Nvidia SHIELD Pro
Score: 88/100
RockTek G2 Chromecast
Score: 82/100Rankings
The NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro is a high-performance Android TV streaming box with AI-enhanced 4K upscaling and built-in GeForce NOW cloud gaming. Its limited 16 GB internal storage and lack of HDMI 2.1/AV1 support are notable trade-offs. Ideal for power users and gamers seeking premium performance.
The RockTek G2 Chromecast with Android TV 14 delivers 4K UHD playback with HDR10+, Dolby Vision and AV1 support, backed by Wi-Fi 6, Gigabit Ethernet and a Bluetooth/IR remote with Google Assistant. Thermal throttling and a non-certified Android fork can limit stability and premium app compatibility. Best for budget-conscious users upgrading non-smart TVs who want advanced codec support and casual cloud-gaming via GeForce Now.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
60 Hzbest | 60 Hzbest | |
3 GB | 4 GBbest | |
16 GB | 32 GBbest | |
1 countbest | 1 countbest | |
2 countbest | 1 count | |
| ↓ lower better | 250 gbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Software(1) | ||
Operating System | Android 11 | Android TV 14 |
Display(1) | ||
Maximum Resolution | 4K | 4K UHD |
Performance(3) | ||
Processor | NVIDIA Tegra X1+ | Amlogic S905X4-K |
GPU | 256-core NVIDIA GPU | ARM Mali-G31 MP2 |
RAM (GB) | 3 GB | 4 GB |
Storage(1) | ||
Internal Storage (GB) | 16 GB | 32 GB |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Wi‑Fi Standard | 802.11ac | Wi‑Fi 6 |
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 5.0+ |
Ports(1) | ||
USB Ports (count) | 2 count | 1 count |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Dimensions (H×W×D) (mm) | 98x159x26 mm mm | 25.4×114.3×114.3 mm mm |
Features(1) | ||
Remote Type | Hands-free Google Assistant | Bluetooth/IR remote |
Audio(1) | ||
Supported Audio Formats | Dolby Atmos, DTS-X, Dolby Digital Plus | Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the SHIELD TV Pro as a high-performance media powerhouse, emphasizing its AI upscaling, 25% faster Tegra X1+ CPU, dual USB expandability, and robust GeForce NOW 4K cloud gaming. However, they note the hardware design has not changed since 2019 and that it lacks newer interfaces like HDMI 2.1 and AV1 decoding, making it feel a step behind the latest competitors.
Everyday users praise the device for smooth 4K streaming, excellent Plex integration, reliable NVIDIA firmware updates, and powerful GeForce NOW gaming. Recurring complaints focus on the limited 16 GB internal storage, occasional Wi-Fi drops, voice-control glitches, lack of AV1 support, and a setup process that can be daunting for non-technical owners.
“best for PC game streaming to TV”
“Excellent 4K@60fps playback with Dolby Vision/HDR10+/AV1 support and auto frame rate/color space matching”
“Modified Android 14 lacks Google certification, leading to inconsistent Play Store/Widevine L1/Netflix 4K support.”
Choose Shield Pro for premium gaming, AI upscaling and guaranteed app certification; choose Rocktek G2 for budget 4K streaming with AV1 support.
Professional reviewers commend the Rocktek G2 for its impressive 4K HDR and AV1 decoding, fast Wi-Fi 6 networking, and convenient voice-enabled remote, positioning it as a strong budget alternative to premium boxes. However, they caution that the non-certified Android fork, thermal throttling, and HDMI limitations diminish its appeal for power users who need guaranteed app certification and advanced gaming features.
Consumers generally appreciate the G2's ability to deliver smooth 4K streaming, reliable casting, and high-quality audio without breaking the bank. Common praise centers on its codec support and network performance, while recurring complaints focus on software update irregularities, remote connectivity issues, and occasional heating during long sessions.
