As expected, the Apple TV stands as the sole set-top box that seamlessly integrates with the entire Apple ecosystem. This means you can utilize the Apple TV to purchase and rent movies from iTunes, access music and podcasts, indulge in games from Apple Arcade, and explore apps such as Fitness+, which offers a range of workout classes.
iPhone owners, in particular, stand to benefit significantly from owning an Apple TV. During setup, you can effortlessly transfer all your settings and enter passwords by simply holding your iPhone near the box. The Remote app, easily accessible via iOS’s control center, further enhances the convenience and accessibility of controlling your Apple TV experience.
When it comes to a high-end streaming solution that harmonizes perfectly with the Apple ecosystem, the Apple TV 4K stands out. With its impressive 4K HDR and Dolby Vision capabilities, comprehensive integration with Apple devices, refined user interface, and enhanced Siri remote, it delivers a premium streaming experience. While it may require a splurge, Apple enthusiasts and those seeking seamless connectivity across their Apple devices will find the Apple TV 4K to be a worthwhile investment.
Number 5. NVidia Shield TV Pro
If you’re in search of a versatile device that combines seamless movie streaming, a robust PLEX media server, and immersive gaming capabilities, the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro should be on your radar. While it currently runs on Android TV, which might be considered a bit outdated, there’s a promising possibility that it could receive an upgrade to Google TV in the future.
Equipped with the powerful Tegra X1+ processor, the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro delivers native 4K streaming, and thanks to the company’s AI neural network, it can upscale 720p and 1080p video content to impressive 4K quality. With support for Dolby Vision and HDR10, along with 3GB of RAM, 16GB of storage, and two USB-C ports, it ensures a smooth and immersive entertainment experience. Furthermore, the inclusion of a gigabit Ethernet port, HDMI socket, and microSD card slot adds to its versatility and convenience. Running on the Android platform, the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro also allows you to enjoy a wide selection of games from the Google Play Store.
However, what truly sets the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro apart from other devices is its integration with NVIDIA’s GeForce Now cloud gaming service. With a reliable and fast internet connection, you gain access to a vast library of top-tier PC games that are streamed directly to your Shield TV Pro. This cloud gaming feature elevates the device’s gaming capabilities to new heights, providing an exceptional gaming experience without the need for dedicated gaming hardware.
While the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro’s operating system may be a point of contention due to its reliance on Android TV, the potential future upgrade to Google TV could bring significant improvements. Nevertheless, the device’s ability to deliver native 4K streaming, AI-powered upscaling, support for Dolby Vision and HDR10, ample storage, and versatile connectivity options make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking an all-in-one entertainment and gaming powerhouse.
If you crave a single device that seamlessly combines high-quality streaming, media server functionality, and cutting-edge gaming, the NVIDIA Shield TV Pro is a top contender. With its robust features and the added advantage of accessing NVIDIA’s cloud gaming service, it promises an immersive and diverse entertainment experience that is sure to impress.
