos and DTS-X passthrough among listed formats. | Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos listed by Google. |
| Wired networking | Gigabit Ethernet. | Built-in Ethernet. |
Google’s price and specifications are listed on its Google TV device comparison page. The differences that matter most are what you intend to connect and run, not the storage figures alone.
How should you weigh its age and software support?
The 2019 SHIELD TV Pro runs Android 11 powered by Android TV, according to NVIDIA’s product page. NVIDIA says SHIELD Experience upgrades come directly from the company and that all SHIELD products will continue to receive upgrades and customer support. It does not specify an end date or promise a particular future Android version, so treat ongoing support as a stated policy rather than a guaranteed upgrade schedule.
Rank #4
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
For hardware details, NVIDIA lists the Pro’s specifications on its SHIELD TV Pro product page. Regional availability is not uniform: NVIDIA’s support FAQ reports limited US quantities and EU sold-out status. Check your local listing for current stock and price.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Who should buy it at $299.99?
- Consider it if you will use Plex Media Server on the box, need USB-connected storage, or have a local-media setup that benefits from its listed format and passthrough support.
- Look at cheaper options first if you mainly want a 4K device for mainstream streaming apps and do not need the Pro’s server or USB features.
- Check your full playback chain if a specific video codec, HDR format, or audio passthrough mode is essential. The published specifications do not guarantee compatibility across every file, app, display, and audio system.
On paper, the Pro remains capable, but its value at this price depends on whether you will use its specialized features. NVIDIA’s product page describes its hardware and formats, while its SHIELD comparison page distinguishes the Pro’s storage, USB, and Plex capabilities.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
